The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Ankara

Ankara, located in the heart of Turkey, is the second largest city in the country after Istanbul. It is the capital of Turkey and a bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Ankara is home to many sightseeing attractions that draw in visitors from across the globe. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most famous sightseeing attractions in Ankara.

Ankara Citadel

One of the most famous landmarks of Ankara is the Ankara Citadel. It is a historical site that dates back to the Byzantine era. The citadel sits on a hilltop and provides a panoramic view of the city. The citadel is surrounded by walls that are imposing and make it an architectural wonder. You can spend hours wandering around the citadel, learning about its history and taking in the breathtaking views it offers.

Anitkabir

Anitkabir, also known as Atatürk Mausoleum, is the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. He was the founder of modern Turkey and served as its first president. Anitkabir is a magnificent structure that sits on a hill overlooking Ankara. The mausoleum is grand and awe-inspiring, with an impressive array of sculptures, fountains, and tombs. A visit to Anitkabir is a must for anyone traveling to Ankara.

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is located in the heart of Ankara and is a testament to Turkey’s rich history. It houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Paleolithic era to the Ottoman Empire. The museum provides an insight into the ancient civilizations that inhabited the region, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, and Lydians. A visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a great way to learn about the region’s history.

Kocatepe Mosque

Kocatepe Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Turkey and is located in the heart of Ankara. It is a stunning architectural masterpiece, with a striking dome and minarets. The mosque can accommodate up to 24,000 worshippers at once and is a popular tourist destination for its beauty and grandeur. The mosque is open to visitors, but it’s important to respect the mosque’s rules and dress modestly.

Ankara Ethnographic Museum

The Ankara Ethnographic Museum is located in an Ottoman-era mansion and is a cultural treasure trove. The museum showcases traditional Turkish life and culture, including textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and furniture. It’s a great place to explore and learn about traditional Turkish culture and history.

Conclusion

Ankara is a city steeped in history and culture, and these famous sightseeing attractions are just a few of the many things it has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or architecture, Ankara has something for everyone. A visit to Ankara is an experience that you won’t forget and will leave you with a deeper understanding of Turkey’s rich and diverse heritage.

The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Ankara: An Insider’s Guide to the Capital of Turkey

Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is a city rich in history, culture, and architecture. It’s one of the most populous cities in the country and is also considered one of the most important. Ankara attracts tourists with its stunning landmarks, delicious food, traditional markets, as well as modern shopping centers, and rich museums. This insider’s guide will help you plan your trip by highlighting the most famous sightseeing attractions in Ankara.

Sightseeing

When it comes to sightseeing, Ankara has plenty of landmarks that should be on your list. One of the most iconic landmarks of the city is the Ankara Castle, also known as the Ankara Kalesi. It was built in the 9th century and is situated on a hill, offering an incredible view of the city. It was a military stronghold for centuries, and now it serves as a popular tourist attraction, featuring small cafes and souvenir shops.

The Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of the founder of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city and is located in the Anıttepe neighborhood. It is a remarkable work of architecture and serves as a tribute to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Another popular destination is the Kocatepe Mosque, the largest mosque in Ankara, and one of the biggest in Turkey. It can hold more than 24,000 people and is an impressive work of modern architecture. The mosque is located in Kızılay, which is Ankara’s commercial and cultural hub.

Foodie Experience

Ankara has plenty of dining options that will satisfy every taste bud. The city is known for its kebabs, which include Doner and Adana Kebab. You should not miss the chance to try these two dishes that are staples in Turkish cuisine. There are plenty of places that serve them, such as Kebapçı İskender, Zenger Paşa Konağı, and Köşebaşı Restaurant.

Besides that, you can try Pide, a flatbread filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables, or Simit, a circular bread covered with sesame seeds. There are plenty of street vendors around the city who sell Simit, so it’s easy to find and affordable. Ankara also has a lot of vegan and vegetarian options, such as the Adana Dürüm Falafelci that serves incredible vegetarian falafel wraps.

Cultural Experiences

Ankara is an exceptional city, rich in culture and traditions. If you want to experience the traditional side of the city, you need to visit the Etnographic Museum that displays traditional costumes, woodworking, jewelry, embroidery, and weaving. The museum is located in the Ulus district and it’s a must-visit to learn about the traditional Turkish way of life.

Another popular attraction is the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which is located in the Atpazari district and showcases Anatolian history and the lifestyle of Anatolian people from the Neolithic Age to the Ottoman period.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

What makes Ankara special is its long and diverse history. The city has been conquered by many civilizations, and each left its unique traces. For instance, you can find the Roman Theatre ruins in the Ulus neighborhood, and the Temple of Augustus and Rome, which was built by the Roman Empire in 25 BCE.

If you want to experience modern Ankara, you can visit Tunali Hilmi Avenue. It’s a lively and vibrant district that features modern shopping centers, theaters, and many cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s an excellent place to spend an evening with friends or family.

For off-the-beaten-path activities, you should visit the Ankara National Garden. It is a large, spacious garden covering 1,000 acres, offering a oasis in the bustling city. You can relax here, have a picnic, or take a walk and enjoy the fresh air.

Another option is to take a hike at the Gençlik Parki, or Youth Park. It is a vast park that has numerous trails and offers an excellent opportunity to explore the greenery of Ankara.

Conclusion

Ankara is a fascinating city, rich in history and culture. The most famous sightseeing attractions in Ankara, as well as its food and cultural experiences, will guarantee an unforgettable visit. Its hidden gems offer unique activities for travelers who wish for off-the-beaten-path experiences. Don’t forget to add Ankara to your travel wishlist. You won’t be disappointed!