2026 Ankara Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in March)

Ankara is Turkey’s capital, often overlooked by travelers who focus on Istanbul. But beyond government buildings, it offers museums, wide boulevards, hilltop views, and a strong sense of modern Turkish identity. Why Visit Ankara? 🇹🇷 Political and cultural heart of modern Turkey 🏛️ Important museums and historical sites 🏙️ Panoramic hilltop views ☕ Authentic local city life 🚶 Less touristy, more everyday Turkey Top Things to Experience / See 🏛️ Visit Anıtkabir (Atatürk’s Mausoleum) 🏰 Explore Ankara Castle 🏛️ Discover the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations 🌇 Walk along wide boulevards in Kızılay ☕ Relax in local cafés away from tourist crowds Best Time to Visit 🌸 Spring for comfortable weather 🍁 Autumn for clear skies ❄️ Winter can be cold but atmospheric Visitor Tips 🚇 Use metro for easy transport 🧥 Winters are colder than coastal cities 🚶 Distances between attractions can be large 📷 Best views from hilltop areas Quick Info 📍 Location: Central Anatolia 🏛️ Role: Capital of Turkey 💸 Cost: Affordable 🚇 Transport: Metro + taxis available Why Travelers Love It Ankara feels grounded and real. It may not be flashy, but it shows you modern Turkey from the inside. A city of identity, not spectacle.

Turkiye is an absolute bucket-list destination—seriously, 10 days just fly by, and trust me, you’ll want waaay more time! Every corner here is pure art worthy of your IG feed. Whether you’re a snow bunny or craving sunny vibes, Turkiye’s scenery will blow your mind 🤯. Sooo much more than pretty cities: the villages and rural spots are dripping in nature’s magic. Don’t stop at Istanbul! Visit places like Bursa, dreamy Cappadocia (hellooo fairy chimneys!), Bolu, Konya,Ankara and more. For real, step out of the city and chase those small-town adventures—nature in Turkiye is next-level. Most people hit up only the classics, but the real glow-up is in the villages 🌄. One of my ultimate travel hacks: Highway Otel. This spot is a total game-changer, especially in snowy weather! Highway Otel sits right on the Ankara-İstanbul highway, directly connected to a shopping mall. So even if it’s blizzarding outside, you can still shop, snack, and chill without stepping into the cold. Plus, there’s free parking, a breakfast, and super clean rooms—perfect for road trippers and families. Clean sheets, epic convenience, and shopping on your doorstep... you’ll thank me later 😁. Pro tips for Turkiye travel: - Give yourself extra time to get lost in the villages and soak up countryside vibes. - Always pack layers—the weather snaps from sunny to snowy real quick. - Stay where it’s convenient! Highway Otel seriously saves you time and cold feet. - Don’t rush. Even 10 days isn’t enough! Put Turkiye as your next trip list!!😍❤️❤️❤️#travel #turkiye #istanbul #bursa #konya #ankara #cappadocia #pamukkale

#January Destinations 2026 Among Ankara's many shopping malls, Podium Mall (Podium AVM) stands out as the top choice for residents of Yenimahalle and throughout northwestern Ankara, thanks to its exceptional convenience and diverse selection of local brands. Unlike downtown malls, it doesn't feel touristy; instead, it offers a relaxed and authentic Turkish lifestyle atmosphere. Podium AVM officially opened in 2015, with an architectural design emphasizing natural light and spacious layouts. The mall's interior is simple and intuitive, and it boasts ample outdoor and indoor parking, making it very convenient for travelers by car or local commuters. 🛍️ Shopping Highlights: From Affordable Brands to Lifestyle Department Stores Podium Mall brings together approximately 180 brands, characterized by "high value for money" and "lifestyle appeal": International and Local Apparel: In addition to international fast fashion brands like H&M and Mango, the three major Turkish national brands—LC Waikiki, DeFacto, and Koton—are all available in large quantities, with incredibly low prices during discount seasons. Must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts: This area features a large Decathlon, one of the few large locations in Ankara suitable for stocking up on travel gear. Home & Living: The spacious Bauhaus (hardware and home goods) and Migros supermarket offer a one-stop shop for Turkish snacks, tea, and unique kitchenware. Beauty & Health: Including Gratis, Watsons, and Rossmann, it's a great place to buy Turkish hand creams (such as d'Olive). 🍽️ Food & Leisure: A feast for the senses The rooftop food court is the lifeblood of Podium Mall: Classic Turkish Flavors: Recommended chains include Tavuk Dünyası (affordable and delicious chicken set meals) or Köfteci Yusuf (a famous meatball specialty shop). Relaxing Coffee Time: Starbucks and the famous Turkish ice cream and dessert shop Mado both have locations here, allowing you to enjoy an authentic Turkish tea or coffee anytime you're tired from shopping. Entertainment Facilities: Featuring a Cinemaximum cinema (showing Turkish and Hollywood films) and an indoor children's playground, it's a standard "family-friendly" shopping mall. 🗺️ Useful Transportation Information Podium Mall is located at a key hub in Yenimahalle. If you plan to visit: Address: Mehmet Akif Ersoy Mah. Bağdat Cad. No:60/B Yenimahalle/ANKARA. Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00. Nearby Landmarks: Adjacent to Ankara's famous wholesale market district, GİMAT, and not far from the former site of Ankapark (Fairyland Park). Public Transportation: Take the metro to Macunköy station, then transfer to a bus or taxi (approximately a 5-minute drive). 💡 Expert Advice: If your itinerary includes a visit to Ankara Castle or the National Monument, Podium Mall is not on this traditional tourist route. However, if you are driving from Ankara to Cappadocia or heading west to Istanbul, Podium is right next to the national highway and is perfect as a supply depot during your trip.

#hellochristmas The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a journey through time. 🏺✨ Located in Ankara, it houses artifacts from Turkey’s rich history, from the Paleolithic era to the Ottoman period. Walking through its halls, visitors can see intricate Hittite carvings, ancient pottery, and delicate jewelry that reveal the artistry of civilizations long past. Each exhibit tells a story of culture, innovation, and daily life, offering a deep connection to the people who shaped Anatolia. The museum’s layout guides you through chronological displays, making it easy to explore thousands of years in a single visit. Families, students, and history enthusiasts find inspiration and wonder at every corner. The beautifully preserved artifacts, combined with detailed explanations, make learning about ancient civilizations engaging and memorable. A visit here is more than sightseeing—it’s stepping into the lives of those who lived centuries ago. 🏛️📜✨ (Sticker suggestion: ancient scroll, pottery,

Ankara, The Most Low-Key Capital 3 km Citywalk Experience deep romance without the crowds～ 🏛️ Atatürk Mausoleum (Anıtkabir) The hourly changing of the guard ceremony is truly stunning 20 minutes of solemn marching paired with marble architecture The atmosphere is absolutely immersive📸 Arrive in Cappadocia at 2 PM🪐 The surface that looks most like the moon is no exaggeration Every shot in the town of Göreme is beautiful

Through three pillars – "Button House Architectural Revitalization," "Museum Accessibility Experience," and "Turtle Conservation Program" – an innovative model has been established that synergizes Turkey's cultural, social, and natural development. The Antalya Button House enhances earthquake resistance and energy efficiency using traditional wood-and-stone construction techniques, becoming a global exemplar of sustainable architecture. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations employs 3D printing to create a tactile artifact exhibition hall, enabling visually impaired visitors to experience "barrier-free historical exploration" for the first time, thereby improving tourist experiences. Meanwhile, the Antalya Turtle Guardian Program has successfully guided 54,000 hatchlings to the sea by developing "Turtle-Friendly Tourism" standards. These three initiatives are deeply integrated, forming a sustainable tourism cycle of "heritage protection – social inclusion – ecological friendliness," driving visitor growth in Turkey and setting a benchmark for high-quality development in the cultural tourism industry.

Through three pillars – "Button House Architectural Revitalization," "Museum Accessibility Experience," and "Turtle Conservation Program" – an innovative model has been established that synergizes Turkey's cultural, social, and natural development. The Antalya Button House enhances earthquake resistance and energy efficiency using traditional wood-and-stone construction techniques, becoming a global exemplar of sustainable architecture. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations employs 3D printing to create a tactile artifact exhibition hall, enabling visually impaired visitors to experience "barrier-free historical exploration" for the first time, thereby improving tourist experiences. Meanwhile, the Antalya Turtle Guardian Program has successfully guided 54,000 hatchlings to the sea by developing "Turtle-Friendly Tourism" standards. These three initiatives are deeply integrated, forming a sustainable tourism cycle of "heritage protection – social inclusion – ecological friendliness," driving visitor growth in Turkey and setting a benchmark for high-quality development in the cultural tourism industry.

If Vice City were reskinned with Ottoman domes, spotless streets and turquoise water, you’d get Antalya. Locals even use the nickname, and after a week at Porto Bello Hotel Resort & Spa we see why—neon sunsets, palm-lined boulevards and energy that never sleeps. Life at Porto Bello (All-Inclusive Bliss) • Food: Unlimited mezzes, pide straight from the stone oven and desserts that made “just one more baklava” our anthem. • Animation team: Morning aqua-gym, afternoon beach volleyball, nightly shows—boredom simply not allowed. • Sea: Konyaaltı’s shingle shore shelves into the Mediterranean so clear it looks like a baby’s tear; bring reef shoes and you’ll float all day. Evenings in “Turkish Vice City” • Old Town (Kaleiçi) – Roman harbour, Ottoman balconies, cats on cobblestones. • Lower Düden Waterfall – Lit up after dark, roar amplified by the quiet sea. • Konyaaltı Promenade – Super-clean, flood-lit even at 2 a.m.; teens play basketball, kids whizz on scooters, joggers share the lane. 🍦 Classic Turkish ice-cream show (yes, the vendor stole the cone twice) and strong Turkish coffee kept us strolling past midnight. • Souvenir maze – Shopkeepers invite you for apple tea while you debate which Nazar keychain is cutest. City vibe: Spotless pavements, LED lighting everywhere and a permanent buzz—Antalya feels safe, lively and alive 24/7. Quick Tips for August Travelers 1. Sea-view room + A/C—humidity peaks after lunch. 2. Sunrise swims (before 08:00) give you empty water and dolphin chances. 3. Reserve excursions online; on-site desks sell out fast in school-holiday weeks. ⸻ Bonus Chapter: 24 Hours in Sleepy-Yet-Charming Ankara 🏛️ Our return route included an overnight lay-over in the capital. We landed 21:00, stored bags at ESB lockers and metro’d into a city that had already gone to bed—streets empty, shutters down. Morning reset: • Ankara Castle – Bird’s-eye view of orderly boulevards and low-rise houses whose white walls and blue shutters remind you of Greek island villages. • Local café breakfast – Menemen + simit; owner surprised by foreigners, treated us to free ayran 🥛. • Kızılay Square & Anıtkabir – Respectful hush around Atatürk’s mausoleum; changing-of-the-guard worth the climb. By 15:00 we were back at the airport, souvenirs stowed and minds expanded by Turkey’s two contrasting faces. Seven beach-happy days in bright, buzzing Antalya followed by a calm, Greek-toned capital—Turkey packed more variety into eight days than most trips give in a month. ✈️❤️🇹🇷 #TurkishViceCity #Antalya #PortoBelloResort #KonyaaltiBeach #AllInclusive #CleanAndLively #DudenWaterfall #KaleiciOldTown #TurkishIceCream #AugustTravelTips #AnkaraLayover #GreekStyleArchitecture #AtaturkMausoleum #TravelDiaries

This grand Kemal Memorial commemorates the brave Turkish founding father and hero, Kemal. Kemal died of illness in 1938. In order to commemorate him, the people built the memorial in 1944. The memorial is located in Ankara, the capital of Turkey. If you look closely, you can see that the main buildings are made up of the colors of Cappadocia, the favorite of the founding father. There must be soldiers stationed here and guards standing guard. There is a guard handover ceremony at around 9am. When the national anthem is played, everyone will stand at attention to show respect and admiration for the country. This year is also the 100th anniversary of Turkey's founding in 1923, so there are many special activities❗️👍👍 Because this is where many schools conduct off-campus teaching, you can see many cute local Turkish children everywhere and take photos with them🥰✨️ #Overseas Travel #travel #Turquia #Turkey #travelholic #TravelCoolExperience #Photography Guide #Romantic #100 Ways to Travel

Friends, are you still struggling to decide where to go for your next international trip? Today, I must recommend Ankara, the capital of Türkiye. This seriously underrated city is full of surprises! Pre-trip Preparations 📅 Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Ankara. The weather is pleasant, neither too cold nor too hot, perfect for exploring. 💰 Travel budget: The overall cost of travel isn't high, averaging 800–1,500 lira per day (approximately 300–600 CNY), depending on your spending habits. If you stay in homestays and eat street food, you can save even more. Transportation Guide ✈️ Arrival: Most people fly to Istanbul first and then transfer to Ankara. The flight takes about 1.5 hrs. 🚗 Getting around: Ankara has a convenient public transportation system. You can use a travel card on the subway, buses, and trams, which can be purchased at stations. Taxis are also affordable, but make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged. Must-see Attractions 1️⃣ Ankara Castle: The oldest part of Ankara. Standing on the castle, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. The buildings within the castle are steeped in history, making for great photos. Here, you can feel the rich history and culture of Türkiye, as if you've traveled back to the Ottoman Empire. 2️⃣ Anıtkabir (Atatürk Mausoleum): Built in memory of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. The architecture is grand and solemn, and the mausoleum houses Atatürk's belongings and exhibits on his life. It's a great place to learn about modern Turkish history. The changing of the guard ceremony is also worth watching, full of ritual and tradition. 3️⃣ Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: A must-visit for history buffs! The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Anatolian region, spanning from prehistoric times to the Ottoman Empire. From exquisite pottery to ancient sculptures, each piece tells a story of this land. Visiting the museum is like taking a vivid history lesson. Food Recommendations 🍢 Kebabs: You can't visit Türkiye without trying kebabs! Ankara offers a wide variety of kebabs, including döner kebab and grilled lamb chops. The aroma of the meat, served with fries and salad, is simply divine. 🧆 Turkish pizza: Different from Italian pizza, Turkish pizza has a thinner crust and rich toppings, including minced meat, cheese, and vegetables. Each bite is a burst of flavor. ☕ Turkish coffee: This is a signature Turkish drink, and the coffee-making process itself is a ritual. The coffee has a strong flavor. After finishing your coffee, you can ask the barista to read your coffee grounds, which is said to predict your fortune. It's a fun experience. Accommodation Experience I stayed in a homestay in the old town, where I could see Ankara Castle from my window and enjoy the night view of the ancient city. The homestay owner was very welcoming and gave me many travel tips. If you have a larger budget, you can choose a hotel in the city center, which is convenient for transportation and shopping. Shopping and Entertainment 🛍️ Grand Bazaar: This is like a giant shopping maze, filled with a variety of local products, including carpets, spices, and handicrafts. Remember to bargain; start at half the asking price, and you can save a lot of money. 🎭 In the evening, you can go to a local theater to watch a traditional Turkish dance performance. The dancers, dressed in gorgeous costumes, perform passionate and energetic dances, offering an immersive experience of Turkish culture. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls Check the opening hours of attractions before you go, as some are closed on Mondays. When shopping at the Grand Bazaar, don't show too much enthusiasm for buying, or it will be difficult to bargain. When taking a taxi, pay attention to the meter to avoid being taken on a longer route. Friends, Ankara is truly worth a visit. Pack your bags and embark on a spontaneous trip to Türkiye!

Seriously, you guys, staying at the JW Marriott during my Ankara trip was an absolute game-changer! 📍 Amazing location The hotel is in a prime spot in Ankara, making it easy to get anywhere. It's surrounded by tons of landmarks, perfect for snapping photos right outside the door. Plus, there are all sorts of unique little shops nearby, making browsing and shopping a blast. Finding great food is super convenient too. 🏨 Incredible atmosphere From the moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the hotel's grand yet refined decor. The lobby blends modern design with local Turkish elements, with attention to every detail. My room was cozy and comfortable, with a bed as soft as a cloud. I didn't want to get out of it! The city views from the window were a definite bonus. 💁‍♀️ Attentive service The staff's service was impeccable! From the warm welcome at check-in to the thoughtful care throughout my stay, they were quick to respond to any need. I felt so well taken care of, like I was truly at home. 🍽 Culinary delights The hotel's restaurant is simply amazing! The diverse menu, especially the authentic Turkish dishes, was a feast for the senses. Every bite was a taste bud explosion. The breakfast was also super satisfying, providing the perfect start to an energetic day. If you're ever in Ankara, don't miss the JW Marriott Hotel. It's an experience that will exceed all your expectations!

Flying over the Anatolian Plateau, I revisited this place～the last time I came to Ankara was nine years ago! The last time I visited Ankara Castle, it was midsummer; this time, it's the dead of winter. The castle is located on a hill in the old city, a perfect place to stroll～you can also overlook Ankara or watch the golden sunset light cast over the red roofs of the city～On the path to the top of the castle, there are many small shops selling Turkish specialties, as well as cafes, restaurants, and small hotels, along with well-preserved thick city walls and charming winding streets. Ankara Castle was built by the ancient Romans in the 2nd century BC and stands on a hilltop overlooking the entire city～used for military defense. The roads here are intricate, and the crumbling walls are full of historical vicissitudes～Because of its strategic location, this castle has been through many battles and was successively occupied by the Eastern Romans, Persians, and Arabs～Therefore, there are not many ancient buildings left, so there is no entrance fee here. You can walk around, enjoy the scenery, and have a cup of coffee～how comfortable. Ankara is located in the northwest of the Anatolian Plateau on the Asia Minor Peninsula. It is the capital of Türkiye and the second largest city after Istanbul. Although it is the capital～it seems to be always overshadowed by Istanbul, the former capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, Constantinople. Ankara used to be just a small town and didn't develop into a modern city with a population of about 5 million until 2009～Ankara's time as the capital is pitifully short compared to Istanbul. It was only designated as the capital in 1923 when the father of Türkiye, Atatürk, founded the country. Compared to Istanbul, which is frequently featured on the international big screen～Ankara does not appear on screen very often, but in fact, Ankara is also a city with a long history, dating back to ancient times～There are many historical sites in Ankara, such as the Column of Julian and the Temple of Augustus from the Roman period; the castle and tombs from the Byzantine period; the Alaeddin Mosque from the Seljuk period, and the Mehmet Pasha Market from the Ottoman period...If you have enough time when traveling in Türkiye, Ankara is a very worthwhile stop. My favorite places in Ankara are Kocatepe Mosque, Hacı Bayram Mosque, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations～The museum is located on a hillside on the outskirts of Ankara, the capital of Türkiye. The museum building itself is a 15th-century covered market with 10 domes on its roof. The museum displays artifacts unearthed from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age, Assyrian, Lydian, and Hittite periods in the Anatolian region. Because of its historical building and the profound history it displays～the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations was named the first "European Museum of the Year" in Switzerland on April 19, 1997.

Compared to Istanbul, the capital, Ankara is much more low-key. The main tourist attractions in the city are mostly museums or military memorials. What you must know when you come to Ankara is Kemal, the father of Turkey (the name is too long to remember). The Turks have great respect for their founding father, especially women. Kemal exempted women from many traditional Islamic customs such as headscarves and robes, making Turkey the most open among Islamic countries. After coming to Turkey, you can really feel the huge difference in folk customs👍 The most eye-catching thing about the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is the guard change. They stepped very loudly and shouted incomprehensible military orders, which was very handsome ❤️ #100TravelWays #Ankara #TurkeyTreasureCities #TurkeyFather #2024TravelReview

#2024Travel Review Ahî Şerafeddin Camii, also known as Aslanhane Camii, in Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, is listed as a World Cultural Heritage. This mosque is a Seljuq mosque built in the 13th century. Its most distinctive feature is the mix of wooden craftsmanship and Roman building materials. Wooden columns, colorful tiles, wood carvings, stone carvings, Roman capitals, etc. are all highlights. There are mosques all over the country, and most of them are made of stone. Although it is not magnificent, it is really special. "Ahî" is an honest trade association. In the Islamic world, it advocates integrity and doing business with integrity. Şerafeddin is a personal name. As for "Aslanhane" meaning House of Lions, the reason is that the Roman-era lion sculptures can be seen on the outer wall, but they seem to have disappeared.

As the capital of Turkey, Ankara is less bustling than Istanbul, but it has its own unique charm. Here, history and modernity intertwine. Ankara Castle is like a majestic old man, telling stories of the past. Standing on the castle, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. 🛕 The Anıtkabir is solemn and majestic, commemorating the hero of Turkey. The exquisite architecture and tranquil atmosphere make people feel respectful. Modern Ankara is also full of vitality. There are many unique shops in the streets and alleys, where you can find many exquisite handicrafts. And the delicious Turkish food, the aroma of barbecue, and the sweet desserts will make you feel sweet. 🍖 Ankara is a place waiting for you to explore and discover, and you may be surprised at every step!

📍Attraction address: Ankara Castle is located on the hill of the old city in Ankara, Ankara Province, Turkey. 🚗Attraction transportation: [One] Public transportation: Take bus 16 or 64 in Ankara city to the foot of the mountain in the old city, or take the subway to Ulus Station and continue walking up the mountain. [Two] Self-driving: The castle is located in the center of Ankara. It is recommended to use Google Maps in Turkey, as the location is more accurate. You can reach the castle according to the navigation, and there is a parking lot at the foot of the mountain. 👍️Must-see attractions: [One] City walls: Well-preserved thick city walls, full of vicissitudes, and the architectural style shows the operation of ancient military defense systems. [Two] City panorama: Ankara Castle is located at the commanding height of the hillside. Climb the castle to overlook the entire city of Ankara and see the unique style of the modern city and ancient buildings blending with each other. [Three] Mountain climbing streets: On the streets climbing from the foot of the mountain to the castle, there are ancient buildings and traditional shops on both sides. Turkish vendors are very enthusiastic and speak multiple languages. 🎟️Ticket information: Ankara Castle is one of the few castles in Turkey that can be visited for free. If you park your car under the castle, you will be charged a parking fee. 💗Other tips: Ankara Castle was built by the ancient Romans in the 2nd century BC for military defense. Due to its strategic location, the castle has been baptized by many wars and was successively occupied by the Byzantines, Persians, Arabs, and others. During the long history, the castle has been continuously repaired and transformed, becoming an important witness to the history of Ankara. It is said that during the construction of the castle, the ancient Romans made full use of the local terrain advantages and built the castle on the hillside, making it easy to defend and difficult to attack. Moreover, the architectural layout of the castle was also carefully designed to ensure that it could effectively resist enemy attacks during wartime.

#citystroll My trip to Ankara, Turkey’s capital, was an unexpected but delightful cultural experience! 🌍 This city is often overshadowed by Istanbul, but it has so much to offer. I started my visit at Anıtkabir, the impressive mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, which is free to enter and such a powerful tribute to modern Turkey’s founder. The atmosphere there was solemn yet inspiring. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations was another highlight, with an entrance fee of about 45 TRY. It’s a treasure trove of ancient artifacts dating back to the Hittites, Greeks, and Romans. Walking through its exhibits, I gained a deeper appreciation for Turkey’s rich history. 🏛 Kızılay Square, the bustling center of Ankara, is perfect for soaking in the city’s vibrant energy, with lots of cafes and shops nearby. I also recommend heading to the Ankara Castle for stunning panoramic views of the city—it’s especially beautiful at sunset. 🌅 Overall, Ankara is a quieter yet fascinating city, perfect for anyone interested in history and local culture. #AnkaraAdventures #AnatolianCivilizations #AtaturkMausoleum #ExploreTurkey #AnkaraCastle #CulturalJourney

If you are for the first time in Ankara, I can suggest you to start your tour from the old city centre. There you will see the traditional architecture and some of the most emblematic places as the clock tower, the covered fountain and the small shops with crafts and cafeterias. Than you can't miss the big mosque, the fortress, the attraction park called Genclik (means Youth) and of course the Anıtkabir museum dedicated to Ataturk, the father of the modern Turkish Republic. #100WaysOfTravel #turkiye #ankara #itinerary

Ankara, Turkey's capital, may often be overshadowed by Istanbul, but it has its own unique charm and rich history. With landmarks like the iconic **Anıtkabir** (the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk), the historic **Ankara Castle**, and the lively **Kızılay Square**, there’s plenty to explore by foot. The city's blend of ancient and modern architecture creates a vibrant atmosphere that makes walking through Ankara an adventure in itself. ### Tips for Your Ankara City Walk: - **Start at Anıtkabir**: Pay your respects to Atatürk and explore the museum that showcases Turkey’s modern history. - **Visit Ankara Castle**: This ancient fortress offers panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into the city's past. - **Stroll in Kızılay Square**: Bustling with shops, restaurants, and cafes, it’s the perfect place for a break. ### Enjoy a Cruise Tour: For a more relaxed experience, take a cruise tour along the **Lake Mogan** in the southern part of the city. This serene escape from the city center lets you enjoy Ankara from a different perspective, with beautiful views of the surrounding nature. Ankara’s combination of history, culture, and modernity ensures a fulfilling experience for any traveler. #ExploreAnkara #CityWalks #TurkeyTravel #Anıtkabir #AnkaraCastle #CruiseTour #DiscoverAnkara #100waysoftravel

🌎Turkey, a magical country that blends Eastern and Western cultures, tells legendary stories one after another with thousands of years of history. If you are curious about history, then this self-driving cultural tour will take you through time and space and experience the profound heritage of Türkiye. ⭐️Route recommendations 🚩Ankara→Eskisehir→Bursa→Istanbul Province 🌼Daily schedule DAY1: Anatolian Civilization History Museum-Ankara Tower-Ankara Castle DAY2: Fairy Tale Island (Masal Adası) - Tomb of the Founding Father of Türkiye - Golden Pavilion museum (Golden Pavilion museum) DAY3: Gondola boarding point-Eskisehir Metropolitan Palace of Art and Culture-Turazas Revolutionary Automobile Museum DAY4: Historical Market Square-Bursa Science and Technology Center-Emir Sultan Mosque DAY5: Dolmabahce Palace-Dolmabahce Clock Tower-Taksim Gezi Park DAY6: Blue Mosque - Hagia Sophia - Basilica Cistern - Holy Peace Church - Theodosius Basilica Cistern DAY7: Prince's Island-Island Museum 🌸The self-driving mileage is about 550 kilometers. The recommended travel time is 7-8 days. It is suitable for tourists who like humanities and history. 💖Overview of attractions ✔️Ankara Tower, a landmark building in Ankara, Turkey. There is a 360-degree panoramic revolving restaurant and a cinema at the top of the tower, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and spectacular views of the entire city. ✔️The Mausoleum of the Founding Fathers of Turkey is located on a hill about 2 kilometers away from the center of Ankara. Mustafa Kemal, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey, is buried here. In addition, Kemal’s former friend and second president are buried here. A monument to Ismail Teinonu, President of the Republic of Turkey, and a museum introducing Kemal’s life experiences. The Inonu Peace Monument opposite the main courtyard is simple and majestic in style, guarded by tall guards. ✔️Dolmabahce Palace, located in the New City of Istanbul, is also commonly known as the New Palace of the Ottoman Empire. The palace is tall, broad and majestic, with a 600-meter-long wall. The interior walls are covered with gold foil, and the main body is made of white marble and Egyptian alabaster. The palace is mainly composed of two parts, namely the Ceremonial Palace (Selamlık) and the Harem and the Concubine Court (Haremlik). It has a total of 285 rooms, 43 halls and 6 Turkish baths. It is a magnificent masterpiece. ✔️Prince’s Island was once a place where princes were exiled by the Byzantine dynasty, but now it has become the territory of the wealthy. The beautiful beaches and shady green trees attract both locals and foreign tourists. Choosing the right time to travel to the Princes Islands is very important. If you go on weekends or during summer holidays for locals, you will see a lively scene like going to a market. But if you go there during non-holidays, the town will be as peaceful as a paradise, completely different from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul. ✔️Hagia Sophia, this is a historical building in Türkiye and one of the symbols of Türkiye. The exterior of Hagia Sophia is a typical mosque dome and minaret. There is a purification pavilion (for mosques) in front of the church, and several stone pillars with carved patterns on the top stand next to it. The large and small partition windows and low-hanging chandeliers in the church maintain the light in the hall, and the exquisite chandeliers bring a warm atmosphere to the hall, and the tall dome gives people a sense of awe. The dome retains Byzantine murals and is very colorful. ☀️Starting from Ankara, passing through Eskisehir, Bursa, and finally arriving in Istanbul, this is a self-driving route full of humanistic atmosphere, and every stop is a witness to history. #trip # Self-driving # Car rental # Self-driving tour

Here are few places that I visited being in the capital before taking a train from Ankara to Kars. ✔️Ankara Citadel enjoy exploring the ancient castle walls, walking along cobblestone paths, visiting art studios and world-class museums, watching skilled street performers, relaxing in trendy cafes, and shopping in small stores offering a variety of products. ✔️The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations The old bazaar building showcases the exhibits. Inside this Ottoman structure, the museum displays a variety of Anatolian archaeological artifacts, ranging from the Paleolithic period to the Ottoman era, in chronological order ✔️Ulus Square. Monument of Republic Ulus Square is a historic square in Ankara, known for its significance to the Turkish nation. The square is located at the intersection of four streets, including Atatürk Boulevard. #Ankara #turkey #trip #capital

The Turkish History Museum and Park is located in the western suburbs of Ankara, about 30 minutes by car. When I passed through the entrance gate (free admission), I was surprised by the number of sculptures, over 200. They were sculptures of important figures in Turkish history, ranging from politicians, military personnel, and artists. There was also an exhibition of grassland yurts. Inside the building, important scenes in Turkish history were reproduced with paintings and models. They are displayed in a large room in a very large building, so it is very impressive. It is a place that you can enjoy even more if you study Turkish history. Türk Tarih Müzesi ve Parkı Address: Bağlıca, Çambayırı Cd. No:89, Pk: 06790 – Etimesgut / Ankara #Overseas travel

There is an energy museum a few kilometers west of central Ankara. It is right next to the Natural History Museum, which is very popular with children. Inside the museum, there are exhibits such as pipelines for drilling and transporting oil, and there are also colorful exhibits to make energy familiar to children. In the garden, there are also exhibits that recreate excavators and mine tunnels, and it is designed to deepen your understanding of energy from various perspectives. I visited on a nice day, so I was able to relax on a bench in the garden. Admission is free. #overseastravel

Located in the center of Ankara, Swan Park was in full bloom with flowers that look very similar to cherry blossoms. On a warm evening in late March, many locals and tourists sat on benches enjoying the cherry blossoms while watching swans and other water birds. It's conveniently located near the Tunulhirmi shopping street. Even overseas, I found a park that perfectly matches the cherry blossom viewing atmosphere. #hanami

I visited the Aslanhane Mosque in Ulus, the old city of Ankara. This mosque has a long history dating back to the Seljuk period. The exterior is majestic, made of stone, while the interior is gentle, made of wood. There are antique shops and restaurants around, making it a fun area to stroll around. I was able to enjoy both history and shopping to my heart's content.

Although it is called the New Mosque, it was founded in 1565 during the first half of the Ottoman Empire and is one of the oldest mosques in Ankara. It is located very close to the Ulcanlar Prison Museum, not far from the Old Town of Ulus, so it is recommended to visit both. The Chess Museum is also within walking distance. There are also many restaurants serving traditional Turkish cuisine in the surrounding area.

I went to the Atakule Shopping Mall at the base of the Atakule Tower, a landmark in Ankara. One day in mid-February, it was snowing outside and the temperature was below freezing, but it was warm inside and I was able to shop leisurely. In addition to fashion goods, there are restaurants, a food court, and cafes, so there are many ways to enjoy yourself. There is also a supermarket on the lower floor, where you can buy some typical Turkish souvenirs. #Snowscape

During a break in my travels, I went to the Karum Shopping Center in the center of Ankara city. There was still snow remaining in the surrounding area from a recent snowfall, so I was able to enjoy the beautiful snow scenery. It is conveniently located and easy to access, with many restaurants and cafes nearby. Inside, there are many fashion-related shops, and there is also a cafe, making it a convenient place to take a break. #SnowScenery