The magic of Kars lies in its culinary delights, ancient heritage, and scenic landscapes
By journeying to the far reaches of Türkiye, travelers are granted an opportunity to lean into the local way of life and immerse themselves in authentic experiences that combine history, nature, and gastronomy.
ALL ABOARD
Snow-capped mountains, diverse flora, and winding streams pass passengers by aboard the Eastern Express. As much of an experience as it is a means of transport, the unique train ride from Türkiye’s capital, Ankara, is an opportunity for travelers to admire the changing scenery stop by stop.
A 24-hour journey, it is a reminder to embrace a slower pace and observe the moments between dawn and dusk. Passengers are rewarded for traveling mindfully as they reach the end of the line and step out into the beautiful and intriguing city of Kars.
It is in this far-eastern destination that explorers can discover an alternative side of Türkiye—one that swaps the typical beach vacation for the lesser-known wonders of a rural retreat.
AN AGING CRAFT
Nestled on a high plateau in eastern Anatolia, Kars is a tapestry of rugged landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural traditions. Typifying what it means to travel holistically, the city promises to offer something for all the senses—but perhaps none more so than taste.
With its fertile land and quality cattle, Kars has long been synonymous with cheese-making. Travelers can indulge in the flavors of its renowned cheeses on a tour of a family-run dairy farm or over a traditional Turkish breakfast. Regional favorites include Kars gravyeri (local gruyere), with its nutty yet sweet flavor, and Kars kaşarı (Turkish aged hard cheese), which is known for its odor and tang and identified as a Geographical Indication.
To learn more about the technical processes and artisanal techniques associated with cheese-making, travelers can visit the Kars Peynir Müzesi, Türkiye’s first cheese museum. Here, local cheesemakers have a chance to showcase their customs and knowledge—not only for visitors to delight in but for the next generation of artisans to maintain.
With its fertile land and quality cattle, Kars has long been synonymous with cheese-making. Travelers can indulge in the flavors of its renowned cheeses on a tour of a family-run dairy farm or over a traditional Turkish breakfast. Regional favorites include Kars gravyeri (local gruyere), with its nutty yet sweet flavor, and Kars kaşarı (Turkish aged hard cheese), which is known for its odor and tang and identified as a Geographical Indication.
To learn more about the technical processes and artisanal techniques associated with cheese-making, travelers can visit the Kars Peynir Müzesi, Türkiye’s first cheese museum. Here, local cheesemakers have a chance to showcase their customs and knowledge—not only for visitors to delight in but for the next generation of artisans to maintain.
Modern visitors can dedicate an entire day to exploring the site, taking in the architectural prowess of notable structures, like the Lion Gate, Seljuk Caravanserai, and Cathedral of Ani. One of several religious houses to have been unearthed, the cathedral is a small insight into how Ani earned its reputation as "the city of 1,001 churches."
THROUGH THE AGES
Just as cheese-making is rooted in the history of Kars, so too are the stories of ancient settlers. A short drive east of the city is an area with a multicultural heritage spanning over 5,000 years—the Archaeological and UNESCO Site of Ani.
At the height of its power in the 10th and 11th centuries, Ani stood as the capital of the medieval Bagratids kingdom and was an important post on the Silk Road. Today, the legacy of the famed trade route lives on through the stone ruins which hold the echoes of bustling merchants and wayfaring travelers.
Modern visitors can dedicate an entire day to exploring the site, taking in the architectural prowess of notable structures, like the Lion Gate, Seljuk Caravanserai, and Cathedral of Ani. One of several religious houses to have been unearthed, the cathedral is a small insight into how Ani earned its reputation as "the city of 1,001 churches."
To make the most of this icy wonderland, travelers can take a tour on foot, on a specialty bicycle, or a traditional sleigh pulled by horses. As a more leisurely activity compared to the available snowmobile excursions, it is a perfect opportunity to warm up with a cup of Turkish tea or to watch skilled fisherman reel in the “catch of the day” using the old method of ice fishing.
A FROZEN PARADISE
While a journey east of Kars promises to transport travelers back in time, a trip further north offers them a unique experience on the water. As one of the closest bodies of water to Kars, Lake Çıldır attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year—all of whom are charmed by the natural beauty of their surroundings.
During summer, Lake Çıldır is locals’ spot of choice for a dip in the freshwater or to take a boat out. However, it is in the winter months—when the temperature drops to minus 10°C and the water freezes over—that the lake’s becomes truly enchanting.
To make the most of this icy wonderland, travelers can take a tour on foot, on a specialty bicycle, or a traditional sleigh pulled by horses. As a more leisurely activity compared to the available snowmobile excursions, it is a perfect opportunity to warm up with a cup of Turkish tea or to watch skilled fisherman reel in the “catch of the day” using the old method of ice fishing.
Whether it’s savoring the flavors of the land, exploring the remains of an ancient citadel, or embracing the very best that nature has to offer, travelers are spoiled for choice in Kars. An unassuming travel destination, visitors often leave knowing they have experienced a city that represents the many wonders of Türkiye.
