Kaş, Turkey – Travel

As one of the unspoiled resort towns in Turkey (Türkiye), a unique atmosphere emanates from Kaş, which feels remarkably different from typical tourist destinations. Situated at the confluence of the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, Kaş is surrounded by majestic mountains and pine forests on three sides, creating a tranquil environment. One of the key reasons Kaş remains relatively untouched by mass tourism is its remoteness; it lies far from major airports and lacks the large-scale hotels found elsewhere.

The name “Kash,” which means “eyebrow” in Turkish, is quite fitting. When viewed from above, the town’s shape bears a striking resemblance to this facial feature. Perched on the mountain slopes that gently cascade towards the sea, Kaş's see-through waters have attracted diving enthusiasts seeking to explore the rich marine life and underwater treasures.

Kaş Tours

Kaş is about the intriguing past and historic landmarks, fascinating culture, food and drink, and miles of gorgeous coastline. A stay of at least five or seven days is appropriate for Kaş tours. With a week of Kaş itinerary, tourists will spend significant time in the town, including the main attractions in the vicinity, as highlighted in this Kaş travel guide.

Best Time to Visit Kaş

Choosing the optimal time to visit Kaş can enhance your experience, whether you are interested in outdoor activities, leisurely beach days, or historical sites.

For a balance of favourable weather and fewer crowds, April to June and September to October are considered the best times to visit Kaş. These shoulder seasons offer a pleasant vacation for various activities, from outdoor adventures to leisurely exploration. July to August is a peak season, perfect for Kaş nightlife, swimming, diving, and boat tours to the surrounding islands.

History of Kaş

Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Kaş is rich in history dating back to ancient times. This wondrous part of the earth was home to several civilisations that left a legacy in the form of architecture, culture, and traditions.

The town was initially settled by the Lycians and called Habesos. It extended until the Persians attacked it in the 6th century B.C., when Lycia declined.

By the 4th century B.C., the city became Hellenised due to the influx of Greeks into the area. The name “Antiphellus” was given to the town by the Greeks, and they transformed it into a powerful port for the nearby inland city of Phellus. Soon, Antiphellus replaced Phellus as the region's largest economic epicentre. This activity strengthened under the Romans. The trade of oil, wine, and renowned liqueur thrived here, magnetising merchants and traders from across the ancient world.

In the 11th century, following the Seljuk invasion and conquest of Minor Asia, the town was incorporated into the Anatolian Sultanate of Rûm.

Kaş was subsumed under Ottoman dominion in the 15th century. Following the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire and the founding of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, a compulsory population exchange between Turkey and Greece ensued in the aftermath of the Greco-Turkish War.

Among Kaş’s most significant historical monuments, the magnificent amphitheatre stands paramount–a marvel carved into the living rock that hosted entertainment and grand spectacles in antiquity. The city also preserves remnants of ancient Christian churches, mosques, and fortresses perched atop cliffs dramatically framing the seashore.

What to Do in Kaş

Begin your Kaş itinerary by visiting the Lycian rock-cut tombs (Likya Kaya Mezarları). The stairs leading to the caves are stunning during the blooming season, but a bit steep to climb to their base.

A short drive from the tombs is Kaş Old Town. It is a lovely place to explore its twisting streets and dine out, with a great many nice bars, restaurants, and live music. Yet its rich history is still wonderfully visible right in the middle of the town. This is the Lion’s Tomb (or King’s Tomb) (Aslanlı Lahit), dating back to the 4th century B.C.

A short walk from there, visitors will stumble across another historical landmark, the Kaş Cistern from the 5th century B.C., carved into the rock.

Kaş Merkez, also known as Republic Square (Cumhuriyet Meydanı), is the heart of Kaş. The statue of Atatürk overlooking the harbour and the words “Peace at home. Peace in the world” engraved at the bottom ring so true today. Just down the street is Derya Beach, where journeyers can stop at the local restaurant for dinner.

500 metres west of the main square along Necipbey Street is the site that used to be the ancient city of Antiphellos. Its highlight is a Hellenistic Amphitheatre with a breathtaking view over Kaş and the fabled turquoise sea from the top tier, especially when the sun dips down.

The Kaş coast is rich with beaches. Only 4 kilometres from Kaş downtown, Akcagermer Beach (Akçagerme Plajı) is one of the picturesque destinations for sand and wave enthusiasts.

Kaş also has a peninsula dotted with a dozen bay beaches, but one that particularly stands out is Hidayet Cove.

The town will captivate history buffs with the abundance of ancient ruins nearby representing the Lycian civilisation, including the cities of Xanthos, Létôon, Patara, and more.

Kaş Museums

Although Kaş lacks traditional museums, the entire town feels like an open-air museum, adorned with ancient tombs and historical relics. However, Kaş prides itself on several art galleries that will delight discerning guests. Additionally, a wide range of artisanal crafts and artwork is available for purchase, giving tourists the opportunity to acquire distinctive souvenirs that embody the richness of Turkish cultural heritage.

Tuğra Art Gallery sits right behind the statue of Atatürk. The first thing you notice on the first floor is a treasure trove of handcrafted Turkish ware like cups, saucers, plates, bowls, and lamps. There are also aisles of curtains, cushions, rugs, and silver jewellery. The gallery on the second floor has an impressive exhibition of tiles and vases. Each of these items demonstrates its unique aesthetics.

The small Art Studio of Olça Tansuk (Atelier Thalia) is a gem of craftsmanship on the Lycian coast in Kaş. The shop displays paintings, mosaics, and glasswork. The artist creates her works and collaborates with local artists and designers to market items that are more than just souvenirs. Moreover, children and adults can participate in glass and mosaic workshops.

Gallery Anatolia & Sibel is another interesting art attraction in Kaş, both an art gallery and a shop in the town centre. The author and the creator of ceramic and porcelain crafts, Sibel Düzel, has been in the industry for over 20 years. In her workshop in the Pınarbaşı village, 14 kilometres from Kaş, visitors will find art objects inspired by the natural beauty of the ancient city of Phellos, among almond trees and century-old oaks.

Entertainment, Parks, and Shopping in Kaş

Entertainment

Kaş is an exciting scuba diving destination in Turkey with plenty of diving sites along the Mediterranean coast. From May to October, the temperature of the waters attracts many recreational scuba divers to its depths, inviting them to unveil a whole universe of submerged ancient cities. Divers can see the remains of marbled columns, statues, pavements, thermal baths, and more.

Outdoor trekking enthusiasts will love walking the famous Lycian Way that starts in town. Hiking the Sleeping Giant behind Kaş will reward anyone with panoramic views of the town and far to the Greek island of Kastellorizo (Meis).

If you are looking for beach hotspots near downtown, the cool underground springs of Büyük Çakil Plajı (Big Pebble Beach) are ideal when it heats up during summer. Küçük Çakıl Plajı (Small Pebble Beach) is right in Kaş.

Cukurbag Peninsula (Çukurbağ Yarımadası) is home to Hidayet Bay Beach and İnceboğaz Çınar Beach.

Kaş has easy ferry access to Kekova and Meis. The Simena sunken city, for which Kekova Island is known, is better experienced in the summer by kayak or boat. Kaş-Meis ferries deliver day trips to the Greek Island of Meis daily in summer. Excursionists get off the ferry onto the whitewashed steps and get to Panagia Square, lined with traditional Greek tavernas. You can spend hours just meandering through traffic-free and cobbled streets piled with small pastel-shaded houses and feel the superb atmosphere of the quaint town.

Kaş does not have traditional nightclubs, but tourists can dance to Turkish tunes at Ara Bar or Loop. Live music is commonly played. Koos Terrace is popular for the best Turkish hits, while DJs at the Queen Bar play English music like R'n'B, hip-hop, and other styles. A chilled-out evening accompanied by blues, jazz, or rock is guaranteed at the Echo Bar.

Parks of Kaş

Kaş, recognised for its knockout beaches and laid-back charm, is often celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant waterfront. However, tucked behind its lively centre, the town reveals a few parks, affording peaceful escapes with amazing views.

Connected by a leisurely five-minute walk, Cumhuriyet Parkı and Çerçiler Parkı ve Kafeterya provide a serene retreat from the beach.

Located just 900 meters from Çerçiler Park, Kartal Park is a go-to spot for a beachfront vibe. It can be reached on foot or by dolmuş (minibus).

Situated northwest of Çukurbağ Yarımadası, at the end of the Bucak Bay (Buçak Deniz), the fully sheltered Setur Kaş Marina boasts modern facilities, walking paths, a yacht harbour, and excellent food and drinks. A stroll here is a must.

Visitors to Kaş who feel they may tire of the city’s beaches and historical monuments can set out for the Saklıkent Canyon (Kanyonu). In 1996, the gorge was officially declared a national park of Turkey.

Away from the bustle of tourist villas on the peninsula, the abandoned hotel and waterpark, akin to a post-apocalyptic film set, might not be a typical attraction for seasoned travellers. But curious adventurers get to the territory via the hole in the fence to take scenic photos, especially at sunset. You can ramble along the arcaded gallery and see a mini-golf field, the remains of stone stairs descending to the sea, two pools, lookout points, and stained-glass windows.

Shopping in Kaş

In the 19th century, families from Kastellorizo moved to Kaş. Consequently, the town features houses in both Turkish and Greek architectural styles. Old Town is a vivid example of that blend in the districts around the harbour and Ataturk Square. The streets are lined with two- or three-story buildings that slope down from the cliffs to the sea. Greek homes are whitewashed, with bright bay windows and doors, while Turkish homes demonstrate wood balconies decorated with bougainvillaea flowers.

Antique shops on the first floors sell silver jewellery, handmade glass, textiles, carpets, souvenirs, and purses.

A stone's throw from the King’s Tomb is Uzun Bazaar (Long Bazaar) or Kaş Çarşı. That is the shopping place if you want to buy something truly authentic from Kaş. Make sure to browse a few shops on the İlkokul Street.

For instance, a short walk from the Tuğra Art Gallery, shoppers will stumble upon New Vintage, containing a wide choice of second-hand items.

You should check out Sandal@ for high-quality leather shoes.

At Mencilis Art Silver or La'l Atelier, you can shop for silver rings, earrings, and other accessories.

Less expected at Uzun Bazzar is Merdiven Kitapevi, the only bookshop in Kaş with a good selection of English and German books.

Another great shop is Papilio Butik, with vintage goods and hand-sewn women's clothing on its shelves.

For groceries, head to the Muhtar Market.

There are no large shopping centres or outlet malls in Kaş. So, you will not be able to buy fashionable clothes and shoes. However, you can drive to the neighbouring town, Fethiye, another beautiful tourist destination, 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Kaş, to shop in the Erasta Mall.

Food in Kaş

Turkish Cuisine

Book a waterfront table at Vera Veranda Rooftop Restaurant or Maşuk Meyhane Kaş for a seafood feast and Mediterranean tastes. Meydan Cafe and Restaurant, and Cafe Corner are other great options for seafood gourmands.

Aside from freshly caught octopuses, shrimps, or calamari, Beyhude Meyhane, Sidera, and Panorama serve delicious steaks. The highly praised restaurant in the Kaş Marina is Keyf-i Dem. It is a great choice for couples due to its romantic evening ambience.

Visitors can try the best simit (bagel) and börek at SİMİTÇİM. And visitors cannot go wrong with the best döner and pide at Kervan Pide ve Döner Salonu. Bay Köfte is the stellar eatery for juicy köfte (meatballs) packed with maximum flavour.

Kaş also boasts a presence of international cuisine. In Mint. Asian and Hawaiian cuisines reign supreme on the table. The best pizzas with a nice crunch are served at Çınarlar Pizza Garden and Pizza Porto. Take notice of Lily’s Corner when you want other Western specialities.

If you want a burger that evokes a chorus of flavours, with fries on the side, Hold & Bite and Frida Pub are unmissable experiences. They have mouth-watering pasta and pizza on their menu. Locals and tourists come to eat generously portioned falafel at Kaş Gurme Falafel.

Vegetarian Restaurants

Although many eateries in Kaş have vegetarian dishes on their menu, plant-based lifestyle enthusiasts will love to know that Kaş has a restaurant, Oburus Momus, for them. They will enjoy starters like hummus, beetroot carpaccio, fried tofu, and more.

Coffee Houses, Bakeries, and Patisseries

As tourists wander through the cobbled streets in the town’s centre, they will discover the dessert shop Tatlı Dükkanı, baking an array of baklava and künefe (Turkish sweet cheese pastry). Or, they will stumble upon the inviting atmosphere of the Linckia Roastery Café. The café brews over 40 different coffee types and even has matcha (green tea) and cortado in its selection. A celebrated San Sebastian cheesecake is served at Godo Coffee and More. This is just a glimpse of the coffee and pastry scene in Kaş. 

Have you indulged in dondurma? This is a Turkish ice cream, made from cream, salep, mastic, and sugar. Nudo Waffle Dondurma sells them in a variety of flavours. 

All these restaurants are conveniently located in Old Town and Kaş Merkez.

City Transport in Kaş

Public transport

Although Kaş downtown is small, vacationists may not always have the energy to walk from one point to another. The most convenient way of getting around the town is by dolmuş minibuses, which can be found in the centre and the surrounding areas.

These are logical choices to get to the nearby Kaş beaches. Dolmuş service also reaches famous beaches such as Kaputaş, Patara Beach, and Xanthos. There are also minibuses departing for Fethiye and Saklıkent Canyon.

The old bus station in Kaş is in the middle of the city's heart. The new station outside Kaş Merkez, on the way to Ağullu, is typically the departure and arrival point for intercity buses.

Car Rental

While dolmuş minivans are the prime means of transportation in Kaş, visitors must keep a constant tab on their timetables to avoid missing the last dolmuş. Depending on the route, some operate until 4 PM, and others until 7 PM. Hence, the best alternative for newcomers might be a car or scooter. A quick Google search for “Kaş rent a car” will give all the information and options for pre-arranged rental companies around the locations.

How to Get to Kaş

Hiring a car is the easiest way to get to Kaş. The town lies halfway between Dalaman Airport (DLM) (2 hours and 15 minutes) and Antalya Airport (AYT) (4 hours).

Voyagers can take an Uber or a Kiwi taxi ride to reach their hotel from Dalaman Airport.

Those travelling in large groups or seeking greater comfort and luxury can arrange private transfers for vehicles ranging from the latest sedans to 8-seater minivans and large buses.

Alternatively, buses are the most cost-effective option. Kaş is connected to Istanbul (15-hour journey), Ankara (11 hours), and Izmir (8 hours and 30 minutes). Furthermore, dolmuş minibuses depart every day to Kaş from nearby destinations: Kalkan (30 minutes), Patara (45 minutes), Olympus (2 hours and 30 minutes), Fethiye (2 hours and 50 minutes), and Antalya (3 hours and 30 minutes).

Languages Spoken in Kaş

The principal lingua franca in Kaş is Turkish. Yet since tourism is the town's main source of income, many businesses, especially hotels, employ staff who serve clients in English, German, and Russian. Russian tourists have been flooding Kaş recently, so hearing “Rus” chatter is a frequent scene.

Traffic signs follow international standards and have duplicated texts in English.

Here are a few phrases for those who want to sound like a local and tune in to Turkish.

Merhaba (Hello). Phonetically: meh-rha-ba

Evet (Yes). Phonetically: eh-vet

Hayır (No). Phonetically: hah-yur

Ne kadar? (How much?). Phonetically, it sounds: neh-ka-dar

Lüften (Please). Phonetically: lewt-fehn

Teşekkür ederim (I thank you): tesh-ek-kerr-eh-deh-rim

Nasılsın ? (How are you?): nah-sil-sen

Iyiyim (I am fine): ee-yee-yim

Ne? (What?): neh

Türk lirası (Turkish lira)

And, of course, foreigners can learn basic Turkish vocabulary using apps such as Phrasebook in the Apple App Store or Google Travel Phrasebook.

Currency in Kaş

The official currency of Kaş is the Turkish lira (₺).

Changing your national currency (Euro, British Pounds, US dollars, and others) in Kaş is easy, as these can be exchanged for Turkish lira (TRY). In many places, it is also possible to pay directly in dollars and euros.

Most businesses are equipped with payment terminals for credit and debit cards. However, visitors are advised to carry some Turkish cash for minor purchases or shops that do not accept credit cards.

Money can be exchanged and withdrawn at ATMs in tourist areas, shopping centres, main streets, and train stations across Turkey. In Kaş, voyagers can also withdraw cash at various bank branches along Atatürk Boulevard, with a popular foreign exchange counter, Kaş Cash Point, located next to Merkez Süleyman Cami.

Experienced travellers recommend avoiding currency exchange at airports and hotels due to less favourable rates.

Security in Kaş

One key reason sightseers flock to Kaş is the sense of security, allowing guests to explore freely at any time. Nevertheless, it is important to follow a few safety guidelines.

It is recommended to be cautious of the strong Turkish sun – apply sunscreen and stay hydrated to avoid sunburn; when visiting new beaches, be aware of sharp rocks and strong currents; and always wear a life jacket when swimming in open waters during boat trips. Visitors must change before leaving the beach, as swimwear cover-ups are allowed only there. Kaş has no strict dress code, but modest attire is required when visiting mosques.

It is also advisable to ensure you are physically prepared and properly trained for activities such as diving, snorkelling, and paragliding, and to keep your valuables secure, especially in busy areas like bazaars and promenades. With these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable trip to Kaş.