How to get to Kars

Kars is a captivating city in northeastern Turkey, renowned for its unique architectural character and rich historical heritage. Situated on a high-altitude plateau, it attracts travellers eager to discover an authentic atmosphere and visit the region's famous ancient monuments.

You can reach Kars in various ways, depending on your preferences and point of departure. Travellers have access to flights, scenic train routes, as well as bus or car journeys that allow you to enjoy the beauty of the local landscapes.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is by air. Travellers are welcomed by Kars Harakani Airport (KSY), which provides regular connections to Turkey's major transport hubs, most frequently receiving flights from Istanbul and Ankara. Flying here is a delight in itself, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of high plateaus and snow-capped peaks even before landing.

The airport is located quite close to the city limits, so the journey to the centre of Kars after landing will be quick and tireless. Alternatively, if direct tickets are unavailable, you might consider flying to neighbouring cities, such as Ağrı; however, a direct flight remains the most convenient option for beginning your acquaintance with this historic region.

Travelling by rail is one of the most atmospheric and sought-after ways to get to Kars. The route has become famous thanks to the legendary "Eastern Express" (Doğu Ekspresi), which departs from the country's capital, Ankara. For many travellers, this train is not just a means of transport, but the main purpose of their trip to Turkey.

The journey takes between 24 to 30 hours, offering passengers a unique change of scenery: from the steppe expanses of Central Anatolia to the majestic mountain ranges, canyons, and rushing rivers of the East. The route looks particularly picturesque during the winter season, when the snowy views outside the window create a true fairytale atmosphere, attracting photographers and nature lovers.

Due to the high popularity of the destination, tickets—especially for the special "Touristic Eastern Express" (Turistik Doğu Ekspresi)—sell out almost instantly, so it is worth planning your trip well in advance of the departure date. The train arrives at the city railway station located within the city limits, from where you can quickly and conveniently reach the centre and hotels.

The bus network in Turkey is distinguished by its comfort and punctuality, which is why many tourists choose this mode of transport for their trip to Kars. A scenic and short route leads from neighbouring Ardahan: the bus covers the distance of 90 kilometres in approximately one and a half hours. The path runs through impressive high-altitude plateaus, allowing you to enjoy the rugged beauty of the local nature.

Regular services also operate from the city of Ağrı, located to the south. The travel time is about three hours, during which the vehicle covers 220 kilometres along the roads of Eastern Anatolia. Intercity buses arrive at the main bus terminal (Kars Otogarı), from where you can quickly reach the historic centre and hotels by taxi or local minibuses known as dolmuş.

Travelling by car across Eastern Anatolia is an opportunity to see the rugged beauty of high-altitude plateaus and historical monuments at your own pace. The road network in the region is well-developed, and the highways are generally not congested, making the drive comfortable. One of the most popular routes leads from Erzurum: a distance of about 200 kilometres can be covered in approximately 2.5–3 hours, enjoying views of endless steppes and mountain ranges.

If you are coming from the north, for example, from Ardahan, the drive will take very little time—about 90 kilometres fly by in just over an hour. The route from Iğdır (about 140 kilometres, 2 hours on the road) is also popular, offering travellers breathtaking views of the legendary Mount Ararat in clear weather.

When planning a trip, it is important to consider seasonality. Winters in Kars are snowy and long, so during the cold season, the car must be equipped with winter tyres, and having snow chains is strongly recommended. Renting a car ensures maximum freedom of movement, but for one-off trips between cities, you can use taxi services, agreeing on the fare with the driver in advance.

A trip to Kars is an immersion into a completely different Turkey, far removed from beach resort stereotypes. This high-altitude region is famous for its rugged beauty, deep history, and hospitality. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations to help you plan the perfect itinerary.

1. Dress for the weather. The climate here is sharply continental and harsh. Even if you are travelling in summer, be sure to bring a warm sweater or windbreaker—evenings on the plateau can be very cool. In winter, a full set is necessary: thermal underwear, windproof outerwear, a hat, and gloves. Footwear should be warm and have non-slip soles, as the streets are often covered with snow or ice.
2. Sun protection. Due to the high-altitude location, the sun here is very active year-round. In winter, ultraviolet radiation reflected off the snow can be particularly deceptive. Be sure to use sunscreen and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and skin.
3. Trip to Ani. Visiting the ruins of the ancient city of Ani is a mandatory part of the programme. Since the attraction is located away from the city, it is most convenient to arrange a round trip with a taxi driver that includes waiting time (usually 2–3 hours are needed for sightseeing). Note that there are practically no shops or cafes within the complex, so it is best to buy water and snacks in the city centre beforehand.
4. Cash. Bank cards are accepted in hotels and large supermarkets, but for paying fares in dolmuş (minibuses), shopping in small stalls, or at markets, you will need Turkish Lira in cash. There are ATMs in the centre, but it is better to keep a supply of small notes with you.
5. Connectivity and Language. English is not spoken everywhere in this region. We recommend downloading offline maps of the region and a translation app on your smartphone in advance. Learning a few words in Turkish ("hello", "thank you") will not only facilitate communication but also show respect to the local residents, which is always appreciated.
6. Local Delicacies. The region's gastronomy is unique and offers excellent Halal options. In winter, the main dish at the table is considered to be goose meat (kaz eti), which is served with rice or bulgur. Also, do not miss the opportunity to try and buy the famous "Kars Gravyer" cheese (Kars gravyeri)—a hard cheese with large holes, resembling Swiss varieties, and local honey, famous for its ecological purity.
7. Etiquette and Customs. The city preserves its traditional values. Tourists are recommended to adhere to a modest style of dress. When visiting religious sites, women should cover their heads with a scarf, and it is customary to remove shoes when entering a mosque or a private home, in line with local traditions.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and focus on what matters most—the amazing atmosphere of the ancient city and the grandeur of Eastern Anatolia's nature.