Turkey’s new Mesopotamia Express is a sleeper train that operates between Ankara and Diyarbakır, covering a journey of over 650 miles. This scenic route includes stops in Kayseri, the historical capital of Cappadocia; the ancient city of Malatya; and Elazığ, famous for its vineyards and orchard1.
The train accommodates up to 180 passengers and offers locally sourced traditional Anatolian cuisine in the dining car, including dishes like kelecoş, a fried meat dish served on flatbread. The total trip takes 24 hours, allowing visitors to explore local sites and culture during three to four-hour stops at each destination. The Mesopotamia Express provides tourists with a comprehensive and immersive experience, highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and natural beauty.
It’s not just an ordinary train ride; it’s a journey through time, traversing stunning Turkish landscapes and uncovering the country’s hidden cultural gems1. This initiative is part of a larger nationwide effort to encourage visitors to explore beyond popular destinations like Istanbul and Antalya, promoting tourism across all 81 provinces in Turkey.
