Ankara: The city at the heart of Anatolia, chosen as Turkey’s capital for strategic reasons and known for its logistics. Doesn’t sound like the next big travel destination, does it? Spoiler: it probably isn’t.
Ask anyone from Ankara—Angaralılar, as they call themselves—and they’ll tell you they wouldn’t trade it for anywhere. But here’s the thing: that’s them. To everyone else, Ankara is… well, a mystery at best. Even I, with nearly all the information in the world at my fingertips, ask why the Celts chose to settle here and still come up short on answers.
Ankara didn’t start showing any real character until modern Turkey was founded. And when it became the capital, it didn’t turn into a city of spectacle. Instead, it became a bureaucratic hub. Instead of grand palaces or must-see sites, you’ll find government offices, universities, hospitals, and statues, all of which speak more to the city’s function than anything else. If you’re picturing Istanbul’s minarets and bustling cafes, you might want to reset your expectations.
This is exactly why Angaralılar love their city. It has structure, a little history, and, yes, a reserved charm tied to the ideals of the early republic. Unlike Istanbul, Izmir or Antalya, where beauty is on full display, Ankara plays it cool. Its beauty is subtle, hidden in quiet apartments and historic university halls. Locals say you need to live here to “get it,” and after years of living here, I can confirm—they’re right. But even those Angaralı friends, despite their loyalty, will spend their holidays at Turkey’s gorgeous beaches, not in Ankara. So, why should you?
If your interests lie in the Turkish War of Independence, then Ankara might be the place for you. You’ll find Anıtkabir (Atatürk’s Mausoleum), fascinating museums, Roman ruins, and nods to the Republic’s roots scattered across the city. Or, if you’re a fan of Turkish Angora cats, Angora goats, or Angora rabbits (yes, they’re real, and unimaginably cute), then plan a visit for a day or two. But a casual tourist hoping for scenic photos? You’ll probably stick out. Tourists here are so rare that if one’s seen, they’re SPOTTED.