Ankara City Guide

Local dishes include Ankara Tava, Beypazarı Güveci, and kebabs. International options exist, especially Italian, Chinese, and American. Vegetarian options are growing but vegan spots are fewer. Late-night food is common around busy areas.

Nightlife is lively around Kızılay and Tunalı Hilmi with bars and clubs.

Growing third-wave coffee scene with many specialty shops; traditional Turkish coffee is common.

Tipping is customary; 5-10% at restaurants and rounding up fares for taxis.

SIM cards are sold at airport and city mobile stores. Turkcell offers the best coverage. Passport is needed for registration. eSIMs are available.

Clean in central areas; varies elsewhere. Waste pick-up regular, recycling growing.

Some late pharmacies, minimarkets, and late-night food spots operate 24/7 or late.

Supermarkets carry local and some international goods. Local markets operate on specific days with fresh produce. Most supermarkets open 9 AM to 9-10 PM and stay open Sundays with shorter hours.

Card payments work well in most places but smaller shops and some transport need cash.

ATMs are easy to find, mostly from banks like Ziraat Bankası and Garanti BBVA. Check your bank for withdrawal fees.

International schools like British Embassy School Ankara and Ankara International School teach in English. Admissions usually start in spring; some grades have waitlists.

Community is small with some meetups and work-friendly cafes but less established than coastal cities.

Major parks like Gençlik Park and Dikmen Valley offer shade and running paths.

Popular running routes are around Eymir Lake and city parks. Generally safe with good infrastructure.

Various gyms and fitness centers are available across the city.

Tennis courts present in clubs and public facilities, some offer rental equipment.

Padel is not common but growing in popularity.

Several studios offer yoga classes with some English-speaking instructors.

Dojo options include Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, some BJJ and Muay Thai, with occasional English-speaking instructors.

Elmadağ Ski Resort about 40-50 km away has beginner to intermediate slopes open December to March with equipment rental.

Some water activities like paddle boating at lakes such as Eymir.

No surfing available due to being inland.

No diving opportunities inland.

Good private hospitals with English-speaking staff like Güven and Medicana. Public hospitals have longer waits. Pharmacies have red "E" signs and rotating after-hour service.

Tap water is usually safe but many prefer bottled water for taste.

Several parks with playgrounds and family cafes. Attractions include Gençlik Park, Wonderland Eurasia, and Ankara Zoo.

Generally conservative with limited safe spaces and some discrimination risks.

Pet policies vary; some parks and vets serve pets but accommodations are limited.