Travel Guide to Kaş, Türkiye

Ra's Travel Guide to Kaş

A coastal city on the Turkish-Greek border known for beach, fishing, and yachting; a complete travel guide to Kaş.

Explore the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of Turkey in this captivating image showcasing iconic landmarks and natural beauty; Travel Guide to Kaş

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Explore the turquoise waters of Türkiye’s Antalya region with a visit to Kaş. Kaş (pronounced Kash and written Kaş) is located on the Mediterranean coast, attracting both tourists and locals for fishing, water activities, and beach relaxation. Visitors also flock here for its proximity to various Greek islands, offering the opportunity for day trips. Despite being smaller than Fethiye and Antalya, the city provides an intimate setting with plenty of activities for a memorable beach vacation. Continue reading this comprehensive travel guide to Kaş to maximize your visit.

Getting to Kaş, Türkiye: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

Due to its location, the best way to travel to Kaş is by car or through a tour bus agency. If you’re traveling from major cities such as Antalya, Fethiya, Istanbul, Ankara, or Izmir, direct buses to Kaş are available. For example, a ticket on a Kamil Koc bus running from Istanbul to Kaş via Fethiye and Kalkan costs 130 TRY and takes about 14 to 15 hours. There are more time options available during the warmer months of the peak tourist season from May to September.

Other than by car and bus, the last option is by plane, but the closest airports to Kaş are Dalaman Airport (two hours by car) and Antalya Airport (three hours by car). If you’re flying domestically, there are direct flights from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, which take approximately 1.5 hours through Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. You can also travel internationally to Antalya Airport from which you can take a bus or rent a car to get to Kaş. If you’re taking the bus from the airport, reserve your seat in advance. Otherwise, you can opt for Havaş, which goes first to the city of Fethiye and then to Kaş. While this is the most budget-friendly option, it does take the longest.

If you’re traveling from the Greek island of Megisti/Kaştellorizo, Castellorizon, there are ferries available to take you to Kaş, but reservations must be made in advance; otherwise, they’re not guaranteed.

When I visited Kaş, I was with a tour group that had the city listed as one of the destinations. Our minibus drove from Antalya to Kaş, where it dropped us off at our hotel outside of the Old Town. Once in Kaş, we traveled around by foot to tour and see the city.

When planning my travel routes, evaluating costs, and considering various transportation methods, I often rely on Rome2rio. This invaluable tool provides comprehensive information, including possible combinations of routes and suggestions for making stops along the way, allowing for a customized and well-informed travel experience.

Where to Stay in Kaş, Türkiye?

As Kaş is a small coastal city, there are limited options available for accommodations. Within the city are Airbnbs, hotels, limited hostels, and bed and breakfasts, all ranging in prices depending on the type of accommodation, proximity to beaches, and luxury. Prices are highest during the peak tourist season of May to September. Currently, there are no five-star resorts, but a few of the more luxurious hotels offer private access to the beach, infinity pools, and spa services.

During my visit to Kaş, I stayed in a budget three-star hotel booked through my tour group. The hotel was located outside of the Old Town but was a manageable 20-minute walk to the beach. This hotel, like many others, offers a full traditional and inclusive Turkish breakfast, which is a great way to save money and have a filling meal.

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Getting Around Kaş, Türkiye

Car

Renting a car is not necessary to get around Kaş since the beach and main tourist attractions are within walking distance. However, having a car allows for more flexibility and opportunities to explore other areas around the city. While there are minimal rental companies in the city, it is suggested to rent from an agency at Dalaman Airport for the best price and quality car.

Taxi

While it is not necessary to use a car or taxi to get around Kaş, if you still need a taxi, only local taxi companies are available; no Uber, Bolt, or Lyft. To ensure you're traveling safely with a verified company, minimize problems with the language barrier, and get the best price, have your guide or accommodation call the taxi for you. Be sure to confirm the price before agreeing to the ride.

Bicycle

Renting a bike is a great way to see Kaş and visit more tourist attractions located along biking paths. Many companies offer bike rentals for single or multi-day use at a decent cost right in the center of the Old Town. Be aware that Kaş has a few hills, and some roads and paths are located near the edge of the mountain. Exercise with caution.

Walking

Everything in the Old Town is within walking distance, making it easy for you to get around and explore the city. Additionally, the beach is usually a 5-10 minute walk away, perfect if you plan on relaxing on the beach for the majority of your stay. This was my method of travel to see and get around the city, with the longest walk being from the beaches and Old Town to my hotel, which was about a 20-minute walk.

What to Do in Kaş, Türkiye?

Boat Tour

While those who have read my travel guides before know that I am a big supporter of free walking tours, unfortunately, there are none available yet in Kaş. Instead, opt for a classy way to explore this part of the Mediterranean Sea and see sights such as celebrity houses, the Sunken City of Kekova, see/visit Kaleköy, and swim. Many companies offer this as a kayaking excursion or as a day trip option with the cruise, swimming, drinks, and lunch inclusion.

Sunken City of Kekova

Only accessible by boat are the remnants of this once-thriving city off the edge of Kekova. It is estimated that 2,000 years ago, a large earthquake caused parts of the city to slide into the water and other parts to crumble. When kayaking or on the boat, you will be able to see remnants of the baths and settlements. Due to tourists damaging or taking parts of the remnants, you’re no longer permitted to swim or visit the ruins.

Kaleköy

Also referred to as “Simena,” is an ancient village with historical sites and the famous Simena Castle. This village is best accessible when traveling with a tour guide since it is a car-free space. However, it is still possible to reach it on your own with a car. To get there independently, take the Kaleüçağız Köyü Yolu road towards Uçağiz village and Kaleköy. Continue on this road until you reach the closest point near Simena Castle. From here you can park and walk 20-30 minutes over the hill, past Simena Castle, and into the village of Kaleköy. Once there, you can explore local shops, cafes, the Castle, and swimming spots.

Beaches

While Kaputas Plaji, Patara, Akcagerme Beach, and Limanagzi are a few of the more popular spots of the beaches in Kaş, there are several in the area that all offer a perfect place to relax, swim, take in the sun, and enjoy the turquoise water. Public beaches are free to enter unless you wish to partake in some of the offered amenities, at which point they will charge you in cash, such as snorkel gear, chairs, and umbrellas. A few even have a beach bar nearby offering cocktail service.

Explore the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of Turkey in this captivating image showcasing iconic landmarks and natural beauty.

Antiphellos Ancient City

A short walk from the city center will bring you to one of Kaş’s main icons, the Hellenistic Amphitheater. Antiphellos was a tiny port town dating back to the 1st century BC with one of the main spots as the Hellenistic theatre. Today locals and tourists gather on warm sunny days for public entertainment events or to have drinks with friends while watching a beautiful sunset.

Old Town

Explore the core of Kaş. Here you can find the Republic Square with a statue of Ataturk with a plaque underneath bearing the words "Yurtta Sulh, Cihanda Sulh," translating to “Peace at Home, Peace in the World.” Within this square and as you move around the Old Town, you will find several restaurants and cafes, selling dishes with the catches of the day, and the Kaş Bazaar. This refers to the shopping street of Doğruyol Caddesi in the Old Town that sells anything from jewelry to carpets, to handbags. This is also a great place to buy 100% cotton goods and clothing to bring back home. When the sun goes down, the Old Town becomes the center of the city’s nightlife with bars open late.

Lycian Rock Tombs

Outside of Kaş's Old Town within the cliffs are several tombs cut into the rock. The Lycian Way is a trail from the ancient kingdom, weaving through Antalya’s region. The tombs are scattered around the trail, which goes for a long way. For example, the trail for Kaş takes about 2 hours. Even if you’re not hiking the full trail, the tombs are worth a visit.

Meis

There are a few excursions available that take you out of Kaş to explore other attractions within this region. One of the popular day trip options is to the Greek island of Meis. The ferry costs 30 euros one way and is a relatively quick trip across. Once on the island, you can explore, relax on the beaches, or cycle the island. Just make sure to bring your passport and check the day schedule for the return trip.

Kaş offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. From its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to the historical sites like the Sunken City of Kekova and the Antiphellos Ancient City, Kaş promises an unforgettable experience. Explore the charming Old Town, indulge in authentic Turkish cuisine, and embark on boat tours to discover the wonders of the Mediterranean. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Kaş, with its unique attractions and warm hospitality, stands as a gem on the Turkish coast. This comprehensive travel guide to Kaş ensures you make the most of your journey, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Travel Tip

It is possible to take a single or multi-day trip to Greece right from Kaş! Visit the city center to book your ferry tickets. Just don’t forget to bring your passport.