Ankara Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Ankara

Ankara’s main sights are concentrated between the old citadel area of Ulus and the modern centre around Kızılay, linked by metro, buses and taxis.

• Anıtkabir — The vast, solemn mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic, set in landscaped grounds with a museum on the country’s War of Independence.
• Museum of Anatolian Civilizations — A world-renowned museum housed in restored Ottoman buildings, tracing thousands of years of history from Neolithic settlements to the Hittites and Phrygians.
• Ankara Castle — The ancient citadel on a hilltop above the old town, with walls, traditional houses and panoramic views over the city.
• Hamamönü — A restored historic quarter of timber-framed Ottoman houses, craft shops, tea gardens and cafés.
• Kocatepe Mosque — One of the largest mosques in the city, an elegant modern building in classical Ottoman style.
• Temple of Augustus and Hacı Bayram Mosque — Roman temple ruins standing beside a revered historic mosque in the heart of Ulus.
• Day trip to Cappadocia — The fairy-chimney valleys and cave towns of Cappadocia lie a few hours south-east by road.

Best time to visit Ankara

Ankara has a continental climate shaped by its high altitude on the Anatolian plateau, with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Spring, from April to June, is one of the most pleasant times to visit: temperatures are mild, parks and gardens are green and the clear air suits walking around the citadel and museums.

July and August are hot and sunny during the day, though evenings are usually cooler than on the coast thanks to the altitude. Rain is rare in summer, which makes it a good time for longer excursions, including trips to Cappadocia and the surrounding countryside.

September and October bring warm days, cooler nights and golden autumn light, ideal for sightseeing. Winter, from December to February, is cold, with frequent frost and regular snowfall that can occasionally disrupt travel. It is a quieter season for city visits, museums and warming local food. National holidays and religious festivals can affect opening times and travel demand, so check dates when planning.

Getting from the airport

Ankara Esenboğa Airport lies around 28 kilometres north-east of the city centre and is the main gateway to the capital and central Anatolia. There is no rail link to the city, so most travellers use buses or taxis.

• Airport shuttle buses — Regular coaches run from outside the terminal to central areas such as Kızılay and to the city’s main intercity bus terminal, taking around 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
• City bus — A municipal bus line also connects the airport with the city centre and is a budget option, though slower than the shuttles.
• Taxi — Taxis are available outside arrivals and reach the centre in around 30 to 45 minutes. Make sure the meter is running.
• Car hire and transfers — Car hire desks and pre-booked transfers are available in the terminal for onward travel.

Allow extra time during weekday rush hours, when traffic on the main roads into the city can be heavy. Public transport in the city uses a rechargeable transport card, available from kiosks and machines.

Where to stay

Ankara is a large, spread-out city, so choose a base near a metro line or the central districts to make getting around easier.

• Kızılay — The bustling modern heart of the city, with shopping streets, restaurants and good transport links; suits first-time visitors and business travellers.
• Ulus — The historic centre near the citadel, Hacı Bayram Mosque and the main museums, ideal for travellers focused on history and culture.
• Kavaklıdere and Tunalı Hilmi — Upscale, leafy areas with boutiques, cafés and embassies, popular with couples and those seeking a lively evening scene.
• Çankaya — A residential, elegant district with hilltop views and quieter streets, suited to longer stays.
• Near the business districts — Areas along the main western boulevards host many conference venues and suit business trips.

Travel tips

• Getting around — Ankara has metro lines, buses and plentiful taxis. A rechargeable transport card is needed for most public transport, and traffic can be heavy at peak times.
• Visiting mosques — Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering prayer halls, and women should cover their hair. Avoid visiting during prayer times.
• Anıtkabir etiquette — The mausoleum is a place of great national respect. Dress neatly, speak quietly and follow guidance from staff and guards.
• Payment — Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, but carry some Turkish lira for taxis, markets and small cafés.
• Tipping — In restaurants, around 5 to 10 percent is customary if service is not included; rounding up taxi fares is common.
• Entry requirements — Visa and entry rules depend on your nationality. Check the latest requirements with official sources before you travel.