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Kars

Kars, Kars, Turkey

Step Back in Time in Kars, Turkey Nestled amongst the rugged landscapes of northeastern Turkey lies Kars, a city where history whispers from every stone and echoes through the windswept plains. Here, ancient empires have…

#Historic city#Eastern Turkey#Cultural heritage#Ani Ruins#Kars Castle

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kars.

Top Hotels in Kars

Top Flights to Kars

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kars.

Tours

Explore the Historic Ani Ruins

Discover the ancient city of Ani, an architectural gem with historical significance, featuring ruins from several civilizations.

Kars Castle Visit

Visit the Kars Castle that offers splendid views of the city and a walk through history.

Aviation Museum Tour

Visit the museum showcasing the aviation history in Kars with a collection of aircraft and related exhibits.

Shopping

Local Market Shopping Spree

Experience shopping at local markets for traditional souvenirs and handicrafts.

Outdoor

Caucasian Wildlife Refuge Hiking

Enjoy hiking in the Caucasian Wildlife Refuge surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.

Lake Çıldır Ice Fishing

Engage in ice fishing during winter on the frozen Lake Çıldır, a thrilling outdoor activity.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kars.

Currency

₺ | TRY | Turkish Lira

Population

Not Available

Languages

Turkish, Kurdish, Azerbaijani

Average weather

Kars

Jan

-3°-12°

Feb

-1°-10°

Mar

3°-7°

Apr

11°-1°

May

17°3°

Jun

22°7°

Jul

26°11°

Aug

26°11°

Sep

21°6°

Oct

14°1°

Nov

6°-5°

Dec

-1°-9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kars.

What people love

Kars is a unique destination in Turkey with several attractions and activities that make it worth visiting. Here are some pros of traveling to Kars:

Historical Sites: Kars is rich in history and has several historical sites to explore, including the imposing Kars Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the 10th-century Church of the Apostles.
Cultural Diversity: Kars is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Turkish, Russian, Armenian, and Georgian cultures. This diversity can be seen in the local architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Natural Beauty: The region surrounding Kars is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and lush meadows. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and bird watching.
Local Cuisine: Kars is famous for its unique cuisine, which includes delicious dishes such as Kars-style cheese, honey, and local pastries. Foodies will enjoy exploring the local markets and trying traditional dishes.
Hospitality: The people of Kars are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Travelers can expect to be greeted with kindness and generosity during their stay in the city.

Overall, traveling to Kars offers a blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine, making it a fascinating destination to explore in Turkey.

What to know

Traveling to Kars, a city in northeastern Turkey, can be a unique experience, but there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

Harsh Climate: Kars is known for its severe winters, with heavy snowfall and temperatures that can drop significantly below freezing. This can make travel challenging, particularly if you are not accustomed to cold weather or if you plan to visit during the winter months.
Accessibility: Kars is relatively remote compared to other Turkish cities. While it is accessible by train, plane, and bus, the journeys can be long, particularly from major cities like Istanbul or Ankara. The limited transportation options might not be convenient for all travelers.
Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Kars, as it is in more tourist-heavy areas of Turkey. This could pose challenges for communication if you do not speak Turkish.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: While Kars has some attractions, such as the ancient city of Ani and its historical architecture, the tourist infrastructure is not as developed as in other parts of Turkey. This might mean fewer accommodation options, dining choices, and tour services.
Isolation: Kars is not a major tourist destination, which can be a con if you are looking for a vibrant nightlife or a wide range of activities. The city is quieter and less bustling than other Turkish cities.
Political Sensitivity: The region has a complex political history and is close to the Armenian border. While generally safe, it’s always wise to stay informed about the current political situation and any travel advisories.
Limited Medical Facilities: Healthcare facilities in Kars may not be as advanced as those in larger Turkish cities. In case of a medical emergency, options might be limited.

Despite these potential cons, Kars offers unique cultural and historical experiences that can be rewarding for those interested in exploring less-traveled regions of Turkey.

Kars, located in northeastern Turkey near the Armenian border, has a rich and varied history, reflecting the diverse cultural and political influences it has experienced over the centuries. Here is a detailed history of Kars:

Ancient and Medieval Periods

Early History: The area around Kars has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. It was part of the Urartu kingdom in the early first millennium BCE.
Armenian and Georgian Rule: Kars became an important center in the Armenian Bagratid Kingdom, particularly during the 9th and 10th centuries. It served as a capital for a period and was known for its strategic location.
Byzantine Influence: In the 11th century, Kars came under Byzantine control following the weakening of the Armenian kingdoms due to Seljuk invasions.

Seljuk, Georgian, and Mongol Periods

Seljuk and Georgian Rule: The city was captured by the Seljuks in the late 11th century but was soon after taken by the Georgians. It frequently changed hands during this period.
Mongol Invasion: Kars was affected by the Mongol invasions in the 13th century, which led to a period of instability.

Ottoman Era

Ottoman Control: Kars was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in 1514 by Sultan Selim I. It became a significant military outpost and trade center.
Persian Wars: The city was contested with Persia several times, and it was occupied by Persian forces for brief periods in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Russian Period

Russo-Turkish Wars: Kars was a focal point during the Russo-Turkish Wars. It was captured by the Russians in 1828 and again in 1877. Under Russian control, Kars saw significant infrastructural development.
Return to Turkey: After World War I, Kars was returned to Turkey following the Treaty of Kars in 1921, which was signed between Turkey and the Soviet states of the South Caucasus.

Modern Era

World War I and Aftermath: During World War I, Kars was occupied by Russian and Armenian forces. The Turkish War of Independence led to its final reincorporation into Turkey.
Cultural and Architectural Heritage: Kars is known for its mix of Ottoman, Russian, and Armenian architecture. The Kars Castle, the Church of the Apostles (later converted into a mosque), and Russian-era buildings reflect this diverse heritage.

Significant Landmarks

Kars Castle: Originally built in the 12th century, it has been rebuilt and restored multiple times.
Cathedral of Kars (Church of the Apostles): A 10th-century Armenian church later converted into a mosque.
Fethiye Mosque: Originally a Russian Orthodox church, it was converted into a mosque after Kars was returned to Turkey.
Ani Ruins: Located near Kars, Ani was a medieval Armenian city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cultural Significance

Kars has been an important cultural crossroads, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and diverse population. It remains a city of historical intrigue and strategic importance in Turkey.

The history of Kars is a testament to its resilience and ability to adapt through centuries of change and conflict.