Exploring the 5 Top Sights & Activities in Ankara, Turkey

Ankara is the capital of Turkey, located in the northern reaches of the country. It is a vibrant city, with a unique culture and history, and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From ancient ruins to modern art galleries, there are many sights and activities to experience in Ankara. Here, we’ll explore the five top sights and activities to see and do in Ankara.

1. Visit the Anıtkabir Mausoleum

Ankara’s Anıtkabir Mausoleum is an important site for the Turkish people. Located on the western edge of the city, it is the resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey. The complex is a stunning example of modernist architecture, with its immaculate gardens, grand marble staircases, and sweeping views of the city. Visitors can explore the museum, which displays many artifacts and documents related to Atatürk’s life, and take part in a tour of the mausoleum.

2. Explore Atakule Tower

The Atakule Tower is a 125-meter-tall observation tower located in Çankaya district. It offers stunning views of Ankara from its observation deck, which is located at a height of 85 meters. The tower also has a restaurant, café, shopping mall, and aquarium at its base. Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city, or take part in a guided tour of the tower.

3. Visit Kocatepe Mosque

The Kocatepe Mosque is one of the most impressive mosques in Ankara. Located in the center of the city, it is an imposing structure with a distinctive minaret and dome. The mosque was originally built in 1987 and underwent an extensive restoration in 2014. Visitors can explore the mosque and its grounds, marvel at its impressive architecture, or take part in one of the regular prayer services.

4. Explore Ankara Castle

Ankara Castle is an ancient fortress located on the eastern edge of the city. It was originally built by the Romans in the 3rd century AD and has been modified and expanded over time. Visitors can explore the castle’s ramparts and dungeons, as well as its beautiful gardens. The castle is also home to a museum, which contains artifacts from various historical periods, including Roman and Ottoman times.

5. Visit Polatlı Railway Museum

The Polatlı Railway Museum is a must for anyone interested in trains and railways. Located in Polatlı district, it houses an extensive collection of locomotives, wagons, and carriages from various historical periods. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibitions, which include interactive displays and audio-visual presentations, or take part in one of the guided tours of the museum.

From ancient ruins to modern architectural wonders, Ankara has many sights and activities to experience. We’ve explored five of the top sights and activities to see and do in Ankara. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to explore what the city has to offer, there’s something for everyone here. To book any of these activities in Ankara, you can use this link: Ankara Activity Bookings.

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Ankara, Turkey

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is a perfect blend of modernity and traditionalism. Although it is not as popular among tourists as Istanbul, Ankara boasts of several interesting sights and activities that make it worth a visit. From historical landmarks to cultural experiences and culinary delights, this city has a lot to offer. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the top five sights and activities in Ankara, Turkey, to help you plan your visit.

Top 5 Sights and Activities in Ankara

The Mausoleum of Atatürk

The Mausoleum of Atatürk, also known as Anıtkabir, is a must-visit destination in Ankara. This mausoleum is the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of Turkey. The Mausoleum is a symbol of the country’s modernization and stands as a tribute to Atatürk’s vision for the future of Turkey. Visitors can take a tour of the Mausoleum and learn about the history and significance of this iconic landmark.

The Ankara Citadel and Castle

The Ankara Citadel and Castle are located in the heart of the city and offer stunning panoramic views. The Citadel dates back to the Roman era and has been used as a fortification by several empires that ruled the city. Visitors can explore the castle’s ancient walls, towers, and dungeons while taking in the beautiful views of the city. The citadel is also home to several museums and galleries showcasing Ankara’s rich history and culture.

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a treasury of artifacts from Turkey’s ancient civilizations. The museum is located in a restored Ottoman-era building and boasts an impressive collection of Hittite, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts, among others. Visitors can take a walk through the various galleries and learn about the lifestyle, beliefs, and art of the ancient cultures that once thrived in Anatolia.

Local Cuisine

Ankara boasts of several culinary delights that are unique to the region. Some must-try dishes are Mantı, a type of Turkish dumplings served with yogurt and tomato sauce, Döner kebab, a Turkish shawarma, and Çiğ köfte, a popular street food made with raw meat and spices. Visitors can indulge in these delicious dishes at local restaurants such as Köfteci İrfan, Namlı Gurme, and Cemil Usta.

A Cultural Evening at the Symphony Orchestra

The Presidential Symphony Orchestra of Turkey is based in Ankara and offers world-class performances. Music lovers can attend a concert and enjoy the symphony’s exquisite performances of classical masterpieces, as well as local and contemporary compositions. The concert hall is located in the heart of the city and provides a fun-filled evening of music and entertainment.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Ankara Zoo

The Ankara Zoo is a fun and educational destination for families with kids. This zoo houses several species of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. The zoo also offers a range of activities, including camel and pony rides, a train ride, and a water park.

Atakule Tower

Atakule Tower is a 125-meter-high tower located in the Cankaya district of Ankara. The tower offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and is an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can dine at the tower’s revolving restaurant, which provides a unique dining experience with breathtaking views.

The Hamam Experience

The Turkish Bath, or Hamam, is an essential experience when visiting Turkey. Several historic hamams in Ankara offer a traditional bath experience, including a sauna, steam bath, and massage. Hamam Altin Kapı, Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam, and Eski Hamam are some popular hamams in Ankara.

Conclusion

Ankara has a lot to offer visitors, from ancient landmarks to cultural experiences and other hidden gems. With this insider’s guide, you now have a better understanding of what to expect while exploring the city. Do not miss out on these top sights and activities, local delicacies, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions when visiting Ankara, Turkey.