You can make wonderful plans whether you are planning a vacation to the capital city or if you are already in Ankara and want to explore different parts of the city. If you have ever visited Ankara, you have surely visited Antkabir and its surroundings. However, now, we will look at places other than the first that come to mind when Ankara is mentioned. While remembering the capital’s main activities, we take a different path and go out a bit farther than a first-time visitor might be accustomed to.
Have a peaceful time by taking lake cruise
A lake cruise is a good option for those who have left Ankara off their list due to the lack of sea. The most popular of these lakes is Eymir Lake, which is located 20 kilometres from the city. On weekdays, you may find this location to be calmer. You may spend a relaxing day alone with nature’s majestic beauty. Hiking, cycling, and ATV rides are among the activities available around the lake. If you like, you may read your book while enjoying the lovely lake view. In the autumn, this place takes on entirely another beauty. Walking beside the lake in the autumn hues of the fallen leaves is a pleasant experience.
Mogan Lake and its surroundings, which are located in the same basin as Eymir Lake, are also popular getaway spots in Ankara. Mogan lake is located in the Gölbaşı district and spans a large area. The lake’s wooden road, stretching around the water’s banks, provides opportunities for a variety of activities, including the marina island, sports, and equestrian centres, and jogging and walking paths.
Check out the festivals
Ankara is one of the great cities contributing to the country’s cultural development via numerous art activities. In addition to the plays performed in the state theatre during the season, it offers a variety of international festival activities like cinema, music, and gastronomy. A distinct type of festival may be found in the capital during each season of the year. Although performing arts and music festivals are prominent, festivals showcasing local tastes are among Ankara’s highlights. In conclusion, it is conceivable to come across a festival when visiting the capital. Ankara’s cultural and artistic life is always lively!
Travel in time by visiting ancient cities
Ankara’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, and it has witnessed a wide range of civilizations and cultures. There are ancient cities and monuments that can be found in and around Ankara. One of these is the Temple of Augustus. The temple is named after the Roman Emperor Augustus and is located in the Altındağ district. The structure, which dates from the 10th century AD, was found in 1555. The temple, which has remained to the present day, is a spot where the effects of Roman culture may be seen in Ankara and its surrounds.
The Roman Bath Open Air Museum and the Ruins, which can be reached after a 10-minute walk from Augustus, are two historically significant sites in the area. The bath was constructed in honour of Asklepion, the god of health. There are discoveries from the Seljuk and Ottoman eras, as well as Roman, Phrygian, and Byzantine remnants, in the excavations conducted in and around the bathhouse on the mound. On the columned street where the spa is located, there are other structures that may be the remnants shops.
The Gordion Museum and archaeological site are located in Polatlı’s Yassıhöyük village. In addition to artefacts from the Old Bronze Age, the museum displays handcrafted pottery, iron tools, and textiles from the Early Phrygian Age. Materials composed of Greek ceramics dating from the 6th and 4th centuries BC, as well as artefacts from the Roman and Hellenistic periods, are also on display in the exhibition hall.
Discover the thermal water sources of Ankara
Ankara also has a multitude of thermal water resources. Several of the hot springs are available to visitors at all times of the year. These tranquil resting locations are thought to be beneficial for a variety of diseases, where you may go in both summer and winter to relieve tiredness and restore energy. Kızılcahamam, Kapullu, Haymana, Ayaş, Beypazarı, Dutlu, Tahtalı Thermal Springs are among the best thermal facilities you can visit.
You can choose the most appropriate hotel in Kızılcahamam for you to experience Ankara’s thermal waters!
Walk the nice streets of the Hamamönü district
Hamamönü, one of the city’s oldest settlements, is located in the Altındağ area and has some outstanding examples of 19th-century civil architecture. While strolling through the streets lined with houses and mansions from the Ottoman Empire’s last period, you may feel transported back in time. You should also visit the Historical Karacabey Baths, which are located nearby.
After exploring the streets of Hamamönü, you should surely pay a visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which is just two kilometres away. It illuminates history by displaying artefacts from the many civilizations which have ruled Anatolia since the Palaeolithic Age. The objects displayed in the museum, which are easily accessible due to its modest interior design, are visible and accompanied by explanatory tags. For a well-rounded trip, consider visiting the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.
Go to the open-air cinema
Going to an open-air movie on a beautiful summer evening in Ankara is one of the nicest things you can do. It is possible to attend this event in different parts of the city. Films of various genres are shown in designated locations set up on the grass. The pleasure of watching movies outdoors in the mild windy, and pleasant evenings of summer is unrivalled!
Experience sky observation in Kreikan Observatory
It is time to try something new and exciting. Ankara University Observatory Kreikan hosts sky observing activities throughout the year. Kreikan Observatory is one of four university observatories in the country. All activities are supervised by astronomers and students from the University’s Department of Astronomy and Space Sciences. The observatory, which has pioneered astronomical study, is a qualified organization that aspires to contribute to society’s knowledge of astronomy. Stargazing is one of the activities that will benefit you in several ways throughout your Ankara vacation.
