Best Places To Visit In Ankara | Turkey

The castle consists of an inner and outer section, with the inner castle featuring 42 towers and the outer walls having over 20 towers. The castle offers a panoramic view of Ankara from its lofty position. It is open for visitors from 8 am to 5 pm daily.

Location: Kale Mahallesi, 06240 Altındağ/Ankara, Turkey. The castle is located in the heart of Ankara, near the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and other historical sites.

How to Get There: The castle is easily accessible from the city center. You can take a taxi or walk from Kızılay Square, which takes around 30 minutes on foot. Alternatively, you can take a cab or walk from Ulus Square, which is just 10 minutes away from Kızılay.

What Can See: Inside the castle walls, you can explore the traditional Turkish houses, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. The Alaeddin Mosque and the Finger Gate (Parmak Kapısı) are also notable attractions within the castle grounds.

What Can Do: Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of Ankara from the castle walls, especially from the Şark Kulesi (Eastern Tower) and Ak Kale (White Fortress). You can also explore the nearby Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and other historical sites on Gözcü Sokak.

Conclusion: Ankara Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. Its unique blend of Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman influences makes it a fascinating place to explore and learn about the city’s rich past.

It was built in the 13th century during the Seljuk era and is known for its intricate architectural details and beautiful mihrab (prayer niche).

Location: Cebeci Mahallesi, Arslanhane Sokak No:1, 06030 Altındağ/Ankara, Turkey. The mosque is situated in the Ulus district, near the Ankara Castle and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.

How to Get There: You can reach the mosque by taking a taxi or walking from the city center. It’s approximately a 15-minute walk from Ulus Square.

What Can See: Inside the mosque, you can admire the beautiful mihrab, which features intricate carvings and calligraphy. The mosque also has a unique octagonal minaret, which is a distinctive feature of Seljuk architecture.

What Can Do: Visitors can attend prayer services or simply explore the mosque’s interior and learn about its history and architectural significance.

Conclusion: The Arslanhane Mosque is a hidden gem in Ankara, offering a glimpse into the city’s Seljuk heritage. Its beautiful mihrab and unique minaret make it a fascinating destination for those interested in Islamic architecture and history.

The museum features exhibits on the prison’s history, as well as the stories of those who were incarcerated there.

Location: Ulucanlar Caddesi No:2, 06240 Altındağ/Ankara, Turkey. The museum is located in the Altındağ district of Ankara, about 5 km from the city center.

How to Get There: You can reach the museum by taking a taxi or using public transportation. The nearest metro station is Kurtuluş, which is about a 10-minute walk from the museum.

What Can See: Inside the museum, you can see the former prison cells, exercise yards, and other facilities. The exhibits feature photographs, documents, and personal belongings of the prisoners, as well as information on the prison’s history and the political struggles that took place there.

What Can Do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum to learn more about its history and the stories of those who were incarcerated there. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events related to human rights and social justice.

Conclusion: The Ulucanlar Prison Museum is a powerful and thought-provoking destination that offers a glimpse into a dark chapter in Turkey’s history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of human rights and the struggles that people have faced in the pursuit of freedom and justice.

It was built in the 15th century and is named after the Sufi saint Hacı Bayram-ı Veli, who is buried in the mosque’s courtyard. The mosque is known for its beautiful mihrab and minbar (pulpit), which feature intricate carvings and calligraphy.

Location: Hacı Bayram Mahallesi, Hacı Bayram Sokak No:1, 06050 Altındağ/Ankara, Turkey. The mosque is located in the Ulus district, near the Ankara Castle and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.

How to Get There: You can reach the mosque by taking a taxi or walking from the city center. It’s approximately a 20-minute walk from Ulus Square.

What Can See: Inside the mosque, you can admire the beautiful mihrab and minbar, which feature intricate carvings and calligraphy. The mosque also has a courtyard where the tomb of Hacı Bayram-ı Veli is located.

What Can Do: Visitors can attend prayer services or simply explore the mosque’s interior and learn about its history and architectural significance. The mosque also hosts various cultural and educational events throughout the year.

Conclusion: The Hacı Bayram Mosque is a significant religious and cultural site in Ankara, offering a glimpse into the city’s Ottoman heritage. Its beautiful mihrab and minbar, as well as the tomb of Hacı Bayram-ı Veli, make it a must-visit destination for those interested in Islamic architecture and history.

installations, and multimedia works. The museum also hosts various cultural events, such as concerts, film screenings, and workshops.

Location: Altınsoy Caddesi No:3, 06430 Çankaya/Ankara, Turkey. The museum is located in the Çankaya district of Ankara, about 5 km from the city center.

How to Get There: You can reach the museum by taking a taxi or using public transportation. The nearest metro station is Kızılay, which is about a 15-minute walk from the museum.

What Can See: Inside the museum, you can see a variety of contemporary art exhibitions, ranging from paintings and sculptures to installations and multimedia works. The museum’s unique location in a former cement factory adds to the industrial atmosphere of the space.

What Can Do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibitions, attend cultural events, and participate in workshops and educational programs. The museum also has a cafe and a gift shop.

Conclusion: Cermodern is a unique and innovative art museum that showcases the best of contemporary art in Ankara. Its location in a former cement factory and its commitment to promoting contemporary art and culture make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

It is a massive complex that covers an area of 750,000 square meters and features a variety of architectural styles, including neo-classical and Turkish. The mausoleum is surrounded by 24 lion statues, each representing a letter in the Turkish alphabet.

Location: Atatürk Bulvarı No:1, 06570 Anittepe/Ankara, Turkey. The mausoleum is located in the Anittepe district of Ankara, about 5 km from the city center.

How to Get There: You can reach the mausoleum by taking a taxi or using public transportation. The nearest metro station is Tandoğan, which is about a 10-minute walk from the mausoleum.

What Can See: Inside the mausoleum, you can see Atatürk’s tomb, which is made of red granite and features a bronze door. The mausoleum also features a museum that showcases Atatürk’s personal belongings, photographs, and documents related to his life and work.

What Can Do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the mausoleum and museum, attend cultural events and ceremonies, and explore the surrounding gardens and parks.

Conclusion: Anıtkabir is a symbol of Turkey’s independence and a testament to the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Its massive scale, architectural beauty, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Turkish history and culture.

Designed by architect Ragıp Buluç, the tower was constructed between 1987 and 1989. The upper portion features an open terrace, a revolving restaurant called Sevilla that completes a 360-degree rotation in an hour, and a non-revolving restaurant called Dome positioned beneath the cupola. Below the terrace is a café named UFO, while the lower sections house a shopping mall and various indoor and outdoor dining options. The tower was inaugurated on October 13, 1989, by President Turgut Özal.

Location: Atakule Tower is located in the Çankaya district of central Ankara, Turkey. The tower’s elevated position on the Çankaya hill allows it to be visible from most parts of the city on clear days.

How to Get There: Atakule Tower is easily accessible from the city center of Ankara. Visitors can take a taxi or use public transportation such as buses or the metro to reach the tower. The nearest metro station is Kızılay, which is about a 15-minute walk from the tower.

What Can See: From the observation deck and revolving restaurant at the top of Atakule Tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Ankara’s cityscape and the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, the view stretches out for miles, allowing visitors to appreciate the city’s scale and layout.

What Can Do: In addition to taking in the views, visitors can dine at the Sevilla revolving restaurant or the Dome restaurant, which offers a more intimate dining experience. The tower also features a shopping mall and various shops, cafes, and restaurants at its base, making it a popular destination for shopping and dining.

Conclusion: Atakule Tower is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Ankara. Its iconic design, panoramic views, and variety of dining and shopping options make it a unique and memorable experience for both locals and tourists alike.

The museum showcases various scientific and technological exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs aimed at promoting science education and public understanding of science. The museum’s collection includes artifacts related to the history of science and technology, as well as interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore scientific principles hands-on.

Location: The METU Science and Technology Museum is situated on the campus of Middle East Technical University in Ankara, Turkey. The university is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach the METU Science and Technology Museum by taking a taxi or using public transportation. The university campus is served by several bus lines, and there is also a metro station nearby.

What Can See: The museum features a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays covering various fields of science and technology, including physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and computer science. Visitors can explore exhibits on topics such as electricity, magnetism, optics, and the human body, and participate in hands-on activities that demonstrate scientific principles.

What Can Do: In addition to exploring the exhibits, visitors can attend educational programs and workshops organized by the museum, such as science demonstrations, lectures, and science camps for children. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Conclusion: The METU Science and Technology Museum is an excellent resource for anyone interested in science and technology, particularly families and school groups. The museum’s interactive exhibits and educational programs make learning about science engaging and fun for visitors of all ages.

Established in 1925 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, the farm covers an area of approximately 15,000 hectares and includes agricultural fields, orchards, vineyards, and livestock farms. The farm also features recreational facilities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and a zoo.

Location: Atatürk Forest Farm is situated in the central part of Ankara, just a few kilometers from the city’s main attractions and government buildings.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Atatürk Forest Farm by taking a taxi or using public transportation. The farm is served by several bus lines, and there is also a metro station nearby.

What Can See: Visitors to Atatürk Forest Farm can explore the various agricultural areas, including fields of wheat, corn, and other crops, as well as orchards and vineyards. The farm also features a zoo with a variety of animals, including deer, ostriches, and peacocks. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the farm’s well-maintained paths and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

What Can Do: In addition to exploring the farm’s agricultural areas and zoo, visitors can enjoy a picnic in one of the designated picnic areas or use the recreational facilities, such as playgrounds and sports fields. The farm also features a small amusement park with rides and attractions for children.

Conclusion: Atatürk Forest Farm is a unique and fascinating attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into Turkey’s agricultural heritage while providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its combination of agricultural exhibits, recreational facilities, and historical significance, the farm is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Ankara.

The museum showcases the history and development of the Turkish Air Force, with exhibits featuring various types of aircraft, weapons, and equipment used by the air force throughout its history. The museum’s collection includes both historical and modern aircraft, as well as interactive displays and educational programs.

Location: The Turkish Air Force Museum is situated at the Etimesgut Air Base, approximately 15 kilometers from the center of Ankara.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach the Turkish Air Force Museum by taking a taxi or using public transportation. The air base is served by several bus lines, and there is also a metro station nearby.

What Can See: The museum features a wide range of aircraft on display, including fighter jets, bombers, transport planes, and helicopters. Visitors can explore the cockpits of some aircraft and learn about their history and capabilities. The museum also features exhibits on the history of the Turkish Air Force, with artifacts such as uniforms, weapons, and equipment used by air force personnel.

What Can Do: In addition to exploring the exhibits, visitors can attend educational programs and workshops organized by the museum, such as guided tours, lectures, and demonstrations. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Conclusion: The Turkish Air Force Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in military history or aviation. The museum’s impressive collection of aircraft and educational programs provide visitors with a unique and engaging experience that showcases the proud history and accomplishments of the Turkish Air Force.

The museum features reconstructed historical buildings, such as houses, barns, and workshops, as well as demonstrations of traditional crafts and activities. Visitors can explore the museum’s winding paths, visit the various buildings, and learn about the daily lives and customs of rural Turks in the early 20th century.

Location: Altınköy Open Air Museum is situated approximately 25 kilometers from the center of Ankara, in the Beypazarı district.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Altınköy Open Air Museum by taking a taxi or renting a car. The museum is not easily accessible by public transportation, so driving or taking a taxi is recommended.

What Can See: The museum features a variety of reconstructed historical buildings, including houses, barns, workshops, and a traditional Turkish bath. Visitors can explore the interiors of these buildings and learn about the materials and techniques used in their construction. The museum also features demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery making, and blacksmithing.

What Can Do: In addition to exploring the museum’s exhibits, visitors can participate in hands-on activities such as bread making, butter churning, and traditional Turkish games. The museum also features a restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine and a gift shop selling locally-made crafts and souvenirs.

Conclusion: Altınköy Open Air Museum is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into Turkey’s rural heritage. The museum’s carefully reconstructed buildings and demonstrations of traditional crafts and activities provide an engaging and educational experience that is both informative and entertaining.

The lake’s shores are lined with parks, picnic areas, and walking paths, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or weekend getaway from the city. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other aquatic creatures.

Location: Lake Mogan is situated approximately 20 kilometers south of Ankara, in the Gölbaşı district.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach Lake Mogan by taking a taxi or renting a car. The lake is also accessible by public transportation, with buses running from Ankara to the nearby town of Gölbaşı.

What Can See: Visitors to Lake Mogan can enjoy the lake’s scenic beauty and take in the surrounding landscape. The lake is surrounded by parks and walking paths, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other aquatic creatures.

What Can Do: Lake Mogan offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors, including swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake’s parks and picnic areas provide opportunities for relaxation and outdoor recreation, while the nearby town of Gölbaşı offers shopping, dining, and other amenities.

Conclusion: Lake Mogan is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Ankara. With its scenic beauty, variety of recreational activities, and proximity to the city, Lake Mogan is an ideal spot for a day trip or weekend getaway for both locals and tourists alike.