15 best things to do in Ankara

Oft-overlooked in favor of Istanbul, Ankara, capital of Turkey, certainly deserves travelers’ attention. Offering a more authentic, local experience than Istanbul, with less tourist hustle and more room to explore real Turkish life, the city charms visitors with a rewarding mix of historic attractions, a thriving arts scene, and excellent restaurants. Intrigued? Read on to find out about the best things to do in Ankara.

1. Uncover Anıtkabir, Atatürk’s Mausoleum

First up in our overview of the best things to do in Ankara is to visit the imposing mausoleum of Anıtkabir.

Combining modernist and neoclassical design, it’s set atop Anıttepe Hill, and serves with sweeping views over the capital.

As the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of the Republic of Turkey, this isn’t only an iconic monument of the city — it’s a deeply symbolic site for the whole of Turkey. 

Flanked by Hittite-style lion statues that pave the way to a Ceremonial Plaza and the Mausoleum Hall, inside, a symbolic sarcophagus sits beneath a 40-ton marble block.

Meanwhile, the on-site Museum of Atatürk and the War of Independence boasts immersive exhibits, including Atatürk’s personal belongings and military artefacts. 

Wondering whether to visit Ankara or Istanbul? Cover them both on a well-curated Turkey itinerary, or else make your choice after reading up on the best things to do Istanbul, and the best places to stay in Istanbul.

2.  Mooch around the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

History buffs wondering what to do in in Ankara would do well to push the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to the top of their itinerary.

One of Turkey’s top museums, it offers an unparalleled journey through thousands of years of Anatolian history. 

Located near Ankara Castle (more on that later) in a beautifully restored 15th-century Ottoman building, it houses artefacts from prehistoric times to the classical era.

Want wider pre-trip inspiration? Discover the best things to do in Turkey. 

3. Explore Ankara Castle 

Perched atop a hill, Ankara Castle is one of the capital's oldest and most atmospheric landmarks. 

While its origins are uncertain — possibly Roman or even earlier — the structure seen today includes Byzantine and Seljuk additions, with stone ramparts to wander.

Inside the citadel, narrow cobblestone streets are lined with Ottoman-era homes, craft shops, and traditional cafes.

4. Head to Hacı Bayram Mosque 

Named after Hacı Bayram Veli, a 15th-century Sufi poet and religious leader, Hacı Bayram Mosque is one of Ankara’s most spiritually significant sites.

Located in the Ulus district, the complex also includes a tomb and serene courtyards. But what makes this site especially compelling is its proximity to the ruins of the Temple of Augustus — a 2000-year-old Roman structure that’s partially integrated into the mosque’s complex. 

The temple walls bear the Monumentum Ancyranum, a rare surviving inscription of the deeds of Emperor Augustus.

In addition, the area has been revitalized with walking paths and cafes, making it a great place to spend a good few hours in the late-afternoon through to the early evening.

For more context on when to visit, read up on the best time to visit Turkey.

5. Roam around the Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Traveling to Turkey with kids? The Rahmi M. Koç Museum in Ankara is a top attraction for families and tech enthusiasts.

Located in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era building near Ankara Castle, it showcases the history of industry, transportation, science and communication through a distinctly Turkish lens.

The museum is interactive and visually engaging, with vintage cars, steam engines, clocks, typewriters and cameras. There’s even a recreated Ottoman street scene. 

6. Explore the Ethnography Museum of Ankara

Located just below Ankara Castle, this early 20th-century museum showcases Anatolian folk culture, Islamic art and Ottoman-era traditions.

Inside, you’ll find exhibits on traditional clothing, calligraphy, textiles, weapons, woodwork and nomadic lifestyles. 

One of the most memorable sections is the display of Ottoman shadow puppets that reveals Turkey’s storytelling heritage.

7. Have fun at Atatürk Forest Farm 

Founded by Atatürk in the 1920s, the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo is a sprawling green oasis in the heart of Ankara. 

Originally intended as a model farm to promote modern agricultural techniques, it now serves as a beloved public space for families and picnickers, with gardens, dairies, vineyards and greenhouses.

It’s also home to a replica of Atatürk’s birthplace in Thessaloniki.

Seeking a chilled coastal vacation rather than a culture-packed city break? Discover the best beaches in Turkey.

8. Discover CerModern Contemporary Art Museum

Located near the train station in a repurposed railway depot, CerModern is Ankara’s premier contemporary art venue.

A cultural anchor for Ankara’s modern art scene, it showcases Turkish and international artists through an exciting roster of fresh exhibits and multimedia installations.

Also hosting film screenings, concerts, art talks, and design fairs, it’s a dynamic hub for Ankara’s creative community, with the in-house café and bookstore inviting visitors to linger longer.

9. Potter around Gençlik Park 

Located in central Ankara, Gençlik Park (Youth Park) is a nostalgic, family-friendly destination that combines urban greenery with vintage amusement park vibes. 

First opened in 1943, this 27-hectare park features lakes, fountains, picnic areas, walking paths, with the Luna Park area offering classic fairground rides, including a ferris wheel, bumper cars and mini roller coasters.

With an easy-going, local vibe, Gençlik Park offers a light break from sightseeing the city's museums and monuments.

10. Head to the historic Hamamönü district

Hamamönü is Ankara’s most charming and carefully restored Ottoman-era neighborhood. 

Located near Hacettepe University, it blends history with modern creativity, thanks to its Ottoman houses having been converted into cafés, craft shops, boutique hotels and galleries. 

Hamamönü also offers a rich culinary scene, from traditional Turkish breakfasts to homemade manti and baklava, often served in shaded courtyards.

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11. Marvel at Kocatepe Mosque

Towering over Ankara, Kocatepe Mosque is the city’s largest, most imposing religious building.

Completed in 1987, its design echoes the grand Ottoman mosques of Istanbul, with four minarets, a central dome, intricate tile-work and courtyards.

The mosque can accommodate over 20,000 worshippers, and its interior is a breath-taking space of marble floors, ornate chandeliers and delicately painted domes.

Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome, and robes and headscarves are provided at the entrance for those who need them. 

12. Explore Altınköy Open-Air Museum

Located about 20 minutes from central Ankara, the Altınköy Open-Air Museum invites visitors to travel back in time to Turkey’s rural past.

Here, traditional Anatolian village life has been recreated to great effect — think stone homes, windmills, barns, waterwheels, and roaming animals across around 100 acres.

Besides visiting the blacksmith workshops, wooden mosques, water wells, and looms, kids will love seeing the farm animals, with festivals — especially in spring and autumn — bringing the village to life through folk music, food and workshops.

13. Roam Roman Baths

Ankara’s Roman Baths offer a compelling look at the city’s ancient Roman roots. 

Located on Çankırı Avenue near Ulus, the site dates back to the 3rd century AD. While much of the structure is now in ruins, the layout of a classic Roman bath complex is clearly visible.

Visitors can explore the palaestra (exercise yard), frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (warm room), and caldarium (hot room), all laid out in a large open area.

Uncrowded, and educational, the Roman Baths site makes for a great cultural detour, especially when paired with nearby museums or Ankara Castle.

14. Bag a bargain in Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu 

A charming hill-side street of antique dealers, vintage bookshops, and quirky flea market finds, Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu (“Pulley Makers”) is a must-visit for treasure hunters.

Located just downhill from Ankara Castle, come here to pick up everything from vintage radios and phonographs to silverware, prayer beads, postcards, and heirloom furniture. 

The street has a bohemian flair, with tea houses and art cafes tucked between dusty antique storefronts. 

15. Take a trip to Lake Eymir

For outdoor enthusiasts and anyone needing a breath of fresh air, Lake Eymir offers a tranquil escape just south of central Ankara. 

Managed by Middle East Technical University (METU), the lake is surrounded by pine forests, bike trails, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints, making it a favorite weekend retreat for students, locals and birdwatchers.

While access is limited to cars with special permits, you can enter on foot or by bike.

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