Kilis City Guide
General Information about Kilis
Kilis is a historic city in Southeastern Anatolia, located right on Turkey’s border with Syria. With a population of around 155,000 (2024), it stands as a cultural, historical, and gastronomic hub that blends Anatolian and Middle Eastern traditions.
Throughout history, Kilis has hosted many civilizations including the Hittites, Assyrians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Due to its geographic location, it became a bridge between Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean, which shaped its diverse identity.
Formerly part of the Ottoman Aleppo Sanjak, Kilis gained provincial status in 1995. Today, it is known for its olive production, border trade, and hospitality. The region’s signature olive, known as “Kilis Karası,” is famous for its high-quality oil.
The climate is a mix of Mediterranean and continental, with hot summers and mild winters.
Places to Visit in Kilis
Historical and Cultural Landmarks
- Ravanda Castle: Byzantine-era fortress offering panoramic views.
- Oylum Mound: Archaeological site dating back to 4000 BC, among Anatolia’s oldest settlements.
- Canbolat Pasha Complex: 16th-century Ottoman structure including a mosque, madrasa, bath, and tomb.
- Neşet Efendi Mansion: Beautifully restored Ottoman mansion showcasing local architecture.
- Kilis House (Cultural Museum): Displays the city’s traditional domestic lifestyle.
- Tekke Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Kilis.
- Hoca Bath: A 17th-century Turkish bath still in operation.
Natural and Urban Attractions
- Oylum Valley: Ideal for hiking and historical exploration.
- Soap Bazaar (Sabunhane): Famous for its handmade olive oil soaps.
- Covered Bazaar: A traditional market filled with local products.
- Kilis City Forest: A green space perfect for picnics and outdoor recreation.
- Deliosman Vineyards: Known for grape, wine, and molasses production.
Kilis Intercity Bus Terminal
The Kilis Intercity Bus Terminal is 1.5 km from the city center, with daily bus routes to Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Hatay, Adana, Mersin, Ankara, Konya, Kayseri, and Istanbul.
The terminal includes cafes, waiting lounges, ticket offices, and a prayer room. Local transport is easily available via taxis and minibuses.
What to Eat in Kilis
Kilis cuisine represents one of Turkey’s richest food cultures — full of spicy flavors, meat dishes, and olive-based recipes.
- Kilis Tava: Oven-baked minced meat with tomato, pepper, and garlic.
- Oruk Kebab: A bulgur-based kebab similar to içli köfte.
- Cennet Çamuru: Dessert with cream, syrup, and walnuts.
- Katmer: Thin pastry layered with pistachio and clotted cream.
- Stuffed Vegetables with Olive Oil: Prepared with Kilis’ signature olives.
- Sour Lentil Soup: Lentil soup flavored with pomegranate molasses.
- Firik Pilaf: Smoked green wheat pilaf with meat.
- Kilis Katmer: A dessert unique to the city, rich and aromatic.
How to Get to Kilis
- By Bus: Daily intercity services from major Turkish cities.
- By Road: Gaziantep–Kilis 55 km (~45 min), Hatay–Kilis 120 km (~2 h), Adana–Kilis 210 km (~3 h).
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gaziantep Airport (60 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway connection is in Gaziantep.
Bus Companies Operating in Kilis
- Metro Turizm
- Varan Turizm
- Has Turizm
- Kamil Koç
- Seç Turizm
- Özlem Cizre Nuh Turizm
