Transport to the Ani Ruins

Wikitravel is a good resource for transport to Ani from Kars, but we found some details were outdated or not applicable when we visited in May, 2018 (shoulder season). Here are some notes from our experience:

• We checked with the wait staff at Antik Café who told us that the bus service was operating once daily, departing from outside the cafe at 1100.
• They advised us to turn up at 1030; the bus arrived outside the café at this time and departed at 1100.
• There were 16 passengers in our trip, so lots of seats were not filled.
• The journey cost 14TRY return per person. (Our hotel offered us a private car for 150TRY!)
• The site entrance fee was 8TRY per person, but multi-site passes were accepted also.
• There was a snack and tea shop at the entrance.
• There was a WC (1TRY) at the new complex across the road.
• We were at the site for 2 hours, which was enough time.
• It was cold and windy at the site, and there was a little rain. Dress appropriately.
• The site is extensive and littered with rocks, so wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
• There are some hazards, like cliff ledges, walls and holes in floors leading to 3 or 4m drops, so any children need to be kept on leash for their safety.

Ani was worth a visit; transport was straightforward, it was a cheap day out, the ruins were interesting, and most of all, the scenery was spectacular.