Ankara Travel Guide

Ankara, the capital and second most populous city of Turkey, has a population of over 5 million and has hosted many civilizations throughout its history. With a history of over 5000 years, the city bears the traces of many civilizations from the Hittites to the Ottoman Empire, and also played a critical role in the establishment of the Republic of Turkey. Traces of this history can be seen in museums such as the War of Independence Museum (19st TBMM Building), the Republic Museum and the Atatürk House. Ankara stands out as a city of civil servants and students, as well as a touristic attraction, with its Anıtkabir, where Atatürk spent his last years, the TBMM, XNUMX universities and modern buildings.

Ankara became the capital city with the opening of the Turkish Grand National Assembly in 1920 and has become easily accessible from all cities with its advanced transportation infrastructure. With its modern industry and the fertile agricultural areas, national parks, hot springs and natural beauties around it, it offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors in every season.

When to Go to Ankara?

Ankara has the harsh continental climate of the Central Anatolian Region. While winters are quite cold and snowy in the city, temperatures can reach 35-40 degrees in the summer months. The coldest months of winter are December, January and February, and there is heavy rainfall in the fall. The best times to visit the city are the cool spring and hot summer months. However, it is also possible to see wonderful snowy landscapes in the city in winter.

How to get to Ankara?

Ankara is strategically located in the middle of Turkey, so transportation from every city in the country is quite easy. Direct or connecting flights can be made to Esenboğa Airport, which is 28 kilometers from the city center. Also İstanbulYou can reach Ankara in just 4 hours with high-speed trains departing from Pendik Train Station. EskişehirIt is also possible to reach the city by high-speed train in 1,5 hours. The main bus terminal in the city, Ankara Otogarı (AŞTİ), offers bus transportation from many cities around the country. There are many options for intra-city transportation such as Ankaray, municipal buses, minibuses and taxis.

What to Eat? What to Drink?

Ankara has a rich gastronomic culture that bears traces of the culinary cultures of different civilizations. The most famous of the local dishes is Ankara Tava, prepared with lamb shank and orzo, and served in many restaurants in the city. In addition, other local flavors such as Beypazarı güveci, çubuk pickles, inceğiz soup, dry meatballs, shepherd's kavurma and bazlama kebab are also must-try flavors. Among the city's most famous restaurants, Boğaziçi Restaurant in Altındağ, Meşhur Fikret Ankara Tava Pide Salonu in Çankaya and Trilye Restaurant on Kuleli Street stand out.

What to do?

Ankara offers many different places to explore with its historical and cultural riches as well as its natural beauties and modern living opportunities. Activities to be done in the capital city promise visitors an experience that is both cultural and intertwined with nature. Here are some activities you can do in Ankara:

Visit to Anıtkabir

One of the symbols of Ankara, Anıtkabir is a magnificent structure built in memory of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey. This mausoleum in Yücetepe is a place visited by millions of people every year. The museums inside Anıtkabir and the areas where Atatürk's personal belongings are exhibited allow you to take a historical journey. In addition, the graves of former Presidents such as Cemal Gürsel and İsmet İnönü are also located here.

Museum Tour

Ankara is one of the most important centers of Turkey's cultural and artistic heritage. Anatolian Civilizations Museum, is a museum that has gained both local and world-wide fame. Old stones, sculptures and historical artifacts are exhibited here. In addition, Ulucanlar Prison Museum and Atatürk and War of Independence Museum are also of great historical and social importance. It is possible to explore the city more closely by visiting museums such as Painting and Sculpture Museum, Rahmi M. Koç Museum and PTT Stamp Museum, each of which is unique and valuable in its own field.

Nature Walks and Picnics

Ankara offers great opportunities for nature lovers, both with its surrounding nature parks and green areas within the city. Lake Eymir and Lake Mogan are ideal places for walking, picnicking and being in touch with nature. The trails surrounding these lakes are perfect for those looking for a short escape from the city. In addition, natural wonders such as Kızılcahamam Soğuksu National Park and Dikmen Valley Park are perfect spots to relax and get some fresh air.

Hamamonu Trip

Hamamönü is a great area for those who want to explore the historical and cultural texture of Ankara. Located in the Altındağ district, this neighborhood attracts attention with its cobblestone streets, traditional Ankara houses and many boutique cafes. You can walk here, take historical photos and visit various handicraft shops. You can also try traditional Turkish cuisine at the Hamamönü restaurants and cafes located here.

Kizilcahamam Thermal Springs

Kızılcahamam, approximately 64 kilometers from Ankara city center, is famous for its hot springs. Rome and this region, where thermal springs have been used since the Seljuk period, is a perfect place for those looking for a relaxing holiday. You can relieve the tiredness of the year with thermal hotels, spa services and massage therapies. In addition, the forests and ponds around Kızılcahamam are also quite suitable for nature walks.

Youth Activity in the Park

Youth Park, which is very close to the city center of Ankara, is a place that offers wide green areas and various activities. You can walk in the park, ride a bike around the pond or attend open-air concerts. There are also facilities such as playgrounds for children and basketball courts for young people in Youth Park. Attending concerts and events here is also a great way to discover the city dynamically.

Shopping and Gifts

There are many different places to shop in Ankara. In areas like Tunalı Hilmi Street and Çıkrıkçılar Hill, you can find handmade art products, antiques, silver jewelry and local souvenirs. In large shopping centers like Panora Shopping Center, Ankamall and Kentpark Shopping Center, luxury brands and modern stores await you. In old marketplaces like Saman Bazaar, you can buy handmade products and organic foods.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Ankara has a rich nightlife with its young population and cultural diversity. There are quality cafes and bars on important streets such as Tunus Street and Tunalı Hilmi Street. Places such as Jolly Joker Ankara, Hayal Kahvesi and Voodoo Blues Bar are among the most popular entertainment venues in the city. For music lovers, events in various genres such as rock, blues and jazz are also organized. Places such as IF Performance Hall add color to the nightlife with concerts and shows.

Events and Events

Many cultural events and festivals are held in Ankara throughout the year. Major events such as the Ankara International Music Festival, Ankara Book Fair, Flying Broom Women's Film Festival and Ankara International Film Festival make the city even more special. These festivals offer an unforgettable experience for visitors to the city. In addition, innovative events such as the Ankara Coffee Festival provide excellent opportunities for those who love cafe culture.

City Tours and Guided Excursions

Guided tours are very popular for those who want to make short trips in Ankara. These tours allow you to explore the historical structures and important points in the city in more depth. Important structures such as Ankara Castle, Atakule and Kocatepe Mosque can be visited better with guided tours. It is also possible to discover the beauties outside the city with daily tours offered by local tour companies.

Activities to be done in Ankara offer visitors an experience that is both cultural and intertwined with nature. There are many places to explore in the capital for those who want to explore history, art, nature and modern life together.

Ankara Night Life

Ankara is a city with a vibrant nightlife with a young population, offering visitors a wide variety of entertainment options. Both cultural events and dynamic nightclubs, bars and restaurants enrich the capital's nightlife. Here are the most popular venues and events to explore Ankara's nightlife:

Tunus Street and Tunali Hilmi Street

Tunus Street, one of the liveliest and most popular streets in Ankara, is one of the centers of nightlife. There are various bars, cafes, restaurants and music venues along this street. Among the famous buildings and shops of Tunalı Hilmi Street, you will often come across venues preferred by young people and nightlife enthusiasts. The bars on Tunus Street are very popular, especially in the summer months, with their open-air areas.

There is a wider and more diverse range of venues on Tunalı Hilmi Street. Whether it is a cafe or bar where you can have a quiet evening tea or a place where you can dance the night away, you can find them here. Places such as Cafe & Bar Zeytin and The Blackhorse Pub are some of the most well-known bars in the city.

Sakarya Street and Çıkrıkçılar Hill

sakarya Street is another important place where nightlife is lively due to its location close to Tunalı Hilmi Street and its dense student population. There are venues where you can listen to traditional Turkish music as well as modern music bars on this street. In addition, cafes, bars and pubs located in old Ankara houses along Çıkrıkçılar Hill add a nostalgic atmosphere to the night.

Among the popular venues on Sakarya Street, Kocatepe Beer House, Bakkal Bar and Museum Bar stand out. These venues offer a relaxed atmosphere and allow you to experience the city's nightlife up close.

Kocatepe and Kavaklidere

The Kocatepe and Kavaklıdere districts, where the center and luxury venues of Ankara are located, are full of venues that reflect the city's elite nightlife. This place is generally famous for its stylish restaurants, luxury bars and VIP nightclubs. If you want to listen to live music, some venues in Kocatepe will offer you a pleasant evening. At the same time, DJ performances, special events in bars and nightclub atmospheres are also very popular in this area.

The venues in Kocatepe are where the city's best cocktails are served and famous DJs perform. In addition, the stylish bars in the Kavaklıdere area add a more sophisticated air to the night. Venues such as Fenix ​​Lounge and Bardak offer great options for those looking for a luxurious evening.

Bars and Pubs

Bars and pubs in Ankara appeal to all tastes with their different atmospheres. There are many options for those who want live music, DJ performances and a relaxed atmosphere.

• The Blackhorse Pub: Keeping the English pub culture alive, this place is one of the most well-known pubs in Ankara with its quality beers, wide drink menu and relaxed atmosphere.
• Jazz and Blues BarsAnkara also has great bars for jazz and blues music lovers. Places like Jazz Stop and Bir Bar offer a unique experience to music lovers.
• Tutti-fruttiTutti Frutti, one of the popular venues, is one of the indispensable addresses of nightlife with its energetic atmosphere and dynamic music programs.
• BeerPoint: Another place preferred by those who love quality in beer is BeerPoint. Here you can have a pleasant evening with a variety of local and foreign beer options.

Nightclubs and Dancing

The most exciting part of Ankara's nightlife is its nightclubs and dance venues. The city offers many venues for those who want to dance in an energetic atmosphere. These clubs usually offer a wide range of events from electronic music to pop music.

• IF Performance Hall: IF Performance Hall, one of the most famous nightclubs in Ankara, provides an unforgettable experience for visitors to the city with the big concerts and DJ performances it organizes every week.
• Museum Bar: For those who want to see the dynamic side of nightlife Museum Barhas become the center of modern music and entertainment.
• Sand: One of the biggest nightclubs in the city Sand, attracts attention with its intense dance music, great DJ performances and lively atmosphere.
• Bikini Club: For those looking for a modern and energetic nightclub Bikini Clubpromises a fun night with famous DJ performances and fascinating light shows.

Cafes and Dining Venues

If you want to make an energetic start to the nightlife, the cafes where you will discover the city can also be a very enjoyable option. In areas such as Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu and Tunus Caddesi, there are stylish cafes and venues with a relaxed atmosphere, especially preferred by young people. In the historical Castle area, there are also great cafes to spend the night with a magnificent view.

Apart from these, gourmet restaurants are also very popular for those who want to start with dinner at one of the city's famous venues and then move on to the nightlife. Places such as the Museum Restaurant and Ceres Restaurant attract attention with their rich menus and special cocktails.

Rooftop Bars and City Views

Ankara's rooftop bars are also a great alternative for those who want to watch the city from above. Places like Divan Çukurhan and TheRoof in Kocatepe make the night more special with their extensive drink menu and magnificent city views. Especially in the summer months, you can have a drink with live music at rooftop venues and have a pleasant evening under the city lights.

Ankara is a city rich in nightlife and is full of venues that appeal to all tastes. Both lively clubs and quiet bars will make your evenings in the city unforgettable.

What to Buy from Ankara?

Ankara offers a variety of shopping experiences for shopaholics, with both modern shopping malls and traditional markets. The city has both luxury brands and local designer boutiques. In addition, the markets and souvenir shops in the city are places where you can buy unique and authentic products. Here are some popular shopping areas and products you can buy while shopping in Ankara:

Shopping Malls and Luxury Stores

Ankara is famous for its modern shopping malls, which offer a wide range of shopping options including local as well as world-class brands.

• Located in Kocatepe and Kavaklıdere regions, CEPA AVM is a large shopping mall with luxury brands, restaurants, cinemas and entertainment centers. You can find world-famous brands such as Zara, Mango, H&M, Apple Store here.
• Ankara Optimum, the largest shopping mall in Ankara, is very popular with stores and brands in different categories. Whether you are looking for fashion, technology or home decoration products, you can find a wide range here.
• The shops on Tunali Hilmi Street are a very good alternative for those who want to shop in the city center. This street is lined with stores, brands and souvenir shops.

Large Shopping Streets and Boutiques

The shopping streets located in the center of Ankara are full of boutiques and stores where you can shop while exploring the city. Tunus Street, one of the most popular shopping streets in the city, is famous for its stores with local and international brands.

• Tunis Street: Stores full of modern designs and local brands are among the places preferred especially by young people. On this street, you can find many different styles of clothing from elegant dresses to street fashion.
• Boutiques in the Kocatepe area offer more unique designs and special collections. You can shop in boutiques where you can find special clothes and handmade jewelry from local designers.

Historical Bazaars and Markets

In Ankara, you can experience traditional shopping as well as modern shopping. The historical bazaars and local markets in the city stand out with handmade products, traditional souvenirs and local flavors.

• Cebeci Market: Cebeci Market, one of the oldest markets in the city, is famous for local products, traditional textiles and souvenirs. Especially handmade jewelry, leather products and local clothes are among the shopping options you can find here.
• Kocatepe Mosque Surroundings: The Wednesday Market is an ideal place for those who want to buy traditional Turkish handicrafts and souvenirs. Here you can find products such as carpets, jewelry, handmade items and Turkish delights.
• Ulus Bazaar: Located in the historical center of the capital, Ulus Bazaar is full of various clothing stores, souvenir shops and antique shops. Here, you can buy especially handmade leather products, antique jewelry and local food products.

Souvenirs

Ankara has a wide range of options for visitors who want to buy traditional and original souvenirs. Here, you can find souvenirs that symbolize not only the city but also Turkey.

• Mevlana Street and Ulus Bazaar: It is one of the most popular areas of Ankara where traditional souvenirs are sold. Here you can find souvenirs such as handmade carpets, copperware, ceramic products, salt lamps and traditional Turkish jewelry.
• Chirping Slope: This area, famous for its antique shops, is a great shopping spot for those looking for handmade jewelry, old books and nostalgic objects. It also sells souvenirs such as Turkish hand-woven carpets, traditional carvings and leaf gold embroidery.

Local Products and Food

Inspired by the rich culinary culture of Ankara, shop local food products You can crown it with. Shops selling fresh food products and traditional flavors are quite common in the city.

• In areas like Ulus District and Sakarya Street, there are spice shops and local food shops where you can find traditional flavors. Here you can buy products such as Ankara doner, Anatolian local flavors and Turkish delights.
• At Fırıncı Araba, one of Ankara's famous patisseries, you can also find traditional Ankara bagels and other local flavors on your shopping list.
• Additionally, natural products such as fresh and organic olive oils, honey varieties and local cheeses are also sold on Ankara Hill.

Arts and Crafts

Ankara is a city rich in handicrafts and art galleries. If you are interested in art, you can shop in the galleries and artist workshops in the city.

• Art galleries near TCDD Railway Station: In these galleries, you can find works of local artists and handmade art objects. Wooden sculptures, oil paintings and ceramics are very popular products.
• Chirping SlopeArt galleries and antique shops in this area are places where you can buy works of art such as handmade ceramics, traditional Turkish calligraphy and hand-woven carpets.
• CerModernCerModern, a modern art gallery, is a shopping venue where you can see examples of contemporary Turkish art. Here, you can buy paintings and sculptures by artists.

Fashion and Clothing

Ankara is full of spots where fashion and style meet. Especially Tunalı Hilmi Street and Sakarya Street offer great alternatives for those who want to shop.

• From local designer boutiques You can get modern designs and original pieces. Alacati Boutique ve Seymen Boutique Chic boutiques like these offer city-specific pieces and high-quality products.
• The second reason to use the Umitkoy You can also find the latest collections of national and international brands in large shopping malls located in areas such as.

Festivals and Fairs

Many events and festivals are held in Ankara throughout the year. Among these are the Ankara International Music Festival, Ankara Book Fair and Flying Broom International Women's Film Festival. In addition, cultural and music events such as the Rock Station Festival, the Great Ankara Festival and the Ankara Coffee Festival are also very popular in the city.

Things to Consider and Important Information

Ankara is a city that stands out with its cultural and historical riches, and it is useful to pay attention to some important points in order to make your time here enjoyable and productive. In this section, we have compiled some practical information and points to consider when visiting the city.

Weather and Climate

Ankara's climate has the characteristics of a continental climate. While the winter months can be quite cold and snowy, the summer months are hot and dry. Therefore, it is important to make your clothing choices according to the period you plan to visit the city.

• Winter Months (December-February): The weather can be very cold and snowy. Therefore, it is useful to bring thick winter coats, gloves, hats and other warm clothes.
• Spring and Autumn (March-May, September-November): These seasons are ideal for trips, with mild weather conditions in Ankara. We recommend light clothing and a windproof jacket.
• Summer Months (June-August)Summer months are quite hot in Ankara, so it is very important to wear light, non-sweating clothes and drink plenty of water during this period.

Transportation and Traffic

Ankara's transportation network is quite developed, but there are rush hours. You can travel comfortably using the city's public transportation options, taxis and car rental services.

• Public transportAnkara has a well-developed metro, bus and minibus network. Ankara Metro'Su is very fast and economical for urban transportation. Ankaray It is also part of the metro line and facilitates transportation between the city center and Esenboğa Airport. Also, Ankara Card You can easily pay for public transport by purchasing.
• Taxis and Private Vehicles: Transportation by taxi is also quite common, but taxi fares can be high at certain times due to heavy traffic. Taxis in the city are generally safe and inspected. If you are considering renting a car, you can easily get the type of car you want by making a reservation in advance.
• Traffic Density: Traffic is quite heavy in the morning and evening hours, especially on the main streets in the city center. It may be quicker to travel by public transport or on foot during these hours.

Security and Emergencies

Although Ankara is a generally safe city, it is important to take any negative situations into consideration.

• Police Report Number: In case of any emergency, call the police 155You can press . Also, if you encounter health problems, 112 You can call an ambulance by calling the number.
• Security precautions: It is recommended that you pay attention to your valuables such as bags and wallets, especially in crowded places. Sakarya Street In busy areas like these, it is important to look around carefully.
• Tourist Areas: In touristic areas, especially during crowded times, there are petty scams targeting tourists. Keep your belongings safe and make sure your personal information is secure.

Native Culture and Customs

Since Ankara is the capital of Turkey, life in the city is generally cosmopolitan and modern. However, you can also feel the traditional Turkish culture at every step. Paying attention to some cultural rules specific to the city can help you both establish better relationships with the locals and feel more comfortable.

• Greetings and Manners: Turks, especially with the elderly, care about greeting respectfully. Eye contact and polite greetings are common. Shaking hands is also a common form of greeting. If you are meeting a woman, it would be best to wait for her to offer to greet you first.
• Food Culture: Turkish cuisine is quite rich and the culture of hospitality is very important. When eating at a home or restaurant, it is important to appreciate the table and the food. As a drink tea ve Turkish coffee It is very popular and is frequently drunk in social life. Turkish delight ve Baklava Desserts such as are also among the most popular treats.
• Respect for the Environment: People generally care about clean and tidy living. It is important not to harm the environment in parks, streets and public areas and to throw waste in the right places.

Currency and Payment Methods

Ankara, like other major cities in Turkey, has both the local currency Turkish Lira (TRY) It is a city where you can shop with both e-mail and credit cards.

• Currency Exchange: You can exchange foreign currencies at currency exchange offices located in the city center or at the airport. The exchange rate can often vary between exchange offices, so it's a good idea to compare a few places before making a purchase.
• Credit Cards: In large shopping malls and restaurants Visas, MasterCard, American Express Credit cards such as , are widely accepted. However, you may need to pay cash in smaller shops and marketplaces.
• Need for Cash: You can pay by credit card in many places, but especially in markets, small shops and traditional shops jewelry Payment is generally preferred.

Language and Communication

Official language in Ankara Turkish, and most people speak Turkish. However, there are also many people who speak English, especially in city centers and tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Turkish words can help you communicate more easily with the locals.

• Turkish Basic Words:
  • Hello there: Hello
  • Thank you: Thank you
  • Evet / Hayır: Yes / No
  • Please: Please
  • Afedersiniz: Excuse me
  • Where?:Where?
  • How much?: How much?

Time Zone and Working Hours

Ankara is located in the central time zone of Turkey and GMT + 3 It is located in the time zone. Business hours are generally from 09:00 AM to 18:00 PM, although some shops and shopping malls are open later.

• Weekend: Saturday ve Sunday Although many shops and shopping malls are open on these days, some government offices and small tradesmen's shops Sunday may be closed.
• Restaurants and Cafes: Generally 08:00-23:00 In large shopping malls, you can find restaurants and cafes that stay open until late at night.

Health and Medicine

Health services in Ankara are well developed and equipped with modern hospitals. In case of an emergency 112 You can get help by calling the number.

• PharmaciesPharmacies are usually open from 09:00 to 19:00. However, some larger pharmacies may have night shifts.
• Vaccines and Healthcare: It is recommended that visitors from abroad keep certain health vaccinations up to date. If you are taking medication, it would be best to arrange your medication treatment with advice from your doctor beforehand.

It would be useful to consider the above information to make your time in Ankara more comfortable and enjoyable. You can both explore the historical and cultural riches of the city and benefit from the opportunities offered by modern life.

Ankara, the capital of Turkey and a city that has hosted many civilizations throughout history, offers travelers a rich cultural experience. Drawing attention with both its modern structures and historical texture, this city has many places to explore, from Anıtkabir to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, from Lake Eymir to Hamamönü. With the Ankara Travel Guide, you can experience history, culture and nature while exploring the city step by step. Offering a different beauty in every season, Ankara promises an unforgettable travel experience to all visitors with its rich cuisine, vibrant nightlife and extensive transportation network.

Ankara offers many places to discover with its historical and cultural richness. If you want to start exploring the city, Ankara Travel Guide In our article, you can find all the information you need while visiting the city. However, if you are looking for more information about a specific route and places to visit, Places to Visit in Ankara By visiting our page, you can view our recommendations for the most popular spots to explore the city.