Start with the cabin you can actually book, then plan the nights on either side. The Touristic Eastern Express is the main event of this itinerary, so an awkward connection to the train can affect several days of travel.
What the 2026–27 season announcement says
The Ministry of Transport announced 70 journeys across both directions. Ankara to Kars service is due to start on 21 December 2026, with Kars to Ankara starting on 23 December. Individual sales were announced to begin on 26 October. Look up the departure you want in TCDD Taşımacılık’s booking system before committing to accommodation. The season announcement does not show which cabins are available today.
Choose the direction for the stops you want
The announced sightseeing stops are Erzincan and Erzurum on the way to Kars, and İliç, Divriği and Sivas on the way to Ankara. If one of those stops matters to you, verify the latest itinerary for your departure. Check what you can realistically do during the stop and when you must be back at the train. Confirm whether any excursion offered with your booking is included or sold separately.
Read the cabin details before paying
The ministry describes two-berth compartments and a dining car. Check how your booking is priced, how many travellers the selected cabin covers and what the fare includes. Compare the total cost for your party with the other dates you can travel. If you want a simpler rail journey, our comparison of the regular and touristic Eastern Express explains the two services.
Give the train room on either side
Consider sleeping in the departure city if an incoming flight or train would give you little margin. In the arrival city, keep a flexible first evening and avoid a tight onward connection. A short winter packing list should include layers for the station and sightseeing stops, a small bag for essentials and a charger you can reach without unpacking the cabin.
Recheck the operating date, boarding station, timetable, weather and ticket terms before travel. If you are using other trains to reach Ankara, check each reservation separately.
Official sources
Cover image: original AI artwork.
