Ankara
Prepare to be surprised by Ankara’s serene pace and deep connection to Turkey’s history. The country’s capital is not just its administrative center: it’s a city that blends past and present with unexpected ease.
From the imposing silhouette of Atatürk’s Mausoleum to the alleys of Ulus and the citadel overlooking it, Ankara invites you to look with different eyes. Its museums—like the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations—preserve ancient traces of people who inhabited these lands long before modern maps.
But Ankara is also present: vibrant neighborhoods like Kızılay and Çankaya, extensive parks, local cuisine, and a tranquil atmosphere that can be enjoyed without rushing.
It’s a city that doesn’t shout to attract attention, but leaves a mark on those who know how to observe.
What to see in Ankara
What to see in Ankara, the capital of Turkey
Exotic, cosmopolitan, packed with monuments and with over 5 million inhabitants, Ankara is now a modern city looking towards the future.
Atatürk Mausoleum: the nation’s tribute to the father of modern Turkey
High above Ankara, Anıtkabir stands as an eternal symbol of memory, modernity and Turkish identity.
Kocatepe Mosque: the spiritual colossus of Ankara
Inspired by classical Ottoman architecture with a modern twist, this vast space, which can host up to 24,000 worshippers, is visible from nearly every corner of the Turkish capital.
Atakule: Ankara’s modern lighthouse that touches the sky
Since it opened in 1989, the 125-metre-tall skyscraper, with its viewing platform and revolving restaurant at the top, has become a symbol of modern Ankara.
Ankara Castle: the age-old fortress that dominates the history of Turkey’s capital city
From the Hittites to the Ottomans, successive civilisations have conquered and rebuilt this citadel strategically positioned on a hill in the Altındağ district. Its fascinating history is best appreciated along with a complementary visit to the nearby Museum of the Civilisations of Anatolia.
Gençlik Park: a recreational oasis in the heart of Ankara
Since 1943, this site has been a meeting place for locals and travellers alike, with its artificial lake reflecting the city's lights, its merry dancing fountains and an endearing funfair that evokes a touch of nostalgia.
