Ankara Bliss: A 5-Day Adventure through Turkey's Capital

Discover the captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern charm in Ankara, Turkey's enchanting capital.

29 August 2023

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and modern urban experiences. Discover the grandeur of the ancient ruins of Roman temples and Ottoman palaces at the historic citadel of Ankara Castle. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city's bustling markets, indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine, and explore the fascinating museums and art galleries that showcase the rich heritage of this fascinating destination.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Embrace the Ancient Vibes

  • Stay at The Green Pear Hotel, a quaint boutique hotel in the heart of Ankara's Old Town, surrounded by cobblestone streets and Ottoman houses.
  • Delight in a scrumptious traditional Turkish breakfast at Cafe Karakoy, where piping hot tea and freshly baked simit bread await.
  • Transport yourself back in time at the Roman Bath Museum, marveling at the ancient ruins and learning about Ankara's rich history.
  • Stroll through the vibrant streets of Hamamonu District, browsing through artisan shops and sampling local delights like gözleme and Turkish delight.
  • Walk up the Ankara Castle hill just in time for sunset, enjoying panoramic views of the city and the glowing skyline.
Day 2

Get Artsy

  • Indulge in a trendy stay at Art Hotel, where each room is decorated by a local artist, guaranteeing a unique and eccentric experience.
  • Jumpstart your day with a visit to CerModern, a contemporary art museum housed in a former train depot, featuring avant-garde exhibitions.
  • Expand your artistic horizons at the State Painting and Sculpture Museum, home to over 5,000 works from Turkish and international artists.
  • Immerse yourself in the colors and energy of the Ulus Art Market, hunting for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and chatting with local artists.
  • Savor a Turkish coffee at Ataturk Orman Ciftligi, a serene forest park, while sketching the picturesque landscapes and finding your inner artist.
Day 3

Unearth Hidden Gems

  • Retreat to the historical neighborhood of Gaziosmanpasa, where the cozy Gazali Hotel awaits with its quirky interior and warm hospitality.
  • Discover the hidden passages and unique boutiques of Karum Mall, an underground shopping paradise frequented by locals.
  • Take a guided tour of the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, uncovering fascinating artifacts and unraveling the mysteries of ancient Anatolia.
  • Explore the secret gardens of Genclik Park, hopping on a colorful pedal boat and cruising along the tranquil lake.
  • Dine at Ciğeristanbul, a hidden gem eatery known for its succulent lamb liver kebabs and mouthwatering mezes, accompanied by live Turkish music.
Day 4

Embrace Modernity

  • Check into the sleek and stylish Avantgarde Hotel, boasting panoramic views of Ankara's bustling cityscape.
  • Dive into the contemporary art scene at the Ankara Opera House, catching a captivating performance or watching a thought-provoking exhibition.
  • Embark on a shopping spree at Armada Shopping Mall, where high-end boutiques and quirky concept stores offer something for every fashionista.
  • Unwind at Ataturk Forest Farm and Zoo, renting a bike to explore the lush greenery or picnicking amidst the exotic animal exhibits.
  • Enjoy a gastronomic journey at 312 Restaurant, where innovative fusion dishes combining traditional Turkish flavors with international culinary trends will leave your taste buds raving.
Day 5

Day Trip to Cappadocia

  • Hop on a captivating hot air balloon ride from Ankara to Cappadocia, soaring above the dreamlike landscapes of fairy chimneys and surreal rock formations.
  • Wander through the enchanting Open Air Museum of Goreme, exploring rock-cut churches and ancient dwellings carved into the soft volcanic tuff.
  • Savor a traditional Cappadocian lunch at an authentic cave restaurant, indulging in local specialties like pottery kebabs and sweet pumpkin desserts.
  • Discover the secrets of Cappadocian pottery-making with a hands-on workshop, creating your own unique masterpiece to bring home.
  • Bid farewell to Cappadocia with a mesmerizing sunset hike through the Love Valley, marveling at the whimsical rock formations illuminated by golden hues.

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.

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