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Getting Around Kas

Getting Around Kas

Kas Mediterranean Coast, Turkey Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Dolmuş (Minibuses): These shared minibuses represent the main form of local public transport in Kaş and the surrounding area. They operate on fixed routes but offer the convenience of flagging them down anywhere along their route. They are a common sight and a practical way to get around.

The main hub for dolmuş is the central square in Kaş. Routes connect the town center to popular spots like Küçük Çakıl Beach, Büyük Çakıl Beach, and the Kaş Peninsula (Çukurbağ Yarımadası). These routes are well-known locally.

Dolmuş Details

  • Routes connect town center to popular spots like Küçük Çakıl Beach, Büyük Çakıl Beach, and Kaş Peninsula.
  • Main hub for dolmuş is the central square in Kaş.
  • Fares are fixed per route, paid directly to driver in cash.
  • Operate from early morning until late evening, frequency varies by route and season.

Accessibility

Dolmuş are standard minibuses, which may not be easily accessible for travelers with mobility challenges due to steps up to enter.

Navigating Tips

Ask your accommodation staff for specific dolmuş routes and timings relevant to your destination. They often have the most current information.

Hailing a Dolmuş

Do not hesitate to flag down a dolmuş; simply wave your hand as it approaches. Tell the driver your destination when you board, or ask to be dropped off when you approach your desired stop. Many locals communicate their stop by simply saying "müsait bir yerde" (at a convenient place) when they are near their destination.

Ticketing & Operation

Fares & Payments
  • Pay fares directly to the driver in Turkish Lira cash.
  • Fares are fixed per route and are very affordable.
  • Cash is preferred; card acceptance is not universal.
Operating Hours
  • Generally run from early morning, typically around 7 AM, until late evening, often around midnight in peak season.
  • Frequency varies by route and season. Expect them every 15-30 minutes during the day in high season.
  • In low season or on less popular routes, they may run less frequently, so planning gains utility.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi ID

Licensed taxis in Kaş are yellow and carry a "Taksi" sign on the roof. They are identifiable by their meter.

Hailing

You can hail them on the street, find them at designated taxi stands (e.g., in the central square or near the harbor), or call them by phone. Your hotel can also arrange a taxi for you.

Payment

Fares are metered. Always ensure the meter is used at the start of your journey. Cash (Turkish Lira) is the preferred payment method. Not all accept credit cards, so carrying cash is advisable.

Short Rides

Short rides within Kaş town center are generally inexpensive. Longer distances, for instance, to Kaputaş Beach, will naturally cost more.

Rental Options

Booking your car in advance is advisable, especially during high season, for availability and better rates.

Car Rental Requirements

  • Valid driver's license from your home country.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) highly suggested, especially if your license is not in English.
  • Passport and a credit card for the deposit.
  • Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 23, with at least 1-2 years of driving experience.

Rental Companies

  • Major international brands like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Budget have offices at Dalaman and Antalya airports, and some also have offices in Kaş.
  • Reputable local companies also offer competitive rates.
  • Booking your car in advance is suggested, especially during high season, for availability and better rates.
  • Roads to and from Kaş are generally well-maintained.

Two-Wheeled Rentals

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available in Kaş.
  • A valid motorcycle license is necessary. Helmets are mandatory and must be worn.
  • Scooters can be a good way to explore nearby beaches and villages, but be aware of winding roads and local traffic patterns.
  • Kaş has no formal bike-sharing programs.
  • Several shops in Kaş offer bicycle rentals, mainly mountain bikes or city bikes.
  • The terrain around Kaş is hilly, so cycling demands good fitness levels.

Driving & Parking Info

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits are enforced: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on highways.

Road Conditions

Main roads are in good condition. Some local roads leading to beaches or villages can be narrow and winding, sometimes unpaved. Fuel stations are widely available along major routes.

Parking

Parking can be challenging in Kaş town center, especially during high season. Paid parking lots are available, and many hotels offer parking for guests.

Walking & Cycling

Kaş’s compact town center makes walking enjoyable, and the surrounding area has cycling routes for the adventurous.

Walkable Areas

  • Kaş town center is very pedestrian-friendly.
  • Charming cobbled streets, a pedestrianized harbor area, and a promenade along the waterfront.
  • The ancient theatre is a short, uphill walk from the town center, offering panoramic views.
  • Coastal paths lead to nearby beaches like Küçük Çakıl.

Walking Tours

  • Self-guided walks around the ancient ruins of Antiphellos, including the rock tombs and theatre, are easy and rewarding.
  • Parts of the Lycian Way walking trail are accessible from Kaş, presenting more challenging hiking experiences.
  • You can find local guides through tour agencies if you prefer a guided historical or hiking tour.
  • No specific "no-go" areas exist in terms of safety. Exercise caution on narrow, winding roads without sidewalks.

Cycling in Kaş

Infrastructure

Kaş has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure. Cyclists share roads with vehicles.

Roads shared with vehicles.

Terrain

Roads outside the town can be very hilly and winding, making cycling a challenging activity.

Hilly and winding routes.

Safety

Safety is very important: always wear a Helmet, bright clothing, and use lights, especially if cycling at dawn or dusk.

Wear helmet, bright clothes, use lights.

Important Considerations

Accessibility Notes
  • Accessibility services are limited in Kaş. The town, with its hilly and cobbled streets, has challenges for wheelchair users.
  • Many hotels and restaurants may not have ramps or elevators.
  • Public transport, like dolmuş, is not wheelchair accessible.
Getting Around with Mobility Needs
  • Private transfers or taxis often serve as the most viable options for getting around for those with mobility challenges.
  • Plan accordingly to avoid difficult terrain.
  • Some beaches may have challenging access.

Specialized Transportation

  • Kaş offers unique water-based transport options complementing its land network.
  • Kaş does not have hop-on-hop-off services. Tour buses are for organized excursions to distant sites.
  • No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems like those in larger cities.
  • Accessibility services are limited in Kaş for mobility needs.
  • You can hire boat taxis from the harbor for short trips to nearby islands (e.g., Limanağzı beach) or secluded coves.
  • Daily boat trips are popular for exploring the coastline, including the Sunken City of Kekova.
  • Numerous operators offer full-day excursions.
  • The Kaş port is in the town center, within easy walking distance of most accommodations and local dolmuş stops.

Transportation Summary

Kaş offers various ways to get around, from local minibuses to scenic boat trips.

Public Transport

  • Dolmuş are the main local transport.
  • Taxis offer convenience for direct rides.
  • Car rentals allow independent exploration.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are available.

Specialized Options

  • Boat taxis and daily trips explore the coast.
  • Walking the town is enjoyable and easy.
  • Accessibility is limited; planning for mobility needs is important.
  • Bicycle rentals are a challenging but rewarding option.

Airport & Station Logistics

Arrival Airports

Dalaman (DLM) and Antalya (AYT) are the main airports serving Kaş.

  • DLM: 150 km northwest.
  • AYT: 200 km east.
  • Both offer international and domestic connections.
Transfer Options

Options include Havaş shuttle to nearby cities, intercity buses, private transfers, and car rentals.

  • Private transfers are most suitable.
  • Buses are cost-effective.
  • Taxis are expensive for airport transfers.
Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport transfers and check-in procedures.

  • 2-3 hours for international flights.
  • 15-30 minutes for bus departures.
  • 30-60 minutes for ferry departures.

Border Crossing

Meis Ferry
  • Daily ferry services operate to the Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizo).
  • This is an international border crossing; passport and any required Schengen visa for Greece are necessary.
  • Frequency increases in summer and decreases in winter.
Immigration Procedures
  • Standard passport and visa checks apply at Kaş port.
  • Prepare for queues, especially in high season.
  • The Kaş port is in the town center, within easy walking distance of most accommodations, aiding seamless transitions.

Travel Planning Tip

For long-distance land travel, modern Turkish buses present a comfortable and widespread option. For international arrivals, Dalaman and Antalya airports serve as entry points.

Consider private transfers for utmost convenience from airports. Within Kaş, local dolmuş offer an affordable way to navigate the town and nearby areas.