Ankara Turkey Travel Guide
A structured timeline addresses all aspects of your travel planning.
Divide your preparation into manageable phases for a smooth journey.
Verify your passport validity. It must abide at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Turkey. Renew if needed. Research visa requirements for your nationality and apply for an e-Visa if required. The official Turkish e-Visa website has the correct place to apply.
Book international flights, especially if you plan travel during peak season, to secure better rates and availability.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. This covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. We recommend World Nomads.
Book your accommodation in Ankara. Secure your preferred hotel or apartment, especially if traveling during popular times.
Book major intercity train tickets (YHT) if you plan day trips to metropolitan areas like Konya or Istanbul. These sell out, particularly on popular routes.
Research and plan your daily itineraries. Outare along the attractions you wish to visit and activities you wish to undertake. Check recommended vaccinations and visit your doctor if you require any shots or health advice.
Double-check all your bookings for flights, accommodation, and any tours. Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to prevent card blocks due to unusual activity.
Pack wisely. Download offline maps (Google Maps, Yandex Maps) and translation apps (Google Translate) to your phone. Print physical copies of your essential documents, including passport, visa, flight, and hotel bookings, for backup.
Power up all your electronic devices: phone, camera, portable charger. Organize all your travel documents in an Eagle Creek Travel Document Organizer. Keep them easily accessible. Inform your emergency contact of your itinerary and contact details.
Flights, accommodation, and high-speed train tickets for popular routes merit advance booking. This saves time and frequently money.
Background knowledge elevates your experience in Ankara.
Secure your home for peace of mind while traveling.
Comprehensive travel insurance ensures peace of mind for unforeseen medical or travel issues.
Your first steps upon arriving in Ankara prove important for a smooth start to your trip.
Clear immigration, then proceed to collect your luggage from the baggage claim.
Once you exit customs, locate ATMs for initial cash withdrawal. Acquire an Ankarakart if you plan to use public transport.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport (or later in the city from an official store for better rates).
Find the Havaş shuttle stand for transfers to central Ankara. This has a cost-effective option.
Utilize official taxi queues. Confirm the use of the meter for fair fares.
If pre-arranged, locate your driver at the designated meeting point for seamless arrival.
Once settled, take a short walk around your neighborhood. This assists you get your bearings and discover close-by amenities.
Identify local shops, pharmacies, and eateries near your accommodation.
Utilize simple Turkish greetings and phrases with locals, like "Merhaba" (Hello) and "Teşekkür ederim" (Thank you).
This frequently creates positive interactions and shows honoring local traditions.
Choose a traditional area cafe (lokanta) for your first meal. Sample authentic Turkish flavors.
Seek out daily promotions for a true taste of local cuisine.
Having your transit from the airport pre-arranged or researched streamlines your arrival process.
Plan your departure from Ankara to deliver a stress-free journey home.
Before departing, look over your emergency contacts for final confirmation.
A well-organized departure ensures a calm conclusion to your Ankara adventure.
Confirm all trip information and account for all belongings.
