Ankara is the capital of Turkey and the country’s second largest city after Istanbul. Ankara and its eight districts have a total population of 4.5 million people. Ankara is strategically located for the crossroads of trade, highway and railway networks which serves as the marketing center. As well Ankara is the center of the Turkish Government and houses all foreign embassies.
Ankara is situated upon a steep and rocky hill which rises 150 m above the nearby situated Sakarya (Sangarius) river. The hill which overlooks the city is crowned by ruins of the old castles of many different civilizations which adds value to the already breath taking view, but due to the fast modern growth only a few of the many historic structures have survived till today’s date.
Today’s modern Ankara has diversity for tourists. Other than regular family shopping on markets, Ankara has 9 top attractions that must be seen by travelers including; Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (Anadolu Medeniyetleri Muzesi), Arslanhani Camii, Ataturk Mausoleum (Anit Kabir), Caracalla Baths, Citadel (Hisar), Temple of Augustus and of Rome (Ogust Mabedi), Beynam Ormani, Soguksu Milli Parki and the Genclik Park.
Travelers to Ankara need a valid passport and visa. American citizens are being issued 90 days visa upon arrival. The most used form of transportation for tourists is the Dolmus minibus taxi system; flag a taxi on the street to get on, fares depend on the distance covered. Another quick and cheap method is using the underground metro network (which has only two lines). The metro network operates from 6am till midnight. There are also regular metered taxis available, be aware the meter is working while driving.
