For travelers with a layover in Kars, the proximity of KSY to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 35 minutes via Public Bus / HavaÅ Shuttle, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of KSY:
- Can you legally enter Turkey? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 35-minute journey each way by Public Bus / HavaÅ Shuttle, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the TRY. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some TRY in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Kars
You have two main options for getting from Kars Airport into town:
- Public Bus / HavaÅ Shuttle: About 35 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 55 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What to See and Do in Kars
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Kars, two standouts are:
- Kars Castle (Kars Kalesi) — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- Kars Museum — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside KSY — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Kars Airport Waiting Area
- Airport Local Products Store
Best Bites Near KSY
- In the city: Hanımeli Restaurant and Kars Kaz Evi are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Kars.
- At the airport: KSY Airport Cafe and Airport Fast Food & Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Kars, budget roughly $22 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $7 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at KSY
Dedicated luggage storage at KSY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kars’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and KSY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kars and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at KSY
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at KSY, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kars is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Kars.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.