Things To Do
in Akyurt

Akyurt is a district in Ankara Province located just northwest of Turkey’s capital, blending agricultural heritage with modern developments. The area offers green spaces, rural charm, and easy access to major roads linking travelers to Ankara’s city center. Life here moves at a slower pace than central Ankara, with markets and farms providing authentic central Anatolian flavor.

Visitors can enjoy fresh produce, scenic drives, and a sense of local hospitality while staying within reach of the capital’s offerings.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Akyurt's Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day by immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Akyurt's local markets, where vibrant stalls are filled with fresh produce, spices, and traditional Turkish goods. Engage with local vendors to learn about their products while enjoying the aromas and flavors of authentic Turkish cuisine. Don't forget to sample some local delicacies to kickstart your day!

afternoon
:

After a delightful morning, head to the nearby historical sites such as the Akyurt Mosque to delve deeper into the town’s cultural heritage. The afternoon sun provides the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs of the town's unique architecture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, savoring dishes made with ingredients sourced from the market.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a serene walk through one of Akyurt's beautiful parks, watching the twilight play on the surrounding landscape. Dine at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional Turkish dishes while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Wind down your day by indulging in a traditional Turkish tea, reflecting on the sights and sounds of Akyurt.

day 2
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Embrace the great outdoors with a morning hike in the nearby hills, surrounded by stunning panoramic views of the Turkish countryside. The early morning air is crisp, making it the perfect time to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature's bounty.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head to a local picnic area to relax and refuel before exploring more of the natural wonders around Akyurt. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush landscapes, maybe even trying your hand at bird-watching or photography. The serene environment allows for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a quiet spot to sit and watch the sunset, admiring the way the sky transforms with vibrant colors over the hills. Enjoy a campfire dinner prepared under the open sky, where you can gather with friends or family to share stories and laughter. End your adventurous day by stargazing, with the clear skies above offering a breathtaking celestial display.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee or tea$1-3
🚎Local transit ticket$0.5-1.5
🛏️Budget hotel room per night$25-45
🧺Groceries (basic staples)$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Ankara with easy day trips
  • Rural calm and green spaces
  • Lower costs and fewer crowds
  • Friendly local hospitality
  • Limited nightlife within Akyurt
  • Fewer healthcare facilities locally
  • Transport can be less convenient without a car
  • Hot summers can be challenging
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Neredesin?" - Where is it?
  • "Ne kadar?" - How much?
  • "Afiyet olsun" - Bon appétit / Enjoy your meal

Places to Visit in Akyurt

Visit one of these nice places.

Akyurt Hill Overlook

Elevated viewpoint on the town’s edge offering sweeping views over agricultural plains, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.

Rural Farmland Corridor

Tree-lined fields, grazing livestock, and rustic farmhouses along quiet roads provide classic central Anatolian scenes.

Lake Mogan and Eymir Lake Viewpoints

Tranquil lakes with reflections of the sky and surrounding trees; ideal for wide landscape shots and bird photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Akyurt

Akyurt’s cuisine mirrors central Anatolia with hearty meat dishes, grilled vegetables, and simple, comforting staples. Local markets, kebap houses, and tea rooms showcase fresh dairy, seasonal produce, and home-style treats that pair well with Turkish tea.

Akyurt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ankara Tava

A savory lamb and peppers dish cooked in a pan, emblematic of the Ankara region and a must-try when you’re in the area.

Must-Try!

Mantı

Little Turkish dumplings topped with yogurt and garlic sauce, often served with melted butter and chili oil.

Beypazarı Kurusu (dried bread)

A crisp, seasoned bread from the Beypazarı area that makes a great snack or accompaniment in markets and cafes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Akyurt Belediyesi Pazarı

Weekly market in the town center offering fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, olives, and local pastries; great for sampling seasonal flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences a continental climate: hot, dry summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and changing landscapes, while precipitation is relatively higher in spring and winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality and greetings

Warm greetings and offering tea are common. A handshake with eye contact is typical; address elders with courtesy and use polite language.

Dress and modesty

Dress modestly when visiting mosques and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women.

Tea culture

Sharing tea is a social norm; accept invitations to tea as a sign of hospitality and take a few sips to show appreciation.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good, with typical precautions for travel: keep valuables secure, especially in markets; be cautious when driving on rural roads at night; follow local guidance during extreme weather and abide by road rules. Tap water is commonly treated but many travelers prefer bottled water in rural areas.

Tipping in Akyurt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

If service is not included, leaving a 5-10% tip in restaurants and cafes is customary. Small tips to taxi drivers or hotel staff are appreciated but not required.

Payment Methods

Cash in Turkish Lira is widely accepted, with many places also accepting major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard). Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common in larger towns and Ankara-area venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry with bright sun; carry water, wear sunscreen and a hat. Early morning and late afternoon shoots yield the best light; expect long days and light traffic for outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold with occasional snowfall; dress in layers and protect against wind chill. Some rural roads may be slick; indoor markets and cafes offer cozy breaks between outdoor excursions.

Spring

Mild days with blooming flora; great for outdoor walks and photography of fields in green. Be prepared for intermittent showers and cooler mornings.

Autumn

Crisp air and colorful foliage; comfortable temperatures for hiking and street photography. Harvest season alters the landscapes with golden fields and seasonal produce.

Nightlife Guide

Akyurt at Night

Akyurt itself has limited nightlife; most evening options are quiet tea houses or family-run eateries. For a broader scene, head to central Ankara for bars, live music venues, and clubs, usually within a short drive or ride share from Akyurt.

Hiking in Akyurt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Beşparmak Mountains – Beypazarı vicinity

Forest trails and ridge lines offering panoramic views; suitable for day hikes from Akyurt.

Çubuk Creek Trail

Tree-lined path along Çubuk Creek with easy to moderate hiking options.

Lake Mogan and Eymir Lake loops

Scenic lakeside trails ideal for easy walks, birdwatching, and sunset photography.

Airports

How to reach Akyurt by plane.

Ankara Esenboğa International Airport (ESB)

The main international airport serving Ankara; typically a 25–45 minute drive from Akyurt depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is best in the town center where sidewalks are present; beyond the core, many sights require a vehicle. It’s pleasant on foot in markets and along short scenic routes, but longer nature trips are best done by car or bike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents of Akyurt

Mostly Turkish families and farming communities, with a growing number of commuters to Ankara for work.

Students and university affiliates

Nearby universities contribute a small student and staff presence to the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Universally popular across Turkey; local parks host informal games and organized teams in the area.

Basketball

Common in schools and community clubs; occasional local tournaments in the region.

Traditional wrestling

Occasional events tied to regional fairs and cultural celebrations.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads around Ankara are well maintained; peak-hour traffic can be heavy in and around the city center. In Akyurt, most travelers rely on private cars; public transport exists but can be less frequent in rural areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Akyurt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for lentil and chickpea dishes, grilled vegetables, pide with cheese and greens, and lentil soup; most places can adapt a dish upon request.

Halal-friendly

Most meat is prepared according to halal practices; ask staff if you need confirmation or substitution with vegetarian options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Akyurt is connected to Ankara’s broader network. There are local clinics and private facilities in the district, with major hospitals located in Ankara city. For specialized care, plan visits to larger hospitals in the capital.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide