Places to Visit in Kars (2026 Updated Guide) ❄️
A Comprehensive Guide for Those Who Truly Want to Discover Kars
The jewel of Eastern Anatolia, Kars is a destination that deserves to be explored not only for its winter tourism, but also for its historical texture, cultural heritage, unique natural beauty, and distinctive city atmosphere. From the Ani Ruins to Ottoman-era landmarks, from historic palaces to traditional Caucasian cuisine, Kars stands out as one of Türkiye’s most compelling culture- and nature-focused travel destinations in 2026.
To fully enjoy Kars, it’s important to plan the right route, manage your time well, and not miss local flavors and activities. This guide has been prepared for travelers who want to explore Kars in a more informed and efficient way.
Where Are the Main Places to Visit in Kars Concentrated?
Attractions in Kars are generally clustered around the city center and nearby historical regions. Exploring the city by zones helps reduce fatigue and allows you to use your time more efficiently.
Key areas include:
Kars city center
Ani Ruins and surroundings
Sarıkamış and the Allahuekber Mountains region
Kağızman and Selim districts
Historic Kars and the Ani Ruins 🏰
1) Ani Ruins
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ani Ruins were known in the Middle Ages as the “city of a thousand and one churches.” With structures reflecting Armenian, Byzantine, and Seljuk influences, Ani is a must-see for anyone wishing to journey through history.
2) Kars Castle
One of the city’s iconic landmarks, Kars Castle bears traces of both Ottoman and Russian periods. With its surrounding walking paths and scenic viewpoints, it is an ideal stop for photography enthusiasts.
3) Fethiye Mosque and Stone Bridge
Revealing the city’s historical fabric, Fethiye Mosque and the Stone Bridge offer a short yet impressive walking experience in the heart of Kars.
Nature and Winter Tourism: Places to Visit in Kars ❄️🌲
1) Sarıkamış Ski Resort
A favorite among visitors, Sarıkamış Ski Resort is famous for its high-quality snow and natural pine forests. It is an excellent destination for skiing, snowboarding, and winter nature walks.
2) Allahuekber Mountains
Another popular route for hiking and photography is the Allahuekber Mountains, which offer postcard-perfect views—especially during the winter months.
3) Kuyucuk Lake
A key stop for migratory birds, Kuyucuk Lake is an outstanding destination for birdwatching and nature photography.
Cultural Experiences and Local Flavors in Kars 🍲
Kars Cheese and Honey: Kars cuisine is renowned for its local cheeses and high-quality honey.
Caucasian Cuisine: Dishes influenced by Chechen, Georgian, and Armenian cultures can be experienced throughout the city.
Local Markets: In the city center, you can find handicrafts and regional souvenirs.
Traveling to Kars with the Eastern Express 🚂
One of the most enjoyable ways to reach Kars is via the Eastern Express. Departing from Ankara or Istanbul, the train takes you to Kars through breathtaking landscapes. Seeing the snow-covered mountains of Erzurum and Ağrı along the route makes the journey truly unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Eastern Express
What is the Eastern Express and how does it go to Kars?
The Touristic Eastern Express is a famous train journey from Ankara to Kars. It is considered one of Türkiye’s most popular railway tourism experiences and is especially favored by photography, nature, and train enthusiasts for its winter scenery.
When are the 2025–2026 Eastern Express services?
2025–2026 Touristic Eastern Express winter season:
Start: December 22, 2025
End: March 1, 2026
Total: 60 scheduled trips
On which days do the services operate?
Ankara → Kars: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Kars → Ankara: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
With this schedule, the train attracts strong interest throughout the entire winter season.
How long does the Eastern Express journey take?
The total journey takes approximately 32–33 hours, including extended stops in Erzincan, Erzurum, and other stations.
How can tickets for the Eastern Express be purchased?
Tickets are sold in two ways:
Individual passenger tickets: Via TCDD Taşımacılık sales channels
Tour packages: Through authorized travel agencies
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kars ❓
How many days should be allocated to visit Kars?
Generally, 2 days are sufficient for the city center and Ani Ruins. For a more detailed exploration including Sarıkamış and surrounding areas, 3–4 days is ideal.
Is transportation in Kars easy?
Urban transportation is mainly provided by buses and taxis. For tourist spots like Ani Ruins and Sarıkamış, a private car or organized tour is recommended.
Is Kars an expensive city?
Accommodation and dining options are generally close to or slightly below the Türkiye average.
Should I use cash or card in Kars?
Card payments are widely accepted; however, it’s useful to carry some cash for small businesses and local markets.
Last Uptade: January 2026
This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not aim to cover all aspects of the topics discussed. The information herein should not be considered a substitute for advice from a qualified professional. Nothing in this publication should be interpreted as legal, tax, or professional advice provided by PayPorter or its affiliates. While we strive to keep our content accurate and up to date, we make no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information provided.