Hey there, fellow traveller! Want to see the real Turkey, away from the busy tourist places? Let me tell you about Ankara, a city that is totally worth your time.While everyone is rushing to Istanbul – which is great! Ankara is awesome without all the tourist crowds.Ankara has got it all – old buildings, busy markets, and amazing food you will love.Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller checking out various Turkey tour packages, Ankara’s blend of old meets new is something special.
What Makes Ankara So Special?
Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is often missed by travellers but has its own special charm to explore.Picture this: ancient ruins right next to modern shopping malls and traditional tea houses beside trendy coffee spots. That is Ankara for you!The city has this amazing mix of old and new that just works. What makes Ankara special? It’s an amazing history! It has historic places, museums, castles, and markets. The weather is pretty nice most of the year, though summers can get hot and winters can be chilly.The best part? Prices here are way better than in Istanbul, and you will actually get to hang out with locals instead of just other tourists.Modern Ankara also shines with its vibrant arts scene and bustling markets.Whether it is the fusion of history and modernity, the culinary delights, or the warm hospitality of its people, Ankara promises an experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.
Cool Places You Can not-Miss
Ankara is full of amazing spots that every traveller should check out.
Anıtkabir
First up, you have got to visit Anıtkabir. It is an impressive memorial that tells you all about Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.The building is huge and has interesting exhibits inside.This grand mausoleum honours Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Turkish people love this place deeply. It is a beautiful building, and the quiet gardens are really worth seeing.
Ankara Castle
Ankara Castle is amazing, especially at sunset when the city lights up below you.Visit this old castle and feel like you are in ancient times. Climb up the hill and see the entire city spread out below you. Exploring its walls and narrow streets nearby is like walking through history.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
For history lovers, this museum is a treasure trove. It was recently renovated in 2023, and now they have cool interactive displays that make ancient history actually fun to learn about.It displays artefacts from ancient Turkey, including tools, jewellery, and sculptures, giving you a glimpse into the rich past of the region.
Kocatepe Mosque
Kocatepe Mosque is a huge mosque in Turkey, and Ulus has old, beautiful houses from the Ottoman times. It is massive and beautiful inside, plus it is free to visit.The beautiful Kocatepe Mosque reaches high into the sky with its four tall towers and golden dome. Yes, it is a bit of a climb, but trust me, the view is amazing!
Kızılay Square
This lively area is the heart of modern Ankara. It is perfect for shopping, dining, and soaking in the vibrant energy of the city.Lots of people gather in this square for city events. And oh, the food here is fantastic!
Food that will make your day
Forget what you know about Turkish food – Ankara has tasty treats to try! The city offers a variety of delicious dishes that will make your day. Try Ankara Tava – locals love this mix of lamb and rice. For breakfast, do not miss Simit, a sesame-crusted bread perfect with tea. Beypazarı Kurusu, a crunchy bread snack, is great for munching while exploring. Hungry for a snack? Grab a Börek – a tasty pie filled with cheese or meat. For dessert, enjoy Künefe, a warm, syrupy pastry with cheese, often served with ice cream. With so many tasty options, the food scene in Ankara is sure to leave you satisfied. Best part? Everything is way cheaper than in Istanbul, and the portions are huge!
Shopping Without the Tourist Traps
Want to shop where the locals go? Skip the tourist spots and head to Kızılay, the city centre. Head to Sakarya Street – it has got cool shops selling both old-style crafts and new Turkish fashion. The prices? Super reasonable because they are meant for locals, not tourists. Check out the Ankara Boutique Bazaar, where young Turkish designers sell really unique stuff. If you are into malls, AnkaMall just got a huge update with some cool new stores. But the real gem is Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu in the old town – it is this narrow street full of traditional shops where you can find authentic Turkish stuff without the tourist markup. Remember to haggle over prices – sellers expect it, and it is fun!
Ankara Makes Exploring Turkey Super Easy
Want to explore Turkey but not sure where to start? Ankara is perfect! Right in the heart of Turkey, it is like being in the middle of a star with exciting places to visit in every direction. Hop on a morning bus to see the magical fairy houses of Cappadocia, or take a train to the ancient ruins of Hattusa where kings once lived. Good news – it is really easy to get around here! Fast trains can take you to Istanbul for lunch or to the beautiful beaches of Izmir for a weekend trip. Since Ankara is the capital city, all roads (and trains!) lead here. Think of it as your comfy home base – spend a few days exploring the city’s cool spots, then use it as your jumping-off point for Turkish adventures!
Conclusion
So there you have it, Ankara’s a city that deserves your time! It has this perfect mix of historic sites, awesome food, and modern city life, all without the tourist crowds. Whether spending a few days or a week here, you will discover something new everyday. The best part? You will experience real Turkish life, make local friends, and create memories beyond the usual tourist photos. Trust me, give Ankara a chance, and it might just become your favourite spot in Turkey. Happy travelling!
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