Things To Do
in Etimesgut

Etimesgut is a district located in the Ankara Province of Turkey, known for its residential communities and modern infrastructure. It has been rapidly developing in recent years and is an emerging area offering a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles. With a variety of parks, shopping centers, and cultural sites, it attracts both locals and tourists alike.

The district's proximity to Ankara makes it a convenient place to explore the capital while enjoying a quieter atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Etimesgut Cultural Center, where you can explore local art and exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Şehitler Park for a picnic lunch and a leisurely stroll among the beautifully landscaped gardens.

evening
:

Catch a local performance at the cultural center or enjoy dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Visit the Mavi Göl (Blue Lake) for a morning of relaxation and photography opportunities.

afternoon
:

Take a hike on the nearby hiking trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife in Etimesgut by visiting a local café or bar for drinks and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$20
Coffee$2-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel per night$30-$100
🍺Local beer$3-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Easy access to nature and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to major cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Etimesgut

Visit one of these nice places.

Mavi Göl (Blue Lake)

A picturesque lake surrounded by greenery, perfect for capturing stunning landscape photographs.

Etimesgut Cultural Center

An architecturally striking building that serves as a backdrop for cultural events and exhibitions.

Şehitler Park

A beautifully landscaped park that offers scenic pathways and floral displays, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Etimesgut

Etimesgut offers a rich culinary scene that reflects the diverse flavors of Turkish cuisine, making it a delightful destination for food lovers.

Etimesgut Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebap

A classic Turkish dish made with marinated meat, grilled to perfection, often served with rice or flatbread.

Must-Try!

Manti

Turkish dumplings filled with minced meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Etimesgut Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food including simit (sesame bread).

Climate Guide

Weather

Etimesgut has a continental climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is important in Turkish culture; greetings and gestures should reflect this.

Dress Modestly

While Etimesgut is modern, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Hospitality

Turkish people are known for their hospitality; if invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift.

Safety Guide

Safety

Etimesgut is generally considered a safe area for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secured. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's advisable to stay informed about local news and any travel advisories.

Tipping in Etimesgut

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases or local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm to hot temperatures with occasional rain; be prepared for sunny days and stay hydrated.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall; dress warmly and enjoy winter sports or cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Etimesgut at Night

Etimesgut's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of cafés, bars, and restaurants that offer entertainment options like live music and karaoke. Many locals gather in the evenings to socialize, enjoy traditional Turkish tea, or dine out. While the nightlife is not as intense as in larger cities, there are plenty of cozy spots to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Etimesgut

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kızılcahamam Nature Park

Located about 50 km from Etimesgut, this park offers a variety of hiking trails, stunning landscapes, and opportunities for bird watching.

Çamlıdere Nature Park

Approximately 60 km from Etimesgut, this park features scenic trails through forests and along rivers, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Etimesgut by plane.

Esenboğa Airport (ESB)

Located approximately 35 km from Etimesgut, Esenboğa Airport is the main international airport serving Ankara, providing connections to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Etimesgut is fairly walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and parks that encourage walking. Many attractions are within walking distance, especially in the town center. However, some areas may require transportation, especially to reach the outskirts or more natural settings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Etimesgut, young professionals are attracted to the area for its modern amenities and proximity to Ankara.

Families

Etimesgut is home to many families enjoying its residential neighborhoods, parks, and schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys significant popularity, with local leagues and events attracting many participants and spectators.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Etimesgut can be moderate, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and minivans that provide connections to other districts and the city center. It's advisable to plan your travel times accordingly to avoid congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Etimesgut.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Etimesgut offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check if they are prepared without meat broth.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; travelers with gluten intolerance should inquire about the ingredients in dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Etimesgut is accessible with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and tourists. The quality of care is generally good, and emergency services are reliable. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide