Ankara is the capital of Turkey and the country's second-largest city, home to around 5.8 million people in the metropolitan area. Founded as the Republic's capital in 1923 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Ankara replaced Istanbul as the seat of government and grew rapidly throughout the 20th century. The city blends its ancient Hittite and Roman heritage with modernist Republican architecture and a vibrant contemporary urban scene. Anıtkabir — Atatürk's mausoleum — is the defining landmark, while the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations ranks among the world's finest archaeological collections. Ankara sits on the central Anatolian plateau at roughly 850 metres above sea level, giving it a continental climate with hot dry summers and cold snowy winters.
Top food tours
Guided experiences that show you Ankara through its food.
Ulus Historic Market Food Walk
A morning walk through Ankara's oldest district combining 2,500 years of history with authentic street food. Start at the Roman Column of Julian with a fresh simit, work through the Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu spice market, climb to the Citadel for coffee and views, try gözleme near Hacı Bayram Mosque, lunch on Ankara tava at Hacı Arif Bey, and finish with tea and baklava in the restored Hamamönü quarter.
Includes: Simit from street cart · Ankara Citadel views with Turkish coffee · Gözleme at Hacı Bayram Mosque area · Ankara tava lunch at Hacı Arif Bey · Baklava in Hamamönü
Kızılay Modern Eats Tour
An afternoon-into-evening tour of Ankara's commercial heart, sampling street food, pastries, and café culture across the city's main pedestrian zone.
Includes: Simit at Kızılay Square · Döner dürüm wrap · Baklava at Çiçek Pastanesi · Mantı with yogurt sauce · Evening drinks on Sakarya Caddesi
Foodie tips
Get more out of every meal.
Book tours and cooking classes at least a few days in advance — small-group experiences sell out quickly.
Come hungry — most food tours include 5-8 tastings.
Bring cash for unscheduled stops the guide may recommend.