Central Anatolia, Turkey
Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom are the main mobile operators. Turkcell typically presents the best coverage and speeds. Purchase SIM cards at Esenboğan Airport or official brand stores. A passport is necessary for registration.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Many establishments present free Wi-Fi for customers. Public Wi-Fi hotspots sometimes require a Turkish mobile number for authentication.
The official language is Turkish. English is spoken by staff in major hotels and tourist-oriented shops. Outside these areas, English proficiency is limited.
ATMs are widely available 24/7 in Ankara's urban areas. Banks generally operate during weekday business hours.
Religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha mean businesses may close. Verify operating hours for attractions, especially during low season, for a smooth visit.
Navigating local customs deepens your experience in Ankara.
Handshakes are common upon meeting, especially among men. Close friends and family may exchange kisses on both cheeks. Address elders with respect using formal titles.
Casual clothing is acceptable for most public spaces. Modesty is appreciated. For religious sites like mosques, women cover heads, shoulders, and knees; men wear long pants. Remove shoes before entering prayer areas.
Sharing dishes, especially mezze, is common. Accepting tea from shopkeepers shows politeness. Use phrases like "Afiyet Olsun" (Enjoy your meal) and "Ellerinize sağlık" (Health to your hands) to show appreciation.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals. Be discreet when photographing religious rituals. Some museums may prohibit flash photography. Observe signs for restrictions.
Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or speaking negatively about religion. Pointing with a finger is rude. Do not point the soles of your feet at someone. Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques.
Thoughtful gestures, like asking permission for photos, reflect appreciation for the cultural environment.
Travelers with mobility challenges or other special needs should note Ankara's infrastructure.
Newer buildings, shopping malls, and some modern metro stations include elevators, ramps, and accessible toilets. Older parts of the city feature uneven cobblestone streets and numerous stairs.
Anıtkabir is largely accessible with ramps and elevators. CerModern and some sections of the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations may present better accessibility. Newer EGO buses have ramps, but availability varies. Taxis provide direct transport.
Limited specialized services exist for travelers with visual or hearing impairments. Travel with a companion or confirm specific assistance with your tour operator. Public announcements in transit are typically in Turkish.
For travelers needing accessibility features, research and planning are fundamental. Focus on newer areas and confirm services directly with venues and transport providers for a more comfortable journey.
