Location
Van lies in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye and borders Iran. The province has more than a million inhabitants, and Van is one of the largest cities in the region.
The landscape around the city
- Lake Van to the west: Türkiye's largest lake lines the city's western edge.
- Mount Erek to the east: The high mountain that forms the city's backdrop.
- Mount Artos to the south: Rising near Gevaş, a favourite with hikers.
The city sits at roughly 1,700 metres above sea level.
Climate
Van has a continental climate: long, cold and snowy winters and warm, dry summers. The lake slightly softens temperatures along the shore.
Road routes from Iran
- Via Tabriz: Tabriz – Khoy – Razi/Kapıköy border – Van. The shortest route to Van.
- Via Urmia: Urmia – Serow/Esendere border – Yüksekova – Van.
- Via Bazargan: Maku – Bazargan/Gürbulak – Doğubayazıt – Muradiye – Van.
See the Transportation page for details.