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Getting Around Cankaya

Getting Around Cankaya

Cankaya Ankara, Turkey Travel Guide

Public Transit Systems

Ankara's metro system consists of several lines, forming the backbone of urban transport. A wide network of public buses covers all parts of the city, connecting areas not served by the underground. A smaller cable car line connects Şentepe to Yenimahalle metro station, giving aerial views of the city as commuters travel.

Bus routes are comprehensive and connect to residential districts and commercial zones.

Metro Lines

  • Ankaray (A1): Connects AŞTİ (the intercity bus terminal) to Dikimevi.
  • M1 (Kızılay-Çayyolu): This major metro line runs east-west, passing directly through the city center, including Kızılay.
  • M2 (Kızılay-Koru): This line continues from M1, extending further west to the Koru area.
  • M3 (Batıkent-Sincan): This line extends from Batıkent, serving the western parts of the city. M4 (Keçiören-AKM): This line joins the northern districts of Keçiören to the city center via AKM.

Accessibility

Newer tube depots and some modern buses are designed with accessibility elements like ramps and elevators.

Hours & Frequency

Metro/Ankaray generally operates from around 06:00 AM to midnight (00:00). During peak hours, trains run frequently. Buses operate throughout the day, with reduced service late at night.

Ticketing

Ankarakart: A rechargeable smart card is required for all public transport services, including the metro, Ankaray, buses, and the funicular.

Ticketing Systems and Fare Options

Ankarakart
  • You can purchase and top up this card at metro stations, select kiosks, and some corner shops displaying the Ankarakart sign.
  • The card itself has a small purchase fee.
  • You cannot pay cash directly on coaches or at metro gates.
Fares
  • Fares are fixed for each ride, regardless of distance within the network.
  • Transfers within a certain time period usually have a discounted rate, making integrated system use appealing.
  • Ankarakart is the standard.

Route Maps and Important Hubs

Maps

Route maps for the metro and bus systems provide available at metro stations plus digital.

Kızılay

A major transfer point where several metro lines intersect, and numerous bus routes converge. It is the busiest and most central transportation hub.

Ulus

The historical center, also well-served by buses and a metro station, providing access to historic sites.

Aşti̇

The intercity bus terminal, which is the endpoint for the Ankaray light metro line, making connections easy for intercity travelers.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps have convenient alternatives to public transport, especially for direct routes or when carrying luggage.

Licensed Taxi Identification and Hailing Procedures

  • Licensed taxis in Ankara are easily identifiable. They are yellow with "TAKSI" signs on top. All licensed taxis have digital meters.
  • You can hail them on the street, find them at designated taxi stands (taksi durağı), or call them by phone.
  • Always ensure the driver uses the meter at the start of your travels. If a driver refuses or attempts to negotiate a fixed price for a brief ride, find another taxi. This custom limits overcharging.
  • Payment is usually cash in Lira (TRY). Some taxis could accept credit cards, but this is not universal. Confirm before starting the ride if you plan to pay by card.

Recommended Ride-Sharing Apps and Services

  • BiTaksi: This is a common local app that connects users with licensed yellow taxis. You can see the estimated fare before arranging and view driver information. Methods of payment include cash or in-app credit card.
  • Uber: Uber operates in Ankara, but it typically functions by connecting users to licensed yellow taxis rather than private drivers. The experience is similar to using BiTaksi.
  • Safety Considerations for Different Options: Using apps like BiTaksi or Uber gives a layer of safety. Your transport is tracked, and driver and vehicle details are recorded within the app, giving accountability.
  • Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements: Taxis are readily available at Esenboğan Airport (ESB) and Ankara YHT Garı (High-Speed Train Station). Seek out designated taxi queues outside the terminals. These queues ensure you get a certified taxi operating fairly.

Rental Options

  • Car Rental Procedures, Requirements, and Major Companies: You need a valid driver'a license from your home nation, an International Driving Permit (IDP) (highly recommended and often required by rental companies), your passport, and a credit card for the deposit.
  • The minimum age for rental is usually 21 (sometimes 25 for certain car categories), and you generally need to have held your permission for at least 1-2 years.
  • Major Companies: Multinational brands like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Europcar operate in Ankara. Local companies like Rent Go and Garenta also possess rental services. Booking in advance is recommended.
  • Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals: Less common and not widely advertised for tourists in Ankara itself, notably in the downtown area, due to traffic conditions.
  • Bicycle Sharing Programs and Rentals: Ankara does not have a widespread public bicycle sharing program. Certain private shops may have bicycle rentals, but infrastructure for cycling is restricted in the city center.
  • Driving Laws, Road Conditions: Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are required for all. Mobile phone use is prohibited while driving. Highways are generally good, but side roads are narrow or poorly maintained. Traffic can be dense.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Kızılay, Tunalı Hilmi, Kavaklıdere: These modern districts have wide sidewalks, shops, cafes, and parks.

  • Ulus and Ankara Castle: The historical core involves steep, uneven cobblestone streets. Comfortable walking shoes are needed.
  • Parks: Gençlik Parkı, Botanik Park, and Göksu Park have serene environments for leisurely strolls.
Walking Tour Options

Various local tour operators have guided walking tours focusing on Ankara's history, culture, or culinary scene.

  • These tours give local insights and a structured way to explore.
  • Self-guided tours are also possible using maps and online resources.
Cycling Safety

Bicycle limited infrastructure in Ankara. Cycling on major roads may be challenging because of heavy traffic and local driving habits.

  • Dedicated bike lanes are rare outside of particular parks.
  • Cycling outside designated park paths is not typically recommended for safety reasons.

Specialized Transportation

Ankara has unique transportation options beyond the standard modes.

Tour Buses and Water Transportation

  • Tour Buses and Hop-on-Hop-off Services: While less common than in Istanbul, certain private tour operators may have tours of the city by bus. Ask local tourism offices upon arrival.
  • Boat Taxis and Water Transportation: Not applicable. Ankara is landlocked and does not have navigable waterways for public transport.

Cable Cars and Accessibility

  • Cable Cars, Funiculars, or Unique Local Transport: Ankara has a cable car (Teleferik) connecting Yenimahalle metro station to Şentepe. Mainly used by locals for commuting, in addition gives aerial views of the city.
  • Accessibility Services for Travelers with Mobility Needs: While newer public transportation and buildings are more accessible, older parts of the city, like Ankara Castle and some older museums, along with sidewalks that are not level, pose challenges. Taxis may be the most flexible option for travelers with mobility needs, letting door-to-service to your door.

Getting Around Tips

Ankarakart

Purchase an Ankarakart immediately upon arrival. This gives instant access to the public transport network.

Navigation Apps

Use Google Maps or Yandex Maps for real-time public transport directions. These applications offer accurate route information and estimated travel times.

Avoid Rush Hours

Avoid rush hours, typically 07:00-09:00 in the morning and 17:00-19:00 in the evening, when possible. Public transport can become very crowded during these periods.

Public Transit Overviews

Metro & Buses
  • Ankara's subway system consists of several lines.
  • An extensive network of public buses covers all parts of the city.
  • Route maps for the subway and bus networks are available at metro stations and online.
Ticketing & Hours
  • Ankarakart is required for all public getting around services.
  • Metro/Ankaray generally operates from 06:00 AM to midnight. Buses operate throughout the day.
  • Fares are fixed per ride, with discounted transfers within a certain time period.

Safety Considerations for Taxis & Rentals

  • Taxis: Stick to licensed yellow taxis. Note the taxi's license plate number. Avoid unofficial vehicles offering rides.
  • Ride-sharing apps: Using apps like BiTaksi or Uber gives a layer of safety. Your ride is tracked, and driver and vehicle details are recorded.
  • Rental Car Safety: Ensure you have comprehensive insurance coverage. Understand your rental agreement.
  • Safety While cycling: Cycling on highways may be tough due to heavy traffic and local driving practices. Dedicated bike lanes are rare.
  • No-Go Areas for Pedestrians and Cyclists: No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians. Exercise general caution in less-lit areas at night. Cycling outside designated park paths is not generally recommended for safety reasons.

Walking & Cycling

Ankara has pedestrian-friendly areas and walking routes.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas and Walking Routes

  • Kızılay, Tunalı Hilmi, Kavaklıdere: These modern districts have wide sidewalks, numerous shops, cafes, and parks, making them pleasant for walking and urban exploration.
  • Ulus and Ankara Castle: The ancient heart of the city, while charming, involves steep, uneven cobblestone streets. Comfortable walking shoes are needed for navigating this area. The effort is rewarded with historical sights and panoramic views.
  • Parks: Gençlik Parkı, Botanik Park, and Göksu Park have serene environments for leisurely strolls and relaxation.

Walking Tour Options

  • Numerous local tour operators have guided walking tours focusing on Ankara's history, culture, or culinary scene. These tours give area perspectives and a structured way to explore.
  • Self-guided tours are also possible using maps and online resources.

Cycling Infrastructure and Safety

Infrastructure

Bicycle not much infrastructure in Ankara compared to many European cities.

  • Dedicated cycling paths are rare outside of specific parks.
Road Safety

Cycling on main roads can be difficult because of heavy traffic and local driving habits.

  • Cycling outside designated park paths is not generally recommended for your protection reasons, due to traffic flow plus a shortage of dedicated lanes.
Rental Availability

Ankara does not have a widespread public bicycle sharing program. Certain private shops may have bicycle rentals.

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common and rather than widely advertised for tourists.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Pedestrian Warnings
  • No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians.
  • However, exercise general caution in less-lit areas at night, as in any large city.
Cycling Restrictions
  • Cycling outside designated park paths is not commonly advised for safety reasons.
  • This is due to traffic conditions and lack of lanes for specific use.

Getting Around Tips

Purchase an Ankarakart immediately upon arrival. This ticket gives immediate access to the the public transit network.

Use Google Maps or Yandex Maps for real-time public transport directions. These mobile apps give accurate route information and estimated travel times. Avoid rush hours, typically 07:00-09:00 in the morning and 17:00-19:00 in the evening, if possible. Public transport can become very crowded during these periods.