Kaş sits on the site of ancient Antiphellos, the harbour town of the larger Lycian city of Phellos, and several traces of that past remain within walking distance of the centre. The best known is the Antique Theatre, a small Hellenistic theatre of around twenty-six rows facing the harbour and the Greek island of Meis. It is remarkably well preserved, and unlike many ancient sites it is open and unfenced, so you can sit on its stone seats at any hour. The view across the water at sunset is one of the best free experiences in town, and locals bring a picnic and a camera. Nearby, the hill above the old town is dotted with rock-cut tombs of the Lycian period. The most conspicuous is the Lion Tomb, a monumental sarcophagus on a tall base carved with a lion relief, which stands on a street above the harbour. Others are cut into the cliff face along the road to the west, in classic Lycian style with facades imitating wooden houses. Together they make a short, rewarding walk of an hour or two that gives a sense of how important this stretch of coast was long before modern tourism arrived.
How to do the walk
Begin at the harbour and head west along the waterfront toward the theatre, which sits at the top of a quiet street just beyond the main part of town. Walk up to the top row for the view, then continue along the coast road to see cliff tombs carved into the rock. The Lion Tomb lies in the old town, close to the main street, and is easy to include on the way back. Terrain is paved or uneven stone, so wear comfortable shoes.
The theatre
It was built in the Hellenistic period and seated around four thousand people, which tells you how important the settlement was. The stage building has gone, but the curved seating and the proportions remain, and from the upper rows you look out over the bay. Restoration and conservation work has been carried out in recent years, and the seats can be uneven, so take care when climbing. There is little shade, so avoid the middle of the day in summer.
The tombs
Lycian rock tombs were carved to resemble the timber houses and temples of the living, with doors, beams and pediments in stone. The Lion Tomb is a sarcophagus type with a pointed lid and a carved lion on the side. Other tombs near the road have rounded or gabled facades and some carry inscriptions in the Lycian language, which remains only partly understood. Nearby is the sarcophagus in the middle of the main street, an unusual sight in a living town.
Visiting tips
There is usually no charge to enter, and the sites are open throughout the day. Come at golden hour for the best light and the sunset, and bring water, a hat and a jacket if you plan to stay until dusk. Combine this walk with a tea in the old town, a swim at the nearby beaches and an evening at the harbour. For deeper context, a guided town walk or a read of the tourism board pages helps explain what you are seeing.
Timing the evening
Arrive about an hour before sunset to claim a seat, bring a bottle of water and something to sit on, and stay for the afterglow when the harbour lights come on. Local families and travellers share the steps, and the atmosphere is friendly. Keep the area clean and take rubbish away so the site stays pleasant.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided walk to an open Hellenistic theatre and nearby rock-cut Lycian tombs.
Best time
Late afternoon for light and sunset, any season.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and a jacket for dusk and take care on uneven seats.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers and sunset watchers.
- Families
- Open space and safe for older children, but watch the steps.
- Couples
- Watch the sun go down over Meis from the stone seats.
- Pair with
- Kaş old town and harbour, or a sunset boat trip.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is there an entrance fee?+
There is usually no charge to sit in the theatre, but check locally.
How old is the theatre?+
It dates from the Hellenistic period and seated several thousand people.
Where is the Lion Tomb?+
In the old town, close to the main street above the harbour.
Is it open at night?+
The theatre is an open site and many people visit at dusk.
Is it accessible?+
Surfaces are stone and uneven, with steps in the theatre.