Türkiye’s Capital, Ankara: A Hidden Gem for Travelers

Friends, are you still struggling to decide where to go for your next international trip? Today, I must recommend Ankara, the capital of Türkiye. This seriously underrated city is full of surprises! Pre-trip Preparations 📅 Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Ankara. The weather is pleasant, neither too cold nor too hot, perfect for exploring. 💰 Travel budget: The overall cost of travel isn't high, averaging 800–1,500 lira per day (approximately 300–600 CNY), depending on your spending habits. If you stay in homestays and eat street food, you can save even more. Transportation Guide ✈️ Arrival: Most people fly to Istanbul first and then transfer to Ankara. The flight takes about 1.5 hrs. 🚗 Getting around: Ankara has a convenient public transportation system. You can use a travel card on the subway, buses, and trams, which can be purchased at stations. Taxis are also affordable, but make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged. Must-see Attractions 1️⃣ Ankara Castle: The oldest part of Ankara. Standing on the castle, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. The buildings within the castle are steeped in history, making for great photos. Here, you can feel the rich history and culture of Türkiye, as if you've traveled back to the Ottoman Empire. 2️⃣ Anıtkabir (Atatürk Mausoleum): Built in memory of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. The architecture is grand and solemn, and the mausoleum houses Atatürk's belongings and exhibits on his life. It's a great place to learn about modern Turkish history. The changing of the guard ceremony is also worth watching, full of ritual and tradition. 3️⃣ Museum of Anatolian Civilizations: A must-visit for history buffs! The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Anatolian region, spanning from prehistoric times to the Ottoman Empire. From exquisite pottery to ancient sculptures, each piece tells a story of this land. Visiting the museum is like taking a vivid history lesson. Food Recommendations 🍢 Kebabs: You can't visit Türkiye without trying kebabs! Ankara offers a wide variety of kebabs, including döner kebab and grilled lamb chops. The aroma of the meat, served with fries and salad, is simply divine. 🧆 Turkish pizza: Different from Italian pizza, Turkish pizza has a thinner crust and rich toppings, including minced meat, cheese, and vegetables. Each bite is a burst of flavor. ☕ Turkish coffee: This is a signature Turkish drink, and the coffee-making process itself is a ritual. The coffee has a strong flavor. After finishing your coffee, you can ask the barista to read your coffee grounds, which is said to predict your fortune. It's a fun experience. Accommodation Experience I stayed in a homestay in the old town, where I could see Ankara Castle from my window and enjoy the night view of the ancient city. The homestay owner was very welcoming and gave me many travel tips. If you have a larger budget, you can choose a hotel in the city center, which is convenient for transportation and shopping. Shopping and Entertainment 🛍️ Grand Bazaar: This is like a giant shopping maze, filled with a variety of local products, including carpets, spices, and handicrafts. Remember to bargain; start at half the asking price, and you can save a lot of money. 🎭 In the evening, you can go to a local theater to watch a traditional Turkish dance performance. The dancers, dressed in gorgeous costumes, perform passionate and energetic dances, offering an immersive experience of Turkish culture. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls Check the opening hours of attractions before you go, as some are closed on Mondays. When shopping at the Grand Bazaar, don't show too much enthusiasm for buying, or it will be difficult to bargain. When taking a taxi, pay attention to the meter to avoid being taken on a longer route. Friends, Ankara is truly worth a visit. Pack your bags and embark on a spontaneous trip to Türkiye!