Ankara, Turkey

Ankara, Turkey

As the capital of Turkey, Ankara is a beautiful and sprawling city that sits on the bank of river Kizil. It is a hub for the performing arts, is home to the seat of the Turkish government and houses all foreign embassies. It is also well known for being an important location for trade within Turkey. Ankara boasts a stunning landscape that mixes modern and historical elements that date back to the Bronze Age. With a multicultural population, Ankara’s residents originate from various areas throughout Turkey and other Balkan countries. Most of its population are practicing Sunni Muslim’s with the minority primarily being Christians. Turkish is the main language spoken in Ankara and some residents speak Kurdish and Arabic as well. People in Ankara exhibit the friendly and hospital behaviour seen in the rest of the country and are always happy to offer help. Entertaining is important to those in Ankara, which can be demonstrated through their enjoyment of cooking for others. Traditional food served in Ankara includes bazlama, flatbread cooked in an outdoor oven, and Bulgur pilaf, a Turkish grain dish flavoured with onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and various spices.

As the capital of Turkey, Ankara is a beautiful and sprawling city that sits on the bank of river Kizil. It is a hub for the performing arts, is home to the seat of the Turkish government and houses all foreign embassies. It is also well known for being an important location for trade within Turkey. Ankara boasts a stunning landscape that mixes modern and historical elements that date back to the Bronze Age. With a multicultural population, Ankara’s residents originate from various areas throughout Turkey and other Balkan countries. Most of its population are practicing Sunni Muslim’s with the minority primarily being Christians. Turkish is the main language spoken in Ankara and some residents speak Kurdish and Arabic as well. People in Ankara exhibit the friendly and hospital behaviour seen in the rest of the country and are always happy to offer help. Entertaining is important to those in Ankara, which can be demonstrated through their enjoyment of cooking for others. Traditional food served in Ankara includes bazlama, flatbread cooked in an outdoor oven, and Bulgur pilaf, a Turkish grain dish flavoured with onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and various spices.

What to Expect

Ankara is Turkey’s second-largest city and is primarily busy with locals going to and from work, and socializing with friends at family. It also hosts many university students as there are seven public and seven private universities within the city. Ankara is well taken care of, and the city has high standards in regards to landscaping and street upkeep. However, like any large city, Ankara does have air pollution. During the evening, there are many live shows to see such as ballets and operas, thanks to the abundance of perfuming arts in the city. Ankara is very safe with minimal petty theft taking place in popular tourist spots.

Popular Attractions

There are many interesting attractions to see in Ankara. The most popular site amongst tourists being the Anitkbair, which is the mausoleum of the first and second President of the Republic of Turkey and also is a beautifully designed museum. In addition, Ankara Castle is a must-see attraction that will interest guests of all ages. This historic fortification was founded in the 8th century, features amazing architecture, and sits on the highest point in Ankara and therefore offers the best views of the entire city. For a more leisurely activity, visitors will want to spend time wandering the cobblestone streets of the city’s Old Quarter. Unique merchant shops, thick fortified walls, and several cafes can be found in this charming area.

What to Expect

Ankara is Turkey’s second-largest city and is primarily busy with locals going to and from work, and socializing with friends at family. It also hosts many university students as there are seven public and seven private universities within the city. Ankara is well taken care of, and the city has high standards in regards to landscaping and street upkeep. However, like any large city, Ankara does have air pollution. During the evening, there are many live shows to see such as ballets and operas, thanks to the abundance of perfuming arts in the city. Ankara is very safe with minimal petty theft taking place in popular tourist spots.

Popular Attractions

There are many interesting attractions to see in Ankara. The most popular site amongst tourists being the Anitkbair, which is the mausoleum of the first and second President of the Republic of Turkey and also is a beautifully designed museum. In addition, Ankara Castle is a must-see attraction that will interest guests of all ages. This historic fortification was founded in the 8th century, features amazing architecture, and sits on the highest point in Ankara and therefore offers the best views of the entire city. For a more leisurely activity, visitors will want to spend time wandering the cobblestone streets of the city’s Old Quarter. Unique merchant shops, thick fortified walls, and several cafes can be found in this charming area.

Ankara view on down tow
Photo of Anıtkabir. Anıtkabir
Ankara view on down tow

Exploring Ankara's Vibrant Culture

Ankara is a hub of culture and the arts, with a thriving contemporary art scene, lively music venues, and plenty of theaters and performance spaces. For a taste of traditional Turkish culture, head to the city's many markets and bazaars, such as the lively Hamamönü district, where you can shop for souvenirs and handmade crafts while sampling delicious Turkish street food. Don't miss the chance to catch a performance at the Ankara State Opera and Ballet or the Bilkent Symphony Orchestra.

Photo of Anıtkabir. Anıtkabir

Exploring Ankara's Vibrant Culture

Ankara is a hub of culture and the arts, with a thriving contemporary art scene, lively music venues, and plenty of theaters and performance spaces. For a taste of traditional Turkish culture, head to the city's many markets and bazaars, such as the lively Hamamönü district, where you can shop for souvenirs and handmade crafts while sampling delicious Turkish street food. Don't miss the chance to catch a performance at the Ankara State Opera and Ballet or the Bilkent Symphony Orchestra.

Indulging in Ankara's Delicious Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and Ankara is no exception. Some of the must-try dishes include the savory pastry dish börek, the spicy tomato and bulgur soup ezogelin, and the succulent lamb kebabs. Don't miss the chance to sample traditional Turkish breakfast, or kahvalti, which features an array of delicious small plates like cheese, olives, eggs, and pastries.

Enjoying Ankara's Natural Beauty

Ankara is situated in the heart of Turkey, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and scenic countryside. For a breath of fresh air, head to the Atatürk Forest Farm, a sprawling park with walking and cycling trails, a zoo, and several restaurants and cafes. The city is also located near several scenic lakes, including Lake Eymir and Lake Mogan, which offer opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing.

Safety in Ankara

Ankara is situated in the heart of Turkey, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and scenic countryside. For a breath of fresh air, head to the Atatürk Forest Farm, a sprawling park with walking and cycling trails, a zoo, and several restaurants and cafes. The city is also located near several scenic lakes, including Lake Eymir and Lake Mogan, which offer opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing.

Enjoying Ankara's Natural Beauty

Ankara is situated in the heart of Turkey, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and scenic countryside. For a breath of fresh air, head to the Atatürk Forest Farm, a sprawling park with walking and cycling trails, a zoo, and several restaurants and cafes. The city is also located near several scenic lakes, including Lake Eymir and Lake Mogan, which offer opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing.

Safety in Ankara

Ankara is a relatively safe city to visit, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, visitors should still exercise caution, especially when traveling alone or at night. It's important to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables in public. Additionally, be aware of potential scams and only use licensed taxis or reputable transportation services. Overall, with a bit of common sense and caution, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Ankara.

Indulging in Ankara's Delicious Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and Ankara is no exception. Some of the must-try dishes include the savory pastry dish börek, the spicy tomato and bulgur soup ezogelin, and the succulent lamb kebabs. Don't miss the chance to sample traditional Turkish breakfast, or kahvalti, which features an array of delicious small plates like cheese, olives, eggs, and pastries.

How to Get There

The main airport, Ankara Esenboga Airport (ESB) is just around 30-minutes away from Ankara’s city centre. Ankara can also be accessed by one of the countries many land borders. An e-visa is required for tourists to enter Turkey, therefore one must be obtained online for anyone who wants to visit Ankara. The visa lasts for 180 days and costs between 520 and 693 Turkish lira, the local currency, which 1 Turkish lira equals around $0.12 US Dollars

Visit Ankara with Simsem’s community

Looking to experience Ankara like a local while ensuring your safety? Download the Simsem App today and join the revolution in sustainable and community-supported travel. With our verified local guides, you can discover hidden gems, try authentic Turkish cuisine, and experience the city’s rich culture while being guided in the safest way possible.

How to Get There

The main airport, Ankara Esenboga Airport (ESB) is just around 30-minutes away from Ankara’s city centre. Ankara can also be accessed by one of the countries many land borders. An e-visa is required for tourists to enter Turkey, therefore one must be obtained online for anyone who wants to visit Ankara. The visa lasts for 180 days and costs between 520 and 693 Turkish lira, the local currency, which 1 Turkish lira equals around $0.12 US Dollars

Visit Ankara with Simsem’s community

Looking to experience Ankara like a local while ensuring your safety? Download the Simsem App today and join the revolution in sustainable and community-supported travel. With our verified local guides, you can discover hidden gems, try authentic Turkish cuisine, and experience the city’s rich culture while being guided in the safest way possible.

Travel as a local, not tourist!

SimSem is the perfect travel app for those looking to explore the Middle East. Our app offers local tours and activities, from guided city tours to dining experiences with local families. With SimSem, you can immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the region, and support local communities. Download the app now and start planning your next authentic adventure in the Middle East.

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Travel as a local, not tourist!

SimSem is the perfect travel app for those looking to explore the Middle East. Our app offers local tours and activities, from guided city tours to dining experiences with local families. With SimSem, you can immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the region, and support local communities. Download the app now and start planning your next authentic adventure in the Middle East.

Share on:

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