If you are looking for things to do in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, you will not be disappointed. Ankara has a rich history and culture, as well as modern amenities and attractions. Whether you are interested in ancient ruins, museums, parks, shopping, or cuisine, you will find something to suit your taste. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the best tourist attractions in Ankara and give you some tips on how to make the most of your visit. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Ankara and things to do in Ankara that you should not miss.
Looking for things to do in Ankara? Discover the best tourist attractions in Ankara:
- Anitkabir: The mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, and a museum complex.
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: A world-class museum that showcases the pre-Classical history of Anatolia.
- Rahmi M. Koc Museum: A museum of industrial and transport history, with exhibits ranging from vintage cars to submarines.
- Ulucanlar Prison Museum: A former prison that has been converted into a museum, displaying the life and stories of its inmates.
- MTA Natural History Museum: A museum of geology and paleontology, with fossils, minerals and meteorites.
- Erimtan Archaeology & Arts Museum: A private museum that exhibits ancient artifacts and contemporary art.
- Ankara Castle: A medieval citadel that overlooks the city, with walls, towers and gates.
- Haci Bayram Mosque: A historic mosque that dates back to the 15th century, and the tomb of Haci Bayram Veli, a revered Sufi saint.
- Roman Baths: The ruins of a Roman bath complex from the 3rd century AD, with columns, arches and mosaic floors.
- Kocatepe Mosque: The largest mosque in Ankara, with four minarets and a dome that can accommodate 24,000 worshippers.
- Atakule Tower: A 125-meter-high observation tower that offers panoramic views of the city and a revolving restaurant.
- Genclik Park: A large park with gardens, fountains, playgrounds and an amusement park.
- State Art and Sculpture Museum: A museum that displays Turkish art from the late Ottoman era to the present day.
- Ethnography Museum: A museum that exhibits Turkish culture and folklore, with costumes, jewelry, musical instruments and more.
- CerModern: A modern art museum that hosts exhibitions, workshops and events in a former railway depot.
- Augustus Temple: A temple dedicated to the Roman emperor Augustus, built in the 1st century BC by King Pylamenes of Galatia.
- War of Independence Museum: A museum that commemorates the Turkish War of Independence (1919-1923), housed in the former parliament building.
- Aqua Vega Aquarium: An aquarium that features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays and turtles.
- Ankara Zoo: A zoo that houses more than 200 species of animals, including lions, tigers and bears.
- Segmenler Park: A park with green spaces, walking paths and sculptures.
- AnkaMall: A shopping mall with more than 300 stores, a cinema and a food court.
- Armada Shopping Mall: A shopping mall with a distinctive sail-shaped design, featuring shops, restaurants and entertainment options.
- Botanik Park: A park with botanical gardens, ponds and bridges.
- Cengelhan Rahmi M Koc Museum: A branch of the Rahmi M Koc Museum that focuses on science and technology, located in a former caravanserai.
- Gordion Museum: A museum that displays artifacts from the ancient city of Gordion, the capital of the Phrygian kingdom and the legendary home of King Midas.
- METU Science and Technology Museum: A museum that showcases the scientific and technological achievements of Middle East Technical University (METU).
- Pink Pavilion: A historic mansion that was once the residence of Ismet Inonu, the second president of Turkey.
- Republic Museum: A museum that traces the history of the Turkish Republic from its establishment in 1923 to the present day.
- Sehitlik Abidesi (Martyrs’ Monument): A monument that honors the Turkish soldiers who died during the Battle of Sakarya in 1921.
- TBMM Milli Saraylar Kurtulus Savasi Muzesi (National Palaces Museum of the War of Independence): A museum that displays the personal belongings and memorabilia of Atatürk and other prominent figures of the War of Independence.
- Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi: A lively street with shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
- Ulus Meydani (Ulus Square): A square that marks the historic center of Ankara, with monuments, statues and fountains.
- Yeni Cami (New Mosque): A mosque that was built in the 16th century by the architect Sinan, with a dome, minarets and a courtyard.
- Ankara Opera House: The main venue for opera and ballet performances in Ankara, with a neoclassical facade and a modern interior.
- Ankara Painting and Sculpture Museum: A museum that exhibits paintings and sculptures by Turkish artists from the 19th and 20th centuries.
- AnkaPark: A theme park with rides, attractions and shows for all ages.
- Ataturk Forest Farm and Zoo: A farm and zoo that was established by Atatürk in 1925, with animals, plants, picnic areas and a brewery.
- Beypazari: A historic town that is known for its traditional architecture, handicrafts and cuisine, located 100 kilometers west of Ankara.
- Hattusha: The ancient capital of the Hittite Empire, located 200 kilometers east of Ankara, with impressive ruins, temples and rock carvings.
- Kizilcahamam: A spa town that is famous for its hot springs, located 80 kilometers north of Ankara.
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