Hello, today we would like to talk about Ankara, the pearl of Türkiye, from Mikos Store. Ankara, the capital of the Republic of Turkey and the second most populous city, draws attention with its historical and cultural riches. Located in the Central Anatolia Region, Ankara is a political, economic and educational center, as well as having a rich history that has hosted many civilizations.
The city's history covers a wide time period from the Hittites to the present day. Historical sites such as Ankara Castle, the Roman Theater and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations shed light on the city's deep-rooted past. In addition, Ankara, which Atatürk chose as the capital after the proclamation of the Republic, played a central role in the construction of modern Türkiye.
The city is also an important center in education and culture. It is home to prestigious higher education institutions such as Ankara University, Middle East Technical University and Hacettepe University. Culturally rich, Ankara offers a wide range of activities for art lovers with opera, ballet, theater performances and concerts.
Ankara's climate is cold and snowy in winters and hot and dry in summers. The city's geographical location and climate allow for the growth of a variety of vegetation and agricultural products. These features make Ankara an attractive destination for visitors in terms of both historical and natural beauty.
Economically, Ankara stands out with its defense industry, information technologies and education sectors. It also has a modern city life with large shopping malls, restaurants, cafes and social living areas.
This overview gives an idea of Ankara's rich history, cultural diversity and the opportunities offered by modern life. Ankara is a capital city waiting to be discovered, offering different experiences to each visitor.
How to get to Ankara?
Ankara is a city that is easily accessible from both domestic and international markets, as it has a strategic location in the center of Türkiye. Transportation is provided by various options, including air, rail and road.
Transportation by Air
Ankara Esenboğa Airport is located approximately 28 kilometers from the city center and hosts many domestic and international flights. Transportation from the airport to the city center is provided by Havaş shuttles, municipal buses and taxis. There are also car rental options.
Transportation by Rail
Ankara is at the intersection of Türkiye's major railway lines. With the High Speed Train (YHT), it is possible to reach major cities such as Istanbul, Eskisehir, Konya and Izmir quickly and comfortably. Ankara Train Station is the center of the city's railway transportation and serves passengers with its modern facilities.
Transportation by Road
Ankara is at the center of the highway network connecting all four corners of Türkiye. Bus transportation to the city is quite common and there are regular bus services from all over Türkiye. AŞTİ (Ankara Intercity Terminal Operation) serves as the city's main bus terminal and has modern facilities.
Flexible options are offered to passengers in terms of transportation to Ankara. Whether a fast or economical journey is preferred, access to the city is easy and comfortable. This variety of transportation provides a great advantage for those who want to visit Ankara.
Urban Transportation in Ankara
Urban transportation in Ankara is provided by an extensive public transportation network. This network includes various transportation options such as metro, buses, dolmuş and Ankaray, making it quite easy and accessible to get around the city.
Metro
The Ankara metro is a fast and efficient transportation option within the city. Current lines include M1, M2, M3 and M4. These lines serve many important points of the city, especially the areas such as Kızılay, Çankaya, Sincan and Batıkent.
Ankaray
Ankaray, a light metro system, covers a significant part of the city from Dikimevi to AŞTİ. Ankaray is a preferred method for accessing densely populated areas, especially in the city center.
Buses
An extensive bus network operated by EGO General Directorate provides transportation to every corner of Ankara. Buses are the primary means of transportation to neighborhoods and districts spread over a wide geographical area. There are also night services.
Minibuses
Minibuses are minibuses that travel along specific routes and pick up and drop off passengers at any desired location outside of the bus stop. During rush hours and in places where bus lines are insufficient, minibuses offer a fast and flexible alternative.
Bicycle
Ankara Metropolitan Municipality offers bicycle paths and rental bicycle systems in some areas to encourage cycling in the city. This is especially popular during the spring and summer months as a healthy and environmentally friendly transportation option.
Smart Card System
Public transport usage in Ankara is based on a smart card system called "Ankarakart". This card is valid on the metro, Ankaray and buses and provides discounts for multiple uses.
Thanks to this diversity and convenience, urban transportation in Ankara allows visitors and locals to explore the city comfortably. Transportation options suitable for all needs and preferences support the dynamic structure of Ankara and make city life easier.
Places to Visit in Ankara
Ankara is a city full of historical and cultural heritage, natural beauties and modern attractions. Places to visit in the capital include museums, parks, historical sites and shopping malls.
Mausoleum
Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye, is one of the most important symbols of Ankara. It offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors with its architecture and fascinating view.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
Located in the historical Kale Neighborhood of Ankara, this museum exhibits artifacts from civilizations that lived in Anatolia. Artifacts from many civilizations, from the Hittites to the Roman Empire, are located here.
Ankara Castle
Rising in the historical center of the city, Ankara Castle offers a magnificent panoramic view of Ankara. The narrow streets inside the castle are full of old Ankara houses, art galleries and souvenir shops.
Swan Park
Located in the Kavaklıdere district, Kuğulu Park takes its name from the pond that hosts swans. With its green area and calm atmosphere, it is one of the important resting and meeting points in the city.
Ataturk Forest Farm and Zoo
Spread over a wide area, Atatürk Forest Farm offers visitors the opportunity to have a pleasant time with its natural beauties, agricultural areas and zoo.
TBMM National Struggle Museum
Located in the old building of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, this museum exhibits important documents and photographs regarding the Turkish War of Independence and the founding years of the Republic.
CerModern
CerModern, which has an important place in Ankara's modern art scene, hosts contemporary art exhibitions. It is a place not to be missed for art lovers.
Lake Eymir
Located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center, Lake Eymir is an ideal natural area for nature walks, cycling and picnicking.
Ankara is a city that offers its visitors history, culture, art and nature all together. The capital, where every corner tells a different story, offers ample opportunities to explore.
Festivals in Ankara
Ankara offers a rich festival experience to both locals and visitors, hosting a variety of cultural and artistic events throughout the year. Organized in different fields from music to theater, from art to science, festivals contribute greatly to the social and cultural life of the city.
Ankara International Film Festival
This festival, held every year, brings together important works from Turkish and world cinema with movie lovers. The festival is also enriched with workshops, panels and other events related to cinema.
Ankara Jazz Festival
Hosting the leading names of jazz music in Ankara, the festival offers unforgettable moments to music lovers. The concerts organized within the scope of the festival bring together different styles and interpretations of jazz with the audience.
Ankara International Music Festival
Offering a wide range of concerts from classical music to pop music, ethnic music to jazz performances, this festival takes place every year in April. Featuring national and international artists, the festival is one of the most prestigious music events in Ankara.
Ankara Theatre Festival
Bringing together theater groups and artists, this festival hosts various theater plays. Offering a wide repertoire from classical plays to contemporary works, the festival offers a rich experience for theater lovers.
Ankara International Children's Festival
This festival, held every year on April 23rd National Sovereignty and Children's Day, brings children together with cultural events and fun activities. The festival aims to increase children's interest in art and culture.
CerModern Open Air Film Days
This event, held at CerModern during the summer months, offers visitors enjoyable evenings with open-air cinema screenings. Showing films from various genres, this event is indispensable for cinema lovers.
Festivals in Ankara add dynamism and color to the city's cultural life. These events, organized throughout the year, contribute to the social and cultural life of both the people of Ankara and visitors to the city.
What to Eat in Ankara?
Ankara is full of various dining options that offer the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine. Some of the special dishes you can try in the capital are:
Ankara Pan
Ankara tava, one of the famous dishes of Ankara, is a type of casserole prepared with lamb, tomatoes, peppers and special spices. Known for its deliciousness and filling, this dish is usually served with pilaf or bulgur pilaf.
Beypazari Casserole
This traditional dish, specific to the Beypazarı district of Ankara, is prepared with lamb, vegetables and spices unique to Beypazarı. Cooked in earthenware casserole dishes, this dish attracts attention with its rich aroma.
Flatbread
Bazlama, a soft and fluffy Turkish bread, is especially preferred for breakfasts and picnics. It can be consumed plain or served with cheese, olives and tomatoes.
Pickled Spears
Çubuk district of Ankara is famous for its delicious pickles. Çubuk pickles are prepared by pickling various vegetables (usually cucumbers) with a special method and served as an appetizer.
Observation
Prepared by stuffing cheese, potatoes, spinach or minced meat inside yufka bread, gözleme is a popular snack that you can find everywhere in Ankara.
Kalecik Karasi
This special wine variety from the Kalecik region of Ankara reflects the region's viticulture culture. With red and white wine options, Kalecik Karası offers a taste that is compatible with meals.
Ankara Bagel
Ankara simit has a crunchier texture than simits from other cities. It is consumed with tea or as a quick snack on the street.
Ankara offers a wide range of Turkish and international cuisines, as well as local specialties. Dining in the capital city gives visitors the opportunity to discover Türkiye's gastronomic diversity.
Ankara Night Life
Ankara is a city famous for its vibrant and diverse nightlife options. The capital has entertainment venues to suit every taste and budget. From bars to nightclubs, live music venues to restaurants, Ankara's nightlife reflects the dynamic nature of the city.
Red Crescent
Considered the heart of Ankara, Kızılay is one of the areas with the liveliest nightlife. With its various bars, pubs and nightclubs, Kızılay is a popular meeting point, especially among young people.
Bestekar Street and Tunali Hilmi Street
This area is famous for its stylish restaurants, cafes and bars. Ideal venues for those looking to listen to live music or spend a quiet evening can be found here.
Cankaya
For those who want to experience Ankara's more exclusive nightlife, the Çankaya district is ideal. Luxury restaurants, elite bars and nightclubs attract attention with their quality service and stylish atmosphere.
Bahcelievler 7th Street
This area, with its large student population, is known for its affordable entertainment options. The street hosts performances by street artists and has a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Sakarya Street
Sakarya Street, the heart of the alternative music scene, offers a variety of bars and venues for those who love different music genres. It is a popular destination especially for rock and indie music fans.
Ankara's nightlife is a feature that reflects the city's cultural diversity and dynamism. Visitors and locals can experience unforgettable moments in the wide range of entertainment Ankara offers. Ankara, where everyone can find a place to suit their taste, also offers its guests enjoyable times with its nightlife.
With the Ankara Travel Guide, we wanted to tell you all the details of Ankara and share all its beauties with you. We hope you enjoy reading it. Best regards, until we meet on a different travel blog. We also recommend you to take a look at our Cappadocia Travel Guide article to learn all the details about Cappadocia.
