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.
Accommodation overview
Hotels by budget
Find accommodation that fits your travel budget.
Budget-friendly (under $50/night)
Mid-range ($50-150/night)
Best Western Plus Ankara
Comfortable mid-range hotel in Ankara.
Check rates on Booking.comLuxury ($150+/night)
Best neighborhoods to stay
Choose your base based on your interests and travel style.
Our top picks
Handpicked recommendations for every type of traveler.
Sheraton Ankara Hotel
Quality accommodation for your stay in Ankara.
Check rates on Booking.comRadisson Blu Ankara
Quality accommodation for your stay in Ankara.
Check rates on Booking.comCrowne Plaza Ankara
Quality accommodation for your stay in Ankara.
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Get the best deals and avoid common mistakes.
Book accommodation 2–4 weeks ahead for spring and autumn travel (April–May, September–October).
Book 4–6 weeks ahead for Turkish national holidays — especially Republic Day (October 29), which brings large domestic crowds to Ankara.
Kızılay is the most practical base: central, metro-connected, and has the widest price range.
For families, request connecting rooms or suites directly with Sheraton (+90 312 457 6000) or Hilton (+90 312 455 0000) as these configurations are not always shown on booking platforms.
Mid-range hotels on Atatürk Bulvarı and Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi offer the best walking access to restaurants and the metro.
Budget hostels in Kızılay (Grand Hostel Ankara, Mithatpaşa Cd.) offer dorm beds from 300–500 TRY (~$9–15 USD).
Self-catering apartments on Airbnb in Çankaya and Kavaklıdere are available from 1500–3000 TRY (~$45–91 USD) per night and suit families or longer stays.
Alternative accommodations
Beyond traditional hotels, consider these options.
Guesthouses
Family-run guesthouses offer authentic local experiences and often include home-cooked meals. Great for cultural immersion.
Serviced apartments
Ideal for longer stays or families. Kitchen facilities help save money and provide flexibility.
Hostels
Budget-friendly option for solo travelers. Dorms and private rooms available with social common areas.