Things To Do in Ankara
Ankara, the vibrant capital of Turkey, is a city where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to witness unique landmarks that have stood the test of time, telling stories of civilizations that shaped the world? Whether planning a short trip or an extended stay, Ankara offers an array of enriching experiences beyond the usual tourist trails. From exploring ancient fortresses like Ankara Castle to immersing yourself in the wonders of archaeology at the renowned Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, every corner of this city invites you to embark on a journey through time. But Ankara isn’t just about its past—it’s a thriving metropolis filled with cultural gems, bustling markets, and serene parks waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the best things to do in Ankara, ensuring your visit is packed with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for authentic local experiences, Ankara has something special for you.
Walk Through the Timeless Walls of Ankara Castle
Ankara Castle stands proudly, inviting visitors to explore its rich history. As you walk through its ancient stone walls, you can almost feel the presence of the warriors, traders, and emperors who once strolled alongside you.
When you climb to the top, you’re treated to an incredible view that stretches as far as the eye can see. The city is a beautiful mix of old and new, creating a stunning backdrop. Inside the fortress, you’ll find charming narrow streets lined with lovely houses, local shops, and cozy cafés, each with its own unique story to share. It truly feels like you’ve stepped into a warm, comforting tale from the past!
Visit Anıtkabir: The Resting Place of Atatürk
Anıtkabir is more than just a mausoleum it’s a wonderful symbol of the nation’s appreciation. This beautiful resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, exudes a sense of pride and respect.
As you stroll along the Road of Lions, with the stone lions representing strength and unity on either side, you can’t help but feel a rush of emotions. The grand hall, where Atatürk’s sarcophagus rests peacefully, creates an atmosphere of reverence and admiration.
Inside, the museum invites you to explore his remarkable life his struggles, aspirations, and his unwavering love for Turkey. You really can’t walk away from Anıtkabir without feeling a deep connection, almost like you’ve touched the very spirit of the country!
Discover the Ancient Roman Temple of Augustus
Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Temple of Augustus is a wonderful place where the past beautifully connects with the present. Its sturdy, timeworn columns have so many stories to tell about the Roman Empire, standing tall as quiet witnesses to all the changes over the centuries.
One of the coolest parts of the temple is the inscriptions on its walls, known as the Monumentum Ancyranum. They’re like a special link to Emperor Augustus himself, making it a unique historical gem! When you visit, you can feel the rich history around you, as if the stories of the great civilizations that once flourished here are gently wrapping around you. It’s a truly magical experience!
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: A Window Into the Past
If Ankara had a heart, it would be the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations! Strolling through its halls feels like stepping into a time machine, taking you on an incredible journey through thousands of years of human history.
You’ll find everything from beautiful figurines of the Neolithic era to the impressive artifacts of the Hittite Empire. Each piece seems to tell its own story, sharing secrets from long ago. The cozy, dimly lit galleries and the ancient carvings create an experience that’s not just educational but also deeply moving. It’s a wonderful place that makes you appreciate the richness of human civilization!
Discover the Archaeology and Art Museum
Welcome to the Archaeology and Art Museum, where history and creativity come together most fascinatingly! Each exhibit tells a unique story of both destruction and creation, taking you on a journey through the artistic heart of Turkey.
From beautifully crafted statues to intricately designed mosaics, every piece here offers a glimpse into the past, reminding us how art has always been a powerful expression of human emotion across different eras. Come and explore the rich stories that these wonderful artifacts have to tell!
Step Into Turkish Heritage at the Ethnography Museum
Culture is more than just history; it’s all about the people, their traditions, and what makes a nation unique. The Ethnography Museum truly brings this spirit to life with its amazing collection of Ottoman-era treasures, traditional clothing, and beautifully crafted weapons.
As you wander through the exhibits, you can almost hear the melodies of old Turkish songs, smell the delightful spices from ancient kitchens, and admire the intricate embroidery on the garments on display. This museum isn’t just a location; it’s a wonderful experience that invites you to connect with the heart and soul of Turkey!
Experience Modern Creativity at Cer Modern
Ankara isn’t just a city with a rich history; it’s also a vibrant hub for the future! Cer Modern captures this spirit. Set in a cool repurposed train depot, this contemporary art center buzzes with creativity and energy.
With a mix of thought-provoking exhibitions and exciting performances, Cer Modern is truly the artistic heartbeat of the city. As you wander through its galleries, you can sense the passion of the artists in every brushstroke, sculpture, and digital piece. It’s not just a place to see art—it’s a place to feel it!
Find Serenity at Gençlik Park
After an exciting day soaking up all the history and culture Ankara has to offer, there’s no better place to unwind than Gençlik Park! It’s like a little piece of paradise right in the city’s heart, featuring gorgeous gardens, sparkling lakes, and such a chill vibe that you’ll instantly feel at ease.
As you stroll along the pathways, you’ll spot families laughing together, couples enjoying each other’s company, and kids joyfully chasing after their dreams under the big, open sky. And when the sun sets, it’s simply magical—the golden light dances on the water, creating a beautiful scene that feels like something out of a painting.
In these delightful moments, you start to feel it—Ankara isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a place to truly experience and enjoy!
Watch the Swans at Kuğulu Park
If you’re looking for a cozy escape in Ankara, you’ve got to check out Kuğulu Park! Tucked away from all the city noise, this charming green spot is famous for its lovely swans gliding gracefully across the pond, their white feathers sparkling in the sunshine.
There’s nothing quite like sinking into a bench with a warm cup of Turkish tea, just soaking in the peaceful vibes around you. You can hear the delightful sounds of kids laughing, couples chatting softly, and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. It all comes together so wonderfully! In those moments, it feels like time stands still, wrapping you in a warm blanket of tranquility.
Explore the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo
If you’re looking for a charming spot where nature, history, and tradition come together, you’ve got to check out Atatürk Forest Farm! Founded by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, this lovely green space is so much more than just a farm it’s truly a piece of history.
As you stroll through the beautiful gardens and dairy farms, you can feel the thoughtful vision that went into creating this self-sustaining oasis right in the heart of the capital. The delightful aroma of freshly baked bread wafts from the bakery, and you absolutely can’t miss out on trying the famous Atatürk Forest Farm ice cream. One taste and you’ll see why the locals love it so much!
It’s a wonderful place to reconnect with nature, savor the delicious flavors of Turkish agriculture, and soak up the rich history that surrounds you at every turn. Enjoy your visit!
Savor the Signature Dish: Ankara Tava
Food is not just nourishment—it’s an experience, a story told through flavors. And when in Ankara, you must try the city’s signature dish: Ankara Tava.
Imagine tender pieces of lamb, slow-cooked to perfection, resting on a bed of fragrant rice. The aroma alone is enough to make your heart race. With every bite, you taste the warmth of home-cooked tradition, a dish that has been passed down for generations.
Dining on Ankara Tava isn’t just about eating—it’s about feeling the soul of the city through its most beloved flavors.
Experience the Famous Aspava Culture
Aspava is more than just food—it’s a feeling, a ritual, a piece of Ankara’s identity. Walk into any of the city’s iconic Aspava restaurants, and you’ll instantly feel at home.
Picture this: a sizzling plate of döner or iskender arrives, but that’s just the beginning. Side dishes—fresh salads, warm pide, creamy yogurt—start appearing, as if by magic. And just when you think it’s over, a complimentary plate of warm dessert arrives.
The best part? The phrase “Allah Sağlık Para Afiyet Versin Amin” (which Aspava stands for) is a reminder that food is not just about satisfying hunger—it’s about gratitude, generosity, and sharing.
Grab a Simit and Tea Like a Local
No trip to Ankara is complete without experiencing its simplest yet most cherished tradition: grabbing a simit and tea.
Simit—the crisp, sesame-crusted Turkish bagel—is not just a snack; it’s a way of life. Paired with a steaming glass of Turkish tea, it’s the perfect way to start the day, take a break, or simply enjoy a quiet moment.
Join the locals at a street-side café or grab one from a simit vendor. Take a bite, let the crunch echo in your ears, sip your tea, and for a moment, you’ll feel like you belong to this city.
Stroll Through Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu: The Antique Street
Walking through Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu is like stepping into a time machine. This narrow, winding street is lined with antique shops, each filled with relics from the past—old coins, handwoven carpets, Ottoman jewelry, and forgotten treasures waiting to be rediscovered.
As you run your fingers over an aged book, imagine the hands that once turned its pages. As you admire a delicate silver ornament, picture the stories it has witnessed. This street is not just a marketplace; it’s a storyteller, whispering the history of Ankara through its artifacts.
And who knows? You might just take home a piece of history yourself.
Explore the Bustling Ulus Market
If you truly want to feel the pulse of Ankara, head to Ulus Market. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s an experience that engages all your senses.
The air is filled with the scent of freshly ground spices, the sound of vendors calling out their best deals, and the vibrant colors of fruits, vegetables, and handcrafted goods. It’s chaotic yet beautiful, loud yet welcoming—a place where tradition and commerce have danced together for centuries.
Bargain like a local, taste a freshly baked börek, and soak in the energy of the market. Ulus is not just a place—it’s the heartbeat of Ankara.
FAQs: Things To Do in Ankara
1. What are the major tourist spots to see in Ankara?
Turkey’s capital, Ankara, has a rich blend of modern and ancient history. Highlights are the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Anıtkabir; the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, featuring prehistoric artifacts; Ankara Castle, with views of the city; and Kocatepe Mosque, Turkey’s second-largest. Take a walk around Gençlik Park or contemplate the old town district of Hamamönü to experience traditional crafts and buildings.
2. Is Ankara a good spot for sightseeing for historians?
Indeed, Ankara is a great place for history enthusiasts. The city offers a lot of historical sites and museums.. Roman Baths, Temple of Augustus, and the Hacı Bayram Mosque are a few of the Roman and Ottoman legacies of the city. The Ethnography Museum and Atatürk’s House Museum give valuable information about Turkish history and culture too.
3. Are there family-friendly activities available in Ankara?
Indeed! Ankara has a plethora of activities that families can enjoy. The Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo comprises a large zoo with animals, parks, and a miniature farm. Wonderland Eurasia, which ranks as one of the largest theme parks in Europe, will thrill children and adults. Families can also go to Altınköy Open Air Museum to observe traditional Turkish village life.
4. Where are the best shopping spots in Ankara?
Ankara boasts modern malls as well as traditional shopping markets. Armada, Kentpark, and Ankamall are some of the popular shopping malls featuring international brands and eateries. To experience something more local, head to the Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu and Samanpazarı neighborhoods, where you can shop for antiques, handicrafts, and souvenirs in an ambiance surrounded by a marketplace.
