Introducing spots in Ankara!

🇹🇷Ankara

In stark contrast to the glamour of Istanbul, I visited Ankara, Turkey's capital, a city with a laid-back atmosphere.

When I visited the city's most famous tourist attraction, Ataturk's Mausoleum (Anıtkabir),
I was lucky enough to catch the changing of the guard ceremony!

The view from the hilltop was spectacular, with the historic cityscape still intact.
Prices also seemed cheaper than in Istanbul.

What impressed me about Ankara: 🌆
✅ The "capital-like" laid-back atmosphere, different from Istanbul. 🏛️

As the political and administrative center, Ankara is not flashy, but it's well-organized.
The cityscape, with its mix of modern buildings and the historic old town, is interesting.
There weren't as many tourists as in Istanbul, so I felt closer to the locals.

✅ Prices are cheaper than Istanbul 💰

Food and taxi fares are a little cheaper.
Because tourist attractions aren't as common, even local restaurants offer great value for money!

Sights & Landmarks in Ankara 🏛️
📍 Ataturk's Mausoleum (Anıtkabir) 🇹🇷

The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founding father of Turkey.
Located on high ground and set on a vast site, the magnificent architecture is truly impressive!
I happened to witness the changing of the guard ceremony, and was deeply moved by the disciplined movements and solemn atmosphere.
Inside the mausoleum, there are exhibits that teach about Ataturk's life and the history of the Turkish Republic, which were well worth seeing.

📍 Ankara Citadel (Ankara Kalesi) 🏰

A spectacular spot overlooking Ankara's old city!
This stone fortress offers panoramic views of Turkey's historic cityscape as you walk around its walls.
The surrounding area is also home to Ottoman-era buildings and local markets, making for a fun stroll.

📍 Hacı Bayram Mosque🕌

Built in the 15th century, this is one of Ankara's oldest mosques.
The interior is ornately decorated and exudes a tranquil atmosphere.
I recommend visiting it together with the adjacent ruins of the Temple of Augustus!

📍 Ethnography Museum of Ankara🏺

This museum displays traditional Turkish culture, crafts, and national costumes.
The exhibits recreating life during the Ottoman Empire were fascinating!

📍 Kızılay Square🛍️

This shopping and restaurant area is located in the heart of Ankara.
There were also many local cafes and street food options, giving us a real feel for local life.

Turkish Food in Ankara 🍽️
🍖 Ankara Tava

Ankara's specialty, a spiced rice dish.
It's simple yet flavorful, with lamb or beef inside!

🥩 Izgara Köfte

Turkish hamburger-style meatballs.
The outside is crispy, spicy, and juicy.

🥙 Etli Ekmek

A Turkish-style thin pizza topped with minced meat and vegetables.
The crispy texture is addictive.

☕ Turkish Coffee (Türk Kahvesi)

The rich Turkish coffee at a local cafe in Ankara is exceptional!
I also had the chance to experience the "Kahve Falı" (Kahve Falı), a divination technique used for fortune-telling.

Impressions & Summary of Ankara
✅ The atmosphere was calm and "capital-like," completely different from Istanbul.
✅ Ataturk's Mausoleum was majestic, and it was a place where you could really feel the history and pride of Turkey.
✅ The view from Ankara Castle was spectacular, and I got a panoramic view of the historic cityscape!
✅ Prices were cheaper than Istanbul, and I enjoyed the local food culture.

While Istanbul is more famous in Turkey, Ankara is known as the "center of Turkey's politics and history."
While it's not a flashy tourist destination, it was the perfect city for gaining a deeper understanding of Turkish history and culture.

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