Ankara Travel Guide – Explore Turkey’s Capital City

Ankara Travel Guide – Explore Turkey’s Capital City

🌿 Introduction

When people think of Turkey, cities like Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia often come to mind. Yet, the country’s capital city, Ankara, is just as fascinating and deserves a spot on every traveler’s itinerary. Known as the heart of Turkish politics, diplomacy, and history, Ankara combines ancient heritage with a modern urban lifestyle.

Home to the Turkish Parliament, foreign embassies, and a wealth of cultural institutions, Ankara provides a deep dive into both Turkey’s past and present. From Roman ruins and Ottoman neighborhoods to Atatürk’s mausoleum and lively student-filled districts, Ankara is an unforgettable stop in the center of Anatolia.

👉 If you’re planning a full Turkey itinerary, don’t miss our Turkey Tour Packages which include Ankara along with Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus.

📜 A Brief History of Ankara

Ankara’s history stretches back thousands of years:

• Ancient Period: Known as “Ancyra” during the Roman Empire, the city was a key trading post thanks to its strategic location on the Anatolian plateau.
• Byzantine Era: Ankara became an important fortress town with strong city walls.
• Seljuk and Ottoman Periods: The city developed into a cultural and commercial hub.
• 20th Century: In 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk declared Ankara the capital of the newly founded Republic of Turkey, transforming it into a modern political center.

Today, Ankara reflects all these layers of history: Roman ruins, Ottoman bazaars, early Republican architecture, and modern skyscrapers.

🏟️ Top Attractions in Ankara

🇹🇷 Anıtkabir – Mausoleum of Atatürk

The most iconic landmark in Ankara, Anıtkabir is the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. The mausoleum complex includes impressive ceremonial plazas, towers, and a museum displaying Atatürk’s personal belongings and photos.

Visiting Anıtkabir is not just sightseeing—it is a cultural experience that reflects the respect Turkish people hold for their leader.

🏰 Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi)

Perched on a hill, Ankara Castle offers panoramic views of the city. Originally built by the Galatians and later expanded by the Romans, Byzantines, and Seljuks, the castle is surrounded by narrow streets lined with traditional houses, handicraft shops, and cafes.

🏺 Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

This award-winning museum is a must-see for history lovers. It showcases artifacts from every era of Anatolian history—from Neolithic tools to Hittite tablets, Phrygian treasures, and Roman sculptures.

🕌 Kocatepe Mosque

One of the largest mosques in Turkey, Kocatepe Mosque dominates Ankara’s skyline. Its four towering minarets and grand dome reflect classic Ottoman architecture combined with modern engineering.

🌳 Atatürk Forest Farm & Zoo (Atatürk Orman Çiftliği)

Founded by Atatürk himself, this site is both a recreational park and an agricultural area. It includes a zoo, breweries, greenhouses, and restaurants where you can taste traditional Turkish food.

🏘️ Hamamönü Historical District

Hamamönü is one of Ankara’s most charming neighborhoods, featuring restored Ottoman houses, art galleries, tea gardens, and local craft shops. Strolling through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time.

🎨 CerModern Art Gallery

For a taste of contemporary culture, CerModern offers exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events inside a former railway workshop turned art center.

🎭 Cultural Experiences in Ankara

Ankara is not only about landmarks—it’s also a city of culture and lifestyle.

• Performing Arts: The city hosts the State Opera and Ballet and the Presidential Symphony Orchestra.
• Shopping: Head to Kızılay for modern malls or explore Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu, an antique street market full of curiosities.
• Nightlife: Ankara’s student population fuels its lively nightlife. Areas like Tunali Hilmi Street and Sakarya Caddesi are full of cafes, bars, and music venues.

🍽️ Food & Cuisine in Ankara

Ankara’s food scene reflects both traditional Anatolian flavors and modern tastes.

• Ankara Tava: A lamb and rice dish, the city’s signature meal.
• Döner Kebab: Often considered the best in Turkey.
• Simit: Sesame-crusted bread rings, perfect for breakfast.
• Aspava Restaurants: A unique Ankara dining culture where meals come with endless side dishes.

👉 For more Turkish food experiences, pair your Ankara trip with a visit to Cappadocia Tours, where you can also try local pottery kebabs.

🌄 Day Trips from Ankara

Ankara is a perfect base for exploring central Anatolia:

• Beypazarı: A charming Ottoman town famous for its wooden houses, silverwork, and carrot-based dishes.
• Gordion (Yassıhöyük): The ancient capital of the Phrygians, where King Midas once ruled.
• Kızılcahamam: Known for its hot springs and national park.
• Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü): One of the world’s largest salt lakes, offering surreal landscapes and photography opportunities.

🧭 Practical Information

📍 How to Get to Ankara

• By Air: Ankara Esenboğa Airport connects the capital to domestic and international destinations.
• By Train: High-speed trains link Ankara with Istanbul, Eskişehir, and Konya.
• By Bus: Major bus companies connect Ankara with almost every Turkish city.

🚍 Transportation within Ankara

• Metro & Ankaray: Convenient for reaching key districts.
• EGO Buses: Cover almost all areas.
• Taxis & Private Transfers: Easy and comfortable. For hassle-free travel, book Turkey Transfers with Zeyvona Travel.

🏨 Accommodation Options

• Luxury Hotels: Found in Çankaya and Kavaklıdere.
• Boutique Stays: Hamamönü district offers historical houses.
• Budget Options: Student-friendly hostels and affordable hotels near Kızılay.

💡 Travel Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather.
• Language: Turkish is spoken, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.
• Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY).
• Duration of Stay: At least 2–3 days are recommended to explore the city and nearby attractions.

🙌 Why Visit Ankara?

1. It’s the political heart of Turkey, giving you insights into the country’s governance.
2. A city where ancient and modern blend seamlessly.
3. Less touristy than Istanbul, offering a more authentic Turkish experience.
4. Perfect starting point for central Anatolia explorations like Cappadocia and Pamukkale.
5. Rich in museums, arts, and culture.

❓ SEO-Friendly FAQ

Is Ankara worth visiting?

Yes! As Turkey’s capital, Ankara offers a mix of history, politics, culture, and authentic local life.

What is Ankara famous for?

Anıtkabir, Ankara Castle, Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and its lively student districts.

How many days should I spend in Ankara?

At least 2–3 days are ideal to explore the city and take day trips.

What food should I try in Ankara?

Ankara tava, döner, simit, and the Aspava restaurant experience.

How to get from Ankara to Cappadocia?

By bus (~4.5 hours), train + transfer, or private tour. Check our Cappadocia Tours.

Can I take a day trip from Ankara to Pamukkale?

Yes, though it’s a long journey. Better to combine with Pamukkale Tours.

Does Ankara have nightlife?

Yes, especially in Tunali Hilmi and Sakarya Caddesi, filled with bars, pubs, and live music.

Is Ankara family-friendly?

Absolutely. Museums, parks, and the zoo make it suitable for families.

How to reach Ankara from Istanbul?

By high-speed train (~4.5 hours), bus (~6 hours), or domestic flight (~1 hour).

What is the best season to visit Ankara?

Spring and autumn are best; summers can be hot and winters snowy.

📌 Conclusion

Ankara may not always be the first city tourists think of when visiting Turkey, but it is a destination that combines history, politics, culture, and modern life in one place. From the grandeur of Anıtkabir to the charm of Hamamönü, Ankara offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

👉 Ready to explore Turkey beyond Istanbul? Check out our Turkey Tour Packages, join Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Rides, or relax in Pamukkale’s travertine terraces.