Tehran – After a four-year break, many years of Vanteran train services have resumed, marking a key milestone in regional connectivity between Turkey and Iran.
This revival of rail links not only strengthens economic ties, but also opens new doors for tourism accessibility between the two countries. With growing interest in cross-border travel and increasing demand for sustainable transportation options, the reopening of Vanteran train services will provide the opportunity for both countries to attract international visitors and strengthen the tourism sector. Masu.
Railway service offers travelers a 22-hour view of some of the region’s most picturesque scenery. With a comfortable couchet wagon that accommodates up to 40 passengers per vehicle, the service is set up to be a popular option for those looking for a more engaging travel experience. Operated twice a week in both directions, trains offer relaxing alternatives for flights and long-distance bus trips, making them a convenient and enjoyable option for tourists.
For Iran, the railway route serves as an important gateway for visitors in Turkey and Europe who are seeking to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, historic sites and diverse landscapes. From the ancient city of Isfahan to the bustling bazaars of Tehran, the railway service offers seamless access to some of Iran’s most famous attractions. Similarly, the turkey stands to benefit from an influx of Iranian tourists eager to explore the scenic beauty of Van and the vibrant cultural scene of Istanbul.
Strengthening bilateral tourism
Before it was suspended in 2019 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Van-Tehran train transported around 10,000 passengers a year. With its return, tourism officials hope that these numbers will increase significantly. Both the Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure and the Iranian Railway Authority have expressed confidence in the updated services, highlighting the potential to boost tourism and promote cultural exchange between the two countries.
The affordable prices for rail travel compared to flights make the train an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Furthermore, due to growing international interest in slow travel, where the journey itself is as valuable as its destination, the scenic routes of the trains allow visitors to uniquely and slowly appreciate the scenery and culture of both countries. It provides opportunities.
Economic and Cultural Impacts
As FTN News quotes, the renewal of the Van-Tehran railway is in line with Turkey’s broader strategy to strengthen international railway cooperation. Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulqadir Ulalogul highlighted the economic and cultural benefits of the reopened services, saying that improved railway connections would promote increased tourism travel between Turkey and Iran. The updated rail link is expected to stimulate the local economy, especially in small towns along the route. Passengers are looking for accommodation, restaurants and local experiences when they travel.
Additionally, the service promotes cultural understanding and strengthens historical ties between neighboring countries. As Iran and Turkey share deep-rooted connections in art, culinary and history, the railway provides a pathway for travelers to explore these shared heritage directly.
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