Best 8 Attractions In Ankara

Ankara, capital of Turkey, located in central Anatolia with an urban population of 5,290,822, is Turkey’s second largest city, pulling in approximately. 400,000 visitors from across the world. With a number of captivating monuments, modern sights, parks, rich history, places to stay, and culture, you are sure to find one of the best places to visit in Ankara. Whether your idea is to visit the country’s top Atatürk's mausoleum and museum or just want to enjoy a sightseeing stroll across the citadel district of Ankara, this city has it all!

The following are the best 8 places to visit in Ankara. Let’s get in!

The tomb of Anıtkabir is one of Turkey’s most-visited significant pilgrimage places. Set over the hilltop slightly west of the city center, lies Atatürk's mausoleum (Mustafa Kemal Atatürk), the founder of the Turkish state. This place showcases every exhibit and display, ranging from Atatürk’s life to the Independence War led by him, leading to the birth of Turkey. You can gaze over this monumental mausoleum, embellished by the glided inscriptions of the speeches of Atatürk, and the plaza for sprawling, breathtaking views

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations provides a wonderful chance to get a full scoop of the pre-Classical era of human history of Anatolia with its displays of historical tools, statues, and many other items from several cultures that have been part of this region for thousands of years. The museum, situated close to the ancient Ankara Castle, in the Atpazarı area of Ankara, is set within two beautifully renovated Ottoman-era buildings. It’s home to the most significant find from Çatalhöyük’s Neolithic village site, located close to Konya, in the first hall.

The Ankara Castle comes under the list of the city’s oldest areas and the best Ankara tourist attractions, dating back to the 7th century. In the castle, there are old buildings, stores, and charming cafeterias. Some stores offer handmade craft items and gifts, while you may capture some Insta-worthy pictures and enjoy the old-style streets and buildings. Ankara Castle serves as a cultural center where guests can enjoy a combination of the city's past and present.

The Rahmi M. Koç Museum in Ankara, established in 2005, is the city's first museum dedicated to transport and industry. It’s set within two historic caravanserais near the Ankara Citadel, blending history with innovation. The museum showcases a diverse collection ranging from steam engines and classic trams to antique automobiles, early computers, typewriters, and radios. Visitors can also find exhibits related to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, adding a significant cultural touch to the experience.

Hacı Bayram Mosque and the Temple of Augustus are located in the Ankara Ulus district. Built in the 15th century, the mosque stands close to the remnants of the ancient Temple of Augustus. You can spot the remains of a Roman temple that is more than 2,000 years old. The mosque is decorated with intricate calligraphy, a serene courtyard, and elegant Seljuk-Ottoman architecture, drawing a number of pilgrims and visitors. What makes it even more unique is the Temple of Augustus, which houses the famous Monumentum Ancyranum.

Atakule Tower is quite tall and visible from numerous places in Ankara. There is an observation area at the top where you can look out and enjoy the sprawling views of the whole city. Additionally, there is also a restaurant named Seville. Visitors can access the observation deck via a high-speed elevator, where they can enjoy expansive views of Ankara, including landmarks like Anıtkabir.

Ulucanlar Prison Museum used to be a real prison, but it has now been converted into a museum. It showcases the lives of people who were once imprisoned there, including politicians, writers, and more. Stroll through the Hilton Wards, which once housed high-profile inmates, explore life-sized wax figures, and walls adorned by original inmate graffiti and murals.

Located in the heart of the city, Gençlik Park offers a revitalizing escape with a spacious artificial lake and fountains that are set among the landscaped gardens. In its southeast corner lies Ankara’s Luna Park, a lively amusement area featuring a Ferris wheel, two thrilling roller coasters, and a variety of gentler attractions in Ankara including carousels and bumper cars, perfect for younger visitors and families alike.