As one of the favorite cities for tourists and visitors to Turkey, today we will introduce you to the best tourist attractions in Ankara, Turkey. Ankara ranks second in Turkey in terms of population. It is the capital of Turkey and is located in the heart of the Anatolia region in central Turkey.
It is a center for performing arts, home to the opera, theater, drama, ballet, the Presidential Symphony Orchestra, and many national theater companies. Ankara is also home to Anıtkabir, the magnificent mausoleum located on Atatürk Hill, dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first president of modern Turkey, who declared Ankara the capital in 1923.
Ankara is one of the driest regions in Turkey and is generally covered with steppe vegetation, except for forested areas in the southern outskirts. However, it can still be considered a green city thanks to its many parks and green spaces available to every visitor. The population density of Ankara is 1,550 people per square kilometer.
While the city’s population grew gradually during the 1920s, a massive population increase occurred in the 1950s as people moved to the city seeking work and better living standards. Planned housing was unable to accommodate the newcomers, so informal housing began to spread around the city. Today, many of these structures have been replaced by organized residential complexes.
Ankara continues to achieve a significant population growth rate of approximately 7% between 2014 and 2015. With this rapid development, the city continues to expand and grow toward its next population stage.
Ankara is globally known as the capital of Turkey and is also known for its high temperatures, especially during the summer. Although the city has a relatively low crime rate compared to other urban areas in Turkey and Europe, street safety remains an important concern.
The exact date of the city’s founding is uncertain, but archaeological evidence indicates settlement since the Stone Age. A prosperous Phrygian town existed in the area near the end of the second millennium BC.
Alexander the Great led a major campaign against Ankara in 333 BC, and in the third century BC the city became the capital of the Tectosages. The design of modern Ankara reflects its changing history. It includes Roman remains such as the Roman Baths, the Column of Julian, and the Temple of Rome and Augustus.
Top Tourist Attractions in Ankara
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk Mausoleum
Every year on November 10, Turkey’s history changes, and a sense of sorrow fills the nation as it remembers Mustafa Kemal Atatürk with sincere gratitude. Each year his resilience is remembered, as he left behind a legacy of knowledge, and the Republic of Turkey continues to move forward embracing prosperity.
In the 79th year after his death, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk continues to illuminate the path he opened for the Turkish people. He lives in the hearts of the Turkish nation and in new generations through his ideas.
Designed by Emin Onat and his assistant Ahmet Orhan Arda, the memorial tomb of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the leader of the Turkish War of Independence, is one of the best tourist attractions in Ankara. It was completed in 1953 in Ankara, Turkey, as a prime example of the Second National Architectural Movement.
The temple-like structure and its formal arrangement refer to Roman architectural traditions that once spread throughout Turkey. It features a rectangular geometric design. Ottoman influences can also be seen in the Hall of Honor.
The word “mausoleum” comes from the structure built in Bodrum, Turkey. Its shape is rectangular with a stepped pyramidal form. The monument seeks historical precedence and is reduced to a minimalist form. It still plays an active role in Turkey’s memory and national identity.
April 23 – National Sovereignty and Children’s Day in Turkey – commemorates the establishment of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey on April 23, 1920. The Grand National Assembly dedicated this day as a gift to all children of the world.
Celebrated every year on April 23, it is a national holiday in Turkey. “The little ones of today are the grown-ups of tomorrow.” With this holiday, the great leader Atatürk once again emphasized the importance he placed on children worldwide.
The capital Ankara, which rightfully confirms this honor and dignity, has achieved progress worthy of its country and nation. It has gained a modern face that makes us all proud and has secured its place among the leading capitals of the world. With a spirit of unity and solidarity, the citizens of Ankara who stood firmly during the national struggle remain determined to work with strength to elevate their country and nation above the level of contemporary civilization.
Göksu Park
Göksu Park is one of the best tourist attractions in Ankara. It features a large green park area built by the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality in the former pond area lacking water in Eryaman. The park was opened in June 2003 and was completed in less than three months. It has 508,000 square meters of usable space. The pond covers 127,189 square meters. In this section, there are 9 piers used by people who enjoy fishing.
Additionally, the area is used for cafés, entertainment, restaurants, picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking areas. 250,200 square meters are allocated to green space, 1.6 kilometers to wooden walkways, and 13,000 square meters to picnic areas. A total of 473 ready-made barbecue units were installed in picnic areas.
There are many restaurants and cafés around Göksu Park. Having breakfast at Göksu Park is highly recommended, and after breakfast you can enjoy a water pipe. For those who do not have such a habit, enjoying a pot of tea in nature is a great alternative.
While your children spend their energy throughout the day at Göksu Park, you can relax and enjoy the peaceful environment. You can explore the park through short walking trails, have dinner at the end of the day, and experience a perfect ending to your day.
There is also a well-known area in the park called Altınpark located in the Altındağ district. It is a park mostly consisting of green areas covering 640,000 square meters. It was once used as a golf course in 1977 and was extensively renovated in 1985. The park is frequently used for events such as weddings, where brides and grooms are often seen, serving as a wonderful decorative backdrop with unique views.
There is also Kurtuluş Park, located in the district connected to Çankaya, which was formerly known as the Salvation District. For this reason, it took its name from the district. The location is ideal for long walks. The interior areas of the park are enriched with trees on both sides. It is peaceful to see birds chirping and leaves changing colors with perfect harmony in every season.
Hacı Bayram Mosque
One of the most beautiful and best tourist attractions in Ankara is Hacı Bayram Mosque, located in the Altındağ district in the Ulus area. It is the most famous historical mosque in the capital and beloved by its residents.
It stands next to the Temple of Augustus. It was built in 1427–1428. There is no information about the first architect of the mosque, but it was later developed by the architect Mehmet Bey.
The current architectural structure is longitudinal with a rectangular plan, a stone base, brick walls, and a tiled roof. The tomb of Hacı Bayram takes its name from the mosque’s garden. Near the tomb wall, a mihrab was built in 1429. The square body with an octagonal drum is covered by a dome.
In the mosque garden, there is also the tomb of Peters Pasha dating back to the 18th century. The octagonal structure is covered with a dome resting directly on the walls. There is also a shrine later dedicated to the family of Peters Pasha.
The mosque is very rich in wooden decorations, ornaments, calligraphy, and tiles. The wooden decorative elements include embroidery attributed to Mustafa. The mosque has a minaret with two balconies located on the southeastern wall. The cylindrical minaret body is built of stone and brick.
Hacı Bayram Mosque was repaired in 1714 by descendants of John Baba. In 1940, it was restored by the General Directorate of Foundations and Ankara Metropolitan Municipality according to its original form and was reopened for worship on February 14, 2011. The closed area covers 4,500 square meters, and together with the open area, it has a total capacity of 6,500 worshippers.
If you are traveling to Ankara or Istanbul, enjoy walking through the streets of the old town. Do not miss visiting Hacı Bayram Mosque. Turkish people use the word “Cami” to refer to a large mosque. If possible, attend a congregational prayer even if the mosque is not always full. Afterward, observe the stunning architectural details. Even if you do not speak Turkish, you can learn about the mosque’s age from the information displayed about its construction.
Contact Hacı Bayram Mosque in the old town of Ulus, Ankara. The mosque was built in the early 15th century in honor of Hacı Bayram Veli, a local Sufi figure. It was restored by the Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, with tiles from Kütahya added in the 18th century. Even today, starting from early morning, people heading to work or school stop to pray outside the tomb of Hacı Bayram located next to the mosque.
Ankara Castle
Ankara Castle is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Ankara. It is an impressive fortress and one of the most famous castles located in the heart of Ankara, the capital of the Republic of Turkey. It is divided and elevated on a high level, constructed from stone blocks and defensive wall structures.
The castle was under Roman and Byzantine control, then passed to the Seljuk Turks in 1073, followed by the Crusaders in 1101. In 1882, the castle was restored by the Ottomans.
According to one legend, the castle initially consisted of a tower and walls made of mudbrick, but it was later developed and rebuilt by various kingdoms, each adding its own architectural style. Another legend claims that the Phrygian King Midas rebuilt the castle when he conquered Ankara.
After the Romans conquered Galatia (Ankara) in the 2nd century BC, the city walls were repaired by order of the Byzantine Emperor Caracalla. Later, in 688 AD, Emperor Constans II built additional walls. Roman emperors Leo IV, Nikephoros, and Basil reinforced and rebuilt the inner walls of this magnificent structure. Their influence is clearly visible today, reflecting classical Byzantine architectural style.
In 1073, the Seljuks captured the castle, and Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I added new sections to it. During the Ottoman period, Ibrahim Pasha, the son of the governor of Egypt Muhammad Ali Pasha, carried out further restorations.
Throughout history, Ankara Castle has hosted many civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Persians, Byzantines, Arabs, and Ottomans. Each civilization left its mark on this enchanting structure, reflecting its traditions, culture, and architectural style. Today, the castle hosts many art and music events and is also a venue for festivals, especially during the summer season. Traditional Ankara houses with narrow layouts and small windows, built of mudbrick, are also located within the castle area.
Currently, the castle presents a visual blend of different historical eras, each leaving its own unique trace. The old Ankara houses located inside the outer walls are especially charming, built from wood, brick, and tiles. From the castle, the intersection of old and new Ankara can be seen beautifully, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the great capital.
Altınköy Open-Air Museum in Ankara
The Altınköy Open-Air Museum in Ankara is a beautiful museum that allows you to feel as if you are in a village environment when you become tired of the busy city life. Ankara is one of the places where this museum should definitely be added to your travel list.
Wooden mansions, shops, and a mosque were brought from villages in
Kastamonu and Karabük. These wooden historical structures, built without
nails or joints, were dismantled, numbered piece by piece, and then
reassembled in the Altınköy Open-Air Museum in Ankara.
Everything that could exist in a traditional village has been carefully considered in Altınköy. From the mansion to the mosque, from the school to the bazaar, from the mill to the village animals—you can find everything you imagine.
When you enter Altınköy, you suddenly find yourself in a village atmosphere from your childhood. Feelings of nostalgia immediately arise. Geese, chickens, cows, and sheep wander freely. It is especially a delightful place that attracts the attention of children.
Upon entering the village, you encounter the village square. The village school, mosque, coffeehouse, barber shop (which also served as a circumcision room), bakery, tinsmith, blacksmith, and grocery store are all located around this square. Everything reflects realism in a very authentic way.
Wheat grows tall in the fields and is then ground in the village water mill. Village bread is baked using this natural flour in the village oven. You can observe all of these processes. You can taste freshly baked bread cooked in a wood-fired oven along with tea at the village coffeehouse.
As you walk through the area, you will see a stream surrounded by trees and wooden water wheels. In this peaceful village environment, you can sit by the stream and enjoy the view. Although the area is suitable for picnics, bringing food from outside is prohibited to maintain order.
The Altındağ Municipality brought village life from 100 years ago to the residents of Ankara through the “Altınköy” project. Everything that existed in Anatolian villages during the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s can be found here—and even more.
We invite you and your family, especially with children, to escape daily stress and fatigue and breathe the village air for a few hours. The Altınköy Open-Air Museum awaits you, offering a heartfelt experience that reconnects you with your inner child.
Gençlik Park Ankara
Gençlik Park is one of the best tourist attractions in Ankara. It is located in the Ulus district, which was once the most vibrant area in Turkey.
Today, the park is visited by both locals and tourists. Gençlik Park represents the zero point of the capital. Construction began in 1936, and it was completed and opened to the public in 1943.
The park was designed in the Western architectural style of the 1930s, and even today you can see impressive Roman and monumental-style elements.
The park was built for the Republic and modern Turkey and was officially opened on May 19, Youth and Sports Day.
Initially, the park lacked greenery and featured pools of various sizes, giving it the appearance of a sports camp. Despite its large size, it was often crowded and lacked a peaceful atmosphere.
The artificial river remains one of the most impressive features of the park and is a favorite place to sit and relax. Today, the park can be compared to major metropolitan recreational areas such as São Paulo.
One of the best views in the park can be enjoyed while sitting at a café beside the water, with Luna Park nearby offering nostalgic amusement rides that bring back childhood memories.
The entrance fee to the park was once only 25 kuruş, which explains why it was always so crowded.
In Seğmenler Park, there is a well-known statue created by the famous sculptor İlhan Koman, erected on December 31, 1991, with the support of the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality.
The statue was removed from its pedestal in May 2016 after standing there for 25 years. The original sculpture, which was claimed to have been stolen, was later brought back to Ankara and displayed at the CerModern Museum following efforts by the Chamber of Architects.
When Mansur Yavaş became Mayor of Ankara Metropolitan Municipality, the statue was returned to its original location in Seğmenler Park three years later. The reopening ceremony was attended by municipal officials and citizens.
Ulucanlar Prison Museum
Did you know that one of the best tourist attractions in Ankara is Ulucanlar Prison Museum? Originally known as Cebeci Tevkifhanesi, it was a place where executions were carried out. From 1925 to 2006, the prison operated for 81 years. It was known as a cold and dark place where prisoners were held and executed, often waiting days at the gate.
The prison was known by several names over the years, including Cebeci Public Prison, Ankara Prison, Ankara Cebeci Civil Prison, Ankara Central Closed Prison, and finally Ulucanlar Prison. Before 1925, some sections were used for horse breeding, while others served as weapon warehouses.
During its operation, 18 executions were carried out. Many well-known figures shared the same fate within Ulucanlar Prison, including Fethi Gürcan, Talat Aydemir, Deniz Gezmiş, Yusuf Aslan, and Hüseyin İnan. Numerous journalists, poets, writers, politicians, and filmmakers passed through its gates. Among the poets imprisoned here were Necip Fazıl Kısakürek, Nazım Hikmet, and Ahmed Arif.
Ulucanlar Prison was transformed into a museum and cultural center by the Altındağ Municipality, preventing its destruction and adding a new cultural landmark to Ankara. The museum invites visitors to experience Turkey’s recent history in a powerful and immersive way.
The museum opened in 2011 and was the first prison museum in Turkey. Since its opening, it has welcomed more than 250,000 visitors. According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, it is the most visited private museum in Ankara and has placed Turkey among the top 10 countries worldwide in museum visitation. Ulucanlar Prison Museum stands today as an important symbol of Ankara and a reminder of the struggles to preserve this historic site.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
One of the main attractions in Ankara, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is an essential visit for tourists, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in ancient Turkey. The museum is located in a covered bazaar dating back to the 15th century and houses a wide range of artifacts discovered during excavations across Turkey.
As visitors move through different sections of the museum, they embark on a chronological journey through Anatolia’s past. Artifacts span from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Bronze Age, Assyrian, Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian, and Lydian periods, as well as Classical Greek and Roman eras.
Anatolia is one of the cradles of human civilization, and the museum tells the story of human development—from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled village life, agriculture, pottery production, and metalworking.
The buildings housing the museum date back to the reign of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror and were built by Mahmud Pasha between 1464 and 1471 for the wool trade in Ankara. Some rooms are reserved for researchers, while others serve as conference halls, workshops, a library, and laboratories. The museum continues to welcome visitors eager to explore its rich collections.
Kocatepe Mosque
Kocatepe Mosque is one of the most highly rated tourist attractions in Ankara. Located on Kocatepe Hill, it is the newest and largest mosque in the city. Built in Ottoman style and completed in 1987, it features stained glass windows, marble decoration, gold leaf, and a massive crystal chandelier.
The lower section of the mosque covers 4,500 square meters and includes a conference hall, library, parking area, commercial and administrative units. The mosque has four minarets, each 88 meters tall. Elevators and stairs provide access to the minarets. The interior decorations, carpets, chandeliers, mihrab, doors, tiles, and marble were all specially designed and crafted with great skill.
Aqua Vega Aquarium
The most fascinating underwater creatures in the world await discovery at Aqua Vega Aquarium, one of the best tourist attractions in Ankara. Marine creatures from around the world were brought to Aqua Vega Aquarium, located inside Nata Vega Outlet Shopping Mall.
The aquarium houses approximately 12,000 marine creatures across 24 different aquariums, with a total water capacity of 4.5 million liters and a tunnel length of 98 meters. Visitors can observe sharks, koi fish, Napoleon fish, clownfish, and many other species.
There is also an adrenaline world featuring 250 different land animals. The aquarium includes a diving school, salt cave, reptile area, souvenir shops, shell museum, restaurant, pet shop, café, and swimming pool. Due to optical effects, creatures appear smaller than their actual size.
Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Rahmi M. Koç Museum is one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Ankara. It is located inside the beautifully restored Çengelhan building, which also houses a luxury hotel and restaurant. The museum features interactive displays that are rare and engaging for visitors.
The inn where the museum is located was built between 1522 and 1523 by Rüstem Pasha’s wife, Mihrimah Sultan, during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. After standing for nearly 500 years, the structure was restored between 2003 and 2005 and opened as a museum.
This museum is Turkey’s first major museum dedicated to the history of transportation, industry, and communication. Each room displays artifacts from the past to the present, making it Ankara’s first industrial museum. Animated exhibits recreate traditional professions such as blacksmiths, barbers, shoemakers, tinsmiths, and pharmacists.
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