Kas: Bohemian Charm, an Ancient Theatre & World-Class Diving

At the very heart of the Lycian Way — where lush mountains plunge into the sea between Antalya to the east and Fethiye to the west — sits Kas. One of Turkey's most distinctive holiday destinations, this small town captivates thousands of travellers every year with its bohemian spirit, ancient history and extraordinary underwater riches.

The History of Kas: A City Built on Antiphellos

Kas was built on the ancient Greek site of Antiphellos. Throughout the town you encounter a monumental Hellenistic theatre, Lycian rock tombs and dozens of column remains — in short, a living ancient city woven into everyday life.

The Ancient Theatre

Perched directly above the town in a commanding position overlooking the sea, this Hellenistic theatre holds approximately 4,000 people. The annual Kas Theatre Festival is held here each summer, offering an unforgettable performance with views of Rhodes Island framing the stage.

Rock Tombs

Lycian rock tombs carved into the hillsides at various points around town give Kas its uniquely ancient atmosphere. The monumental "Ionic Tomb" in the town centre (4th century BC) is particularly impressive.

Diving: The Clearest Waters in the Mediterranean

Kas is widely regarded as one of Turkey's — and by some diving experts, the Mediterranean's — finest dive destinations. Its famously clear waters are home to extraordinarily rich marine life.

Top Dive Sites:

| Site | Depth | Highlight | |-------|----------|---------| | Flying Fish Cave | 18–35m | Large grouper and coral gardens | | Siani Islands | 5–30m | Colourful coral and octopus | | Crashed Plane | 27m | WWII aircraft wreck | | Ege Wreck | 30m | Sunken cargo vessel | | Eel Garden | 12–20m | Moray eel colony |

Eating, Drinking & Shopping

Kas bazaar is home to boutiques in traditional wooden-balconied buildings, craft shops and local restaurants. Along Uzun Carsi Street:

• Local Olive Oil Products — Especially soaps and creams
• Hand-Woven Kilims — Ancient motifs
• Silver Jewellery — Kas is renowned for its silversmiths
• Fresh Spices and Dried Fruits — Direct from the local market

The Friday Market

Every Friday morning, a market is set up in Kas town square where local farmers sell fresh vegetables, fruit, cheese and olive oil — a wonderful, authentic experience.

Gateway to Kekova

Kas is also the ideal starting point for Kekova and sunken city tours. Boats from here reach Kekova in around one hour.

Practical Information

| | Details | |---|---| | Distance | 38 km (from Delphin Villas) | | Drive Time | ~50 minutes | | Dive Centre | Bougainville Dive Center, Dragoman Outdoor | | Best Season | April–November | | Summer Festival | Kas International Jazz Festival (June) |

Kas deserves at least a full day in your Delphin Villas itinerary — allow plenty of time to explore at your own pace.