Embark on a captivating day tour that whisks you from the historic streets of Erzurum to the ancient capital of Ani, the vibrant city of Kars and the tranquil shores of Lake Çıldır. This fully guided, English‑speaking excursion offers a seamless blend of medieval architecture, Ottoman‑era mosques and pristine natural scenery, all within a comfortable 6‑hour round‑trip.
The journey begins with a comfortable pick‑up from your Erzurum hotel. The first highlight is the legendary Ani Ruins, once the bustling capital of medieval Armenia. Perched on the banks of the Arpaçay River, the site still echoes with the grandeur of its 100‑church complex, vaulted cathedrals and towering city walls. Walking among the volcanic‑stone structures, you’ll feel the weight of a thousand‑year‑old civilization that once housed over 100,000 inhabitants.
After Ani, the tour heads south to Kars, where you’ll explore the Keseli Church and the Picture Church, both celebrated for their intricate frescoes and unique stone carvings. The Great Cathedral, now the Fethiye Mosque, showcases the layered history of the region—originally built as a church during Russian occupation and later transformed into a mosque after the Turkish Republic’s restoration. The Lion Gate, flanked by the Emir Manucehr Mosque, offers a glimpse into Seljuk military architecture, while the exterior of the Seljuk Palace adds a regal touch to the cityscape.
A short drive brings you to the pristine Lake Çıldır, a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch and a chance to admire the famed yellow carp swimming in its clear waters. The afternoon concludes back in Kars with visits to the Apostles Church (Kumbet Mosque), Kars Castle—offering sweeping city views—and the charming Lovers House, a local legend that adds a romantic finish to the day. Practical notes: the tour is relaxed, suitable for all ages, and includes all entrance fees. Lunch is provided; other meals and personal expenses are not included. Return to Erzurum in the early evening, refreshed by a day of history, culture and natural beauty.
| Tour type | Private · day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 6 Hours |
| Price | From €321 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 4 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours · TÜRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Your full day programme — click to see every stop.
Daily Kars City Tour
Early in the morning, a professional English‑speaking guide meets you at your hotel in Erzurum and escorts you onto a fully air‑conditioned, non‑smoking coach. The drive to Kars begins with a scenic crossing of the high plateau, arriving first at the legendary Ani Ruins. Here you will explore the remnants of the once‑great Armenian capital, wandering among the stone churches, cathedral foundations and the massive city walls that overlook the Arpaçay River. After a thorough exploration of Ani, the group continues to Kars where the guide points out the Keseli Church and the Picture Church, both renowned for their vivid frescoes and intricate stonework. The itinerary then moves to the Great Cathedral, now the Fethiye Mosque, illustrating the city’s layered religious history. You will also see the Lion Gate and the Emir Manucehr Mosque, key examples of Seljuk fortifications, and catch a glimpse of the Seljuk Palace from the outside. A short drive brings you to the tranquil shores of Lake Çıldır, where a traditional Turkish lunch is served and you have free time to admire the lake’s famous yellow carp and the surrounding pine‑covered hills. After lunch, the tour returns to Kars for a visit to the Apostles Church (Kumbet Mosque), followed by a climb up to Kars Castle for panoramic city views. The final stop is the Lovers House, a local romantic legend, before the coach heads back to Erzurum, dropping you off at your hotel in the early evening. Throughout the day, the guide provides insightful commentary on the historical, cultural and natural significance of each site, ensuring a memorable daily excursion from Erzurum.
Erzurum → Kars → Erzurum UNESCO Ani → Lake Çıldır
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles — the same fleet we use on your tour.
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Real, verified reviews from travellers who explored Turkey with us.
My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized — from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!