Why visit
Ankara is Türkiye's political capital, less famous than Istanbul but important for modern national history, museums, and Anatolian rail links. It is practical, inland, and anchored by Atatürk's legacy.
How to use this result
Use it as a capital-city prompt
Ankara is useful when you want a city-level starting point in Türkiye. Check whether the capital is the best arrival city, a practical transfer point, or mainly a geography and planning reference.
Check practical trip fit
Before planning around Ankara, compare airport access, local transport, time zone, neighborhood choices, weather, safety guidance, and whether another city in Türkiye better matches the trip style.
Ankara at a glance
City population
3.5 million
Elevation
850 m
2,789 ft
Time zone
UTC+3
Europe/Istanbul
Airport
ESB
Esenboğa International Airport
Türkiye at a glance
Country center
39.0°, 35.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
783,562 km²
302,535 mi²
Country population
85.8 million
110/km²
Subregion
Western Asia
Currency
Turkish lira (₺)
TRY
Dial
+90
Language
Turkish
Demonym
Turkish
Internet
.tr
UN
Member state
ISO code
TR / TUR
Where in the world
39.0° - 35.0°
Türkiye
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Ankara replaced Istanbul as Türkiye's capital in 1923.
- Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, is the city's central national monument.
- Angora wool takes its name from Ankara, the historic home of long-haired Angora goats, cats, and rabbits.
- Istanbul is the only major city in the world on two continents: Europe and Asia.
- Türkiye produces ~70% of the world's hazelnuts.
Bordering Türkiye
Traveler notes
- Anıtkabir is the city's defining national monument
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is one of Türkiye's best museums
- The old citadel district gives the city its older texture
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Ankara
What currency is used in Ankara?
Ankara uses the Turkish lira (₺), ISO code TRY.
What languages are spoken in Türkiye?
The primary language is Turkish.
What is the international calling code for Türkiye?
The calling code is +90.
When is the best time to visit Ankara?
Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct. Check current weather and local events before booking.
What airport serves Ankara?
Esenboğa International Airport (IATA: ESB).
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