🛍️ Ankara Shopping Traveler Guide
Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is not only known for its rich history and modern architecture but also for its diverse shopping experiences. From bustling bazaars filled with traditional Turkish products to luxurious modern malls, Ankara offers something for every shopper. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, high-end fashion, or local delicacies, this guide will help you navigate the city’s shopping scene.
🏬 Modern Shopping Malls
Ankara is home to several modern shopping centers where you can find international brands, cafes, and entertainment options.
- Kızılay AVM – Located in the heart of the city, this mall offers a wide range of clothing stores, electronics, and beauty products.
- AnkaMall – A favorite among locals and tourists, AnkaMall features a mix of local boutiques and global fashion brands.
- Next Level AVM – Known for its spacious layout and luxury stores, Next Level is perfect for a premium shopping experience.
These malls often include cinemas, restaurants, and play areas for families, making them ideal for a full day of leisure.
🏺 Traditional Bazaars
For a more authentic Turkish shopping experience, visit Ankara’s traditional markets.
- Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu – Famous for handmade textiles, carpets, and souvenirs. A perfect spot to find authentic gifts.
- Samanpazarı – This historic bazaar offers antiques, ceramics, and local crafts. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time.
- Kocatepe Market – Ideal for fresh produce, spices, and traditional Turkish snacks.
Bazaars are also excellent places to interact with locals and practice bargaining—a cherished Turkish tradition.
👗 Fashion & Boutique Shopping
Ankara’s fashion scene is growing, with unique boutiques and designer stores scattered across the city.
- Tunali Hilmi Street – The main shopping street in Ankara, filled with boutiques, jewelry stores, and cafes.
- Bahçelievler and Gaziosmanpaşa – Known for local designer stores offering contemporary Turkish fashion.
Here, you can discover both ready-to-wear clothes and tailor-made pieces, perfect for travelers seeking unique fashion finds.
🍬 Local Products & Souvenirs
No shopping trip is complete without tasting or taking home local Turkish products.
- Turkish Delight & Chocolates 🍫 – Available in specialty stores across Kızılay and Sıhhiye.
- Handmade Ceramics & Pottery 🏺 – Found in Samanpazarı and boutique shops downtown.
- Spices & Tea 🌿 – Buy saffron, sumac, and traditional Turkish tea blends to bring a taste of Ankara home.
These products are lightweight and easy to pack, making them perfect souvenirs for tourists.
💳 Tips for Shopping in Ankara
- Best Time to Shop 🕰️ – Weekdays are less crowded, while weekends offer lively atmosphere but heavier traffic.
- Currency & Payments 💵 – Most stores accept credit cards, but smaller bazaars may prefer cash.
- Bargaining Tips 🤝 – In traditional markets, polite negotiation is expected and can lead to better deals.
- Local Etiquette 🙏 – Always greet shopkeepers with a smile and show interest in local crafts.
🚶♂️ Getting Around
Ankara’s public transportation is convenient for shoppers. The metro, buses, and taxis can quickly take you between malls and bazaars. For those who enjoy walking, streets like Tunali Hilmi and Sıhhiye offer scenic shopping strolls.
✅ Final Thoughts
Ankara is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Its shopping experiences range from luxurious malls to charming bazaars, making it a destination for every traveler. Whether you are looking for fashion, souvenirs, or gourmet Turkish delights, Ankara has something unique to offer. Plan your shopping itinerary carefully, and don’t forget to explore the hidden gems in the local streets for a truly unforgettable experience.
Things to Do in Ankara: Discover the Heart of Modern Turkey
Introduction
Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modern life. While it may not receive as much attention as Istanbul, Ankara offers travelers a rich and authentic experience filled with historical landmarks, art museums, local markets, and peaceful green parks. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or explorer, there are plenty of things to do in Ankara that showcase the city’s unique character and national pride.
🏛️ 1. Visit Anıtkabir – The Mausoleum of Atatürk
Your visit to Ankara wouldn’t be complete without stopping by Anıtkabir, the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
This grand monument combines architectural beauty with emotional significance. The museum inside tells the story of Turkey’s independence and the vision behind the Republic. Visitors can also enjoy sweeping views of the city from its hilltop location.
🏰 2. Explore Ankara Castle (Ankara Kalesi)
Located in the Ulus district, Ankara Castle is one of the oldest structures in the city. Walking up its cobblestone streets, you’ll pass through narrow lanes filled with souvenir shops, handicrafts, and traditional houses. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Ankara — especially beautiful at sunset.
🏺 3. Discover the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
For history enthusiasts, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is one of the most impressive museums in Turkey. Located near Ankara Castle, it showcases artifacts from the Paleolithic, Hittite, Phrygian, and Ottoman eras.
The museum gives visitors a fascinating look at the ancient cultures that shaped Anatolia, making it a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology and history.
🎨 4. Experience Ankara’s Art and Culture
Ankara is not just the political center of Turkey — it’s also a hub for art, music, and theater. Visit the CerModern Art Center, where you’ll find contemporary art exhibitions, film screenings, and creative workshops.
You can also enjoy performances at the State Opera and Ballet House or the Presidential Symphony Orchestra, two cultural landmarks that highlight Ankara’s artistic spirit.
🛍️ 5. Shop and Dine in Kızılay and Tunali Hilmi
If you’re looking for modern city life, head to Kızılay Square — Ankara’s beating heart. This area is full of cafés, restaurants, shops, and local markets.
Nearby Tunali Hilmi Avenue is another hotspot for shopping and dining, featuring a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and vibrant nightlife options.
Don’t forget to try traditional dishes such as Ankara Tava or Manti, served in cozy Turkish restaurants throughout the city.
🌿 6. Relax in Parks and Green Spaces
Ankara offers several parks where you can unwind from the city’s hustle. Gençlik Park, with its lake, gardens, and amusement rides, is ideal for families. Kugulu Park, known for its white swans, provides a peaceful escape right in the city center.
For a more natural retreat, visit the Atatürk Forest Farm (AOÇ) — a large green area with local food markets, a zoo, and dairy farms where you can taste fresh Turkish ice cream and yogurt.
🕌 7. Visit Kocatepe Mosque
One of Ankara’s most recognizable landmarks, Kocatepe Mosque is a stunning example of Ottoman-style architecture. Its four minarets and grand dome dominate the city’s skyline. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque’s interior, known for its serene atmosphere and elegant calligraphy.
🧭 8. Take a Day Trip from Ankara
If you have extra time, Ankara’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby destinations. You can take a short trip to Beypazarı, a charming Ottoman town famous for its traditional houses and local sweets, or visit Lake Tuz, one of the largest salt lakes in the world, perfect for photography lovers.
🏁 Conclusion
From ancient castles to modern art galleries, Ankara offers travelers a deep and diverse experience that reflects Turkey’s past and future.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, the city’s rich culture, friendly locals, and authentic charm will leave a lasting impression.
If you want to explore the true soul of Turkey, beyond the coastal resorts and tourist crowds — Ankara is the place to be.