General Information
As the capital of Türkiye, Ankara is a city of deep historical significance and modern charm. While often overshadowed by İstanbul, Ankara is a vibrant metropolis filled with rich history, cultural landmarks, and a dynamic arts scene. The city is home to the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (Anıtkabir), ancient Roman ruins, and a thriving culinary scene. With its blend of Ottoman, Roman, and modern influences, Ankara offers a unique experience for travelers looking to explore Türkiye beyond İstanbul.
Location
Ankara is centrally located in Türkiye’s Anatolian region, making it a strategic hub for politics, business, and culture. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, dry plains, and stunning lakes, offering a unique landscape different from the coastal cities.
Nearby Destinations
- Cappadocia: 280 km (3-hour drive)
- Eskişehir: 230 km (2.5-hour drive)
- Konya: 260 km (3-hour drive)
- İstanbul: 450 km (5-hour drive or 4-hour high-speed train)
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Esenboğa Airport (ESB): The main international airport, located 27 km from the city center.
- By Train:
- High-speed trains (YHT) connect Ankara to İstanbul, Eskişehir, and Konya.
- By Bus:
- Ankara’s AŞTİ Bus Terminal serves intercity buses from all over Türkiye.
- By Car:
- Major highways such as E80 and E90 connect Ankara to other cities.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Pleasant weather, ideal for exploring historical sites.
- Autumn (September – November): Mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December – February): Cold with possible snowfall, great for a cozy city escape.
- Summer (July – August): Hot and dry, but good for museum visits and indoor attractions.
Key Festivals & Events
- Republic Day (October 29): Grand celebrations at Anıtkabir.
- International Film Festival (March – April): A major event for cinema lovers.
- Ankara Jazz Festival (May): Live performances by world-famous jazz musicians.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- JW Marriott Ankara – A five-star hotel with top-tier amenities.
- Sheraton Ankara Hotel & Convention Center – A high-end choice in the business district.
- Mid-range:
- Latanya Hotel Ankara – A modern and stylish hotel.
- Divan Ankara – A comfortable and well-located option.
- Budget:
- Hotel Abro Necatibey – A budget-friendly stay near major attractions.
- Deeps Hostel Ankara – A great choice for backpackers.
Top Attractions
- Anıtkabir: The grand mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Türkiye’s founding leader.
- Kocatepe Mosque: Ankara’s largest mosque, known for its Ottoman-style architecture.
- Ankara Castle: A historic fortress offering panoramic city views.
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: A must-visit for history lovers, showcasing Hittite and Phrygian artifacts.
- Roman Temple of Augustus: Ruins from the Roman era with ancient inscriptions.
- Hamamönü District: A beautifully restored Ottoman neighborhood with cafes and artisan shops.
- Gençlik Parkı: A green space featuring a lake, amusement park, and walking paths.
- Atatürk Forest Farm & Zoo: A great spot for families with gardens and a zoo.
- CerModern: A contemporary art gallery hosting exhibitions and cultural events.
- Dikmen Valley Park: A scenic park perfect for walks and relaxation.
Getting Around
- Metro & Trams: Ankara’s metro system is efficient and budget-friendly.
- Buses & Minibuses: EGO buses and dolmuş (shared taxis) operate throughout the city.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis and BiTaksi app are widely used.
- Car Rentals: Available for road trips to nearby regions.
- Walking: The city center is walkable, but some attractions require public transport.
Local Cuisine
Ankara’s food scene highlights traditional Turkish flavors with a local twist.
- Ankara Tava: A signature dish made with lamb and rice.
- Beypazarı Güveci: Slow-cooked meat and vegetables from the Beypazarı district.
- Aspava Kebab: A local variation of döner kebab with extra sauces.
- Simit: A crispy sesame-covered bread, perfect for breakfast.
- Künefe: A sweet dessert made with cheese and syrup.
- Turkish Tea & Coffee: Served in small traditional cups at every corner.
Best Restaurants & Food Spots:
- Trilye Restaurant: A top seafood restaurant.
- Boğaziçi Lokantası: Serves traditional Turkish cuisine.
- Zenger Paşa Konağı: Offers a mix of Ottoman and Turkish dishes.
- Aspava Restaurants: A must-try for kebabs and fast food.
Shopping
- Tunali Hilmi Street: Home to high-end fashion stores and cafes.
- Atakule Tower: A shopping mall with an observation deck.
- Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu: A great place to buy antique items and handmade crafts.
- AnkaMall: One of the largest malls in Türkiye with international brands.
- Ulus Market: Ideal for local souvenirs, spices, and textiles.
Nightlife
Ankara has a lively but relaxed nightlife scene, with bars, live music venues, and cozy cafes.
- IF Performance Hall: Hosts live rock and alternative music.
- Locus Solus: A popular bar with a great atmosphere.
- Nefes Bar: Famous for jazz and blues performances.
- The Soul Pub: A trendy pub with great cocktails.
- Hayyami Şarap Evi: A wine house with a vast selection of Turkish wines.
Day Trips from Ankara
- Cappadocia: Explore the magical landscape of hot air balloons and fairy chimneys.
- Beypazarı: A charming Ottoman-era town known for historic houses and silverwork.
- Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü): A surreal, mirror-like salt lake, perfect for photography.
- Eskişehir: A vibrant student city with a European feel and river gondolas.
- Gordion: The ancient city of King Midas, featuring archaeological ruins.