Ankara Uncovered: Turkey’s Understated Capital of Culture, History & Heart

🏙️ Welcome to Ankara – Turkey’s Overlooked Capital with a Rich Soul

Think Turkey, and your mind probably jumps straight to Istanbul’s skyline or Cappadocia’s hot air balloons—fair enough. But tucked right in the heart of Anatolia is Ankara, a city that often flies under the radar and yet offers authentic Turkish culture, deep-rooted history, and a refreshingly local vibe.

As Turkey’s capital and second-largest city, Ankara is more than just politics and bureaucracy. It’s a place where Roman ruins sit beside Art Deco buildings, where local artisans still sell copperware in alley-side shops, and where you’ll find fewer crowds—but plenty of charm.

If you’re looking to experience Turkey beyond the postcards, Ankara is where to begin.

🏛️ Top Things to Do in Ankara

1. Anıtkabir – Atatürk’s Mausoleum

No visit to Ankara is complete without paying respects at the monumental resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. The complex includes a ceremonial plaza, museum, and changing of the guard.

👉 TraveLab Tip: Go at sunset—the golden light on the stone structures is stunning, and the vibe turns reverent and serene.

2. Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi)

Climb through winding cobbled alleys in the historic Ulus district and you’ll reach this hilltop fortress. The castle offers panoramic views of Ankara and surrounding red-roofed houses, plus plenty of cafes and art shops en route.

📸 Don’t forget your camera—this is where Ankara’s skyline shines.

3. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Right near the castle, this museum is a time-travel machine through Turkey’s layered past—from Neolithic artifacts to Hittite sculptures and Phrygian relics.

🎯 Ideal for history buffs and anyone wanting context before exploring Cappadocia or Eastern Turkey.

4. Hamamönü Neighborhood

This restored Ottoman-era neighborhood is all charm—wooden houses, artist workshops, boutique cafes, and tea gardens where locals sip çay under the trees.

🧺 Grab a simit (Turkish bagel) and people-watch—pure Ankara bliss.

5. CerModern Art Museum

A repurposed train depot turned contemporary art hub, CerModern is Ankara’s answer to Istanbul Modern—featuring rotating exhibits, installations, and a buzzing creative café.

🍽️ What to Eat in Ankara: Local Flavors with Bold Character

Ankara’s food scene is hearty, honest, and less touristy than Istanbul’s. Here’s what to try:

🍲 Ankara Tava

The city’s signature dish—slow-cooked lamb with rice and peppers in a tomato-based broth. Rich, savory, and addictive.

📍 Best enjoyed at traditional eateries like Boğaziçi Lokantası or Kebap 49.

🥟 Beypazarı Güveci

From a nearby town, this is a clay-pot lamb stew, spiced to perfection and oven-baked for hours.

🥗 Çoban Salata & Meze Platters

Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olive oil, and lemon—paired with a spread of eggplant, yogurt, and bean-based dips.

🧄 Add garlicy yoğurtlu patlıcan and you’ve got a table full of flavor.

☕ Turkish Coffee & Dessert

Don’t leave without trying cezve-brewed coffee and a slice of bici bici or aşure (Noah’s pudding). Many cafes serve with a Turkish delight on the side.

🏨 Where to Stay in Ankara

Whether you're here for a night or a week, Ankara offers a variety of stays:

💎 Luxury

• Divan Ankara – Sleek, modern, and central

• JW Marriott Ankara – Spa, rooftop views, and elite service

🌟 Mid-Range

• Midas Hotel – Excellent location near Kızılay, with modern comforts

• Occidental Ankara – Contemporary design in the embassy district

💰 Budget

• Deeps Hostel Ankara – Cozy, safe, and social

• Hotel Mithat – Centrally located and ideal for solo travelers or couples on a budget

🛍️ Shopping in Ankara: Markets & More

🧵 Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu

This antique and artisan street is full of handmade goods, Ottoman relics, vintage books, and local trinkets.

🛒 Ulus Market

Come here for spices, Turkish towels, and dried fruits. It’s not curated—it’s authentic.

🛍️ Karanfil & Tunali Hilmi Streets

If you want a more modern shopping experience with Turkish brands and indie boutiques.

🚇 Getting Around Ankara

• Metro & Ankaray: Clean, efficient, and well-connected

• Taxis: Affordable, but be sure to ask for the meter

• EGO Buses: Government-run, cheap, but can be tricky without Turkish

📲 Download BiTaksi or Moovit for easier navigation and ride-hailing.

🌟 Unique TraveLab Experiences in Ankara

Let us show you Ankara beyond the tourist trail:

• ✅ Ankara Wine & Meze Crawl – Sample local wines and regional bites in the city’s hidden wine bars

• ✅ History Buff's Walking Tour – Explore Roman ruins, Ottoman streets, and political landmarks with a pro historian

• ✅ Street Photography Safari – Capture Ankara’s gritty beauty with a local shutterbug

• ✅ Day Trip to Beypazarı – Ottomans, silversmiths, and epic scenery just 90 mins away

• ✅ Coffee Culture Workshop – Learn to make Turkish coffee over sand with a local barista

📅 Best Time to Visit Ankara

• 🌸 Spring (April–June): Best weather, blooming gardens, and outdoor festivals

• 🍁 Autumn (Sept–Oct): Crisp, cool air, ideal for urban exploration

• ❄️ Winter (Nov–Feb): Cold and sometimes snowy, but cozy and quiet

• ☀️ Summer (July–Aug): Hot, dry, and less crowded

🧥 Ankara has four real seasons—pack accordingly!

❓FAQs About Visiting Ankara

Q: Is Ankara worth visiting?

Absolutely. While it’s not as flashy as Istanbul, it offers a more grounded, real-life Turkish experience.

Q: How many days should I spend?

2–3 days is ideal to explore the highlights and dive into the vibe.

Q: Is it safe?

Yes. Ankara is very safe for travelers, with low crime and a calm city feel.

Q: Can I use English here?

In tourist spots and hotels, yes. But learning a few Turkish phrases goes a long way with locals.

🏁Why Ankara Deserves a Spot on Your Turkey Trip

Ankara isn’t trying to impress—it just is. It’s where history runs deep, where real Turkish life unfolds, and where you’ll find quiet beauty, smart culture, and soulful food.

So skip the clichés, ditch the crowds, and head to the heart of modern Turkey—you just might fall in love with it.

📩 Let TraveLab Curate Your Ankara Adventure

From foodie tours and day trips to cultural deep dives, we’ll make your Ankara stay insightful, flavorful, and unforgettable.

Let’s plan your Turkish capital escape today! 🇹🇷🕌