Private Ankara City Tours by an Archaeologist Tour Guide
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Private Ankara City Tours by an Archaeologist Tour Guide

Active
(4 reviews)
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Hi everyone. I'm Onur Erturk, an archaeologist and licensed tour guide who was born and grew up in Ankara. I guide my guests at the Ankara Castle, The Alaeddin Mosque, Anatolian Civilizations Museum, Temple of Augustus and the Hacı Bayram Mosque and the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. I guide all around Turkey, but I mainly live in Ankara. So, I'm very informative, experienced and knowledgeable about the history, archaeology and the culture of the city.

As an archaeologist I would describe the archaeology of Turkey and the artifacts in the museums in a more detailed way, therefore you will have the real idea of the ancient civilizations, their connections with the modern Turkish people and culture. And on our daily Ankara City Tour you will have a chance to taste the local and traditional cuisine as in the lunch.

This tour is great for Archaeology, History and Culture enthusiasts and people who would like to learn about the history of the establishment of the Turkish Republic.

Available options

Ankara City Tour 4-8 people

4-8 people max people<br/>Mercedes Sprinter<br/>Pickup included

Ankara City Tour 1-3 people

1-3 max people<br/>Chevrolet Cruze<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Guide
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Ankara Castle is actually the birth place and the heart of the Ancient City which dates back to the 3rd Century BC and constructed by the Celtic People. The later civilizations upgraded the fortress and the Old Town was formed around it before the Turkish Republic was established in 1923.

2

This is the oldest mosque of Ankara which was constructed in the 12th Century by the Seljuk Turks. Some Roman-Byzantine Columns or bricks were recycled in its construction.

3

It was declared as the Best Museum of Europe in 1997 and displaces some of the unique Anatolian Archaeology Artifacts date back to the periods from the Palaeolithic and Neolithic to the Hittite, Phrygian and Urartian Civilizations. Most of the archaeologically precious items from the Hittite Civilization, mainly from Hattusa and Alacahöyük as well as the Çatalhöyük Neolithic Settlement etc are in this wonderful museum.

4
Stop 4

This traditional Roman temple was dedicated to the Roman Emperor Augustus who was the first Roman Emperor and the building is extremely important since it has the Biography of Augustus which is called Res Gestae Divi Augusti, written on its walls in Latin and Greek.

5

The Mosque is dedicated to one of the respected clerics and trade union leaders of the City of Ankara in the Ottoman Period, constructed in around 1428. His name was Hacı Bayram and his tomb is just by the mosque and the Temple of Augustus.

6
Stop 6

Known in Turkish as Anıtkabir, The Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk: Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the national hero, savior of the Turkish Nation and the founder of Modern Turkey. He was born in 1881 and died in 1938. For his honor, the Turkish Government Constructed this mausoleum as a gathering and ceremonial place, as well as a museum. That's for sure one of the main highlights of Ankara

What's not included

Lunch
Dinner
The age limit for the alcoholic beverages in Turkey is 18+ years old.
Gratuities
Entrance to Anatolian Civilizations Museum. Entrance fee: 12 Euros

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
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2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
3 reviews
5★
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4★
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1★
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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Ankara

Ankara, Turkey's capital, is a vibrant city blending modern life with ancient history. Known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and strategic location, it offers a unique experience for travelers.

Top Attractions

Anıtkabir

The mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. A significant historical and cultural site.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

One of the most important museums in Turkey, showcasing artifacts from various Anatolian civilizations.

Museum 2-3 hours 50 TRY

Kocatepe Mosque

One of the largest mosques in Turkey, known for its impressive architecture and size.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Ankara Castle

An ancient castle offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Ankara's past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pide

Turkish flatbread topped with various ingredients, similar to a pizza but with a thinner crust.

Dinner Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian

Manti

Small dumplings filled with spiced meat, served with garlic yogurt and butter.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

İskender Kebap

Thinly sliced lamb kebab served on pita bread, topped with tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Kokoreç

Grilled lamb or goat intestines, seasoned with spices and served in a pita bread.

Street Food Contains gluten, not suitable for vegetarians

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Rock climbing Paragliding Visiting thermal spas Enjoying tea in a traditional café Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

Mild weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with various festivals and events.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Turkish
  • Widely spoken: English, German, French
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ankara is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Avoid walking alone at night
  • • Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air
  • Ankara Esenboğa Airport • 28 km from city center
By train

Ankara Central Station

By bus

AŞTİ (Ankara Şehirlerarası Terminal İstasyonu), Yenimahalle Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and air-conditioned. It's the fastest way to get around Ankara.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kızılay Çankaya Ulus

Day trips

Gordion
80 km from Ankara • Full day

An ancient Phrygian city known for its archaeological ruins, including the tomb of King Midas.

Lake Tuz
120 km from Ankara • Full day

A large salt lake known for its pink hues and flamingo populations, offering a unique natural experience.

Eskişehir
250 km from Ankara • Full day or overnight

A historic city known for its Ottoman architecture, universities, and vibrant student culture.

Festivals

Ankara International Music Festival • June Ankara Film Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Visit Anıtkabir early in the morning to see the changing of the guard ceremony
  • Try traditional Turkish breakfast (kahvaltı) at a local café
  • Explore the historic streets of Ulus for an authentic experience
  • Take a day trip to Gordion to explore ancient Phrygian ruins
  • Visit Lake Tuz during the spring and summer months for the best views
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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