Everything You Need To Know About Ankara: A Drive In Turkey

Buckle up for an unforgettable journey through Ankara, Turkey's vibrant capital city! This 5-day road trip itinerary will take you through the heart of Turkish history, culture, and modern life. From ancient ruins to contemporary art and bustling markets to serene nature reserves, Ankara has the best tourist attractions for everyone. Here's the best way to get around Ankara!

Upon arriving in Ankara, settle into your accommodation before exploring the city. Begin your journey at Anıtkabir, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's mausoleum and a symbol of modern Turkey—Marvel at its grand architecture and tranquil surroundings. Explore the Hall of Honor and Atatürk Museum, which is filled with personal items and gifts.

Next, visit the Kocatepe Mosque, Ankara's largest mosque, which blends Ottoman and modern styles. Admire its domes and minarets, then explore the intricate interior featuring calligraphy and stained glass. Respect prayer times and dress modestly if you're not Muslim.

End your day in Hamamönü, a historic district with Ottoman houses and cobblestone streets that showcase traditional Turkish architecture.

These buildings now serve as cafes, restaurants, and artisan shops. It's the ideal place to grab dinner and soak in the local atmosphere. Try some traditional Turkish dishes like pide (Turkish pizza) or köfte (meatballs) at one of the local eateries.

On your second day, it's time to delve into Ankara's rich history and culture through its museums.

Begin your day at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. This world-class museum is housed in a 15th-century covered market and showcases artifacts from various Anatolian civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygians, and Romans. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, allowing you to trace the development of human society in this region from prehistory to the present day. Take advantage of the impressive collection of Hittite artifacts, including the famous Hittite sun disk.

Next, make your way to the Ethnography Museum. This museum offers a fascinating look into Turkish culture and daily life throughout history. You'll find exhibits on traditional crafts, costumes, and customs from various regions of Turkey. The building itself is noteworthy, as it temporarily housed the body of Atatürk before it was moved to Anıtkabir.

After a morning of museum-hopping, it's time for some fresh air. Head to Gençlik Park for a relaxing afternoon. This large urban park in the heart of Ankara is a popular spot for locals to unwind. Take a leisurely walk around the lake, rent a pedal boat, or simply find a shady spot to people-watch. If you're traveling with kids, they'll love the small amusement park within the grounds. The park also has several cafes where you can grab a quick snack or a traditional Turkish tea.

As the day winds down, consider having dinner at one of the restaurants near the park. Many offer outdoor seating with lake views, perfect for a pleasant evening meal.

Today, you'll step back in time to explore Ankara's ancient past.

Start your day early at Ankara Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this fortress dates back to the Roman era, though most of the current structure is from the Byzantine and Seljuk periods. The climb to the castle can be steep, but the panoramic views of Ankara from the top are worth the effort. Within the castle walls, you'll find a charming neighborhood of narrow streets and old houses, some of which have been converted into small museums or shops selling traditional crafts.

After exploring the castle, make your way down to the Roman Baths. These well-preserved ruins give a glimpse into daily life during the Roman period. The baths were built in the 3rd century AD and remained in use until the 8th century. Today, you can walk through the various sections of the bath complex, including the frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (warm room), and caldarium (hot room). Information boards throughout the site explain the bathing rituals and the importance of public baths in Roman society.

Your final stop for the day is the Temple of Augustus and Rome. This ancient temple, dating back to the 1st century BC, is a testament to Ankara's importance in the Roman period. The temple is famous for its inscription, the Monumentum Ancyranum, which is a Latin and Greek account of Emperor Augustus's deeds. Although much of the temple is in ruins, it's still an impressive sight and an important historical landmark.

Consider trying one of the traditional restaurants in the Ulus district near the Roman ruins for dinner. This area is known for its authentic local cuisine, including Ankara's famous tava (pan-fried lamb with vegetables).

Today, you'll experience the more contemporary side of Ankara.

Begin your day with a visit to Atakule Tower. This 125-meter-high communications and observation tower has become a symbol of modern Ankara. Take the elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city. The tower also has a revolving restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast with a panoramic view.

Next, head to CerModern Art Center. This contemporary art museum is housed in a renovated train depot and features changing Turkish and international modern art exhibitions. The spacious galleries and outdoor sculpture garden make a pleasant visit, even if you're not an art expert. The museum also has a nice cafe where you can grab lunch.

In the afternoon, take a break from the urban environment with a visit to the Ankara Botanical Garden. This beautiful garden covers 65 hectares and is home to thousands of plant species from Turkey and worldwide. Take a leisurely walk through the themed gardens, including the rock, rose, and Japanese gardens. The garden also has a large greenhouse where you can see tropical plants.

Try one of Ankara's modern restaurants in the Çankaya district for dinner. This upscale area is known for its innovative cuisine, blending traditional Turkish flavors with international techniques.

On your final day, it's time to venture outside the city to explore some of the surrounding region.

Start early and head to Beypazarı, a historic town about 100 kilometers northwest of Ankara. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, but the scenic route through the Anatolian countryside makes it enjoyable. Beypazarı is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, with hundreds of historic houses lining its narrow streets.

Take a walking tour of the old town, visit the local market, and try some of the town's specialties, including carrots (the town is famous for its carrot products) and 80-layer baklava.

After lunch in Beypazarı, drive to Nallıhan Bird Paradise, a nature reserve about 40 kilometers further west. This wetland area is a crucial stopover point for migratory birds and is home to over 200 bird species. Even if you're not a birdwatcher, the peaceful landscape of reed beds and water channels makes for a pleasant visit. There's an observation tower where you can get a good view of the area.

On your way back to Ankara, stop at one of the roadside restaurants for dinner. These often offer simple but delicious grilled meats and fresh salads, providing a taste of authentic rural Turkish cuisine.

As you return to Ankara in the evening, take some time to reflect on your journey. Over the past five days, you've experienced the many facets of this dynamic city - from ancient history to modern art, from bustling urban centers to serene natural landscapes.

If you plan on driving during your visit to Turkey, it's important to familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and road conditions. This driving guide will help you navigate Turkey's roads safely and confidently.

To drive in Turkey, you'll need a valid driving license. Most rental car companies accept licenses from other countries, but an International Driving Permit is recommended. To hire a car, you typically need to be at least 21 years old, though some companies may require drivers to be 25 or older.
When renting a car in Turkey, thoroughly inspect the vehicle and document any existing damage before driving off. Most major international car rental companies operate in Turkey, especially in airports and tourist areas.

Meanwhile, if you're thinking about driving around Turkey, don’t forget your International Driving Permits while driving around Ankara so you won’t be involved in legal mishaps. To know how to secure your IDL, you can check this page out.

Roads in Turkey vary in quality. Major cities and popular tourist routes generally have well-maintained roads, but conditions can deteriorate in rural areas. The main road network connecting major cities is typically in good condition. Turkey has an expanding network of motorways (otoyols), similar to highways or freeways in other countries.

Speed limits in Turkey vary depending on the type of road:

In urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
On open roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
On dual carriageways: 110 km/h (68 mph)
On motorways: 120 km/h (75 mph)

Always watch for posted speed limit signs, which may vary in certain areas.

Many motorways in Turkey are toll roads. The country uses an electronic toll collection system called HGS (Hızlı Geçiş Sistemi). If you're renting a car, check with your rental company about how tolls are handled - many include toll payments in their rental packages.

Road signs in Turkey generally follow international standards and are often in both Turkish and English, especially on major routes. However, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with some common Turkish road signs before your trip.

Traffic lights operate as in most countries: red for stop, yellow for caution, and green for go. Right turns on red are not permitted unless indicated by a sign.

When driving on a main road, be cautious of vehicles entering from side roads, as they may only sometimes yield the right of way as expected.

Driving in Turkey, especially in urban areas, can be more aggressive than you might be used to. Be prepared for:

• Frequent overtaking, sometimes in risky situations
• Cars following closely behind you
• Use of horns to signal displeasure or hurry other drivers

To stay safe:

• Always wear your seatbelt
• Don't drink and drive - Turkey has zero tolerance for drunk driving
• Avoid using your phone while driving
• Be extra cautious when driving at night, especially on rural roads where lighting may be poor

• Always keep your vehicle's documents and driving license with you.
• In case of an accident, call 155 for police assistance.
• Gas stations are plentiful in urban areas and along main roads but may be scarce in rural regions. Plan your fuel stops accordingly.
• Consider renting a GPS device with your car if you're unfamiliar with the routes.
• Be aware that during religious holidays, traffic can be significantly heavier as many people travel to visit family.

Remember, while this guide provides a good starting point, it's always a good idea to research current regulations and conditions before you drive in Turkey. With proper preparation, driving can be an excellent way to explore the country's diverse landscapes and attractions at your own pace.

To make this Turkey road trip more seamless, follow these essential tips:

1. Driving in Ankara can be challenging due to heavy traffic, especially during rush hours.

2. Always carry some cash with you. While many places accept credit cards, smaller shops, and some historical sites might only take cash.

3. Learn a few basic Turkish phrases. While many people in tourist areas speak English, knowing some Turkish will be appreciated by locals and can be helpful in less touristy areas.

4. Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Dress modestly and follow specific rules (like removing shoes before entering a mosque).

5. Try to sample a variety of Turkish cuisines during your trip. Ankara offers everything from street food to high-end restaurants, each providing a unique taste of Turkish culinary traditions.

6. Remember to leave some free time in your schedule. Some of the best travel experiences come from spontaneous discoveries and unexpected detours.

This road trip through Ankara offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and modern city life. From the ancient streets of Hamamönü to the contemporary art galleries of CerModern, from the grand monuments of Anıtkabir to the peaceful landscapes of Nallıhan Bird Paradise, you'll experience the many faces of Turkey. Each day brings discoveries, flavors, and memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, start your engine, and prepare for an unforgettable Ankara adventure!

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are ideal, with mild temperatures and less crowded attractions. Summer can be hot and dry, while winter can be cold with occasional snow.

Many nationalities need a visa to enter Turkey. Check the official Turkish government e-Visa website for requirements and apply online before your trip.

While tap water is generally safe for locals, visitors should drink bottled water to avoid stomach upset.

The currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in Ankara, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, always carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Ankara has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, metro, and light rail. Purchase an AnkaraKart, a rechargeable smart card, for convenient use on all public transport.

Turks are generally warm and hospitable. It's polite to remove shoes when entering homes. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services.

For police, call 155; for medical emergencies, call 112. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

While Turkish cuisine is meat-heavy, vegetarian options are available. Look for "zeytinyağlı" dishes (vegetables cooked in olive oil) and "meze" (appetizers), which often include vegetarian options.

Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. You can also find free Wi-Fi hotspots in some public areas.

Yes, consider visiting Gordion (the ancient capital of Phrygia), Cappadocia (famous for its unique rock formations), or Lake Tuz (Turkey's second-largest lake known for its high salt content).

Book at least a month in advance for peak seasons (summer and major holidays). For off-peak times, 1-2 weeks ahead is usually sufficient.

Bargaining is common in bazaars and small shops, especially for souvenirs and textiles. However, it needs to be practiced in established stores with fixed prices.

Ankara hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Ankara International Film Festival (April), the Ankara International Music Festival (April), and the Ankara Shopping Fest (June-July).

While improvements are being made, Ankara can be challenging for travelers with disabilities. Many newer hotels and major attractions are wheelchair accessible, but it's best to check beforehand.

Yes, car rental services are available at Ankara Esenboga Airport. Driving in Ankara can be challenging due to heavy traffic and aggressive driving styles. GPS navigation is recommended.