Ankara, Turkey’s capital city, often sits in the shadow of Istanbul’s fame, but it has its own unique charm and significance. As the political and cultural heart of Turkey, Ankara offers a fascinating blend of history, modernity, and national pride. From visiting the monumental Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, to exploring the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the historic Citadel, Ankara has plenty to offer. But with so many iconic destinations in Turkey, you might wonder: is Ankara worth visiting? In this post, we’ll uncover what makes Ankara special and help you decide if it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.
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Pros – Reasons You Should Visit Ankara
1. A City with a Rich History and Cultural Significance
Ankara may not be as famous as Istanbul, but it has played a crucial role in Turkey’s history. As the country’s capital, it is the political and administrative centre of Turkey, but its past stretches back thousands of years. From ancient civilisations to the foundation of modern Turkey, Ankara offers a fascinating journey through history, with archaeological sites, museums, and monuments that highlight its importance.
One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Visiting this grand memorial was a powerful experience, as it not only honours Atatürk’s legacy but also showcases the country’s journey towards independence and reform. Another must-see is the Roman Temple of Augustus, a well-preserved ruin that serves as a reminder of Ankara’s ancient past. Walking through the historic streets of Hamamönü, with its restored Ottoman-era houses and traditional cafés, gave me a sense of the city’s deep-rooted history and evolving identity.
2. Home to One of the Best Museums in Turkey
For those interested in archaeology and ancient history, Ankara is home to one of the most impressive museums in Turkey—the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations. This award-winning museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from Anatolia’s many ancient cultures, including the Hittites, Phrygians, and Urartians, making it a must-visit for history lovers.
I spent hours exploring the museum’s exhibits, which included intricate carvings, bronze sculptures, and beautifully preserved relics from thousands of years ago. The way the artefacts were displayed, combined with the detailed explanations, helped me understand how these early civilisations shaped the region. One of the highlights was the Hittite Sun Disc, a stunning symbol of an ancient empire that once ruled central Anatolia. The museum’s location in a restored Ottoman-era building added to the experience, making it feel like a journey through both ancient and more recent history.
3. A More Authentic and Less Touristy Atmosphere
Unlike Istanbul, which is often crowded with tourists, Ankara offers a more relaxed and authentic experience. As the country’s capital, it is primarily a city of locals, students, and government officials rather than tourists, which means visitors can explore without the usual crowds and inflated prices found in more popular destinations.
One of the things I enjoyed most about Ankara was the chance to experience daily Turkish life without the distractions of mass tourism. Walking through the city’s markets, I found local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods without the pressure to buy that you sometimes feel in more tourist-heavy areas. Even in popular spots like Kızılay Square, I noticed that the cafés and restaurants were filled with locals rather than tourists, giving the city a much more authentic atmosphere. If you prefer destinations where you can blend in and experience the culture as it truly is, Ankara is a great choice.
4. A Fantastic Food Scene with Local Specialities
Turkish cuisine is known for its rich flavours and diverse dishes, and Ankara has its own unique food culture that sets it apart from other cities. The capital is particularly famous for Ankara tava, a slow-cooked dish made with lamb, rice, and fragrant spices, as well as beypazarı güveci, a delicious meat and vegetable stew that originates from a nearby town. The city also has a thriving street food scene, with plenty of affordable and tasty options for those wanting to try traditional Turkish flavours.
One of my best meals in Ankara was a plate of iskender kebab, made with thinly sliced lamb topped with tomato sauce and served with buttered bread and yoghurt. The combination of tender meat and rich sauce made it one of the most satisfying meals I had in Turkey. I also tried simit, a sesame-covered bread similar to a bagel, which was perfect for a quick breakfast with a cup of strong Turkish tea. Whether dining in a traditional lokanta or grabbing a snack from a street vendor, Ankara offers an incredible food experience for all tastes.
5. A City with Green Spaces and Scenic Views
Despite being a major capital, Ankara has plenty of green spaces and scenic viewpoints where visitors can escape the urban environment. Parks, gardens, and hillsides offer beautiful spots to relax, walk, or enjoy panoramic views of the city, making Ankara a surprisingly pleasant place to unwind.
One of the best places to enjoy nature in the city is Gençlik Parkı, a large public park with fountains, walking paths, and a lake where you can rent small boats. Another great spot is Seğmenler Parkı, a peaceful green space popular with locals for picnics and afternoon strolls. For the best views of Ankara, I hiked up to Ankara Castle, an ancient fortress perched on a hill overlooking the city. The view from the top was breathtaking, with the contrast between the old town’s historic rooftops and the modern skyline creating a stunning scene. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a panoramic viewpoint, Ankara has plenty of scenic spots to enjoy.
6. Excellent Public Transport and Easy to Get Around
Ankara has a well-developed public transport system, making it easy to navigate the city without needing a car. The Ankaray metro, buses, and dolmuş (shared minibuses) provide efficient and affordable ways to get around, connecting major districts and attractions quickly and conveniently. Unlike some larger cities where transport can be chaotic, Ankara’s system is relatively easy to use, with clear routes and regular services.
I found the metro system particularly useful when travelling between different parts of the city. The Kızılay area, the main transport hub, made it easy to switch between metro lines and catch buses to further locations. The dolmuş minibuses were also an interesting experience—they operate more like shared taxis, picking up and dropping off passengers along the way, offering a cheap and flexible way to get around. Even taxis in Ankara were reasonably priced compared to other capital cities, making transport one of the more stress-free aspects of my trip.
7. A Great Base for Exploring Central Anatolia
Ankara’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring other parts of Central Anatolia, a region rich in history and natural beauty. The city is well connected by road, rail, and domestic flights, making it easy to take day trips or longer excursions to some of Turkey’s most fascinating sites.
One of the best day trips from Ankara is to Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. While it takes around three to four hours to reach, the journey is well worth it for the chance to explore this otherworldly landscape. Another interesting destination is Hattusa, the ancient capital of the Hittite Empire, which is filled with impressive ruins, including temples, gates, and rock carvings that date back thousands of years. Closer to the city, Lake Tuz, one of the largest salt lakes in the world, offers a striking landscape with its bright white salt flats and mirror-like reflections.
Cons – Things to Consider When Visiting Ankara
1. The City Lacks the Charm and Tourist Appeal of Istanbul
While Ankara is Turkey’s capital and an important cultural and political centre, it doesn’t have the same visual appeal or vibrant energy as Istanbul. Unlike Istanbul, which is filled with grand mosques, bustling bazaars, and stunning waterfront views, Ankara is a more functional and administrative city. Much of its architecture is modern and practical rather than historic or ornate, and for visitors expecting a city full of iconic landmarks, Ankara can feel somewhat underwhelming.
I noticed this as I walked through the city’s main districts. While areas like Kızılay and Çankaya are busy and full of life, they are dominated by office buildings, government structures, and residential apartments rather than the historic charm found in other Turkish cities. Even though Anıtkabir and the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations are impressive, the city as a whole lacks the atmospheric old streets and traditional neighbourhoods that make places like Istanbul, Izmir, or even Konya so visually captivating. If you are looking for a destination with a romantic, historic feel, Ankara might not be the best choice.
2. The Climate Can Be Extreme, with Hot Summers and Cold Winters
Ankara’s location in central Turkey means that it has a continental climate, which brings hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. While spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, summer can be uncomfortably warm, with daytime highs often exceeding 35°C. In contrast, winters can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and frequent snowfall making travel more challenging.
I visited Ankara in late summer, and the heat was intense, especially in the middle of the day. The lack of coastal breezes, which help to cool down cities like Istanbul and Izmir, made walking around feel exhausting. Even at night, the air remained dry and warm, making it difficult to cool down. On the other hand, I spoke to locals who said that winters could be equally tough, with icy roads and freezing winds making daily life more difficult. If you’re sensitive to extreme temperatures, timing your visit carefully—either in April-May or September-October—is the best way to experience Ankara in more comfortable conditions.
3. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Compared to Other Cities
As a city dominated by government institutions, embassies, and universities, Ankara has a more reserved atmosphere than other major Turkish cities. While it does have bars, restaurants, and cultural venues, the nightlife and entertainment options are far less varied than in Istanbul or even coastal cities like Antalya and Bodrum. Many places cater more to students or business professionals rather than offering a wide range of late-night entertainment.
One evening, I decided to explore Ankara’s nightlife and found that while there were some decent bars and live music venues, the overall atmosphere felt quite low-key. In Tunali Hilmi Street and Kavaklıdere, there were some stylish cocktail bars and casual pubs, but they lacked the excitement and diversity of nightlife districts in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu or Izmir’s Alsancak. While there are some good places to socialise, Ankara isn’t the best city for those looking for a lively or party-filled experience. If nightlife is a key part of your travel plans, you may find Ankara’s options a little limited.
4. The City is Large and Spread Out, Making It Harder to Explore on Foot
Ankara is a vast and sprawling city, with many of its key districts spread far apart. Unlike more compact cities where you can walk between major attractions, Ankara’s size and layout mean that getting around often requires using public transport, taxis, or long walks between destinations. While the metro and bus systems are efficient, navigating such a large city can sometimes feel overwhelming for first-time visitors.
I found this particularly noticeable when trying to visit Anıtkabir, which is located on a large hill and requires a considerable walk from the nearest public transport stop. Similarly, reaching Atakule, a famous observation tower, took longer than expected because of Ankara’s wide streets and hilly terrain. Unlike Istanbul, where many attractions are clustered together in historic districts like Sultanahmet, Ankara’s sights are more scattered, meaning you need to plan your routes carefully. If you prefer a city that is easy to explore on foot, Ankara may not be the most convenient destination.
When to Visit Ankara
The best times to visit Ankara are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These months offer mild weather, making it pleasant to explore the city’s parks, museums, and historic sites. Summers (July to August) can be hot, but the city remains less crowded than coastal destinations. Winters (December to February) are cold, often with snowfall, giving Ankara a quiet charm and an ideal atmosphere for museum visits and warm, hearty Turkish meals.
How to Get to Ankara
Ankara is served by Esenboğa International Airport (ESB), located 28 kilometres northeast of the city. The airport connects to major domestic and international destinations via airlines like Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. From the airport, the BelkoAir shuttle buses provide a budget-friendly transfer to central locations, while taxis offer a more convenient but pricier option. For domestic travel, Ankara’s High-Speed Train Station links the city to Istanbul, Konya, and other major cities. Long-distance buses also serve the capital from across Turkey.
Where to Stay in Ankara
Ankara offers accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options:
- Luxury: City Centre or Kavaklıdere – Stay at JW Marriott Hotel Ankara, known for its world-class service, or Sheraton Ankara Hotel & Convention Centre, offering modern luxury in the heart of the city.
- Mid-range: Çankaya or Kızılay – Try Latanya Hotel Ankara, combining comfort and style, or Ankara HiltonSA, a reliable choice close to diplomatic and business hubs.
- Budget: Ulus or Sıhhiye – Consider Deeps Hostel, a popular budget option for backpackers, or Hotel Abro Necatibey, offering affordable rooms in a central location.
Getting Around Ankara
Ankara’s public transport system is efficient and affordable. The Ankaray light rail and Metro lines connect key parts of the city, including Kızılay Square and central districts. The EGO buses cover areas not reached by the metro, and tickets can be loaded onto the rechargeable Ankarakart. Taxis are widely available but best reserved through ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging. Cycling is less common due to the city’s hilly terrain, but bike lanes are expanding in parks like Gençlik Parkı. Walking is ideal in areas like Ulus and Kızılay.
How Long to Spend in Ankara
Two to three days is ideal for exploring Ankara’s key attractions. Dedicate the first day to the Anıtkabir, the monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, home to fascinating artefacts. On the second day, visit the Citadel of Ankara (Kale) for panoramic views, and stroll through the historic Hamamönü District. With extra time, explore Atakule Tower for its observation deck or take a day trip to Lake Eymir. Ankara’s mix of history, modernity, and cultural depth makes it a unique destination worth visiting.
Conclusion
So, is Ankara worth visiting? Absolutely! If you’re interested in Turkey’s modern history, rich cultural heritage, and a less touristy experience, Ankara is a fantastic choice. Its landmarks, museums, and laid-back vibe offer a different perspective on the country beyond its bustling coastal cities. While it might not have the glamour of Istanbul or the natural beauty of Cappadocia, Ankara’s significance and charm make it a rewarding destination. For travellers seeking a deeper understanding of Turkey’s past and present, Ankara is well worth a visit.