Attractions and Places To See in Kars - Top 10
Attractions and places to see in Kars include a blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. Located in northeastern Turkey, Kars has been shaped by various civilizations, leaving a rich architectural and heritage legacy. The region features vast plateaus, mountains, and lakes, offering diverse landscapes. Its history includes Armenian, Seljuk, Ottoman, and Russian influences, evident in its structures and urban planning.
Best attractions and places to see in Kars
- The most popular attractions is Kars Castle, a castle that overlooks the city center. This ancient citadel was built by the Armenian Bagratid dynasty and rebuilt multiple times, serving as a strategic military post.
- Another must-see spot is Gazi Kars Sign with View of Kars Fortress, a man-made monument and viewpoint. From this location, visitors have a clear view of the Kars citadel.
- Visitors also love Church of the Twelve Apostles (Kars), a religious building. Originally an Armenian church from the 10th century, it features reliefs of the twelve apostles on its dome.
- Kars is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and unique architectural styles. The region offers a variety of attractions, from ancient ruins to 19th-century Baltic-style stone houses.
- The attractions in Kars are appreciated by the komoot community. With 2 upvotes and 21 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences for explorers.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Church of the Twelve Apostles (Kars)
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Kars Castle
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Kars Railway Station
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Ebul Hasan Harakani Tomb and Mosque
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Historic Steam Locomotive of the Eastern Express
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Baltic-Style Stone Houses
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Ruins of Ani
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Taşköprü (Stone Bridge) over the Kars River
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Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque)
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Gazi Kars Sign with View of Kars Fortress
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Tips from the Community
Bring something to drink when exploring the ruins. The site is large, and two hours will go by quickly. There's hardly any shade but plenty of sun. Temperatures around 40°C are normal.
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It's a shame it has been converted to a mosque when it isn't actually used. Why not allow it to be a church and allow Christians to pay their respects ? The UK is full of mosques and I begin to realise why the right-wing in UK is increasing in popularity. Sorry but UK needs to be more like Turkey (ie get rid of the mosques). There is a sign in Church of the 12 Apostles which is quite revealing w.r.t. intentions of some Islamists . Turkey cannot become part of EU when it allows attitudes like this.
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The now obligatory sign with a city name. From here you have a beautiful view of the citadel.
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In the street itself you will find several restaurants, a hotel and some shops selling things like local honey.
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Mosque built in the 17th century, destroyed during the Ottoman-Russian war of 1877-78 and reconstructed in 2009.
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The history of the station dates back to 1899. Kars was connected to the Transcaucasian Railway network of the Russian Empire in order to transport troops to the front against the Ottoman Empire. Since the Kars station was connected to the rail network with Russian gauge, new tracks with European gauge had to be laid in the 1950s/60s.
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Ebul Hasan Harakani was a Sufi master who lived between 963 and 1033. He was born in Iran. He was killed in battle against the Byzantine army near Kars. The mausoleum was built 31 years after his death and has undergone many structural changes since then. Today it is located next to an adjacent mosque.
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Old locomotive of the Dogu Express. Until the 1970s, the Dogu Express ran between Istanbul and Kars with steam locomotives. Nowadays, the route between Ankara and Kars is still served by a diesel locomotive. The journey takes 25 hours (sometimes longer) and gives you a glimpse of the beauty of Turkey. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_Express
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key historical sites to explore in Kars?
Kars is rich in history. Don't miss the ancient Ruins of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the 'City of 1,001 Churches.' Within the city, you can visit Kars Castle, which offers panoramic views, and the Church of the Twelve Apostles (Kars), an iconic 10th-century Armenian church. Other significant sites include the Ebul Hasan Harakani Tomb and Mosque and the historic Taşköprü (Stone Bridge) over the Kars River.
Are there any natural attractions or outdoor activities near Kars?
Absolutely! Kars is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Lake Çıldır, the region's largest freshwater lake, completely freezes in winter, offering unique activities like ice skating, ice fishing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. For winter sports enthusiasts, Sarıkamış Ski Center provides excellent slopes. The vast plateaus and mountains also offer opportunities for hiking in warmer months. You can also visit Kuyucuk Bird Heaven, a significant wetland for birdwatching.
What kind of unique architecture can I see in Kars?
Kars showcases a distinct architectural style due to its Russian legacy. Many buildings in the city center, known as Baltic-Style Stone Houses, feature finely cut basalt stone, wide streets, and a grid plan. This 19th-century influence gives parts of Kars a unique European feel.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Kars?
Several attractions in Kars are suitable for families. The Ebul Hasan Harakani Tomb and Mosque, Historic Steam Locomotive of the Eastern Express, and Baltic-Style Stone Houses are all marked as family-friendly. Exploring the Taşköprü (Stone Bridge) over the Kars River and the Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque) are also great options for all ages.
What is the best time of year to visit Kars?
The best time to visit Kars depends on your interests. For winter sports and unique experiences like ice activities on Lake Çıldır, the winter months are ideal. For exploring historical sites like the Ruins of Ani and hiking in the natural landscapes, spring and autumn offer more moderate temperatures. Summers can be hot, especially at open-air sites.
Are there any museums in Kars?
Yes, Kars offers several museums. The Kars Museum (Archaeological Museum) displays artifacts from the region spanning various historical periods. You can also visit the Kars Military History Museum of the Caucasus Front, housed in a former bastion, and the Kars Cheese Museum, which highlights the region's unique cheesemaking traditions.
Can I see a historic railway station in Kars?
Yes, the Kars Railway Station has a rich history dating back to 1899, connecting Kars to the Transcaucasian Railway network. Nearby, you can also see the Historic Steam Locomotive of the Eastern Express, a fascinating piece of railway heritage.
What are some good viewpoints in Kars?
For excellent views, head to Kars Castle, which overlooks the city center and offers panoramic vistas. Another popular spot is the Gazi Kars Sign with View of Kars Fortress, providing a clear perspective of the citadel.
Are there any ancient rock inscriptions in the Kars region?
Yes, about 50 km from Kars, you can find the Camuşlu Rock Inscriptions. These rock paintings date back to the Paleolithic Era and depict various figures including humans, deer, chevrotain, and donkeys, offering a glimpse into prehistoric art.
What is the significance of the Church of the Twelve Apostles in Kars?
The Church of the Twelve Apostles (Kars) is a significant religious building, originally constructed as an Armenian church in the 10th century. It is notable for its reliefs of the twelve apostles on its conical dome and has a history of being converted between a church and a mosque multiple times.
What is the Horomos Monastery?
The Horomos Monastery is a 10th-century Armenian monastery located about 15 kilometers from the Ruins of Ani. It holds significant historical and cultural importance for the Armenian people.
Is there a place to see wildlife near Kars?
Yes, the Kuyucuk Bird Heaven is a notable wildlife development field covering 245 hectares. It is home to 224 bird species and has been designated as a Ramsar area, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching and experiencing local wildlife.
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