Things To Do
in Keçiören

Keçiören is a vibrant district located in the northern part of Ankara, Turkey, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It boasts numerous parks, historical sites, and is a gateway to the scenic beauty of the surrounding areas. The area has experienced rapid urban development while maintaining its traditional charm, making it a unique blend of modernity and history.

Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, friendly locals, and an array of outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Keçiören
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Atatürk Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by diverse plant species.

afternoon
:

Head to the Keçiören Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by a lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Conclude your day by visiting the Aydınevler Park, and enjoy a relaxing evening walk or a picnic with views of Ankara.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at the historic Keçiören Castle, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the local markets such as the Keçiören Bazaar to sample local delicacies and shop for handicrafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant followed by a traditional Turkish tea experience at a nearby tea house.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
Café latte$2
🚍Public transport ticket$0.50
🛒Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.50
🍕Slice of pizza$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to other Turkish cities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Language barrier may exist; English is not widely spoken.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Evet" - Yes
  • "Hayır" - No

Places to Visit in Keçiören

Visit one of these nice places.

Atatürk Botanical Garden

A lush garden with diverse flora, perfect for nature photography.

Keçiören Castle

An ancient castle offering stunning views of Ankara, ideal for sunset photography.

Aydınevler Park

A beautiful park with scenic walking paths and a picturesque lake, great for capturing nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Keçiören

Keçiören offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional Turkish dishes and street food options that reflect local flavors.

Keçiören Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kuzu Tandırlı Pide

A traditional lamb pide topped with herbs and spices, baked to perfection.

Must-Try!

Manti

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

Baklava

A rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Keçiören Bazaar

A bustling market offering fresh produce, spices, and street food such as simit and döner kebabs.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls throughout the district serving local snacks and fast food, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Keçiören experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summers can reach temperatures of 30°C (86°F) and above, while winters may drop below 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them the best seasons for outdoor activities. Rainfall is more common in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; for close friends, a kiss on the cheek is typical.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Hospitality

Accepting food or drink when offered is polite, even if you don’t plan to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

Keçiören is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas to avoid petty crime. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are typically helpful. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Keçiören

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash (Turkish Lira) is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures; best to stay hydrated and enjoy evening outings.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful leaves; great for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy; suitable for indoor activities and cozy cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Keçiören at Night

Keçiören's nightlife offers a mix of traditional tea houses, hookah lounges, and a few bars that cater to a younger crowd. While not as vibrant as other districts in Ankara, the local cafés come alive in the evenings, offering live music and cultural performances. It's a great place to relax and mingle with locals, enjoying traditional Turkish tea and pastries late into the night.

Hiking in Keçiören

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Eymir Lake Trail

A scenic trail around Eymir Lake, perfect for walking, running, and cycling.

Çamlıca Hill

A popular hiking spot with trails of varying difficulty, offering stunning views of Ankara.

Airports

How to reach Keçiören by plane.

Esenboğa Airport (ESB)

Located about 30 km from Keçiören, this is the main airport serving Ankara, with both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Keçiören is generally walkable, especially in its central areas where most attractions are located. Sidewalks are available, but some streets may lack proper pedestrian paths. Public parks and squares provide pleasant walking spaces, and the local government has invested in improving walkability in recent years.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young people are moving to Keçiören for job opportunities, contributing to the area's modern vibe.

Families

Keçiören is popular among families for its parks, schools, and community-oriented facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Turkey, with local teams playing in various leagues.

Basketball

Basketball has a strong following, with many local clubs and community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Keçiören can be congested, especially during rush hours. Public transport options include buses and metro lines connecting to other parts of Ankara. Taxis are also available and generally affordable, providing a convenient way to navigate the district.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Keçiören.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's recommended to ask about specific ingredients.

Halal Food

Most local eateries serve halal food due to the predominantly Muslim population.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Keçiören is good, with several public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are efficient, and pharmacies are widely scattered throughout the district. Health insurance is advisable for tourists, as it will cover most medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide