Ankara
Ankara is a grand European capital offering an extraordinary wealth of national monuments, world-class museums, Seljuk-Ottoman landmarks, and vibrant diplomatic promenades.
www.allturkiye.comPhoto via Wikimedia Commons
- study educationWalk up the majestic travertine steps of Anıtkabir at sunset
Pay homage to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk at his monumental mausoleum overlooking the vast, resilient skyline of Türkiye's capital.
- gastronomySavor crispy Ankara Simit and slow-roasted döner kebab in Kızılay
Taste molasses-dipped sesame bread rings paired with hand-stacked wood-fired beef döner in bustling capital avenues.
- wellness thermalSoak in high-mineral geothermal hot springs at Kızılcahamam and Haymana
Relax in historic mineral baths nestled in dense pine forests, celebrated for health and wellness since Roman times.
- adventure natureHike through pristine oak forests and volcanic rock lakes at Soğuksu National Park
Spot rare black vultures and wild deer while trekking mountain trails high above urban heat.
- classic beach cityStroll peaceful cobblestone lanes in historic Beypazarı and Ankara Castle
Explore half-timbered Ottoman mansions, silver filigree artisan shops, and panoramic capital city overlooks.
- health medicalAccess top JCI-accredited university hospitals and medical research centers in Hacettepe
Receive world-class specialized surgical, organ transplant, and cardiovascular care in Türkiye's medical epicenter.
Districts
Tourist experience
Ankara is a grand European capital offering an extraordinary wealth of national monuments, world-class museums, Seljuk-Ottoman landmarks, and vibrant diplomatic promenades. The sacred crown jewel of the capital is Anıtkabir—the monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk overlooking the city skyline. Visitors can explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (housed in a restored 15th-century Ottoman bedesten and named European Museum of the Year), the historic Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi) quarter, the First and Second Grand National Assembly Museums (Ulus), the Presidential Symphony Orchestra (CSO Ada), Atakule tower, Kızılay square, the historic Hamamönü neighborhood, and the UNESCO World Heritage Gordion ancient city in Polatlı.
Key points of interest
Investment outlook
Ankara is Türkiye's premier center for high-technology, defense manufacturing, civil service, higher education, and medical tourism. The capital hosts world-class defense and aerospace industrial giants—including ASELSAN, TUSAŞ/TAI, ROKETSAN, HAVELSAN, and FNSS—anchored within specialized Organized Industrial Zones such as İVEDİK OIZ, OSTİM, and Başkent OIZ. With over 20 prestigious universities (including METU, Bilkent, Hacettepe, and Ankara University), international diplomatic embassies, top-tier research hospitals, and High-Speed Train (YHT) rail hubs connecting to all major Turkish cities, Ankara presents high-return investment opportunities in defense technology, software engineering, commercial real estate, health hospitality, and advanced logistics.
Living here
Living in Ankara offers an exceptionally high quality of life defined by cultured urban planning, world-class educational opportunities, safe green neighborhoods, and efficient public transit networks (Ankaray and Ankara Metro). Known as a 'student and civil servant capital', Ankara boasts a dynamic intellectual environment, rich symphony and theater seasons, extensive public parks (Seğmenler, Gençlik Parkı, and Eymir Lake), and excellent healthcare infrastructure. Residents enjoy a sophisticated culinary culture featuring Ankara Tava, Simit, and Beypazarı Kurusu alongside cosmopolitan international dining.
History & cultural identity
Ankara holds an august and defining position in world geopolitics as the capital of the Republic of Türkiye and the political, diplomatic, and cultural heart of the nation. Inhabited continuously for over 10,000 years, the region served as a major Bronze Age Hittite fortress, a royal Phrygian capital (Ankyra), and a bustling Roman provincial metropolis where Augustus Caesar's monumental deeds were inscribed on the Temple of Augustus. During the Seljuk and Ottoman eras, Ankara flourished as an essential Silk Road trade center famous worldwide for Angora goat mohair (Tiftik). On October 13, 1923, under the visionary leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Ankara was officially declared the capital of the new Turkish Republic, symbolizing national sovereignty, modern enlightenment, and statecraft.
Frequently asked questions
Why was Ankara chosen as the capital of Türkiye in 1923?+
Ankara was chosen due to its central geographical location, secure defense position in Anatolia, and its role as the headquarters of the national independence movement.
What is the best way to travel around Ankara?+
Ankara features a modern metro network (Ankara Metro and Ankaray light rail), commuter trains (Başkentray), extensive municipal buses (EGO), and taxis.
What local dishes should I try in Ankara?+
You should try Ankara Tava (bone-in lamb baked over pilaf), fresh Ankara Simiti, Beypazarı Kurusu, and Çubuk pickles.
Represent Ankara? This Page Awaits Its Official Partner
Governorships, metropolitan municipalities, and leading regional institutions: be the first official partner featured on Ankara’s page — reaching travelers, investors, and future residents exploring this province every day.
Become a Founding Partner →