Things To Do
in Etimesgut
Etimesgut is a western district of Ankara known for its blend of modern residential areas, shopping centers, and green spaces. It functions as a bridge between the city center and the quieter suburban neighborhoods, offering convenient access to major roads and public transport. The area has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with local markets, parks, and cafes that invite slow-paced exploration.
Although primarily residential, it serves as a practical base for exploring both the Ankara region and nearby natural spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Atatürk Culture Center, where you can appreciate the local art and cultural exhibits. Stroll through the historic streets of Etimesgut, observing the blend of modernity and tradition in the architecture. Stop by a local café for a traditional Turkish breakfast, enjoying fresh bread, olives, and tea.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the Etimesgut Railway Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich railway history. Take a leisurely walk in the nearby parks, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of local life and perhaps encountering a community event. Don’t miss the chance to visit local artisan shops to pick up unique handmade souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local kebab house, savoring the flavors of Turkish cuisine. After your meal, take a stroll through the lively streets, where you can enjoy live music and street performances. Wrap up your evening with a cup of Turkish coffee at a rooftop café, soaking in the panoramic views of the city.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the Etimesgut Forest, where you can immerse yourself in the lush greenery and fresh air. Enjoy the sounds of nature as you walk along the well-marked trails, spotting local wildlife and enjoying the tranquility. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints in the forest.
After your hike, unwind with a picnic lunch in a designated area of the forest, surrounded by towering trees and chirping birds. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trails and perhaps even trying your hand at birdwatching or photography. Don’t forget to capture the stunning landscape and share the beauty of nature with friends back home.
As evening approaches, make your way back to the city and treat yourself to a hearty meal at a local restaurant specializing in home-cooked Turkish dishes. After dinner, consider visiting a nearby park for a leisurely walk, enjoying the cool evening breeze. End your day with a visit to a local tea garden, where you can sip on herbal tea amidst the serene surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $50-120 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to central Ankara and major highways
- Abundant green spaces and family-friendly neighborhoods
- Affordable dining options and traditional Turkish cuisine
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace compared to the city center
- Limited nightlife within Etimesgut itself; more options in central Ankara
- Public transport can be crowded during peak hours
- Some areas may require a short ride to reach major attractions
- Homestay or hotel options can vary in quality; research ahead
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Günaydın" - Good morning
- "İyiyim, teşekkürler" - I am well, thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Affedersiniz" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hesap lütfen" - Check, please
- "Bu ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is it?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Türk lirası ile ödeyebilir miyim?" - Can I pay with Turkish lira?
- "Çok güzel" - Very nice
Places to Visit in Etimesgut
Visit one of these nice places.
A large park with ponds, bridges, seasonal blossoms, and open sightlines ideal for sunset photography and candid street scenes.
Elevated streets and small parks on gentle hills provide cityscape views, especially at dusk when the lights come on.
A short trip from Etimesgut, with lake reflections, promenades, and busy paths that offer dynamic urban photography opportunities.
Food in Etimesgut
Etimesgut Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Turkish dumplings served with yogurt and garlic sauce, often topped with melted butter and paprika; a staple in Ankara-area eateries.
Must-Try!
Poached eggs on garlicky yogurt with melted butter and chili—simple, comforting and widely available in local cafes.
Thinly sliced grilled lamb on a bed of pide, topped with tomato sauce and yogurt; available in many kebapçı (kebab houses) around Ankara.
A light, milk-based dessert typically enjoyed in warmer months, often featuring rose or pomegranate as a garnish.
Simit with cheese, olives, and tomatoes or a small meze spread—perfect for a quick bite at a café corner.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively neighborhood market where you can taste fresh produce, olives, cheeses, simit, and home-style snacks on market mornings.
Small stalls offering quick bites like grilled köfte, börek, and gözleme alongside fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in religious or traditional settings; greetings are courteous with a handshake or a slight nod. Remove shoes when entering certain homes and mosques, and speak politely in public spaces.
Dress modestly, avoid loud talking, and follow local rules about photography in places of worship.
Hospitality is valued; accepting tea or coffee when offered is common and considered polite.
Safety
Tipping in Etimesgut
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is common if service is not included. For cafes, small tips (1-2 Turkish lira or a round-up) are appreciated. Taxis often receive rounding up to the nearest lira.
Cash (Turkish Lira) and cards are widely accepted in Ankara. Contactless payments are common in shops and restaurants; ATMs are plentiful for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees, and comfortable walking weather. Great for park strolls and outdoor markets.
Hot and dry with peak heat in the afternoons. Seek shade, wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated; outdoor activities are best in the mornings or evenings.
Pleasant temperatures and turning foliage. A great season for photography and long walks in parks.
Cold with occasional snowfall. Layered clothing is essential; most indoor venues are warm and cozy, while outdoor days are shorter.
Etimesgut at Night
Hiking in Etimesgut
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with pine and mixed woodlands; day hikes offer shade, wildlife, and viewpoints within a reasonable drive from Etimesgut.
Gentle ridge trails and woodland edges suitable for easy hikes and photography, often accessible within 20–40 km of the district.
Airports
How to reach Etimesgut by plane.
Ankara’s main airport located about 28-30 km northeast of Etimesgut; accessible by taxi, shuttle services, and intercity buses. Offers domestic and international flights with a range of facilities for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Etimesgut’s residential neighborhoods, contributing to a lively weekend market and park atmosphere.
Proximity to Ankara’s universities and business districts attracts students and early-career professionals.
A significant portion of the population values calm streets, parks, and local cafés.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Ankara, with local leagues and casual games in parks and school grounds.
Common in community centers and schools; pickup games and local clubs can be found around the city.
Public courts and running tracks are available in parks and athletic facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Etimesgut.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in kebap houses and local cafés; look for mezeler, lentil soup (mercimek çorbası), stuffed vine leaves (sarma) without meat, and vegetable dishes. When ordering, ask for no meat broth and confirm dairy ingredients if avoiding dairy.