Kars Turkey Travel Guide A Vagabond Life
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Turkey, Kars beckons travelers with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This enchanting city, situated on the high plateau of Eastern Anatolia, boasts a rich tapestry woven with influences from various civilizations that have left their mark over the centuries. With roots tracing back to ancient times, Kars has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires, including the Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The city’s historic charm is epitomized by the well-preserved Kars Castle and the imposing Holy Apostles Church, both reflecting the architectural legacy of bygone eras.
Beyond its historical allure, Kars captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes, featuring vast plateaus, snow-capped mountains, and pristine lakes. The picturesque Ani Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand as a testament to the city’s former grandeur as a medieval Armenian capital. Travelers can also indulge in the warmth of Turkish hospitality and savor local culinary delights, making Kars a captivating destination for those seeking a journey into Turkey’s lesser-explored treasures. Whether wandering through historic sites or taking in the breathtaking natural vistas, Kars promises a travel experience that resonates with both history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Kars Turkey Map
Getting To Kars Turkey
By Air
Kars has its own airport, Kars Harakani Airport (KSY), which is situated about 5 kilometers from the city center. The airport serves domestic flights primarily from Istanbul. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines offer regular flights connecting Istanbul to Kars, with a flight duration of approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or use shuttle services to reach the city center.
By Train
Kars is accessible by train, with the Turkish State Railways (TCDD) operating services from Istanbul to Kars. The journey by train offers a scenic route through eastern Anatolia and takes approximately 24 to 30 hours, depending on the service. The train station in Kars is located in the city center, making it convenient for travelers to access accommodations and local attractions upon arrival.
By Bus
Several bus companies operate services to Kars from major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Erzurum. The bus journey offers a comfortable and economical way to reach Kars, with travel times varying between 12 to 18 hours depending on the departure city. Buses typically arrive at the Kars Bus Terminal, located a short distance from the city center.
By Car
Driving to Kars provides the flexibility to explore the surrounding region at your own pace. If renting a car, you can reach Kars via well-maintained highways from major cities. The drive from Istanbul takes approximately 16 to 18 hours, while the journey from Erzurum is around 2 to 3 hours. Ensure you are familiar with local driving regulations and road conditions.
Getting Around Kars Turkey
By Taxi
Taxis are a convenient option for getting around Kars. You can find taxis throughout the city, and they offer a reliable way to reach various destinations, including historical sites and local attractions. It is advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey or ensure the meter is used.
By Dolmuş
Dolmuş, a shared minibus service, is a popular mode of transportation in Kars. These minibuses operate on fixed routes and are an affordable way to travel within the city and to nearby areas. Dolmuş services are frequent and provide a local experience of Kars’ public transportation.
By Bicycle
Cycling is a viable option for exploring Kars, especially during the warmer months. The city’s relatively flat terrain and scenic surroundings make it enjoyable for biking. Bicycle rentals are available, allowing you to explore the city’s historic sites and enjoy its outdoor spaces at your own pace.
By Car
Having access to a car can be beneficial for navigating Kars and its surroundings. While the city itself is manageable by foot or public transport, a car allows you to explore nearby attractions and enjoy the scenic drives in the region. Car rentals are available in Kars, and driving offers flexibility for exploring the broader area.
On Foot
Kars is a relatively compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city’s key attractions, such as Kars Fortress and historical sites, are within walking distance of each other. Walking allows you to experience the city’s atmosphere and discover local shops and cafes along the way.
How To Catch The Dogu Express
Things To See & Do In Kars Turkey
Kars Castle Turkey
Kars Fortress, towering over the city of Kars in northeastern Turkey, is a remarkable historical site with a rich and complex past. The fortress, strategically perched on a rocky hill overlooking the surrounding plains, has played a significant role in the region’s military and political history.
The origins of Kars Fortress date back to ancient times, with the initial construction attributed to the Urartians around the 8th century BCE. However, the fortress as it stands today is largely the result of various modifications and expansions made by successive rulers. The Byzantine Empire, Seljuk Turks, and Ottoman Empire each contributed to the fortress’s development, leaving behind a mix of architectural styles and fortifications. Notably, the fortress underwent significant enhancements during the 19th century under Russian control, adding to its impressive array of defensive structures.
The fortress offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Kars and the vast Anatolian plains. Exploring its ramparts, towers, and battlements provides insight into the strategic importance of the site and the historical conflicts that shaped the region. Kars Fortress remains a testament to the city’s enduring historical significance and a captivating destination for those interested in Turkey’s rich military heritage.
Kars Museum Turkey
The Kars Museum, situated in the historic city of Kars in northeastern Turkey, is a treasure trove of cultural and archaeological wonders that spans millennia. The museum’s exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history, from the early Bronze Age through the Urartian and Roman periods.
The museum’s collection includes artifacts from various historical epochs, showcasing the area’s significance as a cultural crossroads. Visitors can explore an impressive array of relics, including ancient pottery, sculptures, and inscriptions that shed light on the diverse civilizations that once thrived in this region. Noteworthy exhibits highlight the Urartian civilization, known for its elaborate fortresses and advanced metallurgy, as well as Roman artifacts that illustrate the city’s role in ancient trade and governance.
One of the strengths of the Kars Museum is its accessibility to international visitors. The exhibits are well-documented, with a substantial amount of information available in English, making it easier for non-Turkish speakers to appreciate the historical context. This thoughtful approach enhances the educational experience, allowing visitors to fully engage with the artifacts and their significance. The Kars Museum stands as a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Anatolian history.
Address: Cumhuriyet Caddesi
Hours: 8am-5pm Tue-Sun
Drink Tea in The Kars Tea Houses
Kars, like all of Turkey has a strong culture of tea houses and tea. Locals gather to drink copious cups of tea that are served in tiny tulip cups and catch up with each other.
We were welcomed into the tea houses where we drank tea and ate baklava with the locals which was a wonderful experience.
Visit Ancient Ani Turkey
Ancient Ani, often referred to as the “City of a Thousand and One Churches,” is a remarkable archaeological site located in northeastern Turkey near the border with Armenia. Founded in the 5th century, Ani served as the medieval capital of the Armenian Kingdom of Ani, flourishing between the 10th and 13th centuries as a major cultural and commercial center.
The city was renowned for its impressive architecture, including stunning churches, grand palaces, and fortified walls. Ani’s architectural heritage reflects a blend of Armenian, Byzantine, and Islamic influences, making it a fascinating study of medieval urban development. Notable structures include the Church of St. Gregory, known for its intricate carvings and frescoes, and the impressive Cathedral of Ani, which stands as a testament to the city’s former grandeur.
Despite its historical significance, Ani faced periods of decline due to invasions and natural disasters. By the 17th century, the city was largely abandoned and fell into ruins. Today, Ani is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers, offering a glimpse into a once-thriving medieval metropolis surrounded by dramatic landscapes.
Ani is 45KM from Kars.
How To Get To Ani From Kars
There is a local bus which departs from next to Antik Cafe which is on the corner of Faikbey cd & Gazi Ahmet Pasa cd.
The bus leaves at 9am & 1pm and leaves Ani to return to town at 11:30 and 15:30 giving you have about 2 hours to explore the ruins
Bus Price: 14 TL return
Read the Ani Travel Guide here
Catch The Dogu Express
How To Catch The Dogu Express
The Dogu Express, or Eastern Express travels between Ankara and Kars and in my opinion it is one of this worlds great train trips travelling 1310km across Turkey.
The Dogu Express first journey was in 1936 and originated in Istanbul now it starts and finishes in Ankara with a fast train connecting Ankara and Kars.
Since May 2019 Turkish Rail have run 2 different types of Dogu Express.
Read the ultimate guide to catching the Dogu Express here
