Things to Do in Ankara

About Ankara

Where ancient Anatolia meets modern ambition, Türkiye's capital pulses with an energy distinctly its own—neither trying to compete with Istanbul's glitter nor resting on tourist-friendly laurels. Ankara reveals itself slowly to those willing to look beyond first impressions, rewarding curiosity with layers of authenticity that most travelers never experience. This is a city that doesn't perform for visitors; it simply exists, confident in its role as the political heartbeat of a nation bridging two continents.

Travel Tips

• Public Transportation: Purchase an AnkartKart (rechargeable transit card) at any metro station for seamless access to Ankara's extensive metro, bus, and Ankaray light rail system—it's significantly cheaper than buying individual tickets and works across all public transport.

• Winter Preparation: Pack warm clothing even in spring and fall, as Ankara sits at 850 meters elevation on the Anatolian plateau and experiences harsh winters with temperatures often dropping below freezing from November to March.

• Museum Planning: Visit Anıtkabir (Atatürk's Mausoleum) early in the morning to avoid crowds and allow at least 2-3 hours, as it's Türkiye's most important memorial site with strict security checks and a large complex to explore.

• Dining Districts: Head to the Kızılay or Tunalı Hilmi areas for the best concentration of restaurants and cafes, as Ankara's attractions are spread out and these central neighborhoods offer authentic local cuisine at reasonable prices compared to tourist-focused spots near attractions.

When to Visit

When to Visit Ankara, Türkiye

The ideal time to visit Ankara is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when temperatures hover comfortably between 15-25°C and the city's parks burst with tulips and roses or golden foliage, though be prepared for occasional rain showers that can disrupt outdoor plans at historical sites like Anıtkabir. Summer (June-August) brings scorching heat with temperatures frequently exceeding 30-35°C and intense UV radiation due to Ankara's 850-meter elevation on the Anatolian plateau, making museum visits to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations more appealing than exploring the hilltop castle, while winter (December-February) sees harsh conditions with temperatures dropping to -5 to 5°C, heavy snowfall that can paralyze the city's notoriously congested traffic, and biting winds sweeping across the plateau—though this brings rock-bottom hotel prices and an authentic local experience during Turkish holidays like Republic Day (October 29th) when massive celebrations fill Ulus Square. April coincides with the International Music Festival and the National Sovereignty and Children's Day (April 23rd) with colorful parades, while Ramadan (dates vary by lunar calendar) means reduced daytime restaurant options but spectacular iftar meals and a unique cultural atmosphere, particularly in the historic Hamamönü district. Budget travelers should target January-February when hotel rates drop 40-50% and domestic tourists disappear, though many smaller restaurants and attractions operate on reduced schedules and the city's already limited nightlife becomes practically dormant.