Where to Stay in Ankara
Turkey
|Pop. 3.5M
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Avel Chuklanov / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Kızılay is the best neighbourhood to stay in Ankara. The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links. Ideal for first-timers, solo travelers, nightlife. Budget travellers can get by on TRY 1200/day.
Areas to Avoid in Ankara
Safety rated "Safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kızılay | The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links. | Mid-range | first-timers, solo travelers | Generally safe during the day, but watch... |
| Çankaya | An upscale residential and diplomatic district known for its leafy streets, modern amenities, and embassy presence. | Luxury | luxury, couples | Very safe day and night due to its resid... |
| Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere | A vibrant, trendy street lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars, popular with locals and expats. | Mid-range | foodies, nightlife | Safe during the day and early evening; m... |
| Ulus | Ankara's historic old town, home to ancient ruins, traditional markets, and government buildings. | Budget | culture, history buffs | Exercise caution, especially after dark;... |
Kızılay
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links.
Generally safe during the day, but watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas; a...
Çankaya
LuxuryAn upscale residential and diplomatic district known for its leafy streets, modern amenities, and embassy presence.
Very safe day and night due to its residential and diplomatic nature.
Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere
Mid-rangeA vibrant, trendy street lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars, popular with locals and expats.
Safe during the day and early evening; main street is well-trafficked at night, ...
Ulus
BudgetAnkara's historic old town, home to ancient ruins, traditional markets, and government buildings.
Exercise caution, especially after dark; stick to main roads and be aware of you...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Ankara
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere
A vibrant, trendy street lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars, popular with locals and expats.
Our top picks in Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere
Kızılay
The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links.
Our top picks in Kızılay
Ulus
Ankara's historic old town, home to ancient ruins, traditional markets, and government buildings.
Our top picks in Ulus
While technically in Kavaklıdere, it's a short taxi/bus ride and offers the best historical luxury experience near Ulus.
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Things to Do in Ankara
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
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Ankara at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Ankara
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Visit the 'Hamamönü' district for a beautifully restored Ottoman neighborhood experience with traditional houses converted into cafes and craft shops, offering a glimpse into the past.
Getting Around
Purchase an AnkaraKart and load it for easy travel on metro, light rail, and buses; it's cheaper than buying single tickets.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (always use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps).
Solo Female Travel
Ankara is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night, and dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
Hidden Gems in Ankara
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Hamamönü
FREEWander through beautifully restored Ottoman-era houses, many now charming cafes and craft shops. It's a picturesque glimpse into Ankara's past, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Ankara State Railway Museum (Ankara Demiryolları Müzesi)
Discover the history of railways in Turkey in this small, engaging museum housed in an old train station. You'll find vintage locomotives, old tickets, and fascinating railway memorabilia.
Kızılay Square (Kızılay Meydanı)
FREEWhile busy, Kızılay is the vibrant heart of modern Ankara. Locals gather here, and you can find countless eateries, shops, and lively street performers, offering a true taste of city life.
Çengelhan Rahmi M. Koç Museum
Housed in a historic caravanserai, this museum showcases industrial and technological history with an impressive collection. It's a beautifully preserved building with diverse exhibits.
Dikmen Valley (Dikmen Vadisi)
FREEEscape the city bustle in this vast green space offering walking paths, picnic areas, and beautiful city views. It's a favorite spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature.
Atakule Tower (Observation Deck)
Go up this iconic tower for panoramic views of Ankara, especially stunning at sunset. It offers a different perspective of the sprawling capital city.
Things to Do in Ankara
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Ankara tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Ankara
Daily budget per person in TRY
💡79% cheaper than London
TRY 1200/day
TRY 2500/day
TRY 6000/day
Where to Stay in Ankara
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Ankara Castle45 min
- Anıtkabir30 min
- Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi25 min
Pros
- +Excellent public transport access
- +Wide range of dining and shopping options
- +Lively atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Lacks historical charm compared to other areas
Top stays in Kızılay
Grand Hamit Hotel
$$Centrally located with comfortable rooms and good service.
Hotel Mithat
$A budget-friendly option offering basic amenities in a prime location.
King's Cross Hotel Ankara
$$Modern hotel with good facilities, close to metro and shopping.
The Çengelhan Rahmi Koç Museum Hotel
$$$Unique boutique hotel within a museum, offering a historical experience.
Best for
Walk to
- Kızılay Square30 min
- Anıtkabir40 min
Pros
- +Safer and quieter atmosphere
- +Good selection of upscale restaurants and cafes
- +Proximity to embassies and international organizations
Cons
- -Less central for historical sightseeing
- -Can feel more residential and less tourist-oriented
Best for
Walk to
- Kızılay Square25 min
- Atakule Tower15 min
Pros
- +Excellent dining and entertainment scene
- +Lively and fashionable atmosphere
- +Good mix of local and international influences
Cons
- -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
- -Accommodation options are more limited and can be pricier
Top stays in Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere
Divan Çukurhan
$$$A beautifully restored Ottoman mansion offering luxurious rooms and a courtyard restaurant.
Cankaya Konuk Evi
$$Charming boutique stay with a focus on comfort and local hospitality.
Latanya Hotel Ankara
$$Comfortable hotel with good amenities, located conveniently near the shopping street.
Best for
Walk to
- Ankara Castle15 min
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations10 min
- Roman Bath Ruins5 min
Pros
- +Rich in history and historical sites
- +Authentic local markets
- +Very budget-friendly options
Cons
- -Can feel gritty and less maintained in parts
- -Limited modern dining and nightlife
- -Requires more awareness of surroundings
Top stays in Ulus
Divan Çukurhan
$$$While technically in Kavaklıdere, it's a short taxi/bus ride and offers the best historical luxury experience near Ulus.
Hotel Samdan
$Basic, affordable hotel in the Ulus area, convenient for historical sites.
Ankara Plaza Hotel
$$Decent mid-range option with good access to Ulus attractions.
Areas to be cautious
- Areas immediately surrounding bus terminals (e.g., AŞTİ) late at night.: These areas can be transient and less monitored, increasing the risk of petty crime and feeling unsafe.
- Very poorly lit, deserted side streets in older districts after dark.: Lack of visibility and fewer people make these areas less secure and more prone to opportunistic crime.
Insider tip: Visit the 'Hamamönü' district for a beautifully restored Ottoman neighborhood experience with traditional houses converted into cafes and craft shops, offering a glimpse into the past.
Where to Stay in Ankara
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Kızılay
The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links.
Stay in Çankaya
An upscale residential and diplomatic district known for its leafy streets, modern amenities, and embassy presence.
Stay in Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere
A vibrant, trendy street lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars, popular with locals and expats.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Ankara
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List Your PropertySafety in Ankara
SafeSolo Female Travel
Ankara is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night, and dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas like Kızılay or Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi. Main avenues are generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings in crowded nightlife spots.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (always use metered taxis or ride-sharing apps).
- 2Distraction theft in crowded markets or public transport.
- 3Slight-of-hand tricks in busy tourist areas.
Compare hotel deals in Ankara
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
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Travel Insurance for Ankara
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Turkey
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Turkey and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Ankara
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) to city center: HAVAŞ shuttle bus (approx. 1.5 hours, ~150 TRY); Taxi (approx. 45-60 mins, ~700-1000 TRY).
🎫
Day Pass
Not available; single tickets (AnkaraKart) are cost-effective.
Single: AnkaraKart fare: ~15-20 TRY depending on distance/transfer.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber
📶
WiFi
Good30-50 Mbps (in cafes/hotels)
Public Transport
Ankaray (light rail) and Metro (subway) are efficient for crossing the city; extensive bus network (EGO buses).
Ride-share
BiTaksi and Uber (operates as UberXL using local taxis); typical cost similar to local taxis, slightly higher during peak demand.
Transport Tip
Purchase an AnkaraKart and load it for easy travel on metro, light rail, and buses; it's cheaper than buying single tickets.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes, shopping malls, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; check options like 'Atakule Coworking' or inquire at larger hotels for business facilities. Daily costs can range from 200-500 TRY if available.
Rent a Car in Ankara
Compare prices from top rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.
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Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jun, Sep, Oct
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Hotels & Accommodation in Ankara
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Who Is Ankara Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-Time Visitors
Provides easy access to transport, accommodation, and a central point to start exploring Ankara's main attractions.
History & Culture Enthusiasts
Directly adjacent to key historical sites like Ankara Castle and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
Foodies & Nightlife Seekers
This area is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene and popular bars and cafes.
Luxury Travelers
Offers upscale hotels, fine dining, and a more serene, high-end environment.
Budget Backpackers
Features the most affordable accommodation and dining options while being close to historical sites.
About Ankara
Ankara is the capital city of Turkey. Located in the central part of Anatolia, the city has a population of over 5.3 million residents in its urban center, out of 6 million residents in Ankara Province . Ankara is Turkey's second-largest city by population after Istanbul.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ankara
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