Things to Do in Ankara

Ankara’s ancient citadel – the Hisar – is a wonderfully atmospheric collection of ramshackle wooden houses, winding lanes and impressive fortifications perched on a hill above the city.

Simit is a sort of circular, sesame seed-covered bread roll somewhere in between a bagel and a pretzel. Bought from street vendors they are, by far and away, the cheapest food around.

Ankara’s biggest and best museum is a dazzlingly detailed affair. Exhibits include countless priceless archaeological remains and assorted ancient artifacts cataloging the country’s history right back to the Paleolithic period.

Ankara is home to a handful of interesting Roman remains. Scattered across the north of the city, the most impressive is, undoubtedly, the Temple of Augustus and Rome, a 25BC temple built as a tribute to the Emperor Augustus.

Tea in Turkey serves an essential social function. Joining the groups of people sitting and discussing the issues of the day over a cup of black tea is a great way to get under the skin of the country.