Things To Do
in Polatlı

Polatlı is a charming town located in the Ankara Province of Turkey, known for its rich history and agricultural landscape. It serves as a gateway to various historical sites, including ancient ruins and monuments. The town is well-connected to the capital city, Ankara, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Polatlı is particularly famous for its role in the Battle of Sakarya during the Turkish War of Independence.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Sakarya Battle Field Park to learn about the significant historical events that took place here. Explore the memorials and enjoy a leisurely walk through the park.

afternoon
:

Head to the Polatlı Museum to discover local artifacts and exhibitions that showcase the town's heritage. Don't miss the ancient Roman ruins of the nearby city of Phrygia.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine, followed by a stroll through the town center to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at the nearby Kızılcahamam, a popular natural area with beautiful landscapes and fresh air. Enjoy the peace of nature.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local café for lunch and try some Turkish tea and pastries. Spend the afternoon relaxing at a thermal spa, known for its healing waters.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with a traditional Turkish night, featuring folk music and dance, at a local venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Domestic Beer$3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel per night$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage to explore.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Warm hospitality from local residents.
  • Less vibrant nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Limited English-speaking services in some areas.
  • Public transport options may be limited.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet" - Yes

Places to Visit in Polatlı

Visit one of these nice places.

Sakarya Battle Field Park

A serene landscape dotted with monuments and memorials, perfect for capturing the essence of Turkish history.

Phrygia Ancient City

Ancient rock formations and ruins provide a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Kızılcahamam Nature Park

Breath-taking natural views combined with lush greenery, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Polatlı

Polatlı offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional and modern Turkish cuisine that reflects the region's agricultural bounty.

Polatlı Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ankara Tava

A famous local dish made with lamb, rice, and a blend of spices, slow-cooked to perfection.

Must-Try!

Manti

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Polatlı Market

A bustling local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and street food like gözleme (stuffed flatbreads).

Climate Guide

Weather

Polatlı experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for travel. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F) while winter can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rain is moderate, primarily in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, and it's polite to greet people with 'Merhaba' (Hello) when entering a shop or restaurant.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Comfortable clothing is acceptable in casual settings.

Dining Customs

It's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin and to thank them for the meal.

Safety Guide

Safety

Polatlı is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and use reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Polatlı

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip about 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, flowers bloom, and it's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot temperatures can be expected, making it ideal for swimming and visiting cooler areas like thermal spas.

Autumn

A beautiful time with cooler weather, and the changing colors of the leaves create a picturesque landscape.

Winter

Cold weather with potential snowfall; perfect for cozy indoor activities and enjoying local hot beverages.

Nightlife Guide

Polatlı at Night

Polatlı's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but there are several bars and cafés that offer a relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy traditional Turkish music, dance performances, and local drinks. Most venues close early, around midnight, making it a more laid-back experience.

Hiking in Polatlı

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kızılcahamam Hiking Trail

A scenic trail located in Kızılcahamam, offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna along the route.

Çamlıdere Nature Park

Another beautiful hiking area, this park features various trails suitable for different skill levels, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Polatlı by plane.

Esenboğa Airport (ESB)

Located approximately 60 km from Polatlı, this airport serves international and domestic flights and is the primary airport for Ankara.

Getting Around

Walkability

Polatlı is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available, making it easy to navigate on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Citizens

The majority of the population consists of Turkish citizens, with a mix of rural and urban backgrounds.

Cultural Minorities

There are small communities of cultural minorities, including Kurds and other ethnic groups contributing to the town's diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Polatlı, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling has a cultural significance in the region, often showcased during local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Polatlı is generally light, with most residents using personal vehicles or bicycles for transportation. Public transport options are available, including buses that connect to nearby towns and Ankara.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Polatlı.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary restrictions clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Polatlı are accessible, with a number of clinics and a public hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can typically be reached by dialing 112, and most medical staff can communicate in basic English.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide