Vacation Packages to Ankara

General Information about Ankara

Do you want to visit Ankara? Here we tell you everything about this wonderful destination. 

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey and is located in the central part of the country. It has a population of over 5 million people, making it the second-largest city in Turkey after Istanbul.

Ankara has a rich history that dates back to the Hittite Empire, which was one of the earliest civilizations in the world. The city has also been ruled by the Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.

Today, Ankara is a modern and cosmopolitan city that serves as the political and administrative center of Turkey. It is home to many government buildings, embassies, and international organizations, as well as several universities, museums, and cultural centers.

Sites of Interest in Ankara

Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, has a rich cultural heritage and a range of historical and modern attractions. Some of the sites of interest in Ankara are:

1. Anıtkabir: The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, is located in Ankara. Anıtkabir is an important symbol of the country’s independence and is a must-visit attraction for visitors to Ankara.
2. Kocatepe Mosque: This is one of the largest mosques in Turkey and is located in the Kızılay district of Ankara. Its impressive architecture and grandeur make it a popular tourist attraction.
3. Ankara Citadel: The Ankara Citadel is a fortress that dates back to the Roman era and is one of the oldest structures in the city. It is situated on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of Ankara.
4. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: This museum is located in the old city of Ankara and houses a vast collection of artifacts and objects from various civilizations that have inhabited the Anatolian region over the centuries.
5. Atakule Tower: This tower is a modern landmark of Ankara and offers panoramic views of the city. It also has a shopping mall and restaurants where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
6. Ankara Ethnographic Museum: This museum showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Turkey and the Anatolian region through a collection of traditional clothing, crafts, and household items.
7. Hacı Bayram Mosque: This mosque is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Ankara. It is named after the Muslim saint Hacı Bayram Veli and is a popular destination for pilgrims.
8. Gençlik Park: This is one of the largest parks in Ankara and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It offers various recreational activities, including boating, picnicking, and walking trails.
9. Roman Bath: The Roman Bath is a historical structure that dates back to the 3rd century and was used as a public bath during the Roman era. It is now a popular tourist attraction and has been restored to its former glory.
10. Ankara Opera House: The Ankara Opera House is a modern cultural center that hosts various performances, including operas, ballets, and concerts. It is a must-visit destination for lovers of the performing arts.

What to Eat in Ankara?

Ankara is known for its delicious cuisine that offers a wide range of flavors and textures. The local food scene features a fusion of traditional Turkish and modern influences, creating a unique culinary experience. 

The cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables, which enhance the flavors of meat and fish dishes. The meals are often accompanied by various salads and meze, which are small dishes that are meant to be shared. 

Additionally, Ankara offers a variety of refreshing beverages such as ayran, a yogurt-based drink that is perfect for cooling down during hot summer days. Turkish tea, a hot and strong tea served in small glasses, is also a popular choice among locals and visitors. 

Another popular beverage is Turkish coffee, a strong and flavorful coffee that is often served with a sweet treat. In summary, the food and drinks of Ankara offer a delightful journey for the taste buds, providing a perfect introduction to Turkish cuisine.

Festivals of Ankara

Ankara hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate its diverse cultural heritage and promote local art and music. Here are some of the most notable festivals of Ankara:

1. Ankara International Film Festival: This festival is held annually in March and features a diverse range of films from all over the world, as well as workshops, panels, and discussions with industry professionals. 
2. Ankara Jazz Festival: The Ankara Jazz Festival is held every May and brings together some of the best jazz musicians from Turkey and abroad for a week of concerts and events.
3. Ankara Music Festival: This festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious cultural events in Turkey. It takes place in April and May and features a diverse range of classical, folk, and world music performances.
4. Ankara International Music Festival: This festival takes place in November and brings together musicians and artists from different countries and cultures to showcase their talents and promote cultural exchange.
5. Ankara International Cartoon Festival: This festival takes place in June and features exhibitions, competitions, and workshops focused on the art of cartoons and animation.
6. Ankara International Children’s Festival: This festival takes place in May and brings together children from all over the world to participate in cultural and artistic events, including music, dance, theater, and storytelling.
7. Ankara International Book Fair: This fair takes place in November and features local and international publishers, authors, and literary events, attracting book lovers from all over the country.

How Is the Culture in Ankara?

The culture in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is rich and diverse, reflecting the city’s long and storied history as well as its modern and cosmopolitan identity. The city has been a cultural center for thousands of years, with influences from the Hittite, Phrygian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires, as well as more recent Western influences.

The people of Ankara are known for their hospitality, warmth, and love of good food and conversation. In addition, the city’s vibrant nightlife, with its bars, clubs, and live music venues, offers a lively and social atmosphere.

Overall, Ankara’s culture is a unique blend of the city’s ancient and modern history, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the city’s identity over time.

Destinations near Ankara

Ankara is a wonderful destination due to its historical heritage and fascinating culture.

In turn, due to its proximity to Cappadocia and Istanbul, many travelers combine their visit to Ankara with these destinations, so you will find these sites in several of our offers.

Are you looking to know about an incredible history? Do you want to Marvel at incredible nigth life? Do you want to taste exquisite cuisine?

If your answer is "yes", at Greca we have several proposals for tourist packages to Ankara, which you can modify and adapt according to your needs and times.

There are travel packages for all tastes. Choose your own adventure according to your needs!