With cobbled lanes, bougainvillea-covered houses, and a harbour dotted with boats on Turkey’s (Türkiye) azure coast, Kaş has all the charm of a holiday escape but still keeps its everyday rhythm. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, what makes this peaceful town on the Turkish Riviera extraordinary is that you can drink your coffee in the quiet main square one moment and go swimming, or visit ancient ruins the next.
Top 17 Attractions in Kaş
There are lots of things to do in Kaş, such as hiking to Lycian rock tombs, exploring Antiphellos Theatre, and visiting busy bazaars and cafes that are usually within walking distance. Kaş activities for adventure seekers vary from scuba diving or paragliding to day trips around turquoise bays. Families may opt for chilled-out markets, small beaches, and evening strolls through Old Town.
This guide lists 17 top things to do in Kaş, including its historical sites, cultural attractions in Kaş, and the adventure trips that have made it among the most memorable places in the Mediterranean basin.
Antiphellos Hellenistic Theatre
A quiet ten-minute walk from the town centre along the coastal road, the Antiphellos Hellenistic Theatre is in the group of major historical sites in Kaş. The limestone theatre, built in the 1st century BC, could accommodate 4,000 people, and 26 rows of the theatre survive today. It is not the largest in Turkey, but the setting among olive trees and the sea views make it the best sightseeing spots in Kaş. People often have picnics and spend an easy hour enjoying their surroundings.
Old Town & Long Bazaar
With their cobbled streets, colourful facades, boutique stores, and cafes, the Old Town and Long Bazaar (Uzun Çarşı) are two of the most visited Kaş attractions. Walking through Uzun Çarşı Sokak leads to the King's Tomb, also called the Lion Sarcophagus, a Lycian sarcophagus with lion head carvings from the 4th century BC. The Old Town is a popular destination for cultural explorers and family outings in Kaş because of its unique combination of shopping and history. With local bars and outdoor dining, evenings are particularly exciting.
Kaş Archaeopark
Underwater archaeology and diving activities meet at Kaş Archaeopark in Hidayet Bay. Divers can investigate the Uluburun Shipwreck, a Late Bronze Age vessel found in 1982 close to Kaş, as well as replicas of ancient artefacts. A rare example of Kaş attractions, the bay provides both Kaş adventure tours and education because of its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. To give Kaş activities more cultural depth, the Archaeopark is also utilised for youth initiatives and archaeological training.
Scuba Diving
With more than 30 dive sites accessible within 30 minutes from the harbour, Kaş is commonly recognised as the scuba diving capital of Turkey. Divers can explore caves, wrecks, tunnels, and amphorae fields that are over 2,000 years old, and the water clarity frequently reaches 40 metres. Diving is one of the most thrilling Kaş adventure tours because of the marine life, which includes turtles, dolphins, eagle rays, and occasionally monk seals. The renowned Uluburun Bronze Age wreck, a leading oldest shipwrecks ever discovered, is another reason for the region's fame.
Kaş Harbour
Another of the best sightseeing spots in Kaş is Kaş Harbour, a nice place to stroll, eat, or shop before sailing, as it is lined with gulets, waterfront cafes, and stores. From here, tourists can participate in Kaş adventure tours, including paragliding, canoeing, and parasailing. Among the most enjoyable activities in Kaş is to watch the sunset from the harbour, and other water sports are conveniently available near the centre at the neighbouring Small Pebble Beach and Big Pebble Beach.
Kaş Friday Market
Every Friday, just a short stroll from the centre, farmers from nearby villages come together to sell their seasonal and raw produce, cheese, honey, olives, and fruit at Kaş Friday Market. At the same time, stall vendors sell handmade jewellery, clothes, shoes, and household goods. Kaş's Friday Market is unquestionably an example of the most exciting events in town. It's difficult to resist the urge to pause and take in the festive, social atmosphere; you could use it as a place to shop or as a cultural experience. Holidaymakers often combine their market visit with lunch, adding variety to a day in a top-tier picturesque region of Turkey, Kaş.
Living Heritage of Kaş
Traditional crafts are a living heritage in Kaş, recognised as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. Carpet weaving is another most unique art of the town. Each carpet tells a story through its colours and patterns. Jewellery workshops produce one-of-a-kind pieces based on Lycian symbols, and pottery studios let people watch craftsmen work or learn how to do it themselves. The crafts are meaningful souvenirs that help people understand the cultural side of Kaş attractions.
Cultural Events & Local Festivals
Cultural festivals are among the top things to do in Kaş, drawing visitors throughout the year. The Kaş Lycia Festival, held in early summer, celebrates swimming races, folk dances, and music that strengthen ties with Greece. The Jazz Festival takes place in September and features musicians from around the world performing in open-air venues. 19 May is a day for sports and parades, and the Kaş International Film Festival is a mix of art and nature set against the Mediterranean.
Lycian Rock Tombs
Carved high into the cliffs above Kaş, the Lycian Rock Tombs are striking historical sites dating back to the 4th–2nd centuries BC. Visitors reach them by a steep staircase from Lykia Caddesi, and more tombs can be found higher up the rock face for those willing to scramble. The best time to visit the tombs is at sunset, when you can see all of Kaş and the sea from all sides. For history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike, they are still the best places to see in Kaş.
Central Plaza (Atatürk Heykeli)
Among the key attractions of Kaş is Central Plaza (Atatürk Heykeli), located in the town with a view of the Mediterranean Sea behind the Taurus Mountains. This plaza is a social hotspot and popularly photographed historical site in Kaş, because of the statue of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, after whom the square is named. There are benches to sit on, food stands selling stuffed oysters and Turkish ice cream and restaurants surrounding the square. Sunset is the best time to visit the plaza, with locals gathering to hang out, while the square is amid the best sightseeing spots in Kaş.
Burnt Ice Cream & Turkish Ice Cream Game
Yanıksı dondurma, or burnt ice cream, is a Kaş-specific local speciality made from goat's milk that is high in fat and has a caramelised, smoky flavour. Locally referred to as the Dessert Shop, Tatlı Dükkanı is the finest place to try it. Talking about fun things to do in Kaş, Turkish ice cream game is in which vendors playfully tease customers before handing over the cone. The dense, chewy texture of dondurma makes it a favourite among family activities in Kaş, and the playful tradition adds a cultural highlight to the list of what to do in Kaş.
Lycian Way Trekking Route
The Lycian Way trekking route is among the best outdoor activities in Kaş, stretching over 500 km between Fethiye and Antalya. Along the way, you can see ancient ruins as you travel through pine forests, valleys, and coastal viewpoints around Kaş. Early in the morning, guided treks begin, giving hikers the chance to take in the tranquil surroundings and wildlife far from the towns. Hikers who complete the moderately difficult trail will be rewarded with some of the best sightseeing in Kaş.
Kaputaş Beach
Along the beautiful D400 coastal road between Kaş and Kalkan, Kaputaş Beach is famed for its amazing scenery and bright turquoise waters. Many drivers pull over at viewpoints high above to take photos of the gorge, cliffs and beach far below. Kaputaş Beach is perhaps the most photographed place in the Antalya province. There are also several boards with conservation information about endangered plants that grow on or around the beach. Visiting Kaputaş in the off-season means it will be quieter and may be the few places to explore in that area on your Kaş adventure tour.
Day Trip to Kekova Island
Among the most popular Kaş activities are day trips to Kekova Island, which provide a full-day boat tour with unique spots and historical sightseeing in Kaş. Along the way, travellers can eat lunch or engage in water sports at Aquarium Bay, Burç Bay, and Gökkaya Bay. The Sunken City of Dolchiste, an ancient Lycian settlement submerged by an earthquake in the second century, is the main attraction. Since swimming is not allowed, it is best seen from a boat. This is one of the greatest sightseeing tours in Kaş for those who enjoy both history and the outdoors, with additional stops at the Pirates Cave and Esmeralda Bay.
Simena Castle Village (Kaleköy)
Another top highlight of a Kekova tour is Simena Castle Village, also known as Kaleköy, a small settlement accessible only by boat. The Roman and Byzantine fortress at the top of the hill, built by the Knights of Rhodes, has spectacular views across Kekova Island and the Mediterranean. There is a small Lycian theatre amongst the ruins and a few ancient sarcophagi in the field of olive groves. Down at the harbour, a partially submerged sarcophagus stands as a remnant of the earthquake that shaped the region, making this another fascinating historical site in Kaş.
Day Trip to Üçağız Village
Renowned for its stone houses, seafood restaurants, and waterfront pensions, Üçağız Village is a quiet fishing area that has avoided modern development. It's a popular stop for yachts and gulets passing between Kaş and Antalya and a starting point for excursions to Sunken City and Simena Castle. Canoeing and kayaking tours start here and offer visitors a chance to visit the local ruins and sarcophagi up close. On land, visitors can find Ancient Theimussa and Lycian tombs from the 4th century BC, making this one of the most authentic cultural activities in Kaş.
Day Trip to Kyaneai Ören Yeri
The lesser-known historical site in Kaş is Kyaneai Ören Yeri, which is situated between Demre and Kaş, close to Yavu village. With few other tourists, the site is perfect for those looking for quieter cultural activities in Kaş. It features sarcophagi, an overgrown amphitheatre, and Lycian rock tombs. With Hellenistic and Roman ruins strewn throughout the hillside, Kyaneai, which was founded in the sixth century BC, developed into one of Lycia's biggest cities. Highlights include the Tomb of Xudalije, which features intricate carvings, and the Iason Monument, which honours a wealthy local statesman. The gravel roads that must be driven to get to the ruins make this trip a little more adventurous.
What to Do in Kaş for a Day?
If you wonder what to do in Kaş in one day, you should start your day at the Antiphellos Hellenistic Theatre, a short stroll from the city centre and one of Kaş's must-see historical sites. Constructed in the first century BC, the theatre has a serene sea view and is a wonderful place to explore for an hour before the day starts. From here, proceed into the Old Town, where Uzun Çarşı Sokak leads straight to the King's Tomb, a lion-headed Lycian sarcophagus. The cobbled street with its cafes and boutiques is one of the best spots to see in Kaş.
Walk to Central Plaza (Atatürk Heykeli), a tourist-filled square with a view of the Mediterranean, around lunchtime. Try some of the local street food, such as stuffed oysters, or pull up to the local eateries. Additionally, you can sample the burnt ice cream here, known as yanıksı dondurma, or even watch the ice cream being burned as vendors walk by. The plaza is a great place to stop for some food and take in the atmosphere before beginning your other Kaş activities because it doubles as a dining area and an activity.
In the afternoon, head to Kaş Harbour, only a few minutes away, where daily boat trips depart for Kekova and Simena Castle. Even if you don’t take a full-day excursion, the harbour is the centre for water sports and short Kaş adventure tours such as parasailing or canoeing. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed walk along the waterfront, stop at cafes with sea views, and watch the gulets preparing for evening trips.
End your day back in the Old Town with shopping, where stalls and shops trade carpets, jewellery, pottery, and souvenirs made by local craftsmen. The market streets remain alive into the evening, with dining, nightlife, and family activities in Kaş.
Top Things to Do in Kaş for 2 Days
For your two-day visit in Kaş, you can enjoy a perfect composite of history, culture, food, and relaxation, with most of Kaş attractions close enough to enjoy at an easy pace.
On the first morning, begin with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, where fresh simit, cheeses, olives, and endless tea set the tone for the day. After that, take a walk to the Antiphellos Theatre, one of the most striking historical sites in Kaş. Constructed in the 1st century BC, this serene location features a view of the Mediterranean Sea and is a great place to explore before the town comes alive. From here, explore the Old Town's cobblestone streets, where you can find jewellery, textiles, and ceramics at boutique stores. Don't miss the King's Tomb, which features elaborate Lycian carvings.
For lunch, head toward the harbour and enjoy seafood meze or grilled fish at a waterside restaurant, followed by a relaxed coffee in the shaded cafes. In the afternoon, travel to Kaputaş Beach, a short drive away, where guests can try kayaking or snorkelling. In the evening, head back to the centre to browse additional stores before indulging in the well-known yanıksı dondurma for dessert. The best place to eat dinner in Kaş is at a restaurant by the marina, where you can eat mezes, kebabs, and freshly caught fish with views of the boats and the glowing sunset.
On the second day, spend the morning on one of the most popular Kaş adventure tours – a boat trip to Kekova Island. These excursions usually involve swimming in beautiful, glimmering blue bays, viewing the Sunken City of Dolchiste from the boat, and visiting Simena Castle, which boasts some of the best sightseeing in Kaş with its castle ruins and sweeping vistas. A seafood lunch is often provided on the boat or at a quaint eatery in Üçağız Village, which combines the traditional tastes of the region with the relaxing view of the coast.
In the afternoon, head back to the town and stop by the Lycian rock tombs to gain an important insight into the region’s history, then relax at the steam bath and massage of a hammam. At the end of the day, families might prefer a stroll along the promenade, while couples might be more inclined to rooftop restaurants, enjoying the grilled meats and mezes, plus baklava for dessert, while stargazing.
Is 3 Days Enough to Explore Kaş?
A three-day trip to Kaş is enough for visitors to experience its history, adventure, and relaxation at a comfortable pace.
On the first morning, start with a traditional Turkish breakfast of olives, cheeses, pastries, and tea at a café in the Old Town before exploring Uzun Çarşı Sokak, a cobbled street with boutique stores selling jewellery, carpets, and ceramics that leads right to the King’s Tomb. From here, stroll to Antiphellos Theatre and enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the sea in Kaş from its stone steps. Savour a tasty plate of mixed gyros or delectable crispy fish for lunch at the harbour. Enjoy a cool, leisurely walk along the waterfront after lunch. Later in the afternoon, take a boat to Kekova to travel around Sunken City. Come back for dinner at a restaurant on the rooftop in the evening. As you look out over the stunning Mediterranean, savour some scrumptious seafood and kebabs, and unwind with the soft Baklava.
Start your second day in Kaş with a paragliding adventure, famous for panoramic views of the peninsula and the mountains. After landing, transition to the Saklıkent Gorge, a dramatic canyon where visitors can walk along wooden paths or river tubes. Lunch is along the riverside and features traditional dishes. In the evening in Kaş, choose a casual dinner by the harbour.
Tour Simena Castle and neighbouring coves by boat or kayak on the third day. While enjoying exciting activities in Kaş, kayaking over the underwater ruins of Kekova provides a unique perspective of Lycian history. If time permits, think about taking a day trip to the nearby Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizo), which is only a short ferry ride away, to see the renowned Blue Cave and its colourful homes. These trips typically include a picnic by the water or fresh seafood for lunch. Return to Kaş in the late afternoon for family-friendly pursuits like enjoying Limanagzi Beach or shopping for trinkets at the local stores.
The ideal way to relax before the evening is to have a hammam experience. Select a rooftop or seaside restaurant for your final meal, where you can enjoy Turkish mezes, grilled meats, and regional sweets while taking in the sunset.