Things To Do
in Ankara
Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is a vibrant metropolis that blends modernity with rich history. It serves as the political heart of Turkey and boasts a youthful atmosphere, thanks to its numerous universities. The city is renowned for its historical landmarks, such as the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus and the impressive Ankara Castle.
Visitors can explore a variety of cultural experiences, from museums to traditional bazaars.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Explore its beautiful gardens and museum.
Head to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to discover artifacts from Turkey's rich history, including Hittite and Phrygian relics.
Stroll through the Kızılay district, enjoying dinner at a local restaurant and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Start your day at the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo, where you can see animals and enjoy fresh produce from the farm.
Visit the historic Ankara Castle for panoramic views and explore the quaint shops in the old town area.
Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local meyhane (tavern) in the Ulus district, followed by a night out in one of the vibrant bars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🍕Fast food meal | $6 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within the city) | $5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture with numerous attractions.
- Less touristy compared to other Turkish cities.
- Vibrant culinary scene with a variety of local dishes.
- Limited access to beaches and coastal activities.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Cold winters may not appeal to all visitors.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
- "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No
Places to Visit in Ankara
Visit one of these nice places.
The mausoleum of Atatürk is a stunning structure with beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing historical and architectural photos.
Offers breathtaking views of the city and is surrounded by charming streets filled with history.
One of the largest mosques in Turkey, featuring intricate designs and majestic structures ideal for photography.
Food in Ankara
Ankara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty made with rice and lamb, seasoned with spices and slow-cooked to perfection.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced meat, usually lamb or chicken, served in a wrap or on a plate with rice and vegetables.
A crunchy breadstick that is perfect for snacking, often enjoyed with tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular street for street food where you can find döner kebabs, simit (sesame bread), and fresh juices.
A bustling market area filled with local vendors offering a variety of fresh produce, spices, and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; however, in more traditional settings, a nod is also appropriate.
Modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites; shorts and revealing clothing are best avoided.
Turkish people value hospitality; if offered tea or food, it’s polite to accept.
Safety
Tipping in Ankara
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants, while rounding up the fare in taxis is also appreciated.
Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Hot and dry weather; perfect for evening outings, but be prepared for high temperatures during the day.
Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage; great for exploring parks and historical sites.
Cold and occasionally snowy; some attractions may have reduced hours, but it offers a unique charm with fewer tourists.
Ankara at Night
Hiking in Ankara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 25 kilometers from the city center, Mount Elmadağ offers hiking trails with stunning views of Ankara and the surrounding landscape.
A beautiful natural area with various trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for wildlife observation, ideal for a day trip from the city.
Airports
How to reach Ankara by plane.
Located about 28 kilometers northeast of the city center, Esenboğa Airport is the primary international airport serving Ankara, offering flights to both domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
With several universities located in Ankara, the student population contributes to the city's vibrant cultural scene.
As the capital of Turkey, Ankara is home to many government institutions, leading to a significant presence of civil servants.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ankara, with several local teams competing in national leagues.
Basketball enjoys a strong following, with teams like Türk Telekom and Ankara DSİ attracting local fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ankara has many vegetarian-friendly restaurants, and traditional dishes like dolma (stuffed grape leaves) are widely available.
Gluten-free options can be found in various restaurants; however, it’s advisable to inform the staff about dietary needs.