Ankara Sightseeing Tour

Join us for a fully guided journey through Ankara, exploring its ancient roots, historical landmarks, and modern-day cultural treasures. From the Anatolian Civilizations Museum to Ataturk’s Mausoleum, this comprehensive tour will give you a deep understanding of Turkey’s past and present.

Morning: Hotel or Meeting Point Pickup & Start of the Tour
Pickup from your hotel or a pre-arranged meeting point in Ankara.
Begin your historical and cultural exploration of Turkey’s capital city.

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations – A Journey Through Time
✔ Explore one of Turkey’s most prestigious museums, housing artifacts from the Paleolithic era to modern times.
✔ Learn how the original museum was founded in Ankara Castle in 1921, but due to the vast amount of archaeological discoveries, it moved to its current location in 1948.
✔ See rare artifacts from the Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian, and Roman periods, showcasing the evolution of Anatolian civilizations.
✔ Discover ancient sculptures, jewelry, weapons, and religious relics from thousands of years ago.

Ankara Castle – A Fortress Above the City
✔ Take a short walk from the museum to reach Ankara Castle, an ancient fortress offering panoramic views of the entire city.
✔ The exact date of construction is unknown, but evidence suggests it existed before the Persian conquest of Ankara in 622 AD.
✔ Learn about the castle’s many rulers, including the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, Crusaders, and Ottomans.
✔ Walk through its historic gates and stone towers, experiencing the ancient atmosphere of old Ankara.

Roman Bath & Augustus Temple – Remains of the Roman Empire
✔ Visit the Roman Baths, built in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Caracalla, in honor of Asklepion, the god of health.
✔ Learn how excavations between 1937 and 1944 uncovered multiple layers of history, revealing 500 years of continuous use.
✔ Explore the Temple of Augustus, currently under extensive excavation, home to the only surviving funerary inscriptions of Emperor Augustus.
✔ See the Column of Julian, built in 362 AD, honoring the last Pagan Emperor of Rome, a philosopher and military leader known as Julian the Apostate.

Lunch Break – Enjoy Traditional Turkish Cuisine
✔ Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring:
✔ Ankara Tava, a signature dish made of slow-cooked lamb and rice.
✔ Mezes (Turkish appetizers), fresh salads, and warm bread.
✔ Turkish tea or coffee, the perfect refreshment before continuing the tour.

Hamamonu Old Town – The Heart of Ottoman Ankara
✔ Stroll through Hamamonu, a beautifully restored Ottoman-era neighborhood with a bohemian atmosphere.
✔ Wander along narrow, flower-filled streets, lined with art galleries, craft shops, and cafes.
✔ Experience a mix of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy, where locals play live music, create handmade souvenirs, and sell authentic Turkish goods.
✔ Visit historic mosques, townhouses, and civic buildings, all preserved to reflect the early days of modern Turkey.

Anitkabir – The Mausoleum of Ataturk
✔ Visit Anitkabir, the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey.
✔ Walk through the majestic ceremonial plaza, lined with lion statues and symbolic carvings representing the Turkish Republic.
✔ Explore the Anitkabir Museum, which houses Ataturk’s personal belongings, letters, photographs, and a vast book collection.
✔ Witness the changing of the guards, a solemn and respected ceremony held in honor of Ataturk.
✔ Feel the calm and respectful atmosphere, leaving you with a lasting impression of Turkey’s great leader.

Evening: Return to Your Hotel
After a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking views, we return to your original pickup location.

Ankara Tour Information
✔ Pickup & Transport: Available from Ankara city center.
✔ Tour Duration: Full-day tour (approx. 8-10 hours).
✔ Best Time to Visit: Spring & autumn, for the best weather conditions.
✔ What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and a hat for sun protection.

Why Choose This Ankara Tour?
✔ Visit Turkey’s most important historical sites, from Roman ruins to Ottoman landmarks.
✔ Explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, home to priceless archaeological treasures.
✔ Walk through Hamamonu Old Town, a revitalized Ottoman district full of culture and charm.
✔ See Ankara from above at the Castle, offering spectacular panoramic views.
✔ Pay your respects at Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Ataturk, Turkey’s most beloved leader.
This Ankara full-day tour is a perfect blend of ancient history, modern culture, and national pride, making it a must-do experience for visitors to Turkey’s capital!