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What is Ankara known for?
- The second largest city and capital of Turkey, Ankara, is a beautiful location to explore while on vacation.
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Who should visit Ankara?
- The land is perfect for visitors heading there on their honeymoon, a family vacation, traveling with friends, or doing some soul-searching on their own.
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What cultural experiences does Ankara offer?
- The endless history and culture can be experienced in the various monuments, museums, attractions, and events that take place there.
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What are some must-visit attractions in Ankara?
- Some of the sites and attractions that shouldn’t be missed include Ankara Castle, Ataturk’s Mausoleum, the Kocatepe Mosque, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
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What else can visitors enjoy in Ankara?
- Visitors will love the many sights and sounds that the historic and beautiful city offers, along with trying the delicious cuisine for which Turkey is renowned.
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1. Altinkoy Open Air Museum
The Altinkoy Open Air Museum in Ankara is one of the best places for visitors to get an understanding of what life was like in the villages of Turkey over a hundred years ago. The interactive feel of the community-like attraction makes it memorable for visitors of all ages. The village square expands to old-time mosques, houses, fountains, and everything else that comprised village life in the olden days. People can buy fun items from the village grocery store or dine in the authentic outdoor cooking areas. There are many workshops that display various skills and family-friendly traditional events celebrated throughout the year.
Besikkaya Mahallesi, Altindag/Ankara, 2044/1. Sk., 06230 Altindag/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-31-23-75-15-88
2. Anadolu Medeniyetleri Muzesi
Anadolu Medeniyetleri Muzesi, or the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, can be found in a former bazaar and caravanserai that have been renovated to house the museum exhibits and its administrative building, conference hall, laboratory, and library. The exhibits have many items from Anatolian archaeology on display, starting with the Paleolithic era all the way to the Ottoman period. Visitors will be able to see various marble, glass, gold, silver, and bronze works from as far back as the first millennium BC. The coin collection has examples of the first minted money among other rare cultural treasures, which can be viewed by all.
Kale Mh., Gozcu Sk. No:2, 06240 Ulus/Altindag/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-31-23-24-31-60
3. Ankara Air Force Museum
The Ankara Air Force Museum was opened with the purpose of sharing the colorful history of Turkish aviation with visitors as well as future generations. There are over 700 artifacts, documents, and photographs on display regarding the Turkish Civil Aviation Authority and the Turkish Air Agency in the museum building. Some of the items showcased in the museum’s halls also include uniforms, certificates, and medals. Visitors can then head to the garden, where model and original aircraft are displayed, as well as the historic Parachute Tower, which was built by Turkish and Russian engineers in 1937. The parachuting experience is open to anyone 16 years or older and is one of the most fun aspects of the museum.
Doganbey Mh., 06250 Altindag/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-31-23-11-30-13
4. Ankara Castle
Established in the 7th century AD, Ankara Castle was owned by the Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire all the way to the Seljuk Turks and the Ottoman Empire. Presently, visitors can see the early medieval-era fortification, which comprises an inner line and an outer line of walls, along with many towers, constructed out of reused masonry. The unique architectural style showcases the tradition and culture that Turkey is renowned for, and visitors will be able to see many music and art masterpieces while there. There are many concerts and festivals held on the castle grounds during the summer months, which visitors can attend while there.
Kale Mah., 06240 Altindag/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-54-13-55-38-46
5. Aqua Vega Aquarium
Found within one of Turkey’s largest shopping malls, the Aqua Vega Aquarium is perfect for a day out for visitors of any age. The aquarium has a 340-foot-long tunnel that surrounds visitors with the natural habitat and life of underwater creatures. The aquarium tanks have various themes for visitors to explore and house both salt and freshwater life. It is fascinating to see the exotic creatures from various rivers and oceans from around the world. Other aspects of the aquarium include touch pools, a reptile house, various dedicated photography points, a souvenir shop, and a cafeteria to relax and dine in.
Dogukent Bulvari, Nata Vega Outlet, 06480 Mamak/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-31-25-54-28-28
6. Ataturk's Mausoleum
Anitkabir, or Ataturk's Mausoleum, is the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who was the first president of the Republic of Turkey after leading the Turkish War of Independence. The architecture of the memorial tomb is the result of a competition held by the Turkish government; the mausoleum was designed by architects Emin Onat and Ahmet Orhan Arda. Visitors will be able to explore the many aspects of the mausoleum, including the arcades that surround the ceremonial courtyard and the beautiful detail on the stone-clad buildings. Other aspects include the Road of Lions, the Ceremonial Plaza, the Hall of Honor, and Peace Park.
Mebusevleri Mh., 06570 Çankaya/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-31-22-31-28-05
7. CerModern
Since 2010 the CerModern museum has exhibited stunning modern art and hosted various events for visitors to enjoy. The museum is housed in a former railway workshop that brings together the aesthetic and art in a versatile and dynamic environment. Past exhibits have included housing the Istanbul Photo Awards, Iranian Women Photographers, and works by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera as well as Fernando Franco I Oaxaca. Movie screenings and concerts are held throughout the year, in addition to exhibitions and workshops fun for all ages. Visits to CerModern are never the same, with the many different rotating exhibits.
Anafartalar Mahallesi, Altinsoy Cad. No:3, 06101 Sihhiye / Altindag/Altindag/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-31-23-10-00-00
8. Erimtan Museum
The Erimtan Archaeology and Arts Museum is a cultural center of arts that focuses on Yuksel Erimtan’s collection of Anatolian archaeological artifacts. The ancient objects take visitors back in time by telling a story of Turkey’s cultural heritage and artistic life. There are over 2,000 items on display, including glass artifacts, gems, coins, jewelry, bronze works, seal stones, and much more. The museum hosts a chamber music concert series titled Music at the Museum or Tuesday Concerts and invites visitors to listen to some of Turkey’s leading musicians. Visitors will be able to take home some wonderful goods – jewelry, household items, and much more – at the museum’s in-house store.
Erimtan Museum, Kale Mh., Gözcü Sk. No:10, 06240 Altindag/Ankara, Turkey, Phone: +90-31-23-11-04-01
9. Esztergom Turkish Cultural Center
The Esztergom Turkish Cultural Center is located within the historic Esztergom Castle and has been promoting Turkish history and culture since 2005. Visitors will be able to see motifs of traditional Turkish art within the center’s museum. The building itself is a work of art; the Turkish-Islamic architecture, from the marble to the handcrafting, is a stunning sight for visitors to enjoy. There are many events and workshops on tradition and art held at the cultural center for visitors to participate in. Visitors can take home a bit of the beauty with souvenirs from the museum shop or have a delicious bite to eat at the on-site restaurant.
Güçlükaya Mh., Fatih Cad., 06280 Keçiören/Ankara
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers.
Mövenpick Hotel Ankara – A stylish and centrally located hotel.
Visit Atatürk Mausoleum (Anitkabir) – Pay homage to Turkey’s founder in a grand memorial.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and dry, great for exploring historical sites.
Divan Ankara – A luxurious stay with excellent service.
Explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – Discover ancient artifacts from Turkey’s rich history.
Fall (September-November) – Mild weather and fewer crowds.
Warwick Ankara – A modern boutique hotel in a prime location.
Wander through Ankara Castle – Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city.
Winter (December-February) – Cold but festive, with occasional snowfall.
Latanya Hotel Ankara – A cozy and elegant stay.
Visit Kocatepe Mosque – Experience the grandeur of one of Turkey’s largest mosques.
Plan Your Trip
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