What is Ankara famous for? (06)
1. What should be known about Ankara?
Ankara is the capital of Turkey and has a deep-rooted history. Located in the heart of Anatolia, it has hosted numerous civilizations throughout the ages. Besides its historical significance, Ankara is also a modern and developed industrial city. The surrounding area offers fertile agricultural lands, lush national parks that attract nature lovers from around the world, centuries-old hot springs, and natural beauty, providing both local and international tourists with a delightful experience in every season.
2. When should you visit Ankara?
Ankara can be visited in every season. During winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer temperatures can reach high levels. The city also offers stunning views under the snow. For a more comfortable experience exploring the city, it is best to visit during the spring or autumn months.
3. How to get to Ankara?
Ankara is easily accessible from all cities through its developed transportation network.
By Road: You can find buses from every city in Turkey to Ankara. From the bus terminal, you can quickly reach any part of the city using municipal buses, Ankaray, passenger shuttles, and minibuses.
By Rail: There are high-speed trains available from Istanbul and Eskişehir. You can reach Ankara from Istanbul in just 4 hours, and from Eskişehir in about 1.5 hours.
By Air: As a major city and the capital, Ankara is well-connected with frequent flights from many cities. You can reach Esenboğa Airport in Ankara by taking one of the numerous flights available.
4. How is urban transportation in Ankara?
The public transportation network in Ankara is quite extensive, making it easy to get around the city. There are buses, minibuses, dolmuş (shared taxis), and both underground and above-ground rail lines. The Ankara Metro connects many of the city’s central districts, allowing for comfortable and effortless travel throughout the city.
5. What should you eat and drink in Ankara?
The flavors associated with Ankara include Ankara tavası, kokoreç, bulgur pilavı, öllüğün körü, Ankara kebabı, İnceğiz soup, Beypazarı stew, İskender, Ankara bagel, and tamtak tiridi.
So where can you experience these flavors and more?
Famous Aspava: Aspava is synonymous with Ankara, and Ankara is synonymous with Aspava. The term "Aspava" is not as meaningless as it may seem; it is an abbreviation of the phrase "Allah sıhhat para afiyet versin amin" (May God grant health, wealth, and well-being). Its offerings, including a wide variety of kebabs, döner, and wraps, are indispensable to the locals. These offerings also include seasonal salads, çiğ köfte (raw meatballs), French fries, künefe (a sweet pastry), and semolina dessert, all available in unlimited amounts. Aspava has multiple branches.
Famous Tavacı Recep Usta: This is one of the first places that comes to mind when thinking of Ankara tavası. Recep Usta says, “If I have provided a different taste, a good meal, and excellent service, then I am the happiest person in the world.”
Address: Dikmen Vadisi Hoşdere Girişi 5. Kapı Çankaya, Ankara
Ali Uzun Şekercilik: This is one of the most recommended places for buying lokum (Turkish delight) in Ankara. Opened in the 1930s, this shop is known for its classic confectioneries as well as akide şekeri (traditional hard candy), helva, pişmaniye (pulled sugar), almond paste, and lokum.
Address: Cumhuriyet, İnkılap Sk. No:13, 06420 Çankaya/Ankara
Historical Güveç Bakery: Beypazarı güveci is one of Ankara's regional specialties. It is a meat dish prepared with cubed meat and flavored with ingredients such as rice, meat broth, tomatoes, and peppers.
Address: Beytepe, Bostancılar Sk. No:34, 06730 Beypazarı/Ankara
6. What are the must-visit places in Ankara?
Anıtkabir: One of the must-see places in Ankara, Anıtkabir was built in 1944 and is noted for its impressive and unique architecture. You can also visit the Atatürk Museum and the War of Independence Museum here. Explore exhibits detailing the battles Atatürk participated in and view his personal belongings.
Anıtkabir
War of Independence Museum: Established at Atatürk's request to showcase archaeological artifacts collected from Anatolia, this museum features exhibits ranging from the Paleolithic Era to the Ottoman period, providing an engaging exploration of history.
Ankara Castle: Once an impregnable fortress against Roman and Byzantine attacks, Ankara Castle is situated on a high mountain that offers panoramic views of the city. From the castle walls, you can capture stunning photographs of the city and the historic mansions surrounding the castle.
Ankara Castle
Kugulu Park: Often referred to as the green heart of Ankara, Kugulu Park is one of the city's most beautiful parks. It is renowned for its central pond, which is home to swans, ducks, and other bird species.
Kuğulu Park
Eymir Lake: Located within Middle East Technical University (ODTÜ), Eymir Lake is a great spot for picnicking, camping, and fishing on pleasant days. In winter, the lake freezes over, offering postcard-like views.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: Awarded "Museum of the Year in Europe" in 1997, this museum is among the world's top museums with its unique collections.
7. What can you do in Ankara?
Ankara Book Fair (February)
Ankara International Music Festival (April)
Ankara International Film Festival (June)
Ankara Coffee Festival (December)
8. What should you buy from Ankara?
If you have an interest in handicrafts and authentic items, you can explore Hamamönü.
At the gift shop inside the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, you can purchase replicas of the artifacts exhibited in the museum.
Tunalı Hilmi Street is one of Ankara's most popular avenues. You can buy souvenirs from the shops located here.
9. Where to stay in Ankara?
Hilton Garden Inn Ankara Gimat: Located close to the city's artistic, cultural, and commercial centers, this hotel is a convenient choice for your stay.
Swissotel Ankara: Situated in the city center, it will meet your expectations with its stylish architecture, amenities, and service quality.
10. What to be aware of while traveling in Ankara?
To use public transportation within the city, you can obtain an Ankara Kart.
When exploring the city, which can get very cold in winter, it is advisable to wear warm clothing.
To easily access museums, historical sites, and landmarks, consider getting a Müzekart before your trip.
For a more detailed exploration, download VanGo!
Ankara Route: https://vango.page.link/CpkE
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