Welcome to Kas, a small but fascinating coastal town on the Turkish Riviera, perfect for independent travelers and backpackers with its laid-back vibe and a wealth of off-the-beaten-track adventures. The mix of turquoise sea, ancient ruins and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere is simply unique. In this article, I’ll show you why Kas in Turkey is a real insider tip and should be on your bucket list.
Highlights in Kaş
The old town of Kas
The old town of Kas is simply gorgeous! The narrow alleyways are lined with white houses with colorful shutters and brightly colored bougainvillea hanging from the balconies everywhere. Here you can spend hours strolling through the alleyways, discovering small cafés and buying handmade souvenirs in one of the many stores. The small harbor borders directly on the old town, from where you can go on fantastic boat trips. An absolute must is a day trip to the sunken city of Kekova. But more on that later.
Detour to Kaputas Beach
Kas is not a typical beach destination like Antalya, but the beaches nearby are simply unbeatable! My absolute favorite was Kaputaş beach, which is located just outside of Kas. Imagine: a small bay, enclosed by high cliffs, with white sand and water that shimmers in the most incredible shades of blue. The descent may be a little strenuous, but as soon as you dip your feet in the water, you’ll know it was worth the effort. It’s best to hire a scooter to get to Kaputas Beach, as parking is scarce.
Practical tip: Make sure you bring snacks, water and sunscreen! There is no restaurant and places in the shade are rare. It’s also worth arriving early before it gets too hot and crowded.
Sunset in the amphitheater
A historical highlight in Kas is the ancient amphitheatre, just a few minutes outside the town center. It dates back to Roman times and not only offers a fascinating insight into history, but also a spectacular view of the bay and the sea. Especially at sunset, everything is bathed in an absolutely magical light.
Boat tour to Kekova Island
The boat tour to the sunken city of Kekova is an absolute must. The island lies off the coast and offers a fascinating view of the remains of an ancient city that is partially submerged. During the trip, you can snorkel in the crystal-clear water and admire the ruins beneath the surface.
Practical tip: Book the boat tour early and be prepared that it can get crowded during the high season. Take your snorkeling equipment with you and make sure you have a waterproof camera with you to capture the magical moments.
Hike up the ‘Sleeping Giant’
If you still have time in Kas and fancy an adventure and an active evening program, a hike up the ‘Sleeping Giant’ is an absolute highlight. The route is part of the Lycian Way and leads through pine forests to the summit. From there you have a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. The name ‘Sleeping Giant’ comes from the shape of the mountain, which looks like a giant lying down.
The hike takes around 45 — 60 minutes and is not particularly difficult. The trail starts directly on the main road.
Excursion to Kalkan
A highly recommended day trip is a detour to the small coastal town of Kalkan, which is only around 30 km from Kas. Kalkan is known for its beautiful beaches and charming old town with its narrow streets and traditional houses. Here you can stroll around, browse in small boutiques and enjoy delicious local dishes in one of the many restaurants.
The place was an absolute highlight for me and I would have loved to stay here for 1–2 nights.
Beach: Belediyesi Halk Plajı & Halk Plajı
Kas and the surrounding area have some great beaches that should not be missed. Belediyesi Halk Plaji, also known as the town beach of Kas, is just a stroll away from the center. It is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea with crystal clear water. As there are few shady spots, it’s best to pack a parasol. Both beaches are in close proximity to each other and are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun after an active day.
Restaurant tips for Kas
Oburus Modus — vegetarian cuisine with a view
A real gem just outside Kas is this vegetarian restaurant that uses fresh, local ingredients. Try the “Patlıcan Kebabı” (eggplant kebab) and enjoy the breathtaking view of the sea. Perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of adventure.
Kasik Manti Ev Yemekleri
If you are looking for traditional Turkish home cooking, “Kasik Manti Ev Yemekleri” is the perfect place. It’s all about “Mantı” — the famous Turkish ravioli — as well as a range of other homemade dishes prepared according to authentic recipes.
Pisekar — vegan food
Probably the only vegan restaurant in Kas, it is located on the edge of the town center and is therefore easily accessible on foot.
Accommodation recommendations
Kas has a wide range of accommodation, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels right on the beach. There is therefore suitable accommodation for everyone and every budget.
My recommendation in Kas
Arrival & on the road on site
The best way to get to Kas is by bus from Antalya or Fethiye. The bus connections are cheap and reliable. If you are coming from the Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizo), there are also ferry connections directly to Kas. An alternative option is to travel by rental car, which gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding region.
You can easily get around the city on foot, as Kas is a compact city. Dolmuş buses are available for longer distances or excursions in the surrounding area — a cheap and popular transportation option in Turkey. To be flexible, I would recommend hiring a scooter or rental car locally.
My conclusion about Kas
Kas is a small but incredibly diverse destination that has a lot to offer for those seeking peace and quiet as well as adventure seekers. From the charming old town to the impressive ruins and beautiful beaches — Kas and the surrounding area really do have a lot to offer. And the great thing is that Kas is nowhere near as crowded as other destinations on the Turkish Riviera and still has an incredible amount of charm.
Have you already been to Kas? Share your experiences in the comments and let me know which highlights you would particularly recommend!
