🇹🇷 Turkey
Ankara travel guide
Ankara, Turkey's capital, offers a more authentic Turkish experience away from tourist crowds. This modern political center houses the spectacular Anıtkabir (Atatürk's mausoleum), excellent museums, and served as the cradle of modern Turkey.
Language
Turkish
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Timezone
TRT (UTC+3)
Best time
April to June, September to November
Budget/day
$40-110/day
When to visit
Jan
2–8°C
Feb
3–10°C
Mar
6–14°C
Apr
10–18°C
May
14–22°C
Jun
18–27°C
Jul
20–30°C
Aug
19–29°C
Sep
14–22°C
Oct
9–16°C
Nov
4–11°C
Dec
1–7°C
Safety
safeAnkara is Turkey's bureaucratic capital with a lower tourist profile than Istanbul — which also means less petty crime aimed at tourists. Kızılay is the vibrant commercial and restaurant district. The Atatürk Mausoleum (Anıtkabir) requires modest dress. Political demonstrations occasionally occur in Kızılay — avoid protest areas.
Women travellers
Ankara is generally safe for solo women travelers. Kızılay (the central business and shopping district), Çankaya residential area, and Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi are safe at all hours. The embassies district (Çankaya) has heavy security presence. Avoid isolated areas around the Ulus old town after midnight.
Culture & etiquette
- + Remove shoes in homes
- + Accept tea offerings
- + Respect Atatürk
- - Do not insult Atatürk — it is a criminal offense (Law No. 5816)
- - Avoid political commentary about current government — sensitive topic
- - Do not photograph military installations or checkpoints
- - Avoid eating or drinking in public during Ramadan daytime in conservative areas
Food to try
Ankara Tava
A baked meat and vegetable casserole unique to Ankara — slow-cooked in a clay pot with tomatoes, peppers and lamb
Beypazarı Güveci
Chickpea and lamb stew from the nearby historic Beypazarı district — rich and hearty winter dish
Kızılay Simit
Sesame-encrusted circular bread rings sold at every corner — best eaten warm from street vendors around Kızılay Square
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.