Explore the Majestic Ankara Castle
Discover Ankara Castle: Immerse yourself in history and enjoy breathtaking views in the heart of Turkey's capital city.
A brief summary to Ankara Castle
- Altındağ, Kale, Ankara, 06240, TR
Ankara Castle, an iconic historical landmark, stands proudly in the capital city of Turkey, offering visitors an enchanting glimpse into the past. Dating back to Roman times, this ancient fortress has witnessed centuries of history and has been an important military stronghold. As you approach the castle, the impressive stone walls and towers draw you in, providing a striking contrast to the modern city surrounding it. The climb to the top is well worth the effort, as the panoramic views of Ankara from the castle's vantage point are simply breathtaking. You can see the sprawling urban landscape, the impressive skyline, and even the distant mountains on a clear day. Inside the castle, visitors can wander through narrow pathways that wind around historical structures, each with its own story to tell. The castle houses various exhibits that showcase artifacts and information about its rich history, making it an educational experience as well. The charming atmosphere is enhanced by small cafes where you can relax and enjoy local delicacies while soaking in the scenery. As you explore, don't miss the opportunity to interact with friendly locals who can share tales of the castle's significance and its place in Ankara's story. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to capture stunning photographs, Ankara Castle promises a memorable visit filled with culture, history, and beauty.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing steep paths.
- Don't forget to bring your camera; the views from the top are stunning and provide great photo opportunities.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience.
- Take time to explore the nearby historic districts, which are rich in culture and local shops.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Bahcelievler, head to the nearest bus stop and take bus number 523 towards 'Kızılay'. This route is direct and will take you to the Kızılay bus terminal. The bus fare is approximately 7 TL and can be paid using the Ankara Card (a prepaid transportation card). Once you are at Kızılay, exit the bus and head to the metro station.
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Metro
At Kızılay, take the metro line 'M1' (red line) towards 'Atatürk Cultural Center'. You will need to change trains at the next station, 'Tandoğan', to the 'M2' line (green line) towards 'Çayyolu'. Stay on the train until you reach 'Sıhhiye' station. The metro fare is also covered by the Ankara Card.
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Walking
After exiting the metro at Sıhhiye, follow the signs to the exit for 'Ulus'. Once you are outside, head towards the direction of 'Ankara Castle'. You will walk approximately 1.5 kilometers uphill from the metro station. Follow the main road and look for signs directing you to 'Kale'. The walk may take around 20-25 minutes, and the path will take you through some charming streets of Ankara.
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Local Bus
Alternatively, from Kızılay, you can take bus number 140 towards 'Ulus' and get off at 'Ulus' bus stop. From there, it is a short 10-minute walk to Ankara Castle. Ensure you also have your Ankara Card for this bus ride.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from Bahcelievler to Ankara Castle. This option will cost you around 50-70 TL depending on traffic and the exact pick-up point. Taxis are generally available in the area, and you can also use ride-hailing apps for convenience.
Attractions Nearby to Ankara Castle
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Sultan Alaaddin Mosque
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Ankara Castle Gate and Clock Tower
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Erimtan Archaeology and Art Museum
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Rahmi M. Koc Museum Ankara
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Ankara Evi Park
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Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
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Hamamarkası Public Square
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Historic tourist bazaar
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Ulucanlar Prison Museum
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Mehmet Akif Ersoy Home Museum
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Hamamönü old Ankara Houses
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Temple of Augustus
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Hacı Bayram-ı Veli Tomb
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Haci Bayram Mosque
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Column of Julian
