There are 2 way(s) to get from Ankara to Kars
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
For routes stretching far east like Ankara to Kars, domestic flights are often your best bet. While coaches are great for most of Türkiye, a 13-hour bus ride can be exhausting. A flight saves you time and ensures you arrive refreshed.
Cheap domestic flights (around €25-€80) are available, but prices can rise closer to departure. Booking a few weeks ahead can secure you the best deals, especially if your travel dates are fixed.
If you opt for the bus, look for operators like Kamil Koç or Metro Turizm. They generally offer more comfortable seats (2+1 layout), better amenities (Wi-Fi, snacks), and reliable service, making longer journeys more bearable.
Always confirm if your chosen bus or flight is direct. Transfers can add significant time and complexity to your journey. For long routes, a direct connection is always preferable for convenience and efficiency.
Especially for longer trips with multiple legs, travel insurance can offer peace of mind against unexpected delays, cancellations, or lost luggage. It's a small investment for significant protection.
🛣️ The journey experience
When traveling from Ankara to Kars, you're looking at a significant distance, and making the right choice between a coach and a flight is crucial for a comfortable journey. Türkiye's bus network is phenomenal, offering comfort and connectivity, but for routes like Ankara to Kars, weighing up an overnight coach against a quick flight is a smart move to avoid travel fatigue and maximize your time exploring.
For this specific route, you have two clear options. The bus journey is an extensive one, typically taking around 13 hours and costing about €18. It's a comprehensive way to see the landscape, but prepare for a long haul. Alternatively, a domestic flight slashes travel time dramatically to just 2 hours, with tickets averaging €55. This makes a strong case for flying, especially if you value your time and prefer to arrive rested.
Considering the long distance to Eastern Turkey, a flight from Ankara to Kars often trumps the bus. While the coach is budget-friendly and comfortable, the sheer length of this particular journey makes a cheap domestic flight a very appealing alternative. It saves you an entire night on the road, ensuring you arrive in Kars refreshed and ready to explore its historic sites.
Frequently asked questions — Ankara → Kars
For the Ankara to Kars route, flying is generally the best option. A flight takes just 2 hours, compared to 13 hours by bus. While the bus is cheaper, the significant time saving and increased comfort make the flight a worthwhile investment for this long distance.
A bus ticket from Ankara to Kars costs around €18. Domestic flights, while more expensive, are still budget-friendly, typically ranging from €55. Prices can vary based on booking time and airline, so booking in advance is advisable.
The bus journey from Ankara to Kars is quite long, approximately 13 hours. In contrast, a domestic flight will get you there in just 2 hours. This substantial difference in travel time is a key factor to consider when planning your trip.
Absolutely. For long eastern hauls like Ankara to Kars, where coach journeys can exceed 10-15 hours, a cheap domestic flight is highly recommended. It saves you from a potentially tiring overnight trip, allowing you to arrive at your destination fresh and ready to explore.
✨ Why visit Kars?
- ✓ Explore the majestic Kars Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
- ✓ Visit the 10th-century Holy Apostles Church (Kümbet Mosque), a unique example of Armenian architecture.
- ✓ Discover the ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning ruins of churches and cathedrals.
- ✓ Experience the Kars Museum, showcasing artifacts from the region's rich history, including Urartian and Ottoman periods.
- ✓ Enjoy a scenic winter journey on the Eastern Express (Doğu Ekspresi) train, renowned for its picturesque route to Kars.
☀️ When to visit Kars?
CONTINENTAL HUMIDE TEMPERE
Winter (December to March) — for snowy landscapes and the iconic Eastern Express train journey, or Summer (June to August) for milder exploration.
What to do in Kars?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Kars?
For an independent francophone traveler, 3-4 days are ideal to explore Kars. This allows ample time to visit the Kars Citadel, the Cathedral of Kars (now Kümbet Mosque), and the ancient city of Ani. With more time, consider a day trip to Çıldır Lake or a journey on the Eastern Express for a unique experience.
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