Places to Visit in Ankara

Ankara, In addition to being the capital of Turkey, it is also a city that attracts attention with its rich history, cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city offers visitors a variety of experiences with its deep roots from the past to the present, modern structures and green areas. In this article, we will examine in detail many destinations such as historical places, parks, museums and churches to visit in Ankara.

Historical places

Ankara is an ancient city that has hosted many civilizations dating back thousands of years. This historical richness is evident in the numerous historical structures and ruins in the city. Here are the main historical places that must be visited in Ankara:

Mausoleum

Anıtkabir is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, and is one of the most important symbols of Ankara. Anıtkabir provides visitors with a deep sense of history with both its architecture and the museums it houses. Anıtkabir is built on a huge area of ​​750.000 square meters and is surrounded by the Peace Park. Inside is the Atatürk and War of Independence Museum, where Atatürk's personal belongings and documents from the War of Independence are exhibited.

Ankara Castle

Ankara Castle welcomes visitors as a structure that has witnessed the history of Ankara, at the highest point of the city. The walls in the castle, RomeIt bears traces of the Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods. The old Ankara houses located in the narrow streets within the castle reflect traditional Turkish architecture and also host various art workshops and handicraft shops. It is possible to watch the panoramic view of the city from the castle.

Hamamonu

Hamamönü offers a historical atmosphere with its restored mansions, mosques, tombs and narrow streets from the Ottoman period. Most of the buildings in the area date back to the end of the 19th century. Hamamönü is particularly notable for its historical mansions; these mansions currently serve as restaurants, cafes and art workshops. One of the most important structures in the area is Karacabey Bath It was built in the 15th century and is still in use.

Roman bath

The Roman Bath in Ulus was built in the 3rd century during the reign of Roman Emperor Caracalla. The ruins of this bath provide important clues about daily life in the Roman period. The cold, warm and hot sections of the bath can still be seen. The ruins of the Roman Bath are presented to visitors as an open-air museum and are an interesting destination, especially for archaeology enthusiasts.

Temple of Augustus and Hacı Bayram Mosque

The Temple of Augustus was built between 25-20 BC in honor of the Roman Emperor Augustus. The temple is a structure that reflects the grandeur of the Roman period and houses the “Res Gestae Divi Augusti” inscriptions that describe Augustus’ achievements. The Hacı Bayram Mosque, located right next to it, was built in the 15th century and is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture. These two structures form a rare complex where different civilizations coexist.

Julian Column (Belkis Minaret)

The Julian Column was erected in 362 in honor of the visit of Roman Emperor Julian to Ankara. Located in Ulus, this column is one of the most important monuments from the Roman period. This 15-meter-high column has a simple design and draws attention with its Ionic capital. The Julian Column is considered the symbol of the Roman Empire's presence in Ankara.

Alaeddin Mosque

A structure from the Seljuk period, the Alaeddin Mosque was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest mosques in Ankara. The mosque is an important example of Seljuk art with its wooden pulpit and architectural details. Still open for worship today, the Alaeddin Mosque is also an important destination for religious tourism.

Zenger Pasha Mansion

Located at the foot of Ankara Castle, the Zenger Pasha Mansion is a beautiful example of 18th century Ottoman architecture. The mansion currently serves as a restaurant and offers visitors a glimpse of the past with its authentic atmosphere. In addition, a small museum in the mansion displays various items from Ankara's past.

Roman Theater

The Roman Theatre, located in the Ulus district of Ankara, is an important cultural heritage from the Roman period. The theatre ruins show how rich the social and cultural life of the city was during the Roman Empire. The theatre area, where excavations are still ongoing today, is a very interesting point for visitors interested in history.

Gordion Ancient City

Located approximately 90 kilometers from Ankara, Gordion is the capital of the Phrygian Kingdom and is known as the place where the legendary King Midas lived. The mounds, ancient city ruins and museum in Gordion are an important place to visit for history enthusiasts. Gordion is also known as the place where the famous Gordian Knot was untied, and this legend adds a separate mystical atmosphere to the history of the ancient city.

Ankara Hacı Bayram Veli Mosque and Tomb

Built in the 15th century, Hacı Bayram Veli Mosque is one of the spiritual symbols of Ankara. The Hacı Bayram Veli Tomb, located next to the mosque, is visited heavily, especially during religious holidays. The area where the mosque and tomb are located is located side by side with the ruins of the Augustus Temple, one of the oldest settlements in Ankara, which increases the historical and religious importance of the area.

Beypazari Historical Houses

Located approximately 100 kilometers from Ankara, Beypazarı is famous for its historical houses and streets from the Ottoman period. The houses in Beypazarı attract attention with their architecture made of stone and wood. Beypazarı is also known for its traditional handicrafts, silversmithing and local delicacies such as the famous Beypazarı Kurusu. As you walk through the narrow streets of Beypazarı, you will feel as if you are lost among the traces of the past.

Ankara offers its visitors a wide range of exploration opportunities with its historical richness. From Anıtkabir to the Roman Bath, from the Temple of Augustus to the historical streets of Beypazarı, many different destinations reveal the historical depth and cultural diversity of the city. By visiting and seeing these historical places, you can travel to Ankara's past and feel the spirit of this ancient city more closely.

Parks and Natural Areas

Ankara is home to many parks and natural areas for those who want to spend time in nature amidst the busy city life. These areas offer places where you can walk, have a picnic, do sports activities and have peaceful moments. Here are the main parks and natural areas to visit in Ankara:

Youth Park

One of the most well-known parks in Ankara, Gençlik Park is spread over a large area of ​​275 thousand square meters and is located right in the city center. The large pond in the park, the walking paths around it and various social facilities offer an ideal recreation area for both families and tourists. The park also offers visitors the opportunity to have fun with its amusement park, open-air theater and sports areas.

Ataturk Forest Farm and Zoo

Atatürk Forest Farm is one of the largest green areas in Ankara and is a place where you can be alone with nature with its large forest areas, gardens, zoo and various museums. Located within the farm Ataturk House and Museum, provides important information about Ataturk's life. The zoo is particularly interesting for children and covers a large area where various animal species are exhibited. There are also stores where you can buy natural products produced here.

Seğmenler Park

Located in Kavaklıdere district, Seğmenler Park is spread over an area of ​​67 thousand square meters and is an ideal area for those who want to walk, run and enjoy nature. The sculptures, water pools and green areas in the park attract the attention of visitors. Seğmenler Park offers beautiful views adorned with flowers, especially in spring and summer.

Lake Mogan

Located approximately 20 kilometers from Ankara, Lake Mogan is located in the Gölbaşı district and is a popular destination for those who want to picnic, walk and spend time with the lake view on the weekends. There are walking paths, bicycle trails, picnic areas and various restaurants around the lake. In addition, water sports are also offered on the lake.

Lake Eymir

Another popular spot in Ankara for those who want to spend time in touch with nature is Lake Eymir. Located within the METU grounds, this lake is ideal for activities such as nature walks, cycling and rowing. The paths around the lake offer beautiful views, especially for nature lovers. Despite being close to the city center, Lake Eymir offers serenity to its visitors with its calm and peaceful atmosphere.

Botanical Park

The Botanical Park is one of the quietest and most peaceful parks in Ankara. The park is a perfect destination for those who want to see various plant species and enjoy nature, and is very easy to reach due to its location close to the city center. The walking paths in the park allow you to wander among various plant species and get away from the stress of the city in the process.

The Dikmen Valley

Dikmen Valley attracts attention with its modern landscaping and wide green areas. The walking paths, sports fields and playgrounds in the valley offer visitors a wide range of activities. The water channels and bridges extending along the valley give the area an aesthetic appearance. In addition, the cafes and restaurants located in the valley are ideal places for those who want to spend pleasant time in nature.

Wonderland

One of the largest parks in Europe, Wonderland is located in Xinjiang and covers an area of ​​approximately 1.3 million square meters. The park is famous for its themed sections filled with statues of fairy-tale heroes, large playgrounds and water sports activities, especially for children. The park also has ponds, bicycle paths, picnic areas and a large open-air theater used for concerts.

Göksu Park

Göksu Park is located in the Eryaman district and was created by rehabilitating an old quarry. The park, which is located on an area of ​​508 thousand square meters, offers a wide range of recreation and entertainment opportunities with a large pond, walking and cycling paths, children's playgrounds, restaurants and picnic areas. You can do activities such as water bike, canoe and pedal boat in the pond.

Altin Park

Altınpark is a large park area covering an area of ​​640 thousand square meters located in the Aydınlıkevler district of Ankara. The park attracts attention with its walking paths, ponds, sports fields and science center. The park also has a congress center where various exhibitions and fairs are held. Altınpark is an ideal place for both relaxing and participating in various events.

50th Anniversary Park

One of the highest points in Ankara, 50. Yıl Park is especially famous for its panoramic city view. The park offers its visitors a wide range of rest opportunities with both walking and picnic areas. It is an ideal place especially for those who want to watch the sunset. The park also has children's playgrounds and a small artificial pond.

Swan Park

One of the most popular and central parks in Ankara, Kuğulu Park is located on Tunalı Hilmi Street. The park takes its name from the swans that live in it and offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere to see these graceful animals. Kuğulu Park is an indispensable place for those who want to be alone with nature, especially in the city, with its small pond, walking paths and green areas. There are also many cafes and restaurants around the park.

Museum Garden

Anatolian Civilizations MuseumThe Museum Garden, located right next to the , offers visitors the opportunity to walk among historical artifacts. Stone artifacts from various periods are exhibited in the garden. Spending time in this garden after the museum tour is a great opportunity to enjoy the historical atmosphere.

blue Lake

Located northeast of Ankara, Blue Lake is also known as Bayındır Dam and is a popular getaway spot for those who want to spend time in nature on the weekends. There are picnic areas, walking trails and children's playgrounds around the pond. Fishing and water sports are also available in the pond.

Ankara offers beautiful parks and natural areas for those who want to spend time in touch with nature. Many different destinations await you, from Gençlik Park to Eymir Lake, from Mogan Lake to Wonderland, to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, or to burn off some energy by doing sports. In these green areas, you can both discover the natural beauties of Ankara and relieve the stress of daily life.

Müzeler

Ankara is home to many important museums with its rich historical past and cultural heritage. The museums in the city offer visitors in-depth information on many historical, archaeological, artistic and scientific subjects. Each of these museums focuses on different themes and offers interesting stops for both local and foreign tourists. The main museums to visit in Ankara are:

Anatolian Civilizations Museum

Anatolian Civilizations Museum, is considered one of the most important cultural assets of Ankara and is one of the most comprehensive archaeological museums in Turkey. With its collection spanning a wide period of time from the Paleolithic Age to the Ottoman Empire, it exhibits artifacts from the ancient civilizations of Anatolia. The museum contains many artifacts from the Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian and Roman periods. The museum won the European Museum of the Year award in 1997 and is recognized worldwide.

Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Rahmi M. Koç Museum, which offers a fascinating experience for industry and technology enthusiasts, is located in the Altındağ district of Ankara. This museum offers a rich collection of old industrial machines, transportation vehicles, scientific instruments and maritime items. The museum is equipped with various interactive exhibits that provide both historical and technical information. Old trains, cars, airplanes and even a submarine are on display for visitors. The museum offers an educational and entertaining visit, especially for children and young people.

ethnography Museum

The Ethnography Museum offers a rich collection reflecting the traditional life, art and cultural heritage of the Turkish people. The museum contains many ethnographic artifacts such as old Turkish objects, traditional clothes, carpets, rugs, jewelry, handicrafts and religious objects. In addition, the museum building has historical importance as it hosted the temporary tomb of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk between 1938-1953.

CerModern

CerModern is a perfect destination for modern art lovers, a converted modern art center from a former train depot. CerModern has extensive galleries displaying contemporary art by local and foreign artists. Temporary exhibitions, concerts, film screenings and other art events organized in the center offer a constantly renewed experience for art lovers. It is also a place where visitors can spend time with its social areas such as a cafe and a bookstore.

War of Independence Museum (First Parliament Building)

The War of Independence Museum, one of the most important witnesses of Turkey's struggle for independence, is located in the old Turkish Grand National Assembly building. This museum reflects the events and decisions taken from the beginning of the War of Independence to the declaration of the Republic. Inside, documents, photographs, parliamentary minutes and objects from the War of Independence are exhibited. The museum is a must-see for visitors interested in the history of the Republic.

Republic Museum (Second Parliament Building)

The Republic Museum offers the opportunity to get to know the early years of the Republic of Turkey and Atatürk's reforms up close. This museum is located in the building that served as the Turkish Grand National Assembly between 1924 and 1960. The exhibits include Atatürk's personal belongings, documents from that period, and various objects related to the parliament's work. The museum is important for those who want to learn about the early years of the Republic and the establishment of modern Turkey.

Toy Museum

Ankara Toy Museum is a great destination, especially for children and nostalgia lovers. This museum houses a variety of toy collections dating from the Ottoman period to the present day. The toys on display include antique dolls, train sets, plush toys, wooden toys and many more nostalgic pieces. The museum is full of interactive play areas and activities especially for children.

Gordion Museum

Located near the Polatlı district of Ankara, the Gordion Museum exhibits artifacts unearthed from the ancient city of Gordion, the capital of the Phrygian Kingdom. The museum contains daily life items, ceramics, ornaments and grave objects from the Phrygian period. Gordion is known as the place where the legendary King Midas lived and has historical importance as the place where the famous Gordian Knot was untied. Excavations at the Midas Tumulus and other mounds shed light on the ancient history of the region.

Cengelhan Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Located right next to Ankara Castle, Çengelhan Rahmi M. Koç Museum is located in an Ottoman-era inn and has a large collection of industrial and transportation history. The museum offers a wide range of artifacts, from old cars and motorcycles to steam engines, from marine tools to medical devices. In addition, the museum's atmosphere and nostalgic texture offer visitors the opportunity to travel back in time.

Pink Mansion (İsmet İnönü House)

Pink Pavilion is a museum that was created by converting İsmet İnönü's house in Ankara into a museum. This pavilion witnessed many important events during the founding years of the Republic of Turkey. The museum exhibits İsmet İnönü's personal belongings, photographs of his family, and various objects from the period. Pink Pavilion is an important place to visit for those who want to learn more about the history of the Republic and the life of İsmet İnönü.

TCDD Railway Museum

The Railway Museum, which belongs to the Turkish State Railways (TCDD), is located inside the Ankara Train Station and offers a rich collection of railway history in Turkey. The museum displays various objects such as old trains, locomotives, railway equipment and steam engines. The museum is an ideal destination for those interested in the history of railway transportation and also offers an educational tour opportunity for children.

Meteorology Museum

The Meteorology Museum has a rich collection that describes the history and development of meteorological studies in Turkey. Eskişehir It is located on the road and offers visitors the opportunity to see meteorological devices, old maps, documents and various meteorological tools up close. In addition, it is possible to get detailed information about the history of meteorological studies in Turkey in the museum.

State Museum of Painting and Sculpture

Another important stop for art lovers in Ankara, the State Painting and Sculpture Museum houses the works of Turkey’s leading painters and sculptors. The museum exhibits works by famous artists such as Osman Hamdi Bey, İbrahim Çallı, and Abidin Dino. In addition, temporary exhibitions feature works by contemporary artists, making it an ideal destination for those who want to embark on a journey through art history.

Pink Mansion

Pink Mansion is known as the house where the second President of Turkey, İsmet İnönü, lived and is currently open to visitors as a museum. This museum exhibits photographs, personal belongings and memorabilia belonging to İsmet İnönü's family. This place, which also witnessed the founding years of the Republic, offers visitors in-depth information about Turkey's political and social history.

ethnography Museum

The Ethnography Museum, one of the oldest museums in Ankara, contains important works that shed light on Turkish culture and art history. The museum is full of various works such as handicrafts, clothes, jewelry and religious objects that reflect the traditional lifestyles of the Turkish people. The museum building also has historical importance as it was the temporary place where Atatürk's body was placed before being moved to Anıtkabir.

Julide Fire Museum

Jülide Ateş Museum is an interesting stop for those interested in the world of media and communication. This museum displays various items, photographs and archives used by the famous news anchor Jülide Ateş throughout her career. It offers a pleasant discovery for those interested in media history.

Ankara is home to many important museums that reflect Turkey's rich cultural heritage and history. These museums offer unique opportunities to explore the thousands of years of history of Anatolia, to follow the development of industry and technology, to see different dimensions of modern art, and to get to know the history of the Republic more closely. Each of these museums provides rich information and experience in their own fields, and are must-visit places for those who want to understand the cultural fabric of Ankara and witness the historical richness of the city.

Churches

Ankara has hosted different civilizations throughout its history and has houses places of worship belonging to many different faiths within this rich cultural heritage. The churches in the city are among the important structures in terms of both their architecture and their historical and cultural value. The churches in Ankara, where congregations of different faiths worship and which are of historical importance, offer beautiful examples of religious architecture to visitors. Here are the main churches worth seeing in Ankara:

St. Clement Church

St. Clement Church is one of the oldest churches in Ankara and is thought to date back to the Byzantine period. Located in the Ulus district, this church has been used for different purposes at different times throughout the centuries. Today, the ruins of the church can be visited and it stands out as an interesting destination, especially for history enthusiasts. With its architectural structure and traces of Byzantine art, St. Clement Church reflects the historical richness of Ankara.

Kocatepe Catholic Church

Located in the center of Ankara, the Kocatepe Catholic Church is one of the largest Catholic churches in the city. Built with a modern architectural style, this church draws attention with its spacious interior and peaceful atmosphere. The architecture of the church combines elements of traditional religious structure with modern design elements. The church serves the Catholic community in Ankara and is visited intensively, especially on religious holidays and special days.

St. Thérèse Church (French Catholic Church)

St. Thérèse Church is a Catholic church serving the French community in Ankara. Built in the early 20th century, this church stands out with its elegant architecture and simple decoration. The church is a place where especially the French-speaking community performs their worship and has a very lively atmosphere during religious holidays. The church also hosts cultural and religious activities of foreign communities living in Ankara.

St. Nicholas Church

The Church of St. Nicholas is located in the Altındağ district of Ankara and was built in the 19th century. Serving the Greek Orthodox community, this church stands out especially for its architectural features and interior decoration. The icons and frescoes in the interior of the church bear traces of Byzantine art and offer visitors impressive examples of religious art. The Church of St. Nicholas is a place of worship that is visited especially during religious holidays.

Ankara Evangelical Church

The Ankara Evangelist Church is a church serving the Protestant community and is one of the most important centers of worship for the Protestant community in the city. The church attracts attention with its simple architecture and warm atmosphere. The congregation comes together through various events and social activities organized in the church. The church also serves as an important social center among the foreign communities in the city.

Tunali Hilmi Church

This small but impressive church on Tunalı Hilmi Street offers a peaceful and serene place to worship, despite being located in one of the modern and lively areas of Ankara. The church serves as a haven in the middle of the city and is frequently visited by both local and foreign congregations. The architecture of the church combines modern and traditional elements, and the stained glass in the interior is particularly striking.

Maltepe Mosque and Anglican Church Complex

This complex, located in the Maltepe district, is a beautiful example of different faith groups living together peacefully. The Anglican Church located within the complex stands out with its simple and functional architecture. The church is used by the Anglican community in the city and hosts religious ceremonies and social events. In addition, the Maltepe Mosque located in the same complex is a symbol of people of different faiths living together.

st. Paul's Church

St. Paul's Church is another church serving the Protestant community in Ankara. In addition to regular worship, the church also hosts various social and cultural events. Its architecture is quite simple, and its interior design allows the congregation to come together. St. Paul's Church is known as one of the most important centers of the Protestant community in Ankara.

St. Gabriel Church

St. Gabriel Church is an Orthodox church in a different neighborhood of Ankara, serving a small but devoted congregation. The icons and other religious objects in the church's interior offer visitors elegant examples of religious art. The church is visited especially during Orthodox Christian religious holidays and special days.

Ankara's Historical Church Ruins

Ankara's historical heritage also includes many old churches that are not actively used today but have ruins. These ruins provide important clues about the city's historical texture and are interesting stops for archaeology enthusiasts. For example, some Byzantine church ruins have been unearthed in different parts of the city and provide information about the architectural understanding of the period.

Greek Orthodox Church of Our Lady

Greek Orthodox Church in the Ulus district of Ankara Virgin Mary Church, is one of the oldest Christian places of worship in the city. The church dates back to the Byzantine period and has been restored many times. This church, which has a simple yet impressive structure in terms of architecture, is visited heavily by the Greek Orthodox community, especially during religious holidays. The icons and wall paintings in the interior are elegant examples of Byzantine art.

Ankara is a city that has hosted different faiths and has many churches that reflect this cultural diversity. These churches, spread across different parts of the city, are of great importance both architecturally and historically and culturally. Many religious buildings, from St. Clement Church to St. Nicholas Church, from St. Thérèse Church to Kocatepe Catholic Church, offer visitors a rich perspective on the city's religious past. By visiting these churches in Ankara, you can get to know the city's multicultural structure more closely and feel the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient city where different faiths live together.

Ankara offers its visitors an unforgettable experience with its rich history, cultural heritage and natural beauties. You can visit many different places from Anıtkabir to Ankara Castle, from the Anatolian Civilizations Museum to Gençlik Park and delve into the depths of the city. Offering many alternatives for history, culture and nature enthusiasts, Ankara has many beauties waiting to be discovered. This comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your time in Ankara.

To discover the most popular attractions in Ankara Places to Visit in Ankara If you want to explore the city in more depth after reviewing our page Ankara Travel Guide You can check out our article. This guide will make your discovery more enjoyable by providing the best times in the city, transportation tips and all the information that will help you on your trip.