Ankara Travel Guide: Discover the Culture, History & Highlights of Turkey’s Capital

Turkey’s bustling capital, Ankara, isn’t just the centre of politics; it’s also rich in history and culture. In this Ankara travel guide, we’ll show you some of the city’s most iconic sights, from ancient monuments to vibrant modern attractions. Whether you’re into history, local cuisine, or exploring the city on foot, Ankara has something to offer.

This guide is here to help you make the most of your time in the city. We’ll give you practical tips on getting around, where to stay, and how to manage your budget. Plus, we’ll point you toward the best things to see and do, so you don’t miss out on any of the essentials. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, we’ve got you covered for an unforgettable visit to Ankara.

Ankara – Overview and Brief History of The City

We start our exploration of Turkey by diving into Ankara’s rich history, an essential first stop in any Turkey travel guide. Archaeological evidence shows that people have lived in this area since the Stone Age. Over the centuries, many conquerors have passed through, including the Celts, Ancient Greeks, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.

Ankara became the capital of the Turkish Republic on October 29, 1923, following the First World War. Before that, during the Ottoman Empire, it was the capital of the Anatolia Eyalet, the Angora Eyalet, and the Angora Vilayet. Today, Ankara stands as one of the best cities in Turkey, not only as the country’s second most populous city but also as a popular destination for visitors from both the East and the West.

In addition to its historical monuments, Ankara is also known for its natural beauty. Despite its steppe vegetation, the city is considered quite green, with 72 square meters (775 square feet) of green space per inhabitant, making it a refreshing escape amidst the urban landscape.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Ankara

The peak tourist season in Ankara is between June and September. However, this city organises its most popular festivals from April to November. So, the best time to visit Ankara would be in between these months. However, it also depends on your preferences and interests.

To help you determine when to travel to Ankara, we’ve decided to reveal the most famous festivals and their dates. Here’s the full list:

• International Ankara Music Festival (April 4-30): Enjoy an array of classical and contemporary music performances.
• ODTU International Classical Guitar Festival (May 8-10): A treat for guitar lovers with talented musicians from around the world.
• Flying Broom International Women’s Film Festival (May 17-June 4): A fantastic celebration of women in film, featuring screenings and discussions.
  Büyük Ankara Festival (September 13-14): A lively cultural festival packed with performances, art, and food.
• Ankara Dragon Festival (September 27-28): Unique dragon boat races and fun cultural activities.
• Colour Sky 5K Family Run (October 11): A great family event with a fun run and vibrant colours.
• International Ankara Jazz Festival (November 20-30): Jazz performances by international and local artists.
• Ankara International Film Festival (November): A top film festival with a mix of Turkish and international cinema.

These festivals offer a chance to experience the heart of the city’s culture. Whether you’re into music, films, or vibrant local traditions, there’s a perfect time to visit Ankara that suits your interests.

What’s the Weather Like in Ankara?

When you’re planning a trip to Ankara, it’s essential to keep the weather in mind. The climate here varies throughout the year, so knowing what to expect can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your visit. Whether you’re after sunny days or cool evenings, here’s a breakdown of what to expect across the seasons.

Most Beautiful Places in Ankara You Can’t Miss

Ankara is full of historical gems and vibrant locations that will make your visit unforgettable. If you’re tight on time, make sure to check out the most beautiful places in Ankara to get a true feel for what this city has to offer. Here’s a list of the must-see spots:

• Atatürk’s Mausoleum (Anıtkabir): An astonishing structure built in 1953 as the resting place of the founder and first President of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This isn’t just a monument; it’s a symbol of Turkish history and pride, and checking it out is a must-do.
• Museum of Anatolian Civilisations: Located on the south side of Ankara Castle, this museum holds a wide selection of ancient artefacts. It features exhibits from the Paleolithic era to the Ottoman Empire found in Central Anatolia and nearby regions.
• Kocatepe Mosque: This is Ankara’s largest mosque, and you can see it from almost anywhere in the city centre. Built between 1967 and 1987, this religious site showcases impeccable neoclassical Ottoman architecture that will surely amaze you.
• Kızılay Square: A highly important centre of Ankara that’s part of the vibrant heart of the modern city. It’s the town’s political plaza and cultural hub, surrounded by restaurants, malls, and hotels. Charming alleys with cafés and dining places also appear around the square.
• Ankara Castle: Also known as Ankara Kalesi, it’s a stunning site built in 278 BC by the Phrygian and later rebuilt by the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. It features ancient walls, towers, and gates with stunning architecture. It also features an amazing view of Ankara from above.

What To Do In Ankara

Despite being an old city, Ankara can still satisfy all types of tourists, regardless of their age group. Here, you can engage in a variety of activities and check out historic sites and entertainment venues. Whether you’re into culture, food, or just exploring, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Ankara during your visit.

Exploring Historical and Cultural Monuments

If you like to learn more about Ankara’s history, then there are a couple of attractions that you must visit. One of them is the Ancient Citadel, or the Ankara Castle, where you can see the town from above. You can also pay your respects to the Turkish Nation and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk by visiting Anıtkabir.

The Anatolian Civilizations Museum is another remarkable attraction that you must visit. Here, you get to check artefacts from the Anatolian region that belong to different cultures. They start from the Paleolithic era and end with the Ottoman period.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Ankara boasts a variety of green parks that offer a getaway from the city crowds and noise. One popular place is Gençlik Park, which features an amusement park, an artificial lake with light shows, and an outdoor theatre. You can also check out Kuğulu Park, which translates to Swan Park.

Apart from swans, the ponds in this park also feature ducks and geese. If you like to see more animals, then follow our Ankara travel guide and visit the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo. Besides the zoo, this place also holds greenhouses, small agricultural farms, a dairy farm, restaurants, and a brewery.

Museums Will Help You Learn More About Turkish Culture

Apart from the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, there are several other museums that you can visit in Ankara. The State Art and Sculpture Museum is one that holds a rich collection of Turkish art. Another art museum that you can check out is the CerModern.

This is a contemporary art gallery that organises modern art exhibits & events in a former railway workshop. The Ethnography Museum is also important to mention in this Ankara tourist guide. It’s dedicated to the Turkic people, and it holds various arts, clothes, clogs, ornaments, shoes, carpets, weapons, porcelain, etc.

Shop At Local Markets For A Better Experience

In Ankara, you’ll also find multiple shopping malls, local markets, and bazaars. If you like modern fashion and Ankara shopping, then we suggest going to Armada or Kızılay AVM. These are large malls that feature various branded stores like Adidas, Gap, H&M, Lacoste, Nike, etc.

You can also visit some of the best traditional markets in the Hamamönü region of the Altındağ district. Here you can look for Ankara fabric, handicrafts, souvenirs, and much more. Local Ankara bazaars also deserve a visit, as they hold everything from clothes and materials to food and spices.

Try Local Food

Ankara is one of the best places in Turkey when it comes to delicious local cuisine. Here, you’ll find restaurants, dining places, and street food shops all around the city, especially in the centre. Make sure to try döner from a street food vendor and Ankara Tava in a local restaurant.

During one of your early mornings in the city, don’t forget to try the traditional Turkish breakfast. We also recommend fine dining in Çankaya, as it features incredible restaurants that offer a variety of specialties.

Top-Rated Nightlife

Ankara is a vibrant metropolis that boasts plenty of nightclubs, rooftop bars, and cafés. There’s everything from electronic music to traditional Turkish nights. If you like to enjoy live Turkish music, then you should check out the Tunalı scene.

Classical music and performance dance are also available in Ankara. For this type of entertainment, you should visit the State Opera and Ballet. Check the schedule on the official website and purchase tickets online. This is where your Esimatic eSIM will come in handy.

Stay Connected in Ankara: The Best eSIM Options for a Seamless Travel

Getting an eSIM Turkey for your Ankara trip is of utmost importance. It will help you stay connected throughout your stay and assist you in navigating around the city. It offers a variety of plans that are affordable and easy to get. You simply visit our website, pick and purchase an eSIM plan, and scan the QR code to install it.

With Esimatic, you’ll get a stable and fast 4G/5G connection in every place in Ankara. Plus, there are no roaming charges or hidden fees. With your eSIM, you can book tickets, make reservations, check schedules, inspect the weather, and much more.

Navigating Through Ankara: Public Transportation And Other Options

In this Ankara travel guide, we’ll also cover the best way to travel while in Ankara. Know that the method depends on your destination, budget, and preferences. Check out the options below and decide which one works best for you.

Public Transportation (Metro and Bus)

Ankara’s public transportation is easy to navigate, with a two-line metro system: Ankaray (from AŞTİ to Dikimevi) and the Ankara Metro (from Kızılay to Batıkent). To use the metro or buses, you’ll need an AnkaraKart, which you can top up for less than 1€ per trip. The city’s buses come in two types: EGO, which is run by the municipality, and ÖHO, a private service that charges less than 1€ for a one-way ride. If you’re travelling to Istanbul, buses cost between €10 and €16, and the journey usually takes about 7 hours.

Getting a Taxi and Using Rideshare Apps

Calling a taxi in Ankara is simple, whether you catch one on the street or go to a nearby taxi station. You can also request a ride from Esenboğa Airport or the Ankara train station. A 3 km ride typically costs around 2.55€, while a 10 km trip costs approximately 6.61€. Be sure to choose a legitimate taxi service to avoid scams. Additionally, for convenience, you can use a rideshare app like Uber, accessible through your eSIM data.

Explore Ankara on Foot or by Bike

Ankara is a great city for walking, with plenty of spots to explore on foot. Start by wandering around Kızılay Square, its charming alleys, and the nearby Güvenpark. You can take a taxi to reach other green spaces like Gençlik Park and Kuğulu Park for a peaceful stroll. For a more adventurous outing, hike up to the top of Ankara Castle for stunning views, then head down to visit the Anatolian Civilizations Museum before walking back towards Kızılay.

If you prefer cycling, you’ll find bike rental stations throughout the city. A daily rental typically costs 1.16€, while a weekly rental is 4.64€. However, biking on city roads may not be the safest, so it’s best to explore off-road or outside the city for a more enjoyable experience.

Where to Stay In Ankara

Now that we’ve covered how to travel to Ankara, it’s time to reveal the best places to stay in the city. Here, we’ll point out the best neighbourhoods and some affordable accommodation choices.

The Safest and Most Pleasant Neighbourhoods in the City

Ankara is the second-largest city in Turkey and features 25 districts and numerous neighbourhoods. Here are the ones that are super friendly for tourists:

• Kocatepe: The neighbourhood that features the Kocatepe Mosque. It features a large number of buildings, tiny alleys, local shops, and crowds all around the streets.
• Çıkrıkçılar: This area spans around 200 meters on a small street on a hill. It’s a very secure place where you’ll encounter numerous types of shops.
• Kızılay: This is the city centre, which features the Atatürk Boulevard, Güvenpark, and the Kızılay Square. It’s one of the safest places in Ankara, with lots of crowds and police officers.

Accommodation Options for Every Type of Visitor

Don’t forget to book a place before reaching Ankara in Turkey to avoid unchecked last-minute reservations. If you’re on a budget, then you should consider some of these options:

• Hostel: from €18 per night
• One-Bedroom Apartment: from €24 per night
• Single-Room Hotel Stay: from €25 per night

Looking for a luxurious stay in Ankara? Here are a few suggestions that you should consider:

• Villa Suite: Around €1,800 per night
• 3-6 Bedroom Apartments: €400-€850 per night
• Luxury Hotel: €200-€500 per night

Tips For Traveling on a Budget in Ankara

You must be careful while travelling around Ankara, as you can easily drain your budget. To save up some valuable funds, we recommend the following useful tips.

Rely on Public Transportation to Save Some Money

Using the metro and buses in Ankara will save you a lot of time and money. But you’ll need to get an AnkaraKart from a kiosk or metro station. A 1-unit top-up will cost less than 1€. You can also use Ankara’s private buses, ÖHO, which cost less than 1€ for a one-way ticket. Additionally, you should avoid using taxis for long-distance travel so you don’t overspend.

Learn From the Locals and Eat at Cheap Lokantas

Check where and what locals eat and follow their habits. You can even ask some of them for advice. Most of them will usually recommend the Turkish eateries called lokantas, which are budget-friendly. You’ll find plenty of them in the Çankaya district. Some cheap and filling foods that you can try here are köfteci, pilav, and dürüm.

Lower Your Spending by Visiting Free Attractions and Parks

You can also save some money by exploring free or low-cost attractions. One of the best places with a rich heritage that doesn’t require an entry ticket is the Ankara Castle. Anıtkabir is also free to visit, as are the Kocatepe Mosque and the Hacı Bayram Mosque. Travel by foot to save additional cash and remember to explore Gençlik Park and Kuğulu Park.

What To Pack When Visiting Ankara?

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip to Ankara, here are a few tips to help you prepare:

• Pack According to the Season: Visiting this modern Turkish city in the summer requires packing light clothes. But if you travel in the winter, then prepare for the chilling weather with warm clothes.
• The Right Walking Shoes: We recommend wearing comfortable shoes for a more enjoyable city exploration. They are especially useful when walking on challenging terrain around historical sites.
• Swimwear: If you plan on staying at a hotel with a pool, then consider taking your swimwear. You can also check out one of the public pools if your accommodation doesn’t have one.

Stay Safe While Visiting Ankara

You need to be careful about scams, just like anywhere else in the world. One common scam is getting counterfeit money or obsolete notes from exchange booths. Some may even adjust the exchange rate and give you less than you paid for.

Always ask for a receipt, regardless of whether you’re in a hotel, bar, or street food shop. They may try to draw more money than you should be paying. This can also happen with unregistered taxis.

As for safety tips, you should always be aware of your surroundings and remain updated with the latest local news. You should also avoid secluded parks and unlit areas, as well as street ATMs, especially at night.