When you think of Ankara, do only gray buildings and government offices come to mind? If so, allow me to invite you to the heart of the city, to a place where time stands still and every stone tells a story. This is the soul of the capital, hidden behind its bureaucratic identity: Ankara Castle and the Old City that grew around it. Get ready, because I'm taking you on an adventure filled with things to do in an Ankara Castle and Old City Tour that goes far beyond a typical travel list and feels more like stepping into a time machine. This tour will not only let you see historic structures but also allow you to touch the layered memory of Ankara.

Climb the castle walls for a panoramic city view

Our adventure begins at the majestic Ankara Castle, standing like an eagle's nest in the middle of the city. Every step you take while climbing towards the castle will pull you away from the noise of the modern world and into the depths of history. These walls have witnessed countless civilizations, from the Galatians and Romans to the Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans, each leaving their mark. The castle, built on a hill approximately 110 meters high, consists of inner and outer walls with more than 40 towers, standing as the city's faithful guardians.   

When you reach the top of the walls, a moment that will make you forget all your fatigue awaits: a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Ankara. However, this is not just a skyline of buildings. The view before you is a living social and economic map of Ankara. Three different city stories unfold before your eyes: directly below, the carefully preserved historic Ottoman quarter stretches out with its narrow streets and red-tiled roofs, a testament to how the city protects its cultural heritage. Looking a bit further, you see the orderly avenues and monumental buildings of the modern capital, planned and built with the proclamation of the Republic, telling the story of planned urbanization. And on the horizon, the settlements spreading across other hills reveal another Ankara, one that grew with migration from Anatolia and was shaped by its own dynamics. That's why looking out from the castle is not just watching a view; it's reading all the developmental stages of Ankara in a single frame.   

Visit the Rahmi Koç Museum in Samanpazarı

As you descend from the imposing walls of the castle and head towards the heart of the historic district, another surprise awaits you: the Rahmi Koç Museum, Ankara's first industrial museum. The museum is housed in two magnificent historic inns, Çengelhan and Safranhan, dating back to the era of Suleiman the Magnificent, where caravans once rested and goods were traded. This makes the museum special even before you step inside, as you breathe in not just the objects on display, but the story of the transformation that began the era they belong to.   

Imagine this: in the courtyard of a caravanserai where camels and horses rested hundreds of years ago, you now see the steam engines, classic cars, and locomotives that consigned that era to history. This presents an incredible contrast and a powerful narrative. The collection inside the museum is a wonderland. The most elegant examples of road, sea, and air transport, delicate scientific instruments, nostalgic toys, and dollhouses will take you back to your childhood. The "Atatürk and Ankara" section is particularly moving, featuring personal items from the War of Independence and the early years of the Republic. While exploring this museum and other attractions in Ankara, you will witness firsthand how history intertwines.

Wander through the antique shops in the historic streets of Kaleiçi

After leaving behind the magnificent view from the castle and the rich collection of the museum, we arrive at the most enjoyable and freest part of our tour: discovering the soul of Kaleiçi (the Old City). This is a place where I would advise you to "get lost" rather than follow a set route. As you walk through the narrow cobblestone streets, among the historic Ankara houses with their bay windows, you will feel like you are on a movie set. The coppersmiths, craft workshops, and of course, the antique shops that appear at every corner turn this area into a living museum.   

In museums, you can only look at artifacts from behind glass, but the antique shops here make history tangible. When you step inside these shops, you are greeted by a world of old coins, yellowed photographs, hand-woven kilims, copper ewers, and objects that carry the memories of countless lives. Shopping here is not just buying an item; it's acquiring a story. A brief chat with the shop owner might give you clues about the past of that old watch or porcelain cup you hold in your hand. Pirinç Han, one of the few historic inns in Anatolia, is like the epicenter of this discovery tour with its antique dealers and art workshops. While you're so close to the castle, don't forget to add the award-winning   

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to your itinerary; these two experiences perfectly complement each other.

While You're Here...

You've taken an unforgettable journey into the historical heart of the city with the Ankara Castle and Old City tour. But the adventure doesn't have to end here! Since you're captivated by the area's charm, you can enhance your trip with a few more stops. Just at the foot of the castle, you can visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which was named "European Museum of the Year" in 1997, to discover the archaeological treasures of Anatolia spanning thousands of years. If you're looking for a different experience, you can visit the Ulucanlar Prison Museum, which witnessed Turkey's recent history and was a path crossed by many intellectuals. To unwind after a long day, you can stop by Hamamönü with its restored mansions, art streets, and charming cafes to sip your coffee in a historic atmosphere.   

Bibliography: For more official information and current announcements about Ankara Castle, you can visit the GoTürkiye tourism portal page for Ankara.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an entrance fee for Ankara Castle? Entry to the Ankara Castle walls and the Kaleiçi streets is completely free. However, private and state museums located within and around the castle, such as the Rahmi Koç Museum and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, have their own admission fees.   

What is the easiest way to get to Ankara Castle and its surroundings? Located in Ulus, the castle is easily accessible by public transport. You can reach it with an approximately 15-20 minute walk from the Ulus metro station. Numerous bus lines also serve the area. Additionally, the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality offers a free shuttle service on weekdays between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM.   

How much time should I set aside for the tour? We recommend allocating at least half a day (4-5 hours) for this tour. Exploring the castle walls and enjoying the view takes about 1-1.5 hours. A thorough visit to the Rahmi Koç Museum requires at least 2-3 hours, and you'll want at least an hour to get lost in the streets with the antique shops. If you plan to add the nearby Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, it's best to dedicate a full day.