Ankara, the beating heart of Turkey, is a city of contrasts where tradition meets modernity. In just 48 hours you can immerse yourself in the city's rich history, experience its vibrant culture and discover its culinary delights.
Day 1: Historical wonders and cultural experiences
Morning: Visit to Anıtkabir
Start your day in Ankara with a visit to Anıtkabir, the impressive mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of modern Turkey. This monumental structure, perched on a hill in the capital, is not only a place of remembrance and honor, but also a symbol of Turkish pride and national identity.
The Anıtkabir impresses with its extensive grounds, magnificent columns and artfully designed gardens. A tour of the museum gives you insights into the life and work of Atatürk and the founding of the Turkish Republic. Particularly noteworthy are the Hall of Honor, where Ataturk's sarcophagus lies, and the exhibitions of historical documents and personal items.
Easily accessible by public transport or car, Anıtkabir offers an impressive start to your day Ankara. A visit in the morning is ideal to enjoy the cooler temperatures and to explore the complex in peace.
Don't forget to wear appropriate clothing and maintain a respectful attitude as Anıtkabir is an important national monument. Take your time to soak up the atmosphere of this special place and appreciate Ataturk's importance for modern Turkey.
Lunch: Culinary diversity in “Kebap 49”
After visiting Anıtkabir, “Kebap 49” is a great place for a culinary lunch break. This popular Ankara eatery is known for its excellent kebab dishes and authentic Turkish hospitality. Here you can delve into the diversity of Turkish cuisine and enjoy some of the best kebabs in the city.
Kebap 49 serves a wide range of kebap variations, from classic Adana kebap to succulent lamb skewers and vegetarian options, all prepared with fresh ingredients and great attention to detail. There are also typical side dishes such as freshly baked flatbread, crisp salads and spicy sauces that perfectly complement every dish.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff ensure that you immediately feel welcome. Choose a table indoors or, weather permitting, on the outdoor terrace to watch the hustle and bustle of Ankara.
“Kebap 49” is located in a central location in Ankara and is easily accessible by public transport or on foot from the city's main attractions. Lunch at this restaurant offers the perfect opportunity to discover the culinary delights of the Turkish capital and fortify yourself for the day's further adventures.
Afternoon: Exploring Ankara Citadel
After fortifying yourself with a delicious lunch at Kebap 49, it's time to explore the fascinating citadel of Ankara. This historic fortress towers majestically over the city, offering not only breathtaking views but also insights into the region's rich history.
A walk through the citadel's narrow streets takes you past ancient walls, old mosques and traditional houses that reflect Ankara's history and culture. Visit the museum in the citadel to learn more about the history of the area and explore the various viewpoints from which you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the surrounding area.
The Ankara Citadel is not only a historical landmark, but also a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Take your time to explore the picturesque nooks and crannies and let yourself be enchanted by the fascinating atmosphere of this unique place.
The citadel is located in the heart of Ankara and can be easily reached on foot or by public transport. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon filled with history, culture and breathtaking views as you explore the secrets of Ankara Citadel.
Evening: Stroll through the old town
In the evening you can take a relaxed stroll through the old town of Ankara. Immerse yourself in the lively hustle and bustle of the narrow streets, lined with historic buildings, traditional shops and cozy cafés. Enjoy the atmosphere of the old town, which takes you back to times gone by, and let yourself be carried away by the pulsating atmosphere of this lively area.
During your stroll you can admire local craftsmanship, taste traditional delicacies and enjoy the unique ambience of the old town. Visit the old bazaar to shop for souvenirs and handmade products, or venture to the numerous restaurants and cafes to sample local cuisine.
Ankara Old Town is a fascinating place full of history, culture and charm. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty and diversity of this historic district.
To get to the Old Town, you can either walk if you are already in the city center or use public transportation to get there. No matter what you choose, a stroll through Ankara's old town promises an unforgettable experience full of discovery and adventure.
Day 2: Modern culture and relaxed moments
Morning: Visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
In the morning it is worth visiting the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, one of Turkey's most important museums, which houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts from Anatolia. Here you can immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this region and marvel at evidence from bygone eras.
The museum is housed in a historic building that itself has a long history and once served as an Ottoman caravanserai. Today it houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various eras, including sculptures, ceramics, jewelry and much more.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Anatolia's ancient civilizations and learn more about their culture, way of life and achievements. The exhibits are carefully presented and provide an insight into the diversity and richness of this region's history.
A must-see for history and culture lovers, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations offers a unique opportunity to explore Anatolia's fascinating past. Take your time to explore the various galleries and exhibitions and be impressed by the beauty and diversity of the ancient artifacts.
To get to the museum, you can use public transportation or take a walk around the city, depending on where you are. The museum is centrally located in Ankara and is easy to reach no matter which direction you come from.
Lunch: Enjoyment in the “Trilye Restaurant”
For a delicious lunch, I recommend Trilye Restaurant, known for its exquisite seafood dishes and authentic Turkish cuisine. Located in the Old Town of Ankara, the restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of dishes that will satisfy even the most demanding palates.
Enjoy freshly prepared seafood such as grilled fish, shrimp or squid, accompanied by a variety of side dishes and starters such as salads, meze and traditional Turkish bread variations. The menu also offers a selection of meat dishes and vegetarian options, so there is something to suit every taste.
The “Trilye Restaurant” attaches great importance to the quality and freshness of the ingredients, and the dishes are prepared with great attention to detail. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make the restaurant a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the “Trilye Restaurant” and let yourself be seduced by the delicious flavors of Turkish cuisine. A visit here is a culinary experience that you should not miss during your stay in Ankara.
To get to Trilye Restaurant, you can take a taxi or use public transport as it is located near the city center and is easily accessible.
Afternoon: Relaxation in Gençlik Parkı
Spend the afternoon enjoying the relaxed atmosphere at Gençlik Parkı. This sprawling park is a popular destination for locals and visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.
At Gençlik Parkı you can stroll through the green alleys, relax under the shady trees and enjoy the fresh air. The park also offers various recreational opportunities such as playgrounds, picnic areas and sports facilities, so there is something for everyone.
Relax on one of the park benches, watch the people go by and enjoy the peace and serenity of the park. If you feel like it, you can also take a boat ride on the park's lake or grab snacks and drinks from the various stalls and cafes in the park.
Gençlik Parkı is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and recharge your batteries. Spend a few hours here and enjoy the beauty of nature in the middle of Ankara.
To get to Gençlik Parkı, you can either take a taxi or use public transport. The park is located in the city center and is easy to reach.
Evening: Conclusion at “Sakarya Caddesi”
Spend your evening strolling along Sakarya Caddesi and experiencing Ankara's vibrant nightlife. Sakarya Caddesi is a lively street in the heart of the city, known for its numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and shops.
Along Sakarya Caddesi you will find a variety of dining options offering a wide range of food and drinks. From traditional Turkish dishes to international cuisine, there is something to suit every taste. Enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the restaurants and try local specialties such as kebap, meze and baklava.
After dinner you can stroll along the illuminated streets and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city. Sakarya Caddesi is also a popular meeting point for locals and visitors looking to experience Ankara's vibrant nightlife. Discover cozy bars and cafés where you can relax with a drink and enjoy the city's atmosphere.
Sakarya Caddesi is lively until late at night, giving you plenty of time to explore Ankara's nightlife and gain new impressions. Experience the diversity and liveliness of this fascinating street and end your stay in Ankara in one of the city's liveliest districts.
To get to Sakarya Caddesi, you can take a taxi or use public transport. The street is located in Ankara city center and is easy to reach.
Conclusion
Ankara may seem like a modern metropolis at first glance, but upon closer inspection you discover the deep cultural roots and historical significance of this city. In just 48 hours, you can gain a comprehensive insight into the heart of Turkey and will surely return home with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.
Address: Ankara Türkiye
