Akdamar Island

Overview

Akdamar Island, located in Lake Van, is renowned for its 10th-century Armenian Church of the Holy Cross, a stunning example of Armenian architecture. The island offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

The church is a masterpiece of Armenian architecture and a symbol of cultural heritage.

Cultural Religious Architectural

Location

Address

Gevaş

Neighborhood: Lake Van

Coordinates

38.611100, 43.366700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

100 TL

Children

50 TL

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Blooming flowers
• Mild weather

summer

Hot

• Extended visiting hours

autumn

Cool

• Fall foliage
• Cooler weather

winter

Cold

• Snow-covered landscapes
• Holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring valid ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID Water Tickets

seasonal

Jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Large bags Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Uneven surfaces
• Stairs

Medical facilities: First aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

Turkish Lira

Typical Costs

entry 100 TL

parking 50 TL

food 150 TL

souvenirs 200 TL

Dress Code

Modest clothing, Comfortable shoes, Walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• Official website
• 48 hours
• Available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Akdamar Island Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Van Ferit Melen Airport

Distance: 60 km

Travel Time: 1 hour

Taxi

250 TL 1 hour

Public transport

50 TL 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

Taxi

50 TL 10 minutes

Walking

30 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historical significance and cultural heritage

Historical Significance: The church is a testament to the Armenian presence in the region

Insider Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds
Try local Van cheese and pomegranate juice
Check for special exhibitions

Local Recommendations

• Try local Van cuisine at nearby restaurants
• Ask for a local guide for historical insights

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Merhaba

thank_you Teşekkür ederim

where_is Nerede

how_much Ne kadardır

beautiful Güzel

ticket Bilet

Guide Languages: Turkish, English, Armenian

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Church of the Holy Cross

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for the church facade

Result: Stunning architectural shots

#AkdamarIsland #HolyCross #ArmenianArchitecture

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Church exterior

prohibited areas Church interior during services

flash photography Not allowed inside the church

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with permission

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Van Castle

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 40 minutes

Type: Historical Site

Van Museum

Distance: 2.5 km

Walking: 30 minutes

Type: Museum

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tickets online"
"Visit early in the morning"
"Try local food at the cafe"

Contact Information

+90 432 216 10 45

info@akdamarisland.com

www.akdamarisland.com

Social Media

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