If you live in Ankara and don’t want to use up your annual leave right away or think that you can’t go on vacation these days due to workload, you’re wrong. On Friday evening, after work, you can pile your loved ones into the car and follow the routes we have prepared for you. You can have a wonderful experience and use only a tank of fuel. The surrounding of the capital awaits you with all its natural and historical beauties to meet this need.
Hattuşaş
Located in the Sungurlu district of Çorum province, Hattuşaş has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1986. Hattusaş, which was capital of the Hittite Empire and remains a centre of attraction for both local and foreign tourists, offers an unforgettable trip.
Hattusaş is divided into two main parts, the Upper City and the Lower City, due to the elevation difference between them. It is assumed that the Lower City dates to the time of the Assyrian Trade Colonies. The privileged aspect of the upper city is attributed to the number sacred areas and temples here. The best-known work in the vicinity is Yazılıkaya, which is about 2 kilometres from the ancient city and is known as the Open Air Temple. The Hattuşaş gates in all their glory will appear before you during the trip. Their artwork will amaze you considering the period in which they were built.
The distance between Ankara and Hattuşaş is about 195 kilometres, which means a comfortable three-hour journey.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia, which we have seen from the perspective of countless photographers, evokes a fairytale feeling. You wish for beauty will be satisfied as you continue your itinerary from Ankara. Cappadocia’s fascinating geological structure has taken its present form as the wind and rain eroded the lava flow from the three surrounding mountains over time. Indeed, if you set off from Ankara and reach Cappadocia, you will feel like you have gone back 60 million years in time. The settlement plan of the region was made in accordance with its natural formation. If you want to stay in Cappadocia hotels, it means you will fall sleep looking over the old stone walls.
The distance of Cappadocia to Ankara is about 263 kilometres. If you want to stay or eat, and watch the view, Cappadocia hotels await you.
Amasra
The bumpy streets of Ankara and the long streets that give the impression that there is a sea at the end, make you sigh with anticipation. Fortunately, you can aim your vehicle to the Black Sea for your weekend adventur3e. About 311 kilometres from Ankara, Amasra, a province of Bartın, beckons you with its beaches, coves and forested areas. It is assumed that the first settlement in Amasra, which is beautiful in summer and winter, was established between 5000 BC and 8500 BC. For this reason, you can see many caves and ancient ruins here. You can visit many historical places and natural areas such as Gürcüoluk Cave, Göldere Waterfall, Crying Tree and Amasra Castle, and spend the night in Amasra hotels, left from the time you spend on Amasra Beach by immersing in the cool waters of the Black Sea.
Bozcaarmut Pond
If you are planning a quiet holiday with your loved ones, surrendering to nature, Bozcaarmut Pond is also nearby. If you want to camp, travel by caravan if possible, stay overnight or go hiking for the day, this place is a blessing. Due to its proximity to settlements and the presence of many fountains by the lake, you can easily make up for the rustic nature of the surroundings and have a comfortable camping holiday. You can fish with permission and watch the sunset reflecting on the lake with pleasure. Located in Bilecik province, Bozcaarmut Pond is approximately 315 kilometres from Ankara.
Konya
Konya, the capital of the Anatolian Seljuks and Karamanids, famous for its history and industry, is the largest city in Türkiye. You can comfortably drive there on a full tank and visit the city. Don’t forget to see Çatalhöyük, one of the oldest settlements in the world, which was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2012. You can also visit museums in Konya, which was under the successive rule of Rome, Seljuk, Karamanids and Ottomans. Mevlana Museum, Konya Atatürk House Museum, Karatay Madrasah, Sırçalı Madrasah, İnce Minaret are the main museums. On the way back, you can park your car at the junction of Konya, Aksaray and Ankara borders and add photos of the Salt Lake to your archive. If you think that visiting a city with such a large area might tire you, you can stay overnight in Konya hotels; many alternatives are available.
Safranbolu
As you go north from Ankara, you will arrive at the Safranbolu district of Karabük province. Safranbolu Houses, which reflect the Ottoman architecture, will impress you from the very first moment you see them. Almost half of the approximately 2000 houses in the district have been registered and put under legal protection. Safranbolu houses, which are also the focus of touristic visits, are one of the nice cultural assets from Türkiye on the World Heritage List and are of great historical importance. The City History Museum was used as the Government House until 1976 and is now open to local and foreign tourists. In addition, the İncekaya Aqueduct, which supposedly dates to the 17th century, offers a stupendous view of the city from a height of 60 meters. Another historical building you will want to see is the 200 year-old Greek Yazıköy Water Mill. You won’t want to go back without seeing this historic mill, which is still used after it was restored in 2010. You can reach Safranbolu by traveling 228 kilometres. If you want to enjoy your holiday, Safranbolu hotels are ready to welcome you with all their naturalness.
