Best 10 Day Trips from Ankara

Ankara may be the capital of Turkey, but what really makes it shine is what surrounds it. From charming Ottoman towns to jaw-dropping natural wonders, the city is perfectly placed for unforgettable day trips—whether you're chasing fresh air, historic flair, or just want to escape your email inbox for a few hours. Here are 10 of the best day trips from Ankara that'll make you wonder why you ever thought of skipping central Turkey.

To ease your tiring hunt, we have curated a list of the 10 best day trips from Ankara. Let’s dive right in!

When looking for the best day trips from Ankara, look no further than Beypazarı! This charming village is known for its cobblestone lanes, warm, welcoming ambiance, and exquisitely maintained Ottoman buildings. Visitors may stroll through the quaint wooden homes that evoke the past while walking through the old towns. A visit to the Living Museum provides an up-close look at regional history plus traditional crafts. Foodies will love local specialties like tarhana soup, Beypazarı stew, and the thick, sugary höşmerim dessert. For nature lovers, İnözü Valley, with its picturesque hiking routes and stunning vistas, offers a rejuvenating getaway, making Beypazarı the ideal day trip destination from Ankara.

Distance from Ankara: 100 km from Ankara, and it takes a 1.5-hour drive to reach.

With more than 190 kinds of birds, the breathtaking bird sanctuary Nallıhan Kuş Cenneti provides nature lovers with an experience they won't soon forget. A diverse range of species passes through the sanctuary during the spring and fall migration seasons, adding to its unique charm. You can climb up the birdwatching towers to see impressive creatures in their natural habitat. Additionally, the region is home to the Colorful Hills of Nallıhan, a bizarre, Martian-like setting ideal for photographs.

Distance from Ankara: 160 kilometers from Ankara, and it takes 2.5 hours to reach.

Known for its revitalizing thermal springs, Kızılcahamam serves as one of the best places near Ankara for a wellness getaway. Let the calming waters of natural warm springs rejuvenate your body and mind as you spend your day there. Visitors can visit the Soğuksu National Park, which provides nature enthusiasts with a respite in verdant pine woods and clean mountain air, with chances to see species including deer, squirrels, and uncommon birds. To round off your ideal retreat, don’t forget to indulge in a typical Turkish breakfast at the town's welcoming neighborhood eateries after a day of discovery and leisure.

Distance from Ankara: 80 km, and it takes 1 hour and 18 minutes’ drive to reach.

With its two beautiful lakes, Eymir Lake and Mogan Lake, Gölbaşı provides a peaceful haven adored by both fitness freaks and nature lovers. Take a leisurely stroll or ride a bicycle along the tranquil paths surrounding Eymir Lake to relax. For a perfect meal, visit any one of the lakeside restaurants providing amazing vistas of Mogan Lake. If you are visiting around the migration season, don’t pass up the opportunity to witness colorful and energetic birds as they migrate through the region.

Distance from Ankara: 20 km from Ankara, and it takes a 30-minute drive to reach.

Ayaş is the perfect retreat, providing a special fusion of health and history. Here you can explore the centuries-old Ayaş Roman Bath, which welcomes you to unwind and take advantage of its healing waters. Explore the town's old streets, where classic homes enhance the region's rich cultural legacy. Don’t forget to try some of the local specialties while you are there, including the Ayaş tomatoes, which are known for their unique flavor, as well as handcrafted jams.

Distance from Ankara: Located 60 km from Ankara, it takes a 1-hour drive to reach.

Çamlıdere is one of the best Ankara day trips for those seeking tranquility and a chance to unwind. Enjoy a stroll around the serene Çamlıdere Dam Lake, bordered by the splendor of nature, and providing an ideal setting for unwinding. You can also try camping at the charming Aluçdağı Nature Park, where you can take in nature at its finest. To round off your trip after a day of exploration, enjoy a tasty, substantial village-style meal to fully appreciate the local charm

Distance from Ankara: Located 100 km from Ankara, and it takes 1 hour and 4 minutes to reach.

A trip to Tuz Gölü, among Turkey's most breathtaking natural beauties, offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the soft, restorative effects of the expansive saltwater flats as you stroll barefoot across them. What truly sets this place apart is the magical atmosphere at sunset or dawn, when the motionless waters create reflections that resemble pristine mirrors—making it one of the most photographed places in the country. Before leaving, make sure to visit the neighboring markets, where you may purchase regional salt-based goods and distinctive mementos that perfectly encapsulate this stunning location.

Distance from Ankara: Located 150 km from Ankara, it takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to drive.

During wintertime in Ankara, Elmadağ serves as the best neighboring place for snow enthusiasts. The area's mild slopes provide plenty of enjoyment for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Families and friends may enjoy a get-together for warm snow picnics or even have traditional snowball wars. Offering adventurers an opportunity to participate in winter trekking or camping in the nearby wilderness, Elmadağ is a well-rounded winter retreat near the city.

Distance from Ankara: 34 km from Ankara, and it takes about 45 minutes to reach.

Located on the Kızılırmak River Banks, the village of Avanos is another well-liked day trip destination from Ankara. Well-known for its ceramics and pottery, this village offers tourists a chance to witness the process by which the pottery is manufactured by visiting one of the village's many workshops. With its quaint lanes dotted with historic homes and neighborhood stores, the hamlet is also a fantastic area to explore on foot, enabling you to experience its vibrant cultural environment.

Distance from Ankara: 297.9 km will take 2h 51min to drive to reach.

Lastly, a trip to the quaint town of Safranbolu is a great choice for those wanting to get a taste of traditional Turkish living. Renowned for its ancient homes, cobblestone lanes, and lovely gardens, this beautiful town is a well-preserved example of Turkish architecture. To explore more about the rich past and customs of this distinctive and historic place, visitors can also join a guided tour of the town.

Distance from Ankara: Safranbolu from Ankara is 226.6 km, and it will take 2 hours and 39 minutes to reach.