Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is a vibrant metropolis that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. As the country’s political and administrative center, Ankara is home to government institutions, universities, and a variety of cultural attractions. The city boasts a fascinating mix of ancient ruins, Ottoman architecture, and contemporary buildings, making it a destination with something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Ankara, Turkey:
Best Places to Visit
1. Anıtkabir (Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk)
Anıtkabir is the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey. This monumental mausoleum is one of the most important landmarks in Ankara and a symbol of the nation’s modern history. The complex features a grand ceremonial plaza, the Hall of Honor where Atatürk’s sarcophagus is located, and the Peace Park with various sculptures and reliefs. Anıtkabir also houses a museum showcasing Atatürk’s personal belongings, documents, and photographs.
- Key Attractions: Hall of Honor, Peace Park, museum.
- Activities: Sightseeing, historical exploration, paying respects.
- Location: Anıtkabir, Tandoğan, Ankara, Turkey.
2. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is one of Turkey’s most important archaeological museums, offering a comprehensive overview of the region’s history from prehistoric times to the Ottoman era. The museum’s extensive collection includes artifacts from the Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, and other ancient civilizations. Notable exhibits include the Assyrian trading colony artifacts, the Hittite tablets, and the impressive collection of Bronze Age relics. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman building.
- Key Attractions: Ancient artifacts, Hittite tablets, Bronze Age relics.
- Activities: Museum visit, historical exploration.
- Location: Kale Mahallesi, Gözcü Sokak No:2, Ulus, Ankara, Turkey.
3. Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi)
Ankara Castle, or Ankara Kalesi, is a historic fortress that has been a key defensive structure in the city for centuries. The castle’s origins date back to the Roman era, with additions and renovations made by the Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers, walls, and inner courtyards while enjoying panoramic views of the city. The surrounding area, known as the Kale District, is filled with charming narrow streets, traditional houses, and artisan shops.
- Key Attractions: Historic fortress, panoramic views, Kale District.
- Activities: Sightseeing, exploring, shopping.
- Location: Ankara Kalesi, Altındağ, Ankara, Turkey.
4. Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo
The Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo is a large recreational area and one of Ankara’s most popular attractions. Established by Atatürk himself, the farm features a zoo, a dairy farm, a brewery, and several restaurants. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and native Turkish species. The farm also offers beautiful gardens, walking paths, and picnic areas. It’s a great place for families and nature lovers to enjoy a day out.
- Key Attractions: Zoo, gardens, dairy farm.
- Activities: Animal observation, picnicking, exploring.
- Location: Gazi Mahallesi, Atatürk Orman Çiftliği, Ankara, Turkey.
5. Kocatepe Mosque
The Kocatepe Mosque is the largest mosque in Ankara and one of the most impressive examples of modern Islamic architecture in Turkey. Completed in 1987, the mosque features a striking Ottoman-style design with four towering minarets and a large central dome. The interior is adorned with beautiful marble, intricate calligraphy, and stunning chandeliers. The mosque can accommodate up to 24,000 worshippers and is a significant religious and cultural landmark in the city.
- Key Attractions: Ottoman-style architecture, large central dome, calligraphy.
- Activities: Religious exploration, sightseeing, prayer.
- Location: Kocatepe, Ankara, Turkey.
6. Çıkrıkçılar Hill (Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu)
Çıkrıkçılar Hill is a historic and bustling area in Ankara, known for its antique shops, traditional markets, and vintage stores. The hill is a popular destination for locals and tourists looking for unique souvenirs, antiques, and collectibles. The narrow streets are lined with shops selling a variety of items, from old books and coins to traditional crafts and textiles. It’s a great place to explore Ankara’s local culture and shop for unique items.
- Key Attractions: Antique shops, traditional markets.
- Activities: Shopping, exploring, cultural exploration.
- Location: Ulus, Ankara, Turkey.
7. Haci Bayram Mosque and Temple of Augustus
The Haci Bayram Mosque is an important religious site in Ankara, dedicated to the Sufi mystic Haci Bayram Veli. The mosque, built in the 15th century, features beautiful Ottoman architecture and intricate decorations. Adjacent to the mosque are the ruins of the Temple of Augustus, an ancient Roman temple built in the 1st century BC. The juxtaposition of the mosque and the temple reflects Ankara’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
- Key Attractions: Ottoman architecture, Roman temple ruins.
- Activities: Religious exploration, historical sightseeing.
- Location: Hacı Bayram Mahallesi, Ankara, Turkey.
8. CerModern
CerModern is a contemporary arts center located in a renovated railway workshop. The center hosts a variety of exhibitions, performances, and events, showcasing contemporary art from Turkey and around the world. CerModern’s spacious galleries feature paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works. The center also includes a café, a bookstore, and a gift shop. CerModern is a vibrant cultural hub in Ankara, offering a dynamic space for artists and art enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions: Contemporary art exhibitions, performances.
- Activities: Art appreciation, attending events.
- Location: Altınsoy Caddesi No:3, Sıhhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
9. Gençlik Park
Gençlik Park is a large urban park in the heart of Ankara, offering a green oasis for relaxation and recreation. The park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, a large pond with pedal boats, and an amusement park with rides and games. Gençlik Park is a popular destination for families, joggers, and picnickers. The park also hosts various cultural events and concerts throughout the year, making it a lively gathering place for locals and visitors.
- Key Attractions: Gardens, pond, amusement park.
- Activities: Walking, boating, picnicking.
- Location: Doğanbey Mahallesi, Altındağ, Ankara, Turkey.
10. Ankara Ethnography Museum
The Ankara Ethnography Museum offers a fascinating insight into the traditional culture and lifestyle of the Turkish people. The museum’s exhibits include traditional clothing, textiles, household items, and crafts from various regions of Turkey. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that was once the home of the Turkish parliament. The collection highlights the diversity and richness of Turkish culture, making it a must-visit for those interested in the country’s heritage.
- Key Attractions: Traditional clothing, crafts, household items.
- Activities: Museum visit, cultural exploration.
- Location: Talatpaşa Boulevard No:29, Ulus, Ankara, Turkey.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anıtkabir | Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk | Hall of Honor, Peace Park, museum | Tandoğan, Ankara, Turkey |
| Museum of Anatolian Civilizations | Archaeological museum with artifacts from ancient civilizations | Hittite tablets, Bronze Age relics | Kale Mahallesi, Gözcü Sokak No:2, Ulus, Ankara |
| Ankara Castle | Historic fortress with panoramic city views | Fortress walls, Kale District | Altındağ, Ankara |
| Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo | Large recreational area with zoo and gardens | Zoo, dairy farm, gardens | Gazi Mahallesi, Atatürk Orman Çiftliği, Ankara |
| Kocatepe Mosque | Largest mosque in Ankara with modern Ottoman architecture | Four minarets, large dome | Kocatepe, Ankara |
| Çıkrıkçılar Hill | Historic area with antique shops and markets | Antique shops, traditional markets | Ulus, Ankara |
| Haci Bayram Mosque and Temple of Augustus | Religious site and ancient Roman temple ruins | Ottoman mosque, Roman temple | Hacı Bayram Mahallesi, Ankara |
| CerModern | Contemporary arts center with exhibitions and performances | Contemporary art, performances | Altınsoy Caddesi No:3, Sıhhiye, Ankara |
| Gençlik Park | Large urban park with gardens and amusement park | Pond, gardens, amusement park | Doğanbey Mahallesi, Altındağ, Ankara |
| Ankara Ethnography Museum | Museum showcasing traditional Turkish culture | Traditional clothing, crafts | Talatpaşa Boulevard No:29, Ulus, Ankara |
How to Reach Ankara
By Plane
Ankara is served by Esenboğa Airport (ESB), located about 28 kilometers northeast of the city center. The airport offers domestic and international flights. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center by airport shuttle, taxi, or rental car.
By Train
Ankara’s main train station, Ankara Gar, is a major railway hub in Turkey, offering high-speed and conventional train services to various cities, including Istanbul, Konya, and Eskişehir. The station is centrally located and easily accessible by public transportation.
By Bus
Ankara is well-connected by bus to other cities in Turkey. The main bus terminal, AŞTİ (Ankara Şehirlerarası Terminal İşletmesi), is one of the largest in the country and provides frequent services to various destinations. The terminal is connected to the city’s metro and bus network.
By Car
Ankara is accessible by car via well-maintained highways and roads. The city is approximately a four-hour drive from Istanbul and a three-hour drive from Konya. Car rental options are available for those who prefer to drive.
Best Time to Visit Ankara
The best time to visit Ankara is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons are ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying cultural events. Summer (July to August) can be hot, while winter (December to February) can be cold, with occasional snowfall.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Ankara is known for its delicious local cuisine, including dishes like döner kebap, mantı (Turkish dumplings), and baklava. The city’s restaurants and cafes offer a variety of traditional Turkish dishes and desserts.
- Cultural Etiquette: Turkish people are known for their warm hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and to show respect to elders. When visiting religious sites or attending cultural events, dress modestly and be respectful.
- Transportation: Ankara has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, metro, and taxis. The city is also bike-friendly, with bike lanes and rental options available. Consider purchasing an AnkaraKart for convenient access to public transport.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Anıtkabir to pay respects to Atatürk. Then, explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to learn about Turkey’s rich history.
- Afternoon: Have lunch in the historic Kale District and visit Ankara Castle for panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Haci Bayram Mosque and the Temple of Augustus.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in a traditional Turkish restaurant and take a leisurely stroll through Gençlik Park.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with visits to Anıtkabir, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and Ankara Castle. In the afternoon, explore the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo. In the evening, dine at a local restaurant and explore the nightlife in Çıkrıkçılar Hill.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to the Kocatepe Mosque and CerModern. In the afternoon, explore the Ankara Ethnography Museum and the surrounding area. Conclude your trip with a relaxing evening in Gençlik Park, enjoying the beautiful gardens and attractions.
Ankara’s rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and modern amenities make it a must-visit destination in Turkey. Whether you’re exploring its ancient landmarks, savoring its local cuisine, or enjoying its green spaces, Ankara offers a unique and memorable experience for every traveler.
