VISIT KARS, PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO

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Set high on the eastern steppes of Anatolia near the Armenian border, Kars is a city that wears its history in stone. Once a gateway between empires, Kars has served as a Russian outpost, a Seljuk stronghold, and an Ottoman border city. With its snowy winters, dramatic landscapes, and haunting historical ruins, Kars is an unforgettable destination for travelers craving culture, architecture, and something beautifully remote.

A blend of Turkish, Armenian, Kurdish, and Russian influences can still be felt in its cuisine, cityscape, and local customs—making Kars one of Turkey’s most distinctive travel experiences.

Top Places to Visit in Kars

Ani Ruins: Just 45 km from the city, the ancient city of Ani is one of Turkey’s most spectacular archaeological sites. Once the capital of the Armenian Bagratid Kingdom, Ani was a medieval metropolis of over 100,000 people. Today, its ruined cathedrals, churches, mosques, and city walls sit eerily quiet on a plateau overlooking the Arpaçay River. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ani is a must-see for history lovers and photographers alike.

Kars Castle (Kars Kalesi): Overlooking the town from a hilltop, this fortress has seen centuries of warfare and rebuilding—from the Seljuks to the Ottomans. The views from the ramparts, especially at sunset or in winter, are stunning.

Fethiye Mosque (formerly an Armenian Church): Originally built as an Armenian Orthodox church during Russian rule in the 19th century, it was later converted into a mosque. Its Russian-Armenian architectural style is unique in Turkey and emblematic of Kars’ layered history.

Russian Stone Houses & Streets of Old Kars: Stroll the center to see 19th-century Russian architecture: solid basalt buildings with neoclassical facades, wide streets, and European-style balconies. It feels more Caucasus than Anatolia.

Church of the Twelve Apostles (Kümbet Camii): Originally built in the 10th century, this former Armenian church was converted into a mosque and stands as one of Kars’ most iconic structures, noted for its 12-sided dome and animal reliefs.

Top Things to Do in Kars

Ride the Eastern Express (Doğu Ekspresi): Kars is the final stop on the scenic Eastern Express train journey from Ankara, one of Turkey’s most beloved slow-travel experiences. In winter, the snow-covered landscapes turn the route into a fairytale.

Enjoy Local Cuisine: Kars is famous for kaşar and gruyere-style cheeses, Kars honey, and goose meat (kaz eti)—especially during winter months. The local fare is hearty and rich, perfect for cold weather.

Visit Lake Çıldır (in winter): Located about an hour from Kars, Lake Çıldır freezes solid in winter and becomes a playground for horse-drawn sleigh rides and ice fishing. It's a magical experience for visitors during the snowy season.

Attend the Kafkas Folk Festival (summer): Featuring traditional music, costumes, and dances from the Caucasus region, this festival celebrates the area's diverse heritage and strong local identity.