Ankara Travel Guide: Best Time to Visit, Things to Do, Costs & Tips

Ankara is Turkey's capital and the political heart of the modern republic. While Istanbul draws most of the attention, Ankara offers a different perspective on Turkey: a city of broad boulevards, government buildings and universities, set on the Anatolian plateau and steeped in history that stretches back to the Hittites, Phrygians, Romans and Ottomans. It's home to Anıtkabir, the monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, one of the world's finest archaeological museums. Ankara is also a convenient gateway to Cappadocia and the heart of Anatolia.

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Best Time to Visit Ankara

Ankara lies at about 940 metres above sea level and has a continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.

Spring (April–June) is one of the best times to visit, with temperatures from about 15°C to 26°C and green parks.

Summer (July–August) is hot and dry, with temperatures around 28–33°C, but evenings are cooler thanks to the altitude.

Autumn (September–October) offers pleasant weather and is ideal for combining Ankara with Cappadocia.

Winter (December–February) is cold, with temperatures often below freezing and regular snowfall.

National days: Republic Day (29 October) is celebrated with ceremonies at Anıtkabir and festivities across the city. On 10 November, the anniversary of Atatürk's death, the country observes a moment of silence at 9:05 am.

Top Places to Visit in Ankara

1. Anıtkabir

The monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is Ankara's most important landmark. The complex includes the Hall of Honour, the Lion Road lined with stone lions, and the Atatürk and War of Independence Museum. The changing of the guard is an impressive ceremony. Entry is free.

2. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Housed in a restored Ottoman bazaar and caravanserai, this award-winning museum displays artefacts from Anatolia's ancient civilisations, including Hittite reliefs, Phrygian treasures and finds from Çatalhöyük, one of the world's oldest settlements.

3. Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi)

The ancient citadel offers panoramic views over the city. Inside its walls, the old Ottoman neighbourhood has restored houses, cafés and craft shops.

4. Hamamönü

This restored historic district features colourful Ottoman wooden houses, traditional cafés, restaurants and souvenir shops. It's especially lively in the evenings.

5. Kocatepe Mosque

One of the largest mosques in Turkey, Kocatepe was completed in 1987 in classical Ottoman style and is a prominent feature of Ankara's skyline.

6. Temple of Augustus and Rome and the Roman Baths

The ruins of the Temple of Augustus feature the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, an important Roman inscription. Nearby are the remains of the Roman Baths.

7. Atakule and Gençlik Park

Atakule tower offers city views and a revolving restaurant, while Gençlik Park is a popular green space with a lake and amusement rides.

Also worth visiting: the Ethnography Museum, the Erimtan Archaeology and Arts Museum, the Rahmi M. Koç Museum, the Haci Bayram Mosque, the War of Independence Museum and Kuğulu Park.

Beyond the City

Ankara is a convenient base for exploring central Anatolia. Cappadocia, with its fairy chimneys, cave hotels and hot-air balloon flights, is about 3.5–4 hours away by bus or car. Ancient Hattusa, the Hittite capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is about 2.5 hours east. Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü) is about 2 hours south. High-speed trains connect Ankara with Istanbul and Konya, home to the Mevlana Museum and the whirling dervishes.

Why Ankara Became the Capital

Until the early 20th century, Ankara (then known as Angora, famous for its goats and fine wool) was a small Anatolian town. During the Turkish War of Independence, Atatürk made it the headquarters of the national movement, and in 1923 it was declared the capital of the new Republic of Turkey, replacing Istanbul. The city was then rebuilt according to modern urban plans, with wide boulevards, parks and government quarters. Today, with a population of more than five million, it's Turkey's second-largest city.

Where to Stay in Ankara

• Kızılay: The city centre, with hotels, shops and excellent public transport.
• Ulus: The historic district, close to the castle, museums and Hamamönü.
• Çankaya and Kavaklıdere: Upscale neighbourhoods with embassies, restaurants and international hotels.
• Tunalı Hilmi: Lively, with cafés, bars and shops.

Compare hotel prices and availability in Ankara here.

Getting There & Around

Flying to Ankara

Ankara Esenboğa International Airport (ESB) lies about 28 km northeast of the city centre and has domestic and international flights, including connections via Istanbul. Search and compare cheap flights to Ankara to find the best fares.

From the airport, Havaş and BelkoAir shuttle buses run to the city centre in about 30–45 minutes. Taxis are also available.

By Train and Bus

Ankara is the hub of Turkey's high-speed rail network (YHT), with trains to Istanbul (about 4.5–5 hours), Konya, Eskişehir and Sivas. Ankara's large bus terminal (AŞTİ) connects with cities across Turkey, including Cappadocia.

Getting Around Ankara

• Metro and Ankaray: Connect key districts, including Kızılay and AŞTİ.
• Buses: Extensive city bus network. Use the rechargeable AnkaraKart.
• Taxis: Affordable; ensure the meter is used.
• Walking: Ulus and Hamamönü are best explored on foot.

Travel Costs in Ankara

Ankara is generally more affordable than Istanbul. The currency is the Turkish lira (TRY), which has been volatile, so prices in lira change frequently. Cards are widely accepted.

Money-saving tips: eat at lokantas (traditional canteens) serving home-style Turkish dishes, and use public transport with an AnkaraKart.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Turkey is not part of the EU or the Schengen Area:

• US, Canadian, UK, Australian and most EU citizens can currently visit Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism.
• Some EU citizens can enter with a national ID card, but not all; check your nationality.
• Other nationalities may need an e-Visa from the official website (evisa.gov.tr) or a visa from a Turkish consulate.
• Passport validity: At least 60 days beyond your planned stay is required, and six months is recommended.
• Beware of unofficial e-Visa websites: Use only the official government portal.

Always check official Turkish government sources and your own government's travel advice before departure.

Local Tips for Ankara

• Respect Atatürk: Atatürk is deeply respected in Turkey. Behave respectfully at Anıtkabir and avoid disrespectful comments.
• Dress code: Dress modestly when visiting mosques; women should cover their hair.
• Try local food: Taste Ankara tava (lamb and rice), döner, simit, pide, baklava and Turkish tea.
• Tea culture: Tea (çay) is served everywhere; accepting an offer is a sign of friendship.
• Tipping: Around 5–10% in restaurants is customary.
• Safety: Ankara is generally safe. Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings, and follow local news.
• Staying connected: Turkey is outside the EU, so roaming fees can be high. Note that foreign phones used with a local SIM for more than 120 days must be registered. A travel eSIM is a simple solution for short trips. Get your Turkey eSIM here.

Tours & Experiences

• Ankara city tour: Visit Anıtkabir, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and Ankara Castle.
• Cappadocia tour: See fairy chimneys, underground cities and cave churches, and take a hot-air balloon ride.
• Hattusa day trip: Explore the ancient Hittite capital.
• Turkish cooking class: Learn to make traditional dishes.
• Salt Lake day trip: Visit one of Turkey's largest lakes, famous for its white salt flats.

Browse and book the best tours from Ankara here.

FAQ

Is Ankara worth visiting?

Yes. Ankara offers Anıtkabir, world-class museums, a historic citadel and an authentic Turkish atmosphere, plus easy access to Cappadocia.

How many days do you need in Ankara?

Two days are enough to see the main sights. Add days for Cappadocia or Hattusa.

Do I need a visa for Turkey?

US, Canadian, UK, Australian and most EU citizens can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Other nationalities may need an e-Visa.

How far is Cappadocia from Ankara?

Cappadocia is about 3.5–4 hours by car or bus from Ankara.

How do I get from Ankara Airport to the city centre?

Take the Havaş or BelkoAir shuttle bus (about 30–45 minutes) or a taxi.

Conclusion

Ankara's monumental Anıtkabir, world-class archaeological museum and authentic Anatolian atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop, and a convenient gateway to Cappadocia.

Plan ahead: book your tours on GetYourGuide, and get ready to discover Ankara.

Trip.com Turkey Guide: Cheap Hotels in Istanbul, Antalya & Cappadocia Cave Resorts

Turkey is one of the world's most popular travel destinations, and it delivers an extraordinary range of experiences in one country. In Istanbul, you can sleep in a hotel overlooking the Bosphorus, where Europe meets Asia. On the Turquoise Coast, all-inclusive resorts in Antalya, Belek, Kemer and Side offer sun, sea and endless buffets. And in Cappadocia, you can spend the night in a cave hotel carved into volcanic rock before watching hundreds of hot air balloons rise at sunrise.

Turkey also offers excellent value compared with many Mediterranean destinations, especially outside peak summer. Trip.com Turkey helps you compare hotels, flights and attractions across the country in one app, with member prices, coupons and Trip Coins. In this Trip.com Turkey guide, you'll discover the main accommodation styles, smart booking strategies, which partner tools to combine, and a step-by-step booking guide.

Find cheap hotels in Turkey on Trip.com

Turkey Accommodation

Bosphorus and Istanbul hotels

Istanbul has accommodation for every budget, from Ottoman-era mansions to modern skyscraper hotels.

• Sultanahmet: The historic heart, steps from the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace. Many boutique hotels with rooftop terraces.
• Beyoğlu and Galata: Trendy area around İstiklal Avenue and the Galata Tower, with nightlife and restaurants.
• Karaköy: Stylish waterfront neighbourhood with design hotels and cafés.
• Beşiktaş and Ortaköy: Luxury Bosphorus-front hotels and palaces.
• Kadıköy (Asian side): Local atmosphere, food markets and lower prices.

Bosphorus-view hotels are a highlight, with sweeping views of ships, bridges and palaces. Expect to pay a premium for water-facing rooms.

All-inclusive Mediterranean resorts

The Antalya region is Turkey's resort capital:

• Belek: Luxury resorts and golf courses.
• Kemer: Resorts between mountains and sea.
• Side: Ancient ruins and sandy beaches.
• Alanya: Lively, affordable resorts with a castle and long beaches.
• Lara: Close to Antalya airport, with themed mega-resorts.

The Aegean coast also offers great options in Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Kuşadası and Çeşme. Most resorts offer all-inclusive or ultra all-inclusive plans, with meals, drinks, pools, entertainment and kids' clubs.

Cappadocia cave hotels

Cappadocia's cave hotels, carved into soft volcanic rock, are among the most unique stays in the world.

• Göreme: The main hub, with views of balloons at sunrise.
• Uçhisar: Higher up, with panoramic views and luxury cave suites.
• Ürgüp: Elegant town with boutique cave hotels and wineries.
• Ortahisar: Quieter, authentic village.

Tip: Rooms with terraces facing the valleys offer front-row seats for the balloon spectacle.

Other options

Boutique hotels in Kaş and Kalkan, thermal resorts in Pamukkale, and ski hotels in Uludağ and Erciyes.

Best Booking Strategies on Trip.com Turkey

1. Compare all-inclusive offers carefully

Check what's included: à la carte restaurants, premium drinks, beach access, aquaparks and kids' clubs vary between resorts.

2. Travel in shoulder season

April–June and September–October offer warm weather and lower prices on the coast. Istanbul is pleasant in spring and autumn. In Cappadocia, spring and autumn are ideal for balloon flights.

3. Book early for peak summer

Resorts in July and August, especially family-friendly ones, fill quickly. Turkish school holidays and religious holidays (Kurban Bayramı and Ramazan Bayramı) also push up prices.

4. Use free cancellation

Book refundable rates early, then check prices again and rebook if they fall.

5. Unlock member prices and coupons

Log in to Trip.com for member prices, collect coupons and earn Trip Coins (100 Trip Coins = US$1 in value).

6. Consider Flight + Hotel packages

Bundles to Istanbul or Antalya can be cheaper than booking separately.

7. Check the location

In Istanbul, staying near a tram or metro line saves time. In Antalya, check the distance to the airport and beach.

8. Watch for extra charges

Turkish hotels may charge a small accommodation tax, often included in the price. Some resorts charge for premium drinks, spa treatments or sunbeds on the pier.

9. Pay in local currency where cheaper

Compare prices in Turkish lira, euros and dollars, and watch your card's conversion fees.

10. Read the hotel policies

Check check-in times, deposit rules and whether airport transfers or beach towels are included, especially at large resorts.

Sample hotel budgets (per room, per night)

Prices are indicative and vary strongly by season and currency movements.

Getting from the airport

• Istanbul: Istanbul Airport (IST) is linked to the city by the M11 metro and Havaist buses; Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side has Havabus and metro connections.
• Antalya (AYT): Resorts are typically 20–120 minutes away; many packages include transfers, or you can pre-book a private transfer.
• Cappadocia: Fly to Kayseri (ASR) or Nevşehir (NAV); shuttle buses connect with hotels in Göreme and Ürgüp.

Food and culture tips

Try breakfast Turkish-style (kahvaltı) with cheeses, olives, eggs and simit, kebabs, meze, pide, baklava and fresh seafood on the coast. Dress modestly when visiting mosques; women should bring a headscarf. Tipping around 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated.

Level.Travel, Aviasales and GetYourGuide Hot Air Balloon Tours

Level.Travel for package holidays

For travellers departing from Russia, Level.Travel compares all-inclusive package tours to Antalya, Alanya, Kemer, Side and Bodrum from major tour operators, including charter flights and transfers.

Aviasales for flights

Aviasales compares flights to Istanbul (IST and SAW), Antalya (AYT), Dalaman, Bodrum and Kayseri or Nevşehir (for Cappadocia), helping you find the cheapest dates.

GetYourGuide for hot air balloon tours

A hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. GetYourGuide offers balloon flights with hotel pickup, as well as Bosphorus cruises, Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia tours, Pamukkale day trips and boat trips along the Turquoise Coast.

Balloon tips

• Book flights for your first morning in Cappadocia; if weather cancels it, you can try again the next day.
• Flights depend on wind and are often cancelled in winter.
• Choose licensed operators with good reviews.

Seasonal highlights

• Spring (April–May): Tulip festival in Istanbul and pleasant sightseeing weather.
• Summer (June–August): Peak beach season on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts.
• Autumn (September–October): Warm seas, harvest season in Cappadocia and fewer crowds.
• Winter: Snow-covered fairy chimneys in Cappadocia and quieter, cheaper Istanbul.

Step-by-Step Booking Guide

1. Search: Go to Trip.com Turkey or open the app. Enter your destination, dates and guests.
2. Filter: Filter by price, star rating, guest rating, free cancellation, meal plan (all-inclusive, half board, breakfast), beachfront and property type.
3. Check location and views: Use the map to find hotels near attractions, beaches or valleys. Look for "Bosphorus view" or "balloon view" rooms.
4. Read reviews: Look for comments on food quality, cleanliness, service and noise.
5. Compare rates: Compare refundable vs. non-refundable rates and meal plans.
6. Add flights or transfers: Book domestic flights (Istanbul to Antalya or Kayseri) or Flight + Hotel packages.
7. Apply discounts: Use member prices, coupons and Trip Coins.
8. Pay and confirm: Pay securely and keep your confirmation in the app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I stay in Istanbul for the first time?

Sultanahmet for historic sights, Karaköy or Galata for a trendy base, or Beşiktaş for Bosphorus luxury.

What is a cave hotel in Cappadocia?

A hotel with rooms carved into volcanic rock, combining traditional architecture with modern comforts, often with terraces overlooking the balloon flights.

When is the best time to visit Antalya?

May–June and September–October offer warm weather and lower prices than July and August.

Are all-inclusive resorts in Turkey worth it?

Usually yes, especially for families. Compare what each resort includes, such as à la carte dinners and premium drinks.

How far in advance should I book a hot air balloon ride?

Book several weeks in advance in peak season, and schedule it for your first morning in Cappadocia in case of weather cancellations.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.