Kars to Yerevan

Overview

Kars, a city in eastern Turkey, and Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, are approximately 100 kilometers apart by road. The journey between these two fascinating cities offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse cultures and landscapes of the Caucasus region.

This guide provides comprehensive information to help you plan your trip from Kars to Yerevan, covering aspects such as language, currency, distance, transportation options, expenses, the best time to visit, food recommendations, places to visit, and frequently asked questions.

Language

The official language of Turkey is Turkish, while the official language of Armenia is Armenian. However, Russian and English are also widely spoken in both countries.

To enhance your interactions with locals, consider learning a few basic phrases in Turkish or Armenian. Some useful phrases include:

• "Merhaba" (Turkish) - Hello
• "Barev dzez" (Armenian) - Hello
• "Teşekkür ederim" (Turkish) - Thank you
• "Shnorhakalutyun" (Armenian) - Thank you
• "Ne kadar?" (Turkish) - How much?
• "Inchqan e?" (Armenian) - How much?

Currency

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish lira (TRY), while the official currency of Armenia is the Armenian dram (AMD).

Currency exchange offices are readily available in both Kars and Yerevan. It's advisable to exchange your currency before crossing the border for better rates.

Distance

The approximate distance between Kars and Yerevan by road is 100 kilometers (62 miles).

Depending on the mode of transportation, the journey can take between 2 to 3 hours.

How to Reach

There are several ways to travel from Kars to Yerevan:

By Bus

Regular buses operate between Kars and Yerevan. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around 15-20 TRY.

By Shared Taxi

Shared taxis, known as "dolmuş" in Turkey, are another option. They depart from Kars Bus Terminal and cost slightly more than buses.

By Private Taxi

Hiring a private taxi offers convenience and flexibility. However, it's the most expensive option.

By Train

There is currently no direct train service between Kars and Yerevan. However, you can take a train from Kars to Gyumri (Armenia) and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Yerevan.

Expenses

The expenses for your trip from Kars to Yerevan will vary depending on your travel style and preferences.

• Transportation: 15-50 TRY (bus or shared taxi), 100-150 TRY (private taxi)
• Accommodation: 20-50 TRY (hostel or guesthouse)
• Food: 10-20 TRY (per day)
• Activities: 5-20 TRY (per activity)
• Visa (if required): Varies depending on nationality

Based on these estimates, you can expect to spend around 50-150 TRY for a one-day trip and 100-300 TRY for a two-day trip.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Kars and Yerevan is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.

However, if you enjoy winter sports, visiting during the winter months (December-February) can be an excellent option for skiing and snowboarding.

What to Eat

Kars and Yerevan offer a variety of delicious culinary experiences:

Turkish Cuisine

• Karski Kaşarı (Kars cheese)
• Kaz (goose meat)
• Mantı (Turkish dumplings)
• Saç kavurma (pan-fried meat)
• Baklava (sweet pastry)

Armenian Cuisine

• Khorovats (grilled meat)
• Lahmacun (Armenian pizza)
• Harissa (Armenian porridge)
• Gata (Armenian sweet bread)
• Dolma (stuffed vegetables)

Where to Go

Kars and Yerevan are home to several historical, cultural, and natural attractions:

Kars

• Kars Castle
• Church of the Holy Apostles
• Ani Ruins
• Kars Museum
• Lake Çıldır

Yerevan

• Republic Square
• Cascade Complex
• Yerevan Opera House
• Matenadaran (ancient manuscripts repository)
• Mount Ararat

FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel from Kars to Yerevan?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check with the Armenian embassy or consulate in your country for specific information.

Is it safe to travel between Kars and Yerevan?

Yes, it is generally safe to travel between Kars and Yerevan. However, as with any international travel, it's essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Can I use my credit card in Armenia?

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities like Yerevan, but it's advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases in rural areas.

Is there a language barrier in Kars and Yerevan?

While Turkish and Armenian are the official languages, Russian and English are also widely spoken in both cities. You shouldn't encounter significant language barriers.

How long should I spend in Kars and Yerevan?

A day trip is sufficient to explore the highlights of Kars. For Yerevan, plan at least two days to experience its major attractions.