Things to Do in Ankara: A Guide to Türkiye’s Capital

Ankara, Türkiye’s capital since 1923, is often overlooked by travellers heading to Istanbul or the coast, yet it offers some of the country’s most meaningful history and a relaxed, green city life. Edda Creative has deep roots in Ankara, where we work with technology and defence brands. Here are the places we recommend.

1. Anıtkabir

Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Türkiye, is Ankara’s most important landmark. The monumental complex includes the Road of Lions, a vast ceremonial square, the Hall of Honour and the Atatürk and War of Independence Museum. The changing of the guard and the quiet atmosphere make it a moving visit. Entry is free.

2. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Housed in a restored Ottoman bazaar and caravanserai below Ankara Castle, this award-winning museum traces Anatolia’s history from the Palaeolithic through the Neolithic settlement of Çatalhöyük to the Hittites, Phrygians and Urartians. It is one of the most important archaeology museums in the region.

3. Ankara Castle and Hamamönü

The old citadel offers panoramic views over the city. Its narrow streets are lined with traditional houses, small museums, craft shops and cafés. Nearby, the restored Ottoman houses of Hamamönü have become a lively area for traditional food, tea gardens and evening walks.

4. Roman Ankara

Ankara was the Roman city of Ancyra. The Temple of Augustus and Rome preserves on its walls one of the most complete copies of the Res Gestae, Emperor Augustus’ account of his achievements. The Roman Baths and the Column of Julian complete the picture of the city’s ancient past.

5. Republican Ankara

As the young Republic’s capital, Ankara was built with a distinctive early 20th-century architecture. Around Ulus, the buildings of the First and Second Grand National Assembly now serve as museums of the War of Independence and the Republic, telling the story of modern Türkiye’s founding.

6. Gençlik Park and Kuğulu Park

Ankara is a green city. Gençlik Park, one of the Republic’s first urban parks, and Kuğulu Park, famous for its swans, are popular places for walks. The Atakule tower and the upscale streets of Kavaklıdere and Çankaya show the capital’s modern side.

7. Food in Ankara

Ankara tava, a slow-cooked meat and rice dish, Beypazarı’s famous kurusu (crisp bread) and the region’s rich pastries are worth trying. Ulus and Hamamönü offer traditional restaurants, while Tunalı Hilmi Street is full of cafés.

8. Day trips: Beypazarı and Cappadocia

About 100 km west, Beypazarı is known for its well-preserved Ottoman houses, silverwork and local food. Ankara is also a good base for Cappadocia, which is a few hours’ drive away and famous for its fairy chimneys, rock churches and hot-air balloons.

Practical tips

• Getting there: Ankara Esenboğa Airport and the high-speed train connect the capital with Istanbul, Konya and Eskişehir.
• Getting around: The metro and the Ankaray light rail cover the main routes; the AnkaraKart is used on public transport.
• Climate: Ankara has a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, often snowy winters.

Doing business in Ankara?

Ankara is home to Türkiye’s leading technoparks and many defence and technology companies. Edda Creative works with brands in Ankara on brand strategy, content and international communication, and has delivered workshops for entrepreneurs at Teknopark Ankara. Get in touch if you are planning a visit.