Welcome to Ankara, the vibrant capital of Turkey! Home to over five million people, Ankara is a bustling city filled with culture, history, and a plethora of attractions. From breathtaking mosques to the ancient Anitkabir mausoleum, Ankara's sights are sure to captivate and intrigue. Whether you're looking to explore the city's rich history, shop at the vibrant markets, or enjoy the nightlife, Ankara has something to offer everyone. With this in-depth guide, you'll have all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Ankara. From the best restaurants to the must-see attractions, this guide will help you plan your trip to the city's best spots and make the most of your time in Ankara.
History and Culture
The History of Ankara goes back to the Hittites and Phrygians, who inhabited the area around 3000 B.C. During the Hellenistic period, the city of Ankyra (modern-day Ankara) was founded. After the Roman Empire conquered the city, it became the capital of the Roman province of Phrygia. In 1071, the Seljuk Turks conquered the city and it remained under the rule of the Seljuk Empire until the Ottomans conquered the city in 1356. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the city became the capital of the Turkish Republic in 1923. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Ankara became the capital of the Turkish Republic in 1923. Throughout its long history, the city has gone through many changes and has been home to many different cultures and civilizations. Today, Ankara is a modern city with a vibrant culture and a booming tourism industry.
Must-See Attractions in Ankara
Ankara Castle - Built during the Hellenistic period, Ankara Castle was one of the many forts built along the path of the Silk Road. Enjoy the views from the terrace and the Roman baths. The Ethnography Museum - This museum is home to over 4,000 artifacts from various cultures, ranging from the pre-Islamic times to the Ottoman Empire.
Gazi Museum - If you are a history buff, visiting the Gazi Museum is a must. The museum houses artifacts from the Battle of Sakarya, which took place in 1921 and was a crucial turning point in the Turkish War of Independence.
Anitkabir - The mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, is a must-see attraction in Ankara.
Haci Bayram Mosque - This mosque was named after a famous Turkish poet who lived in the 14th century. The mosque was constructed in the 16th century and is one of the most famous mosques in the city.
Shopping in Ankara
If you're looking for a place to shop, Ankara's covered bazaar is the perfect place to find authentic Turkish souvenirs. Here you'll find jewelry, rugs, and all sorts of knick knacks, perfect for gifts or souvenirs. If you're looking for something a bit more modern, you can also find designer clothes and accessories at the bazaar. If you're into antiques and artifacts, you'll want to visit the Ethnography Museum Shop. Here you'll find a wide range of fascinating artifacts from all over Turkey, perfect for gifts or souvenirs. Otherwise, you can visit the Grand Bazaar, which is the largest and oldest covered bazaar in the city. Here you'll find shops selling a wide range of items, from jewelry and rugs to modern clothes and accessories.
Eating Out in Ankara
Are you looking to indulge on your trip to Ankara? Then you've come to the right place. Whether you're craving Turkish cuisine, Mediterranean dishes, or something a bit more modern, you'll find plenty of delicious restaurants to try out while in the city. If you're looking to try authentic Turkish cuisine, you'll want to visit Konyali. Here you'll find a wide variety of delicious Turkish dishes, perfect for sharing or eating solo. If you're craving something a bit more modern, you can try Turkish Flavors. This restaurant offers a wide range of traditional dishes with a modern twist.
Nightlife in Ankara
If you're looking for a lively scene and a good place to end your night, you can't go wrong with Ankara's nightlife. The city is home to plenty of bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges where you can enjoy live music and drinks with friends or a date. You'll find a wide range of options, whether you're looking for a quiet place to unwind or a lively club with great music. If you're looking for a quiet place to unwind with a friend or a date, you can visit Raffles Coffee. Here you can enjoy a great cup of coffee while listening to smooth jazz. If you're looking to enjoy a lively atmosphere and a wide range of drinks, you can visit Imperial Pub, where you can enjoy a wide range of drinks, including beer, cocktails, and shots.
Transportation in Ankara
If you're traveling to Ankara by plane, you can fly into the Esenboğa International Airport, which is located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the city center. If you're not traveling alone, you can also book a shared service, such as Uber or a local taxi. If you're traveling via bus or train, you can take the Metro or Metrobus to the city center from the Hacılar metro station. You can also take the Hızlı tren, the quick train, which offers a convenient service to the city center. If you're traveling by car, you can drive to the city center via the E90 and E95 highways. You can also take public transportation, such as the Metro, to the city center via the Söğütlüçeşme Metro station, where you can park your car safely and easily.
Accommodations in Ankara
Are you looking for a comfortable place to stay during your trip to Ankara? Then you've come to the right place. Whether you're traveling alone or with a group of friends, you can find a wide range of accommodations to choose from, including luxury hotels, hostels, and more. If you're looking for a luxurious stay and a great place to unwind after exploring the city, you can stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Ankara. Here you can enjoy a wide range of modern amenities, including spa treatments, delicious meals, and more.
Tips for Visiting Ankara
Visit the Ethnography Museum - The Ethnography Museum is one of the most interesting museums in Ankara, featuring a wide range of artifacts from various cultures. Visit on a Friday - If you're in the city on a Friday, you have to visit the Grand Bazaar. This lively market is filled with bargains, unique souvenirs, and delicious food. Try Mehmet Efendi's Traditional Turkish Coffee - If you're looking for a traditional Turkish experience, visiting Mehmet Efendi's Traditional Turkish Coffee is a must. Here you can enjoy the traditional Turkish coffee, served in the Ottoman way.
Conclusion
Ankara is a city filled with history, culture, and amazing sights. Whether you're looking to explore the museums or enjoy the lively nightlife, Ankara has something for everyone. Whether you're traveling solo or with a group of friends, we hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to the city's best attractions and make the most of your time in Ankara. Now it's time to book that ticket and explore the vibrant city for yourself.
