Ankara Travel Guide (Central Anatolia/Turkey/Middle East/Asia)

Introduction to Ankara

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, situated in the Central Anatolia region. With a rich history spanning over thousands of years, Ankara’s cultural and historical landmarks are undoubtedly mesmerizing. It is a cosmopolitan city that embraces both traditionalism and modernity, making it an excellent destination for anyone looking to experience both.

List of Places to Visit in Ankara

Ankara is a city that never quits mesmerizing visitors. From historical landmarks, natural attractions, to amazing hiking trails and biking routes, here’s a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Ankara.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Anıtkabir: The final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Anıtkabir is a grand and impressive mausoleum that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Housing the best collection of ancient artifacts from various civilizations, including the Hittite, Assyrian, and Phrygian civilizations, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Kocatepe Mosque: Known for its impressive architecture and size, Kocatepe Mosque is the largest mosque in Turkey and a significant landmark in Ankara.
Hacı Bayram Mosque: A spiritual and serene mosque located in the heart of Ankara, Hacı Bayram Mosque is renowned for its intricate Ottoman architecture and its peaceful ambiance.

Natural Attractions of Ankara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Göksu Park: A tranquil and picturesque park located near the city center, Göksu Park is an excellent destination to relax and unwind with nature.
Eymir Lake: A popular destination for locals, Eymir Lake offers breathtaking views of nature and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo: Spanning over 4000 hectares, Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo is a massive park that offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding. It’s also home to many animal species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ankara

Gençlik Park: Offering a pleasant and serene environment, Gençlik Park is an excellent destination for joggers, cyclists, and nature lovers alike.
Gazi Osman Paşa Forest: An expansive and lush forest with scenic beauty, Gazi Osman Paşa Forest offers numerous hiking and biking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
Dikmen Valley: A picturesque and green valley with a moderate hiking trail that offers stunning views of the city.

Best Things to Do in Ankara: Activities and Tours

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Offering a unique and breathtaking view of Ankara from above, a hot air balloon ride over the city is an unforgettable experience.
Ankara Citadel and Old Town Walking Tour: Discover Ankara’s rich history and cultural heritage with a guided walking tour through the citadel and old town.
Turkish Bath Experience: Relax and rejuvenate your mind and body with an authentic Turkish bath experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ankara

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Anıtkabir and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
Day 2	Explore the old town and citadel with a guided walking tour
Day 3	Hike in Gazi Osman Paşa Forest and visit Kocatepe Mosque
Day 4	Enjoy a hot air balloon ride and relax in Göksu Park
Day 5	Visit the Hacı Bayram Mosque and take a Turkish bath
Day 6	Explore Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo
Day 7	Hike in Dikmen Valley and relax by the Eymir Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Ankara

As a Turkish capital, Ankara boasts a fantastic food and drink scene. From traditional dishes to savory snacks and refreshing beverages, here’s everything you need to know about what to eat and drink in Ankara.

Must-Try Dishes

Ankara Tandır Kebabı: A juicy and flavorful lamb kebab cooked in a traditional oven called tandır.
Çubuk Turşusu: A crunchy and tangy pickle made from long green peppers and cauliflower.
Ankara Döneri: A classic Turkish dish made from thin slices of marinated beef or chicken stuffed in a pita or lavash bread.

Local Beverages

Boza: A slightly sour and sweet fermented drink made from millet, Boza is a local beverage that is best enjoyed in the winter months.
Ayran: A refreshing and creamy yogurt-based drink that complements spicy dishes perfectly.

Where to Stay in Ankara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ankara offers various accommodation options for visitors, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, and cozy guesthouses.

Divan Ankara: A five-star hotel located near Kızılay Square, Divan Ankara offers luxurious rooms, top-notch service, and excellent facilities.
Bera Ankara: A stylish four-star hotel located in an ideal location, Bera Ankara offers comfortable and cozy rooms and excellent service.
Keskin Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with excellent service and comfortable rooms, Keskin Hotel is an ideal choice for visitors looking for an affordable option.

What to Buy in Ankara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ankara offers an array of local products and souvenirs that visitors can bring home, from beautifully crafted copper pans to unique handicrafts, handmade soap, and pottery.

Copper Pans: Authentic and artisanal copper pans are a specialty of Ankara and make for an excellent souvenir or a unique addition to your kitchen.
Handicrafts: Ankara is known for its unique handicrafts, such as woven rugs, embroidered textiles, and colorful ceramics.
Pottery: The city of Hacıbektaş near Ankara is known for its high-quality pottery, which makes for a beautiful and authentic souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Ankara

The local culture and customs of Ankara reflect the history and tradition of the region. People are generally friendly and hospitable, and it is customary to remove shoes upon entering a house, a mosque, or some public spaces.

Best Time to Visit Ankara

The best time to visit Ankara is in the spring and fall, between March and May, and between September and November, respectively. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively thinner compared to the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ankara

Do:

Dress conservatively while visiting religious places.
Learn basic Turkish phrases and greetings to communicate with locals.
Enjoy the traditional tea offered by locals frequently.

Don’t:

Drink tap water.
Be late for an appointment as punctuality is significant in Turkish culture.
Worry about bargaining while shopping in markets as it is customary.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ankara

Ankara is generally safe for tourists. However, it is essential to take standard safety precautions such as avoiding dark and deserted areas at night, keeping valuables safe, and following traffic rules while driving.

Health in Ankara

It’s recommended to drink bottled water and stay hydrated, especially in the summer months. Hospitals and medical facilities are available throughout Ankara, and visitors can receive emergency medical care if needed.

Getting to Ankara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ankara is well-connected via air, road, and rail to other parts of Turkey and the Middle East.

Airports Near Ankara

Esenboğa International Airport: Located 28 km from the city center, Esenboğa International Airport is the primary airport serving Ankara.

Bus Stations Near Ankara

Ankara Central Bus Station: Known as the Asti bus station, the Ankara Central Bus Station provides access to different parts of Turkey and neighboring countries.

Other Options

Train: Ankara has direct connections to other cities in Turkey through the Turkish State Railways.
Metro: Ankara’s metro system is modern and efficient, and it is an excellent option for avoiding traffic and getting around the city quickly.

How to Get Around in Ankara

Ankara has a well-developed public transportation system, including the bus, metro, and taxi services. However, visitors can also explore the city by renting a car or a motorbike.

Where to Go Next from Ankara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ankara’s central location in Turkey makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the fantastic natural and cultural attractions nearby, including:

Cappadocia: A scenic region known for its unique rock formations and underground cities, Cappadocia is less than four hours away from Ankara by car.
The Salt Lake: Known as Tuz Gölü in Turkish, the Salt Lake is a picturesque destination less than two hours away from Ankara.
Göreme National Park: A UNESCO heritage site located in central Turkey, Göreme National Park is famous for its remarkable volcanic rock formations and is less than four hours away from Ankara.

Conclusion

Ankara is an enchanting destination with a perfect blend of historical landmarks, natural attractions, outdoor activities, and excellent food and drink scene. Whether you’re looking for exciting adventures or a cultural escape, Ankara has plenty to offer, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Turkey.