Kars blends tsarist Russian architecture with Caucasian highland culture and millennia of Armenian, Byzantine, and Ottoman history. The highlight for most visitors is the Ani Ruins — a haunting city of stone churches, mosques, and palaces stranded on a plateau above the Arpaçay River gorge. Back in Kars city, the castle above the Kars River gives sweeping views, the Kümbet Mosque (a 10th-century Armenian church) stands near the town centre, and the evening food scene rewards anyone who seeks out kaz (goose) stew and aged gravyer cheese. The city is small enough to walk across in 20 minutes yet rich enough to fill three days.
Hotels by budget
Find accommodation that fits your travel budget.
Budget-friendly
Çıldır Göl Pension (Çıldır Lake Guesthouse)
Affordable accommodation option in Kars.
Check rates on Booking.comKars Hostel & Backpackers
Affordable accommodation option in Kars.
Check rates on Booking.comKarakurt Village Guesthouse
Affordable accommodation option in Kars.
Check rates on Booking.comMid-range
Hotel Silk Road (İpek Yolu Oteli)
Comfortable mid-range hotel in Kars.
Check rates on Booking.comLuxury
Best neighborhoods to stay
Choose your base based on your interests and travel style.
City Center
The heart of Kars with easy access to main attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
Best for: First-time visitors, short stays
Old Town
Traditional architecture and local character. Walking distance to historical sites and authentic dining.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, photographers
Our top picks
Handpicked recommendations for every type of traveler.
Hotel Silk Road (İpek Yolu Oteli)
Quality accommodation for your stay in Kars.
Check rates on Booking.comBooking tips
Get the best deals and avoid common mistakes.
Book well in advance for ski season (December–February) and the July–August summer peak. The Eastern Express train from Ankara typically arrives in Kars on specific days
check TCDD schedule (tcdd.gov.tr) to align accommodation check-in. Most mid-range hotels in Kars city include breakfast. Hotels in Sarıkamış routinely require minimum 2-night stays during peak ski weekends
Alternative accommodations
Beyond traditional hotels, consider these options.
Guesthouses
Family-run guesthouses offer authentic local experiences and often include home-cooked meals. Great for cultural immersion.
Serviced apartments
Ideal for longer stays or families. Kitchen facilities help save money and provide flexibility.
Hostels
Budget-friendly option for solo travelers. Dorms and private rooms available with social common areas.