A Winter Tale with the Eastern Express to Kars and Erzurum: 1 Night 2 Days
For those who want to discover Turkey through a train window in winter, the Kars and Erzurum route turns the journey itself into an important part of the experience. The Eastern Express, one of the first options that comes to mind when train travel in Turkey is mentioned, moves through snow-covered landscapes, turning a short getaway into an unforgettable winter memory.
This special route, with the 15 - 17 January 2026 / Kars Erzurum with the Eastern Express tour, appeals to those who want to experience the winter atmosphere of Kars and Erzurum over 1 night and 2 days. The next departure date for this tour is listed as 15 January 2027. For those who see the Eastern Express idea not just as transportation but as a travel experience in its own right, the strongest aspect of the program emerges here.
Why the journey itself is special on the Eastern Express
The Eastern Express stands out as a route that opens the doors to a fairy-tale journey with every kilometer. The calm rhythm of train travel gives you time to watch winter scenery and notice the landscape changing along the way. For this reason, the Kars and Erzurum tour is not just about the cities you visit; it makes the moments spent on the way part of the travel plan.
White landscapes seen from the window offer a natural backdrop for those who like to take photographs, while the unique atmosphere of the train adds a nostalgic character to the trip. Bringing a warm drink, small snacks and a phone with enough charge to record the scenery can make the experience more comfortable.
Highlights of the 1 night, 2 day program
For those planning a short trip, 1 night and 2 days offers a practical option for getting to know Kars and Erzurum with the Eastern Express. The tour includes transportation by large bus, 1 night's accommodation at THE KARS PARK HOTEL in Kars, an open buffet breakfast at the hotel, and a set or open buffet dinner. With guidance from a professional licensed guide, it is possible to learn about the cultural fabric of the region throughout the trip.
Services included in the price include TÜRSAB travel insurance and hot and cold refreshments on the vehicle. In this way, a travel plan is offered that considers the basic components of the short program together: transportation, accommodation, meals and guidance. Especially for those experiencing the Eastern Express for the first time, choosing a guided and well-organized program can help make better use of time.
Experiencing the winter atmosphere in Kars and Erzurum
The distinguishing feature of this route is that it lets you feel the winter character of both cities on the same journey. Kars sits at the center of the trip with the atmosphere associated with the Eastern Express and the calm mood that winter brings out. Erzurum completes the program as one of the stops that allow you to get to know the historical and cultural heritage of the region.
During city tours, listening carefully to the guide's commentary helps you understand not only the places you see but also the way of life and cultural background of the region. To make the most of daylight in the winter months, it is also important to plan your photography and sightseeing in advance, and to bring layered clothing, waterproof shoes, a hat and gloves.
Alternative Eastern Express options for different dates
For those who want to change their January travel date, there are other programs around the same route. The 01 - 03 January 2027 / Kars - Erzurum with the Eastern Express tour, which runs on 1 January 2027, offers an option for those planning a 1 night, 2 day cultural trip in the first days of the new year. The 08 - 10 January 2027 / Kars Erzurum with the Eastern Express program, departing from Ordu on 8 January 2027, is aimed at those who want to have the same experience on a different date.
For those considering departing at the end of December, the 25 - 27 December 2026 / Kars - Erzurum with the Eastern Express tour stands out; for those considering the later days of January, the 22 - 24 January 2026 / Kars Erzurum with the Eastern Express option is a good fit. To review current dates and program details, you can browse the Eastern Express Tours category.
Practical tips before setting off
For a winter trip on the Eastern Express, packing a light but functional bag is the right approach. Layered clothing, shoes with non-slip soles, personal medication and spare socks can all go in your bag. A portable charger is also useful so you can keep your phone charged between the train journey and city tours. Additionally, since the tour lasts 1 night and 2 days, avoiding unnecessarily large amounts of personal belongings makes movement easier.
Combining the winter character of Kars and Erzurum with the calm of train travel, this program offers a strong alternative for those who want a different atmosphere in a short time. The next departure on 15 January 2027 can already be considered by those who want to plan an Eastern Express experience accompanied by snowy landscapes.
