Anıtkabir travel guide

Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey, is an iconic landmark in Ankara.

With construction beginning in 1944 and completed in 1953, it stands as a symbol of Turkish independence and national pride.

Designed by architects Professor Emin Onat and Assistant Professor Orhan Arda, the monument reflects both Seljuk and Ottoman architectural styles, infused with modernist design elements.

The monument was built on Rasattepe, which was known for its panoramic view of Ankara, and the decision to build Atatürk's final resting place here was made following his death in 1938.

Anıtkabir also includes a museum, opened in 1960, that houses Atatürk's personal effects, historical artifacts of his era, and a comprehensive library. The vast ceremonial plaza can accommodate tens of thousands of people, and is the site of official state ceremonies and public commemorations.

Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, is an architectural marvel that combines styles from various Anatolian civilizations. The mausoleum stands on a 337,500 square meter ceremonial ground, with four main parts: the Road of Lions, the Ceremonial Plaza, the Hall of Honor, and the Peace Park. The Road of Lions, a 262-meter long pathway lined with twelve pairs of lion statues, is a tribute to the Hittite civilization and symbolizes power and peace.

The Ceremonial Plaza, large enough to accommodate 15,000 people, is surrounded by the Hall of Honor, where Atatürk's tomb resides, and the museum housing Atatürk's personal items. The striking architecture of the Hall of Honor, with its 40-ton sarcophagus and 50-foot-high ceiling, is a testament to the monumental status of Atatürk. The Peace Park, home to hundreds of different species of trees and flowers gifted from different countries, reinforces Atatürk's famous saying, 'Peace at Home, Peace in the World.' These unique features make Anıtkabir a must-visit attraction that offers a profound insight into Turkish history and culture.

Discover Anıtkabir, a prime feature of Ankara, in the vibrant Çankaya. Anıtkabir is situated at Mebusevleri, Akdeniz Cd. No:31, 06570 Çankaya/Ankara, Türkiye, just a short distance from Cermodern and Ankara Vakıf Museum, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Anıtkabir, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Ankara, a city in Turkey rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Ankara travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Anıtkabir is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Ankara, Turkey. If you're flying in, Esenboğa International Airport is approximately 16.3 miles (26.3 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Anıtkabir by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Ankara, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Anıtkabir, which is located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Mebusevleri, Akdeniz Cd. No:31, 06570 Çankaya/Ankara, Türkiye.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Anıtkabir!

The best time to explore Anıtkabir is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) seasons, when Ankara's weather is at its most pleasant. These periods offer comfortable temperatures and less rainfall, providing an ideal climate for outdoor exploration. Anıtkabir can get crowded during the weekends and national holidays, so visiting on weekdays can offer a more personal and calm experience. A particularly special time to visit is on Republic Day (October 29th), when a grand ceremony takes place. However, this does attract larger crowds. If you prefer a quieter visit but want to experience a unique event, consider visiting on November 10th, the anniversary of Atatürk's death. At exactly 09:05, the time of his passing, the city observes a moment of silence, creating a solemn and moving atmosphere. Regardless of when you choose to visit, an early morning or late afternoon trip can help avoid peak crowd times and offer a more peaceful experience. The lighting during these times also creates beautiful views of this iconic monument.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Anıtkabir, perfectly planned travel packages to Ankara make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Ankara, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Anıtkabir.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic monument in Turkey.

Upon arriving at Esenboğa International Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Ankara.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Ankara.

Choosing the right accommodation near Anıtkabir from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Ankara can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Anıtkabir, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Anıtkabir, Ankara boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From mosque to museum, the top attractions in Ankara offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Ankara is Haci Bayram Mosque, located at Hacı Bayram, Sarıbağ Sk. No:13, 06050 Altındağ/Ankara, Türkiye. This well-known mosque enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Ankara Castle is worth seeing when you're in Ankara. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Kale, 06240 Altındağ/Ankara, Türkiye.

This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Hacettepe, Ulucanlar Cd. No:63, 06030 Altındağ/Ankara, Türkiye, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Ankara below to discover even more incredible places to explore.