Explore Kars and Ancient Ani

One of Turkey's top bases for winter adventures is Kars. This small city in the far northeast of Turkey has recently gained popularity as a winter vacation spot. Its rising fame is a result of the fact that it is the most convenient place to stay from which to travel to Lake Çıldır and a number of other northeast tourist sites. Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the main attraction nearby. It is a fascinating ruin to explore at any time of year, but it is especially stunning when the snow is on its monuments.

Ani was a significant trading hub that later became the capital of the Armenian kingdom in the tenth century. It is located on a high plateau just next to Turkey's border with Armenia. Today, the elegant church remains of Ani and other monuments are dispersed across the plateau. Although there are still many buildings from its most glorious period, when it reigned as the capital of the Armenian Kingdom, Seljuk-era ruins can still be found there. In Kars itself, there is a castle, a couple of old mosques, and some beautiful 19th-century buildings from when the town was ruled by the Russians. It's a city noted for its cuisine, and winter is a great time to try the famous roast goose dish.