Kars City Guide (Türkiye, 2026)

Backpacking in Kars
👍 Recommendedcity ranked #15
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026

Ten years ago Kars felt like a forgotten frontier town: dim yellow streetlights, coal smoke in the air, a couple of tea houses, and almost no foreign backpacks in sight. Today it’s still rough-edged, but there are a few hostels, warmer cafés, and a quiet confidence that comes from being the jumping-off point for Ani and the high plateau. Kars sits in Türkiye’s far northeast, closer in mood to the Caucasus than to the Aegean coast. It works best as a 1-3 night base: explore Ani, taste goose and honey, maybe ride the Doğu Ekspresi train. The center is walkable, buses and trains are reliable, nightlife is sleepy, costs are low, and compared with Erzurum or Van, Kars feels smaller, more atmospheric, and less polished.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Türkiye Travel Guide.

Best time to go: April - October
Population: 288,000 [tuik.gov.tr]
Daily cost: €15 to €30 [kulturportali.gov.tr]

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

example page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

example page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

example page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

example page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

example page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

example page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

example page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Türkiye

✨ Why go?
Ranked #15 city in TürkiyeWhat makes this city worth visiting

Kars is a strategic stop for backpackers weaving through Türkiye. Its proximity to hikes like the Kars Plateau and the ancient ruins of Ani makes it a launching pad for outdoor adventures. The walkable streets invite exploration, where you can stumble upon local eateries serving up hearty dishes like kars gravy and manti that warm you from the inside out.

Accommodations here are mostly small-scale hostels and guesthouses, fostering a friendly social atmosphere. You’ll find fellow travelers swapping stories over a cup of strong Turkish tea, making it easy to connect. Most backpackers tend to stay a few days, soaking in the laid-back vibe rather than rushing through.

This town suits slow travelers, hikers, and solo adventurers looking for a genuine experience without the distractions of … read more 👉

Kars is a strategic stop for backpackers weaving through Türkiye. Its proximity to hikes like the Kars Plateau and the ancient ruins of Ani makes it a launching pad for outdoor adventures. The walkable streets invite exploration, where you can stumble upon local eateries serving up hearty dishes like kars gravy and manti that warm you from the inside out.

Accommodations here are mostly small-scale hostels and guesthouses, fostering a friendly social atmosphere. You’ll find fellow travelers swapping stories over a cup of strong Turkish tea, making it easy to connect. Most backpackers tend to stay a few days, soaking in the laid-back vibe rather than rushing through.

This town suits slow travelers, hikers, and solo adventurers looking for a genuine experience without the distractions of nightlife. If you appreciate a place that feels both authentic and accessible, Kars is worth lingering in.

💡 HighlightsWhat this place is best known for

Kars Castle (Kars Kalesi) — The hilltop fortress dominates the town skyline. Walk the ramparts for great panoramas of Kars, the surrounding plains and the old neighborhoods below; sunsets here are simple but honest.
Fethiye Mosque (Fethiye Camii) — A striking, centuries-old building inside the castle precinct that has served different communities over time. The mix of architectural details and the quiet courtyard give a real feel for Kars’s layered past.
Kars Archaeology Museum — Small but well-curated: pottery, coins and finds from the region that tell the story from ancient times through medieval Kars. It’s compact, so you get a lot of context without wasting a day.
Atatürk House & Ethnography Museum — The modest house where Atatürk stayed and a neighboring ethnography display. Good

… read more 👉

Kars Castle (Kars Kalesi) — The hilltop fortress dominates the town skyline. Walk the ramparts for great panoramas of Kars, the surrounding plains and the old neighborhoods below; sunsets here are simple but honest.
Fethiye Mosque (Fethiye Camii) — A striking, centuries-old building inside the castle precinct that has served different communities over time. The mix of architectural details and the quiet courtyard give a real feel for Kars’s layered past.
Kars Archaeology Museum — Small but well-curated: pottery, coins and finds from the region that tell the story from ancient times through medieval Kars. It’s compact, so you get a lot of context without wasting a day.
Atatürk House & Ethnography Museum — The modest house where Atatürk stayed and a neighboring ethnography display. Good for local costume, household objects and a closer look at daily life in historical Kars.
Kars Train Station (Kars Garı) — A photogenic Russian-era station with characteristic architecture and an old steam engine on display. It’s atmospheric and a reminder of this city’s role as a crossroads between empires.
Old Russian Quarter / Timber Houses — Wander the streets of wooden, carved houses and narrow lanes left from the Russian period. They’re quietly photogenic and give the town a very different texture from Turkey’s south.
Kars Bazaar & Covered Market — The best place to sample local produce: Kars kaşar (cheese), honey, handcrafts and simple teahouse food. Markets are where you meet real people and taste the region without pretense.
Republic Square (Cumhuriyet Meydanı) and Clock Tower — The town’s social hub: statue of Atatürk, cafés, and everyday life on show. Good for people-watching, quick coffees and catching a slice of modern Kars.
Kars River Promenade & Stone Bridges — A short, pleasant walk along the Kars Çayı with old stone bridges and local fishermen. It’s a calm place for an evening stroll and quiet photos away from the tourist spots.
Local Cheese Shops & Eateries — Kars is famous for its kaşar and hearty regional cooking; visit small cheese shops, goûter tandır bakeries or a family-run lokanta to taste real local food. Eating here is part of the cultural visit, not just fuel.

A few great day trips from Kars: the Ani ruins, the frozen beauty of Lake Çıldır, the Sarıkamış World War I memorial and pine forests, and the Selim Caravanserai — my personal favorite for sheer historical atmosphere is Ani.

Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Kars

Kars is a captivating blend of history and culture, where every corner tells a story. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods for the best backpacking experience.

City Center

This is the heartbeat of Kars. You’ll find bustling markets and local eateries serving up hearty dishes. The vibe is lively, perfect for those who thrive on energy. It’s walkable, with most attractions within a 15-minute stroll. Nightlife is low-key; think cozy cafes rather than wild parties. Ideal for short stays, as you can soak in the essence of Kars quickly.

Castle District

Home to the iconic Kars Castle, this area offers stunning views and a more tranquil atmosphere. The cobblestone streets are steep, but the payoff is worth it. It’s quieter, making it suitable for longer stays if you want to immerse yourself … read more 👉

Kars is a captivating blend of history and culture, where every corner tells a story. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods for the best backpacking experience.

City Center

This is the heartbeat of Kars. You’ll find bustling markets and local eateries serving up hearty dishes. The vibe is lively, perfect for those who thrive on energy. It’s walkable, with most attractions within a 15-minute stroll. Nightlife is low-key; think cozy cafes rather than wild parties. Ideal for short stays, as you can soak in the essence of Kars quickly.

Castle District

Home to the iconic Kars Castle, this area offers stunning views and a more tranquil atmosphere. The cobblestone streets are steep, but the payoff is worth it. It’s quieter, making it suitable for longer stays if you want to immerse yourself in history. Transport access is decent, but you’ll likely walk to most sites.

Arpaçay

A bit further out, this neighborhood is where you’ll find a more local vibe. It’s less touristy, making it a great spot for budget-conscious travelers. The walkability is moderate; you might need to hop on a dolmuş (shared taxi) to reach the center. Perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and experience daily life in Kars.

Selim

This area is known for its historical architecture and serene landscapes. It’s a bit of a trek from the main attractions, but if you’re up for it, the peace is rewarding. Ideal for longer stays, especially if you enjoy hiking and nature. Transport options are limited, so prepare to explore on foot.

⌛️ 1 dayA smart one-day plan

Kars, Türkiye, is a town steeped in history, where the echoes of ancient civilizations mingle with the crisp air of the Anatolian plateau. Its unique blend of Armenian architecture and Turkish culture creates a rich tapestry that invites exploration.

Start your morning at the imposing Kars Castle. As you ascend the weathered stones, the panoramic view of the town and surrounding landscape unfolds, revealing the rugged beauty of the region. The light filtering through the early mist adds a magical touch. After soaking in the sights, wander down to the bustling local market. The scent of fresh bread and spices fills the air, and you can grab a simit (a sesame-covered bread) from a vendor. Pair it with a cup of strong Turkish tea for a true local experience.

In the afternoon, head to the Ani … read more 👉

Kars, Türkiye, is a town steeped in history, where the echoes of ancient civilizations mingle with the crisp air of the Anatolian plateau. Its unique blend of Armenian architecture and Turkish culture creates a rich tapestry that invites exploration.

Start your morning at the imposing Kars Castle. As you ascend the weathered stones, the panoramic view of the town and surrounding landscape unfolds, revealing the rugged beauty of the region. The light filtering through the early mist adds a magical touch. After soaking in the sights, wander down to the bustling local market. The scent of fresh bread and spices fills the air, and you can grab a simit (a sesame-covered bread) from a vendor. Pair it with a cup of strong Turkish tea for a true local experience.

In the afternoon, head to the Ani Ruins, just a short drive away. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often overlooked by tourists, but its haunting beauty is worth the trip. The remnants of churches and fortifications stand against the backdrop of the Aras River, and the silence here is profound. You can almost hear the whispers of history as you walk among the ruins.

As the sun begins to set, return to Kars and explore the cobblestone streets of the old town. Stop by the local café, where the aroma of roasted coffee beans fills the air. Enjoy a slice of künefe, a sweet cheese pastry, while chatting with locals who are eager to share stories about their town.

End your day at the impressive Church of the Apostles, a stunning example of Armenian architecture. The soft glow of the setting sun casts a warm light on its intricate stonework, making it a perfect spot for reflection. Kars may be small, but its heart beats with history and warmth, making every moment spent here feel like a treasure.

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

Weather: Kars endures harsh winters, often plunging below -15°C (5°F), making snow-heavy months from December to February tough for backpackers. Spring and early autumn offer crisp, clear days that feel like a fresh reset after winter’s grip.
Temperature: Summer highs hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for hiking without overheating. Nights can still dip to 5°C (41°F), so pack layers. Avoid the bitter cold of winter unless you’re chasing a snow adventure.
Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 15 hours, giving you more time to explore the fortress and surrounding landscapes. Winter days shrink to about 8 hours, limiting daylight trekking and sightseeing.
Crowds: Kars remains relatively quiet year-round, but summer sees a modest bump from domestic tourists. Spring and autumn

… read more 👉

Weather: Kars endures harsh winters, often plunging below -15°C (5°F), making snow-heavy months from December to February tough for backpackers. Spring and early autumn offer crisp, clear days that feel like a fresh reset after winter’s grip.
Temperature: Summer highs hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for hiking without overheating. Nights can still dip to 5°C (41°F), so pack layers. Avoid the bitter cold of winter unless you’re chasing a snow adventure.
Daylight Hours: Long summer days stretch up to 15 hours, giving you more time to explore the fortress and surrounding landscapes. Winter days shrink to about 8 hours, limiting daylight trekking and sightseeing.
Crowds: Kars remains relatively quiet year-round, but summer sees a modest bump from domestic tourists. Spring and autumn offer solitude, letting you soak in the town’s rugged charm without distractions.
Seasonal Activities: Summer opens up hiking and exploring the Ani ruins under clear skies. Winter invites snow sports and a chance to witness the town’s icy stillness, but with fewer services available.
Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs peak slightly in summer. Off-season, especially late autumn and early spring, bring better deals but fewer open amenities.

Pro-tip: Aim for late May or September—days are warm, crowds thin, and the light casts a golden glow on Kars’s stone walls that feels like a reward earned through patience.

source: climatestotravel.comJANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDEC

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

The best place for backpackers in Kars is the area around Cumhuriyet Caddesi, the town’s main artery. This neighborhood hums with life—street vendors selling fresh simit, the scent of roasting chestnuts mingling with the crisp mountain air. It’s safe, compact, and packed with budget guesthouses and small hostels that attract solo travelers and groups alike. Staying here means you’re steps away from local cafés where you can sip thick Turkish tea while watching the world unfold, and the social vibe is easy to tap into without feeling forced.

Compared to the quieter, more residential districts, … read more 👉

The best place for backpackers in Kars is the area around Cumhuriyet Caddesi, the town’s main artery. This neighborhood hums with life—street vendors selling fresh simit, the scent of roasting chestnuts mingling with the crisp mountain air. It’s safe, compact, and packed with budget guesthouses and small hostels that attract solo travelers and groups alike. Staying here means you’re steps away from local cafés where you can sip thick Turkish tea while watching the world unfold, and the social vibe is easy to tap into without feeling forced.

Compared to the quieter, more residential districts, Cumhuriyet Caddesi offers a pulse that keeps you connected to the town’s rhythm. It’s where you’ll find fellow backpackers swapping tips over shared meals, making it easier to find company for day trips to Ani or the surrounding highlands. Other parts of Kars are more spread out or geared toward locals, which can leave solo travelers feeling isolated. Here, the streets are alive, the atmosphere welcoming, and the practicalities—shops, transport, eateries—are all within a comfortable stroll.

Best quality hotels in Türkiye

🚌 Getting aroundMoving around without the hassle

Kars moves at its own pace—neither frantic nor sluggish, but deliberate, like the slow burn of a campfire that draws you in. The town’s rhythm is shaped by its rugged winters and the steady flow of locals who know their way around cobbled streets and Soviet-era blocks. It’s not a place where you’ll find strict timetables or polished transit hubs; instead, you navigate by a mix of intuition, local cues, and a bit of patience. The air carries a faint scent of wood smoke and fresh bread from nearby bakeries, grounding you in the moment as you plan your next move. Understanding this flow means embracing a bit of unpredictability but also unlocking a smoother, more authentic way to get around without wasting time or money.

Walking: The heart of Kars is compact enough to explore on foot, especially

… read more 👉

Kars moves at its own pace—neither frantic nor sluggish, but deliberate, like the slow burn of a campfire that draws you in. The town’s rhythm is shaped by its rugged winters and the steady flow of locals who know their way around cobbled streets and Soviet-era blocks. It’s not a place where you’ll find strict timetables or polished transit hubs; instead, you navigate by a mix of intuition, local cues, and a bit of patience. The air carries a faint scent of wood smoke and fresh bread from nearby bakeries, grounding you in the moment as you plan your next move. Understanding this flow means embracing a bit of unpredictability but also unlocking a smoother, more authentic way to get around without wasting time or money.

Walking: The heart of Kars is compact enough to explore on foot, especially the historic center and the castle area. Walking lets you soak in the crisp mountain air, the texture of stone walls, and the quiet hum of daily life. It’s free, flexible, and often faster than waiting for other transport in the narrow streets.
Dolmuş (Shared Minibuses): These are the lifeblood of local transit—cheap (around 5-10 TRY), frequent, and flexible. They don’t run on strict schedules but start filling up and leaving once full, usually from early morning until dusk. Dolmuş routes cover the main neighborhoods and the bus station, making them essential for budget travelers who want speed without the hassle of taxis.
Local Buses: Operated by the municipality, these buses have fixed routes and times, generally running from 7 AM to 9 PM. Tickets cost about 3-5 TRY. They’re slower than dolmuş but more predictable, ideal if you want a set departure time and a seat guaranteed. Expect basic comfort and a chance to observe daily routines.
Taxis: While pricier (starting around 20 TRY for short rides), taxis offer door-to-door convenience, especially useful if you’re hauling gear or traveling late. Negotiate the fare upfront, as meters aren’t always used. The ride gives you a chance to chat with drivers who often share insider tips on hidden spots or the best local eateries.

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)Travel costs and budget guide for Kars

Backpacking in Kars, Türkiye, offers a raw, authentic experience where every lira spent feels like an investment in local culture and history. Here’s what you can expect to budget daily:

Dorm Accommodation: Hostels and guesthouses in Kars typically charge between €8 and €15 per night for a dorm bed. The rooms are simple but clean, often with shared bathrooms and basic heating—essential in the cold months.
Meals: Street food and local eateries serve hearty portions of gözleme, soups, and kebabs for around €2 to €5 per meal. If you opt for a sit-down meal in a modest restaurant, expect to pay €5 to €8. The food is filling and rich in local flavors, perfect after a day exploring the chilly streets.
Local Transport: Kars is compact, so walking covers most ground. For longer trips or to nearby

… read more 👉

Backpacking in Kars, Türkiye, offers a raw, authentic experience where every lira spent feels like an investment in local culture and history. Here’s what you can expect to budget daily:

Dorm Accommodation: Hostels and guesthouses in Kars typically charge between €8 and €15 per night for a dorm bed. The rooms are simple but clean, often with shared bathrooms and basic heating—essential in the cold months.
Meals: Street food and local eateries serve hearty portions of gözleme, soups, and kebabs for around €2 to €5 per meal. If you opt for a sit-down meal in a modest restaurant, expect to pay €5 to €8. The food is filling and rich in local flavors, perfect after a day exploring the chilly streets.
Local Transport: Kars is compact, so walking covers most ground. For longer trips or to nearby attractions, minibusses cost about €0.50 to €1 per ride. Taxis are available but pricier, around €3 to €5 for short distances.
Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Entry to the Kars Castle or the Archaeological Museum is roughly €1 to €3. Guided tours or special excursions, like a day trip to Ani ruins, might run €10 to €20, but you can often explore independently for less.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Budget around €1 to €3 for essentials like bottled water, snacks, or a cup of tea at a local café. Wi-Fi is spotty in some places, so consider a local SIM card for about €5 to €10 if you need reliable internet.

All told, a daily budget in Kars for a backpacker comfortably ranges from €15 to €30. This balance lets you enjoy local flavors, modest comforts, and cultural sites without stretching your wallet. The crisp air and historic streets make every euro feel like part of a story worth telling.

source: kulturportali.gov.tr

⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

Kars is a fantastic base for exploring the rugged beauty and rich history of eastern Türkiye. With its unique blend of cultures and landscapes, you’ll find plenty of rewarding day trips that make the effort worthwhile.

Ani Ruins

Just a 30-minute bus ride from Kars, the ancient city of Ani is a must-see. Once a thriving capital, its crumbling churches and fortifications tell stories of empires long gone. The haunting beauty of the landscape, with the Arpaçay River winding through, adds a dramatic backdrop. Aim for early morning to catch the sunrise illuminating the ruins, casting long shadows that enhance the mystique. Expect to spend around 50 TL for transport and entry. A common mistake? Underestimating how much time you’ll want to wander; give yourself at least three hours to soak it all … read more 👉

Kars is a fantastic base for exploring the rugged beauty and rich history of eastern Türkiye. With its unique blend of cultures and landscapes, you’ll find plenty of rewarding day trips that make the effort worthwhile.

Ani Ruins

Just a 30-minute bus ride from Kars, the ancient city of Ani is a must-see. Once a thriving capital, its crumbling churches and fortifications tell stories of empires long gone. The haunting beauty of the landscape, with the Arpaçay River winding through, adds a dramatic backdrop. Aim for early morning to catch the sunrise illuminating the ruins, casting long shadows that enhance the mystique. Expect to spend around 50 TL for transport and entry. A common mistake? Underestimating how much time you’ll want to wander; give yourself at least three hours to soak it all in.

Çıldır Lake

About an hour’s drive from Kars, Çıldır Lake is a serene escape. In winter, it transforms into a frozen wonderland, perfect for ice fishing and snowshoeing. In summer, the lake is alive with birdlife and offers a peaceful spot for picnicking. The drive itself is scenic, with rolling hills and traditional villages. Budget around 100 TL for transport and snacks. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons—spring and fall—when the weather is mild and the crowds are thin. Don’t forget your camera; the reflections on the water are stunning!

Kars Castle

Just a short walk from the town center, Kars Castle offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The fortress dates back to the 10th century and is a great place to delve into local history. Climbing to the top is free, but the real treasure is the view at sunset when the sky ignites with color. Plan for about an hour here, and it won’t cost you a dime. A common oversight is visiting during the heat of midday; the best light and cooler temperatures are in the late afternoon.

Susuz Village

A hidden treasure just 45 minutes from Kars, Susuz Village is a glimpse into rural life. The village is known for its traditional stone houses and friendly locals. You can hike the nearby trails, which are lined with wildflowers in spring. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy by the river. The total cost for transport and snacks is around 80 TL. Many travelers miss this spot, thinking they need to stick to the more famous sites, but the authentic experience here is priceless.

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

In Kars, food is a rugged celebration of the region’s harsh winters and pastoral roots. The star on every plate is kaşar cheese, a dense, salty delight that locals age to perfection. Pair it with grilled meat skewers—lamb is king here—and you’re tasting centuries of tradition. Don’t miss manti, tiny dumplings swimming in garlicky yogurt, a dish that feels like a warm hug after a day exploring.

Backpackers find their groove in the bustling local markets and street stalls, where the air is thick with the scent of smoky kebabs and fresh bread. Casual eateries hum with chatter, offering hearty portions without the fuss. For drinks, ayran—a salty yogurt drink—is the go-to refresher, cutting through the richness of the food. Tea flows freely, served in tulip-shaped glasses, a ritual that invites … read more 👉

In Kars, food is a rugged celebration of the region’s harsh winters and pastoral roots. The star on every plate is kaşar cheese, a dense, salty delight that locals age to perfection. Pair it with grilled meat skewers—lamb is king here—and you’re tasting centuries of tradition. Don’t miss manti, tiny dumplings swimming in garlicky yogurt, a dish that feels like a warm hug after a day exploring.

Backpackers find their groove in the bustling local markets and street stalls, where the air is thick with the scent of smoky kebabs and fresh bread. Casual eateries hum with chatter, offering hearty portions without the fuss. For drinks, ayran—a salty yogurt drink—is the go-to refresher, cutting through the richness of the food. Tea flows freely, served in tulip-shaped glasses, a ritual that invites slow conversation and people-watching.

Eating in Kars is unhurried. Expect to share plates, savor every bite, and embrace the warmth of a culture that feeds both body and soul with equal generosity.

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

Kars is generally safe, but like any place, a little awareness goes a long way. The bustling market areas can be lively, so keep your belongings close. If you’re wandering alone at night, stick to well-lit streets and avoid empty alleys; the atmosphere can shift quickly after dark.

Watch for the occasional scam, like overly friendly locals offering unsolicited help that leads to inflated prices. A polite but firm “no, thank you” usually does the trick.

Annoyances can include aggressive street vendors, especially near tourist spots. A simple smile and a shake of the head can help you glide past. Embrace the local culture, but trust your instincts. Carry yourself confidently, and you’ll find Kars to be a rewarding experience, full of rich history and warm hospitality.

Check Country Safety

FAQTraveler FAQ

2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore Kars. This allows time to visit key sites like Ani Ruins, Kars Castle, and the local museums. Day trips to nearby attractions such as Lake Çıldır are also feasible within this timeframe.

Yes, Kars is generally safe for solo backpackers. The city has a low crime rate, but standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure are advised. The local population is known for being hospitable to tourists.

Kars is known for its historical sites, especially the medieval Ani Ruins located about 45 kilometers from the city center. It is also famous for its unique architecture, including Russian-era buildings, and its distinctive local cuisine, such as Kars cheese and honey.

⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Turkish cities near Kars

Explore more nearby:

Artvin—steep valleys, wooden villages, Georgian border| 125 km away
Erzurum—eastern plateau, stone madrassas, ski slopes| 174 km away
Rize—tea plantations, lush valleys, rainy hills| 222 km away

💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Türkiye including Kars and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all cities

Or checkout all Türkiye has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)

Explore Türkiye

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

Kars has a raw, rugged charm that pulls you in. The ancient ruins and the haunting beauty of the landscape are like a history lesson wrapped in fresh mountain air. But be ready for the cold; winter bites hard here. Layer up and embrace it. The chill makes the warm hospitality of locals feel even cozier. You’ll leave with stories that linger long after the frost melts away.

✈️ When did I visit Türkiye?
In May 2017 I was backpacking through Turkey from the South, making it up north along the coast, ending in Istanbul.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Türkiye, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.

🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpack

Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past 3 decades, I’ve backpacked through 90+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story

Türkiye🇹🇷 | citiesKarsRussian architecture, Ani ruins, cheese markets | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Kars
👍 Recommendedcity ranked #15
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #15 city in TürkiyeWhat makes this city worth visiting

💡 HighlightsWhat this place is best known for

Things to do in Kars

Limo service with English speaking driver

Konya Airport KYA Transfers to Konya City Hotels

Kars Airport KSY Transfers to Kars City Centre Hotels

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Kars

⌛️ 1 dayA smart one-day plan

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutTürkiye Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

🚌 Getting aroundMoving around without the hassle

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)Travel costs and budget guide for Kars

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

FAQTraveler FAQ

Other Turkish cities near Kars

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Türkiye🇹🇷 | citiesKarsRussian architecture, Ani ruins, cheese markets | things to do and best time to go

Backpacking in Kars👍 Recommendedcity ranked #15By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026addMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794be8f')

✨ Why go?Ranked #15 city in TürkiyeaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794cde9')What makes this city worth visitingaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794cdf0')

💡 HighlightsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794e1e9')What this place is best known foraddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794e1f1')

Things to do in Kars

Limo service with English speaking driver

Konya Airport KYA Transfers to Konya City Hotels

Kars Airport KSY Transfers to Kars City Centre Hotels

🏘️ NeighborhoodsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794eb31')Neighborhood guide to KarsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794eb36')

⌛️ 1 dayaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794f6c9')A smart one-day planaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e794f6cf')

🌤️ When to go?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e795023a')When to go for the best experienceaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7950240')

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutTürkiye Travel Guide

🛏️ Where to stay?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7950f45')How to pick the right areaaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7950f4a')

🚌 Getting aroundaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e795193b')Moving around without the hassleaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7951940')

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)addMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7952294')Travel costs and budget guide for KarsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7952299')

🚌 Day tripsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7966243')Exploring the surroundingsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e796624b')

🍲 FoodaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7966947')What to Eat & DrinkaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e796694b')

🛡️ SafetyaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7966ab2')Staying Safe: What Travelers Should KnowaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7966ab6')

FAQaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7966b37')Traveler FAQaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e7966b3c')

Other Turkish cities near KarsaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e796b19c')

We 💚 feedbackaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e796b31f')Is it worth it?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e796b323')

👋 Meet the founderaddMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e796b368')Who’s Behind Take Your Backpack?addMaskedRevealAnimation('6ad59e796b36c')

Backpacking in Kars
👍 Recommendedcity ranked #15
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 15, 2026

✨ Why go?
Ranked #15 city in TürkiyeWhat makes this city worth visiting

💡 HighlightsWhat this place is best known for

🏘️ NeighborhoodsNeighborhood guide to Kars

⌛️ 1 dayA smart one-day plan

🌤️ When to go?When to go for the best experience

🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

🚌 Getting aroundMoving around without the hassle

👛 Costs (as of 15 October 2026)Travel costs and budget guide for Kars

🚌 Day tripsExploring the surroundings

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

🛡️ SafetyStaying Safe: What Travelers Should Know

FAQTraveler FAQ

Other Turkish cities near Kars

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?