You will not find yourself short in Ankara of things to see and do. There are plenty of choices on a vacation to the city area to see and enjoy.
The Museum of Anatolian Civilisation
This collection will give you a fascinating and comprehensive view of the history of Asia Minor. The museum itself is hosted in a restored covered 15th Century market, and can be reached from the centre of town. The large Ataturk equestrian statue at Ulus Maydane is an easy waymark and you can see the museum after reaching Ipek Sokak soon after, the museum gates are visible above and to the left. The collections in the museum provide a view of the early human communities in the area, and collections of tablets whose inscriptions show that there are always common problems through the ages.
Other Museums
There is a large variety of other museums in Ankara, including the Railway Museum, the Old Turkish House museum, the Republic museum, the museum of paintings and sculpture and the Presidential museum. Finally, the Anit Kabir mausoleum is a must visit location. It houses the sarcophagus of Ismet Inonu, a major Turkish historical figure and the tomb itself is a great piece of artistry.
Archeological Sites
You can find many maze like alleys in the city's citadel on the hill top. As the Anatolian Museum is located here, you may find yourself in the area anyway. There is a good view from the citadel up to the Eastern Tower and you can get a feel for how large the entire city of Ankara has grown to over the last century. When you are here at sunset, and the call to prayer goes out, it will give a memorable and lasting experience. The history of this area is all around.
Julian's Column
At the north eastern part of the Ulus Square is a small park. The park (called Hukumet Meydani) contains a Roman column, the Column of Julian. This was erected in 362 when the then Roman Emporer Julian visited the area.
The Temple of Augustus
These are now ruins, but the site of the Temple of Augustus have been dedicated to a number of gods and goddesses through the ages. The Romans then gave way to the Byzantines who held the temple for the eastern church and in time a mosque has been built on the site, next to the Haci Bayram tomb.
Eating and Drinking
When you have had enough culture to fill a day, you can easily find the full range of Turkish cuisines without going too far. Iskender (spit cooked sliced lamb with tomato, yoghurt and butter) restaurants are common, and Ishkembe (a tripe soup) which is a cure for hangovers is also available in many places. There are many fish restaurants also around the town that serve mezze both hot and cold. Finally there are many street stalls selling kebabs and other local produce.
Shopping
Ankara is one of the best places to buy carpets. From the old town where you can buy cheap fruit and vegetables to the upmarket fashion shops that are common to many western capitals, Ankara has it all. You can buy souvenirs all over the city, and also pick up a bargain when clothes shopping as well.
Poker
When playing poker in Ankara you get the feeling of a professional poker player. Try your chances in the casino's of Ankora.
In summary, a trip to Ankara has things to see and do? Absolutely!
