Ankara - Discovering Turkey

Travelling to Ankara

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ankara, a pretty good destination in Turkey (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ankara and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ankara, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Turkey, here's everything to know about Ankara for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ankara

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, located in the central region of the country. It has a population of around 5.6 million people and is the second-largest city in Turkey after Istanbul. Ankara serves as the political and administrative center of the country, with many government institutions, embassies, and diplomatic missions located there. The city is also home to several universities, museums, and cultural attractions, including the Mausoleum of Atatürk, one of the most popular tourist sites in Ankara. The city has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, so the best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is milder and more pleasant.

What to visit in Ankara

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Ankara, Turkey: 1. Ankara Citadel: This citadel is located in the heart of the city and is a major attraction for tourists. It was built by the Romans in the 3rd century and offers a great view of the city.
2. Anıtkabir: This is the mausoleum of Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. It is a grand monument and a must-visit for history buffs.
3. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: This museum showcases the art, culture, and history of the Anatolian region. It has a vast collection of artifacts dating back to the Neolithic era.
4. Kocatepe Mosque: This mosque is one of the largest in Turkey and has a striking modern design. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
5. Atakule Tower: This tower offers panoramic views of the city, and also has a shopping mall and restaurants. It's a great place to spend an evening after a day of sightseeing.
6. Gençlik Park: This is the largest park in Ankara, and offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It has many amenities including a lake and a zoo.
7. Ankara Ethnography Museum: This museum shows the local culture and history of the city of Ankara and the surrounding region.
8. Roman Baths: This ancient bath complex was built during the 3rd century Roman period and is still partially standing today, making it a great spot for history lovers.
9. Cengelhan Rahmi M. Koc Museum: This museum is housed in a restored Ottoman-era caravanserai and showcases the industrial history of Turkey.
All of these attractions can be explored in a day or two depending on your pace, and are a great way to get a sense of the rich history and culture of Ankara.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Turkey, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ankara.

When to go on holiday to Ankara

The best time to visit Ankara, Turkey is during the months of April to June and September to October, the spring and autumn seasons. During these months, the temperatures are mild and pleasant making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. In the summer months of July and August, the temperatures can get very hot and humid which may not be comfortable for tourists. The winter months of November to February can be quite cold with snowfall, so if you're not a fan of cold weather, it may not be the best time to visit. However, if you are interested in winter sports, then this can be a great time to visit Ankara.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ankara

There are several ways to get to Ankara, depending on your starting point. Here are some options: 1. By plane: Ankara has an international airport, Esenboga International Airport, that receives direct flights from major cities around the world.
2. By train: If you are coming from Istanbul, you can take a high-speed train from Ankara to Istanbul (or vice versa) that departs multiple times a day.
3. By bus: If you are coming from within Turkey, there are numerous bus companies that offer services to Ankara from major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya.
4. By car: You can also rent a car and drive to Ankara from neighboring cities such as Istanbul or Izmir, or take a taxi.
It is important to check the latest travel regulations due to COVID-19 before planning your trip to Ankara.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ankara, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ankara

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, has a unique culinary culture that is largely influenced by its history and location. Here are some typical foods of Ankara with a short description for each: 1. kebab: A famous meat dish that is made by grilling seasoned meat on skewers. It can be prepared with lamb or beef and served with bread, rice, and salad.
2. mantı: A type of dumpling that is filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. It is usually served with a garlic yogurt sauce and topped with butter and red pepper flakes.
3. yaprak sarma: Grape leaves that are stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, onions, and herbs. It is traditionally served cold as an appetizer.
4. çiğ köfte: A spicy raw meatball that is made with bulgur wheat, tomato paste, pepper paste, and spices. It is often served as a snack with lettuce leaves and lemon wedges for squeezing.
5. pide: A type of flatbread that is usually topped with cheese, minced meat, and vegetables. It is similar to pizza but with a thinner crust and different toppings.
6. baklava: A sweet pastry that is made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and syrup. It is often served with Turkish tea or coffee after a meal.
7. gözleme: A thin flatbread that is filled with cheese, spinach, or potatoes. It is usually cooked on a griddle and served hot as a street food snack.
8. lahmacun: A thin crust pizza-like dish that is topped with minced meat, onions, tomato, and spices. It is often served with lettuce, parsley, and lemon juice on top.
9. ayran: A traditional yogurt drink that is popular in Turkey. It is made by mixing yogurt, water, and salt until smooth. It is often served cold with meals to help cool the palate.
10. şalgam: A fermented juice that is made with turnips, carrots, and beets. It has a strong, tangy flavor and is often served as a beverage with meals.
You can find general info about typical foods in Turkey here.

Is Ankara an expensive destination for tourists?

Ankara is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists compared to other major cities in Europe. However, the prices can vary depending on the activities and services you choose. For example, accommodations, food, and transportation costs are generally lower than in Western Europe, but attractions and entertainment options may be more expensive. It's recommended that you create a budget for your trip and research prices for the specific activities and services you plan to use in Ankara.

Where to find accomodation in Ankara

There are several areas in Ankara where you can find good accommodation options depending on your preferences and the purpose of your visit. The most popular areas for tourists are: 1. Kavaklıdere: This is the city center and the diplomatic quarter, with many high-end hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops.
2. Ulus: This area is located in the historical part of the city and has many budget-friendly accommodation options. 3. Çankaya: This is a green and upscale district with many luxury hotels, villas, and high-end shopping centers. 4. Kızılay: This is the commercial center of the city and has many hotels, restaurants, and bars. 5. Beştepe: This is a newer and upscale area near the Presidential Palace and has several modern hotels and luxury apartments. Ultimately, the best area for you to stay in Ankara will depend on your personal preferences and the purpose of your trip.
You can check hotel prices at Ankara here:
Booking.com

Is Ankara a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ankara is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other major city, it is always recommended for travelers to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. It is also recommended to avoid political protests and demonstrations, as these can sometimes turn violent. Overall, visitors to Ankara should feel safe and enjoy the city's rich history, culture, and landmarks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Turkey here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ankara.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ankara the most?

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, has a lot to offer for all types of travelers. Here are some suggestions: - Couples: Ankara is a romantic city with many charming spots. One of the most popular places for couples is the citadel of Ankara, which offers beautiful views of the city. Another great destination is the Atakule Tower, where couples can enjoy dinner with a stunning view of the city.
- Young people looking for fun: Ankara has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and clubs catering to different tastes. If you're looking for a fun night out, check out Anafartalar Street or Tunali Hilmi Street, which are popular areas for bars and restaurants.
- Families: Ankara has plenty of attractions that are great for families. The Ataturk Forest Farm and Zoo is a fantastic destination, with its vast open spaces and various animals including monkeys, tigers, and elephants. The city also has many parks and gardens, such as Genclik Park and Kurtulus Park, which are perfect for a family picnic on a sunny day.
Overall, Ankara is a versatile city that offers something for everyone, no matter what type of traveler you are.

How to get around Ankara

In Ankara, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city, including buses, metro, minibusses (dolmuş), taxis, and private cars. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, and using buses and metro can be an affordable and efficient option. Minibusses (dolmuş) can also take you to your destination quickly and may run on specific routes. Taxis and private cars are the most expensive option, but they are useful if you need to get to a specific location quickly or are carrying heavy bags.

What to see around Ankara

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Ankara, Turkey: 1. Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia - This UNESCO World Heritage located in the province of Nevşehir is just a few hours drive from Ankara.
2. Lake Eğirdir - A beautiful lake nestled between the mountains, it makes for a great day trip destination.
3. Esenboğa Forest - A great place to escape the city and enjoy nature with picnic areas and hiking trails.
4. Safranbolu - A charming town located in the province of Karabük, known for its traditional architecture and Turkish tea.
5. Hattusa - Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Hattusa was the capital of the Hittite Empire and has well-preserved ruins.
6. Kızılcahamam - A resort town located about an hour from Ankara, known for its hot springs and natural beauty.
7. Ankara Castle - Located in the heart of Ankara, this historic castle offers stunning views of the city.
8. Beypazarı - A small town with a beautiful Ottoman-era architecture, just 100 km from Ankara.
I hope this helps!
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