Ankara Adventures: A Thrifty 3-Day Escape

Discover the wonders of Ankara on a shoestring budget!

29 August 2023

Ankara, Turkey, offers an incredible experience for budget travelers without compromising on exploration. From admiring the impressive architecture of the Ataturk Mausoleum to strolling through the vibrant streets of the old town, there are numerous free or affordable attractions to enjoy. Additionally, indulging in delicious local cuisine at the affordable street food stalls and exploring the city's lush green parks will make your trip to Ankara both memorable and budget-friendly.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Ankara's Historical Core

  • Check into the quirky and affordable Hotel Capital, conveniently located in the heart of the city.
  • Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Anitkabir, the grand mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
  • Take a stroll through Ulus Square, a bustling hub where ancient Roman ruins meet vibrant street markets.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, housing impressive artifacts.
  • Refuel at Mahmut Tuncer Köfteci, a local gem serving mouthwatering köfte (meatballs) that will make your taste buds dance.
Day 2

Discovering Ankara's Hidden Gems

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Café Kantin, where you can indulge in delicious pastries and strong Turkish coffee.
  • Explore the quaint neighborhood of Hamamönü, with its charming Ottoman-style houses and artisans' workshops.
  • Visit the bohemian district of Tunali Hilmi Avenue, known for its trendy boutiques and cozy cafes.
  • Discover the vibrant street art scene in Cankaya and snap some Insta-worthy photos.
  • Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Özgür Lokanta, a local eatery offering homemade Turkish dishes at affordable prices.
Day 3

Nature and Cuteness Overload

  • Embark on a day trip to the captivating Atatürk Forest Farm, where you can walk amidst lush greenery and visit the delightful Butterfly House.
  • Discover the hilarious dance moves of Ankara's famous cat population at Kedi Park, a paradise for feline enthusiasts.
  • Unleash your inner child at Gençlik Parkı, the city's largest recreational area offering mini-golf, amusement rides, and peaceful lakeside walks.
  • Savor traditional Turkish street food at the bustling Ataturk Orman Çiftliği Market, showcasing a delicious array of flavors.
  • Bid farewell to Ankara with a sunset picnic at the Atakule Tower Observatory, enjoying panoramic views of the cityscape.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ankara, Turkey by plane is to fly into Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) which serves both domestic and international flights.

Car

To reach Ankara, Turkey by car, you can take the E90 highway if you are coming from Istanbul or Izmir. The journey will take approximately 4-5 hours depending on the traffic and your starting point.

Train

While there is no direct train route to Ankara, you can take a train to Ankara Railway Station from major cities like Istanbul or Izmir and then continue the journey by bus or taxi to reach the city center.

Boat

Ankara is not accessible by boat as it is a landlocked city. Therefore, there is no way to reach Ankara by boat.

Bus

The best way to get to Ankara, Turkey by bus is to take a long-distance bus to Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal (ASTI) which is well-connected to various cities in Turkey.

Destination

Ankara

Welcome to the vibrant capital of kebabs and endless tea refills, where ancient history meets modern traffic jams. Ankara, a city that can make you question if driving in a labyrinth of roundabouts is actually an Olympic sport.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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