Explore the political and historical heart of Turkey with our Ankara Capital City Tour from Istanbul by Flight. This full-day experience takes you to Ankara, the modern capital of the Republic of Turkey, where history, culture, and national heritage come together.
Your journey begins with a morning pick up from your hotel followed by a flight from Istanbul to Ankara. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your professional guide and begin exploring the city’s most significant landmarks.
The highlight of the tour is a visit to Anıtkabir, the impressive mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder and first president of modern Turkey. This monumental complex is one of the most important national symbols in the country.
You will also visit the historic Ankara Castle, offering panoramic views over the capital, and explore the charming streets of the old town filled with traditional houses and local artisan shops.
Another important stop is the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, one of the most significant museums in Turkey, showcasing artifacts from ancient Anatolian civilizations including the Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, and more.
This tour offers a perfect opportunity to experience the historical roots, political significance, and cultural richness of Turkey’s capital in a single day.
At the end of the tour you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul followed by a drop off to your hotel.
Historical Facts About Ankara
- Ankara has been continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years, with settlements dating back to the Bronze Age.
- The city was once an important center for the Hittite, Phrygian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations.
- In ancient times, the city was known as Ancyra, meaning “anchor.”
- The famous Temple of Augustus still preserves inscriptions describing the achievements of Roman Emperor Augustus.
- During the Turkish War of Independence, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk established Ankara as the headquarters of the national resistance movement.
- In 1923, Ankara officially became the capital of the Republic of Turkey, replacing Istanbul.
- Round-trip domestic flight tickets between Istanbul and Ankara
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off from centrally located hotels in Istanbul
- Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle during the tour
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees to scheduled museums and attractions
- Visit to Anıtkabir
- Visit to Ankara Castle
- Visit to Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- All local taxes and service charges
- Meals and drinks
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
- Tips and gratuities for guide and driver
- Travel insurance
- Any services not mentioned in the included section
- Early morning departure: The tour includes a morning flight from Istanbul, so hotel pick-up will be early.
- Security procedures: Government sites such as Anıtkabir require security checks before entry.
- Walking involved: The tour includes moderate walking, especially around Ankara Castle and museum areas.
- Tour order: The itinerary may change depending on operational conditions or traffic
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic areas
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Light jacket depending on the season
- Sunglasses and sunscreen during warmer months
- Cash or credit card for personal purchases or souvenirs
- Small backpack or day bag for personal items