Ankara travel guide

While Ankara is a cosmopolitan city, Turkish is the predominantly spoken language. For a more enjoyable stay, it’s advisable to learn a few basic Turkish phrases. Start with greetings like 'Merhaba' (Hello), 'Teşekkür ederim' (Thank you), and 'Lütfen' (Please). Remember that Turks appreciate it when foreigners make an effort to speak their language. English is taught in schools and therefore understood by many, particularly in tourist areas and hotels. However, proficiency varies, and older generations may not speak English as fluently. Consider downloading a translation app or carrying a pocket dictionary for difficult situations. While gestures and body language are universal, be cautious as some might have different meanings in Turkish culture.

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, experiences a cold semi-arid climate. Summers in the city, running from June to September, have temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. They are warm and fairly dry, with very little rainfall. The city's winters, from December to March, can be extremely cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing. Snowfall is common during these months and can occasionally cause disruptions in the city's services.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C. These seasons see more rainfall compared to summer, providing a lush green landscape for sightseeing. Ankara's high elevation can result in rapid weather changes, so layers are recommended for travellers. The city is also subject to occasional high winds, which can make the perceived temperature feel colder. Therefore, visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing for the season of their visit.

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Ankara is more than just a wonderful city in Turkey. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Turkey's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Ankara is the unforgettable Anıtkabir. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Ankara. This remarkable attraction is located at Mebusevleri, Akdeniz Cd. No:31, 06570 Çankaya/Ankara, Türkiye, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 09:00-17:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Ankara, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Ankara, including the fascinating Anıtkabir, Haci Bayram Mosque, Ankara Castle, Ulucanlar Prison Museum, and Independence Park.

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Ankara.

A visit to Ankara gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Bus Tours, Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Ankara, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Ankara. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Ankara offers and let your adventures begin!

In Ankara, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 10 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

Ankara also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Ankara Data eSIM 0.5GB daily to 50GB 30 Days, for example, is the cheapest Self Guided Tour option in the city. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Ankara adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Ankara right below.

Discover the best things to do in Ankara. Choose from 39 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Ankara. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Ankara.

Ankara, Turkey's capital, offers a variety of culinary delights that you should not miss. The city's traditional dishes like the hearty İskender Kebap, İçli Köfte, and the local specialty Ankara Tava are a must-try. Kızılay and Ulus are renowned dining districts offering everything from street food to high-end restaurants. For a taste of the city's street food, explore the stalls in Ulus where you can savor Simit, a circular bread covered with sesame seeds, and Ayran, a popular yogurt drink. Meanwhile, Kızılay's vibrant food scene offers a variety of upscale dining options, including the famous Trilye Restaurant, known for its seafood. Tunali Hilmi Street is another hotspot where you can find some of the best places to eat in Ankara, presenting a mix of traditional Turkish and international cuisines. Remember, dining in Ankara is not just about food, it's an experience. Embrace the local culture, try the traditional Turkish tea, and end your meal with a mouth-watering Baklava. Bon appétit!

The capital city of Turkey, Ankara, offers a vibrant shopping scene that combines tradition with modernity. One of the best places to go shopping in Ankara is the historic district of Hamamönü. Here, you'll find a range of shops selling everything from handcrafted ceramics and textiles to antique jewelry, a testament to Ankara's rich cultural heritage. For a more upscale experience, visit the Armada Shopping Mall, home to international fashion brands, and the chic Tunali Hilmi Street, known for its trendy boutiques. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the bustling local markets, such as the Sunday Market in Ulus, where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Turkish sweets. For distinctive Ankara fashion, purchase a traditional 'kaftan' or 'yemeni' slippers. Be sure to also buy a bottle of 'Ankara honey', a local delicacy known for its unique flavor. Before you embark on your shopping spree, remember to brush up on your bargaining skills, as haggling is a common practice in Turkish markets. No matter your shopping preference, Ankara offers a diverse array of options that cater to all tastes and budgets.

Ankara, Turkey's vibrant capital, is an exciting destination for budget-conscious travelers. One of the best free things to do in Ankara is visiting the Ataturk Mausoleum. This monumental tomb of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, Turkey's founding father, offers an insightful journey into the country's history. For a peaceful retreat, head to Genclik Park. With its beautiful fountains and well-kept gardens, it is a perfect spot for a picnic or leisurely walk. For art enthusiasts, the State Art and Sculpture Museum is a must-visit. It showcases a wide range of Turkish art from different periods, all for free. Take a stroll through the Hamamonu Restored Area, a delightful neighborhood with restored Ottoman-era houses, now home to numerous cafes and shops. Although the shopping isn't free, the window-shopping and ambiance certainly is. Lastly, don't forget to explore the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus, situated in the old quarter of Ulus. Its remarkable inscriptions give a glimpse into the Roman Empire's relations with the region. These experiences prove that you can enjoy Ankara's rich history and vibrant culture without spending.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Ankara is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Ankara. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Ankara, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Ankara even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Ankara both affordable and unforgettable.

Travelers visiting Ankara can easily access the city via Esenboğa International, offering direct connection to 338 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Ankara below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Ankara and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Renting a car in Ankara is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Ankara, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Ankara for your upcoming adventures in Turkey below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Ankara. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Ankara, Turkey, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Turkey. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Travelers in Turkey can catch flights to domestic airports in Istanbul, Bodrum, Kayseri, Trabzon, and Tekirdağ. Domestic flights in Turkey are operated by 4 airlines, including AJet, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and Azerbaijan Airlines. There are around 48 scheduled flight routes operating to Ankara on a weekly basis.

From Ankara, travelers can book scheduled flights to 39 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Ankara depart to many top-rated destinations in Turkey and are offered by AJet, Turkish Airlines, and Pegasus.

Traveling to another city or region in Turkey? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Ankara to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Turkey on the selected dates.