Things To Do
in Kars
Kars is a frontier city in eastern Turkey near the Armenian border, set against a backdrop of expansive plains and cold winters. Its layered history shows in the fortress walls, Armenian churches, and timber-framed houses that line the streets. The region is famed for hearty fare, particularly goose dishes and robust dairy products, with the Ani ruins just beyond as a dramatic day trip.
In winter the city becomes a snowy stage for outdoor adventures, while summer brings long daylight hours and a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Kars Castle, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and a warm pot of honey. After breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the unique blend of Ottoman and Russian architecture.
In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Church of the Apostles, a stunning example of Armenian architecture. Continue your journey to the Kars Archaeological Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich history through fascinating artifacts. As the day winds down, grab lunch at a local eatery, trying out the famous Kars cheese and local dishes.
As evening falls, find a cozy tea house to unwind with a cup of traditional Turkish tea and some sweet pastries. You might also want to explore the local bazaar, where you can shop for handicrafts and local delicacies. To wrap up the day, enjoy dinner at a restaurant offering regional specialties, perhaps sampling the local lamb stew.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the ancient city of Ani, located just a short drive from Kars. As you arrive at the ruins, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take your time exploring the remnants of churches, palaces, and fortifications that tell the story of this once-thriving medieval city.
After exploring Ani, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Arpaçay River, taking in the stunning vistas. Spend the afternoon wandering through the ruins, capturing photos of the impressive architecture and the dramatic scenery. Don't forget to visit the impressive Cathedral of Ani, known for its intricate stone carvings and rich history.
Return to Kars in the evening and relax at your hotel before venturing out for dinner. Choose a local restaurant where you can indulge in traditional dishes like 'kars gravy' or 'sucuk'. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the city at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚆Local transport (one-way ticket) | $0.5-1 |
| 🛏️Hotel (mid-range, nightly) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history with fortress walls, Ani ruins, and diverse architectural influences
- Excellent winter scenery and access to Sarıkamış ski slopes
- Distinctive regional cuisine centered on goose dishes and dairy products
- Concrete gateway to eastern Turkey with approachable city life
- Very cold winters and potential travel disruptions due to snow
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale entertainment options
- Some far-flung sights require day trips and longer drives
- Border-area location may require extra planning for cross-border excursions
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Hesap lütfen" - The bill, please
- "İngilizce konuşabilir misiniz?" - Do you speak English?
- "Nerede bulunduğunuzu söyleyebilir misiniz?" - Where are you located?
Places to Visit in Kars
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient fortress walls with city views; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography against the dramatic sky.
A recognizable landmark in the heart of the city; great for street photography and architectural shots.
Ancient Armenian churches and city walls set in a windswept landscape; especially evocative at dusk.
Expansive ice and snow patterns; reflective surfaces at blue hour and clear winter light.
Majestic alpine scenery with conifer forests and ridgelines; stunning for panoramic shots and wildlife photography.
Food in Kars
Kars Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Goose roasted or stewed, a regional specialty widely found in city taverns and countryside restaurants.
Must-Try!
Tiny meat-filled dumplings topped with yogurt and paprika butter; a staple across eastern Turkey.
Cured, peppery beef used in sandwiches, pastries, and as a savory topping in many dishes.
Distinctive goat cheese made in the region, often served with honey or herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with dairy, honey, dried fruits, fresh produce, and local smoked meats; great for sampling cheeses and breads.
Casual stands offering simit, borek, kebabs, and quick snacks—excellent for a quick, inexpensive bite while exploring the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; use courtesy language when addressing elders. Tea is often offered as a sign of hospitality—accept with a smile.
Cover shoulders and knees when entering mosques; remove shoes where required and speak softly near sacred spaces.
Guests are treated generously; offering tea is customary. If invited to a home, bringing a small gift is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Kars
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) is customary in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up taxi fares is common practice. Tip hotel staff and guides if service is satisfactory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Days are long and generally warm but comfortable; evenings can be cool. Thunderstorms are possible; stay hydrated and protect against sun and wind on open plains.
Mild days with crisp evenings; foliage brings golds and reds—great for color photography and village walks.
Very cold, with frequent snow and icy roads; snow gear is essential; outdoor activities like skiing at Sarıkamış shine in this season.
Chilly mornings transitioning to milder afternoons; rain is possible; blooming grasses and flowers brighten the landscapes.
Kars at Night
Hiking in Kars
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged alpine routes with panoramic views and forest scenery; suitable for day hikes and seasonal wildlife viewing.
Seasonal trails along the lake’s edge offering serene photography opportunities and gentle coastal walks.
Airports
How to reach Kars by plane.
Main regional airport serving Kars; domestic flights to Istanbul and Ankara; taxi or shuttle connections to the city center.
A larger international-style airport in nearby Erzurum; requires road transfer to Kars; useful for broader flight options.
Close to the eastern border region; limited services but provides additional access to the area; drive time to Kars varies with road conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Turkish with historical ties to Armenian and Kurdish communities; the area reflects a blend of cultures across historical periods.
A mix of families, students (due to regional universities), and long-standing residents who maintain strong local traditions and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played, with local clubs and informal matches across the city.
Sarıkamış is a regional magnet for winter sports enthusiasts offering scenic slopes and modern facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kars.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants through vegetable stews, salads, mantı without meat, and dairy-based dishes. Communicate clearly to avoid meat-based broths and sauces.