7 day itinerary for Ankara

Itinerary

I'd be happy to help you plan an exciting 7-day itinerary in Ankara, Turkey. Let's dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Ankara

• Check into your hotel and freshen up
• Visit the iconic Atatürk Mausoleum, Anıtkabir, to learn about Turkey's founding father
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2: Explore the Old Town

• Start your day with a visit to the historic Ankara Castle for panoramic views of the city
• Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, Ulus, and explore the Grand Bazaar for souvenirs
• Visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to learn about Turkey's rich history

Day 3: Modern Ankara

• Spend the morning at the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo, a peaceful retreat from the city
• Explore the contemporary art scene at the CerModern art gallery
• Enjoy a leisurely evening at Kugulu Park, a popular spot for locals to relax

Day 4: Day Trip to Hattusa

• Take a day trip to Hattusa, the ancient Hittite capital, located about 3 hours from Ankara
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Lion Gate and the Great Temple
• Return to Ankara in the evening and unwind at a local restaurant

Day 5: Anıtkabir and Shopping

• Start your day with a visit to Anıtkabir to explore the museum and pay your respects to Atatürk
• Spend the afternoon shopping at Karum Shopping Mall or the modern malls in Kavaklıdere
• Enjoy a delicious Turkish dinner at a local restaurant

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

• Head to the Botanical Garden for a peaceful morning surrounded by nature
• Visit the Hamamönü neighborhood for a taste of local culture and artisan shops
• Relax in the evening at a traditional Turkish hammam for a rejuvenating experience

Day 7: Culinary Delights

• Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Turkish dishes
• Enjoy a food tour of Ankara, sampling local specialties like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish tea
• Spend your last evening in Ankara reminiscing about your adventures and planning your next trip

I hope this itinerary gives you a good mix of history, culture, nature, and culinary experiences during your 7 days in Ankara. Have a fantastic trip!