The press service of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia has announced the launch of a new tourist train, the Mesopotamia Express, which will run through one of the most culturally and historically rich regions of Turkey.
The new 1,051-kilometer rail excursion route is scheduled to be launched in the second half of April. The train will depart from Ankara. It is expected that the Mesopotamia Express will operate twice a month during the summer season.
The train consists of nine sleeping cars and one restaurant car. It can accommodate a maximum of 180 passengers. The compartments, designed for two people, are equipped with comfortable seats that transform into beds at night. Other amenities include a refrigerator, sink, wardrobe, and heating system.
Tourists will travel through Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia. They will see the nearly 4,000-meter-high dormant volcano, Mount Erciyes.
The first stop will be in Kayseri, the historical capital of Cappadocia. Among the attractions that travelers will be able to see are the Seljuk Hunat Hatun Mosque, built in 1238, and the tombs and madrasahs dating back to the 13th century.
As the train chugs along, the flavors of Eastern Anatolia come alive. In Elazig, tantalize your taste buds with a culinary adventure that showcases the region's unique gastronomy. Savor the tangy notes of wild rhubarb dishes, delight in the savory medley of meat assortments, and embark on a journey of delectable discoveries.
To complement your culinary adventure, raise a glass to one of Turkey's most celebrated wines, Okuzgozu. Renowned for its rich character and smooth finish, this exquisite vino perfectly captures the essence of the region's terroir. Let its velvety tannins and complex flavors transport you to a realm of pure sensory delight.