Where to Stay in Ankara: An Accommodation Guide to the Heart of the Turkish Capital

Ankara, the vibrant capital of Turkey, is a city that blends ancient history with modern life. As the political and economic centre of the country, it hosts a plethora of government buildings, embassies, universities, and museums, making it an ideal destination for both business and tourism. Although often overshadowed by Istanbul, Ankara offers a different side of Turkey, with a less touristy approach and more of a feel of a modern, developing city.

Among its most famous attractions is the Mausoleum of Atatürk, dedicated to the founder of the Turkish Republic, while Ankara Castle offers excellent city views and a sense of its past. Furthermore, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations houses a rich collection of antiquities from the Anatolian region, making Ankara a destination for history buffs.

Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, the city boasts modern areas with shopping centres, culinary options, and nightlife to suit every taste. Visitors can enjoy everything from luxurious restaurants to traditional local tavernas. For your accommodation, Ankara offers a plethora of choices – from budget hotels to luxury establishments that cater to every need.

In this article, we will analyse the five best areas for accommodation in Ankara and suggest hotels that cover every budget, helping you make the best choice for your stay in the city.

1. Kavaklıdere: A Centre of Culture and Entertainment

The Kavaklıdere area is one of Ankara's most cosmopolitan and lively districts. Located in the heart of the city, it is known for its shopping centres, cultural events, and gastronomic options. Here you will find some of the city's best restaurants and cafes, making it an ideal area for those who wish to explore Ankara's modern life. The area also hosts many embassies and is perfect for professionals visiting the city for work.

Although Kavaklıdere is quite central, it offers a tranquil and safe environment for accommodation, with tree-lined streets and beautiful green spaces. From here, you have easy access to important attractions such as Ankara Castle and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Furthermore, the area is ideal for shopping, as it hosts the city's most famous commercial street, Tunali Hilmi.

Recommended hotels:

Divan Ankara

Divan Ankara is one of the area's leading luxury hotels. It features modern rooms, a luxurious spa and gym, while its restaurant offers excellent Turkish and international cuisine. It is a stone's throw from Tunali Hilmi.

Average cost: 120€ per night.

Gordion Hotel

An elegant boutique hotel that combines luxury and tradition. The Gordion offers warm, spacious rooms and is located near some of the best restaurants and shops in the area.

Average cost: 80€ per night.

Hotel Tunali

A budget-friendly option in the heart of Kavaklıdere. Hotel Tunali offers comfortable rooms, excellent services, and easy access to public transport.

Average cost: 60€ per night.

Sheraton Ankara

Luxurious and modern, the Sheraton Ankara is a top choice for those seeking ultimate comfort and quality. It boasts all the amenities one would expect from a 5-star hotel.

Average cost: 150€ per night.

Midas Hotel

The Midas Hotel is an excellent choice for travellers who want to stay close to attractions and shopping areas, without spending a lot of money. It offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

Average cost: 50€ per night.

2. Ulus: The Historic Heart of Ankara

Ulus is the historic heart of Ankara, where visitors can find many of the city's oldest attractions. Here lies Ankara Castle, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and many other monuments that tell the long history of the region. This area is ideal for travellers who want to combine their stay with cultural discovery.

Despite its great historical significance, Ulus is known for its affordable accommodation options, with budget hotels and guesthouses attracting both low-budget travellers and professionals seeking simple yet functional lodging solutions. From this area, visitors have easy access to public transport, making it an excellent base to explore the rest of the city.

Recommended hotels:

Radisson Blu Ankara

A luxury hotel with excellent amenities, such as a gym and restaurant, close to the area's historical monuments. The Radisson Blu is ideal for professionals and travellers seeking comfort and quality.

Average cost: 110€ per night.

Atalay Hotel

A budget hotel offering simple yet comfortable rooms in a very good location, close to Ankara Castle and the area's most important monuments.

Average cost: 45€ per night.

Ankara HiltonSA

With all the amenities of an international brand, HiltonSA offers luxury and comfort. The hotel features modern rooms, a spa and gym, suitable for business trips and luxury stays.

Average cost: 130€ per night.

Özkonak Hotel

A small and affordable hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms at very reasonable prices. Ideal for those who want to be close to the historic centre without high costs.

Average cost: 40€ per night.

Sergah Hotel

Comfortable and elegant hotel with excellent services, in an ideal location near the attractions of the Ulus area. Suitable for families and solo travellers.

Average cost: 65€ per night.

3. Çankaya: Ankara's Most Luxurious and Safest Area

Çankaya is one of Ankara's most aristocratic and popular areas, known for its luxury, upscale hotels, and excellent services. Here you will find many embassies, political buildings, and the Presidential Residence of Turkey, making the area particularly safe and desirable. Visitors can enjoy beautiful parks, such as Seğmenler Parkı, as well as high-quality shopping centres.

It is an ideal area for business travellers and tourists who desire luxury and easy access to Ankara's main attractions. Çankaya offers a modern lifestyle, with top-tier restaurants, bars, and luxury shopping centres.

Recommended hotels:

Swissotel Ankara

One of Ankara's most luxurious hotels, the Swissotel offers excellent amenities, including a spa, indoor pool, and top-rated restaurants. Ideal for those seeking ultimate comfort.

Average cost: 160€ per night.

Ankara Plaza Hotel

The Ankara Plaza offers modern rooms with elegant decor and comfort. It features a gym and sauna, and is within walking distance of the area's main attractions.

Average cost: 85€ per night.

Grand Ankara Hotel Convention Center

A luxurious hotel with impressive architecture and spacious rooms, ideal for business travellers and guests seeking a lavish stay. It offers high-level services and is located near major commercial areas.

Average cost: 140€ per night.

Holiday Inn Ankara – Kavaklıdere

A more budget-friendly option for those who want comfort without spending a lot. The Holiday Inn offers clean and modern rooms, and features a gym and restaurant.

Average cost: 70€ per night.

Mövenpick Hotel Ankara

Another luxury hotel, the Mövenpick is known for its excellent service and top-notch amenities. It features a spa, indoor pool, and a premium restaurant.

Average cost: 130€ per night.

4. Kızılay: Ankara's Commercial and Entertainment Centre

Kızılay is Ankara's most vibrant and bustling area, known for its variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is the city's economic and cultural hub, hosting many government agencies and business centres. The area is a magnet for locals and visitors seeking entertainment, shopping, and gastronomic experiences.

Access to the area is excellent, as it is Ankara's main transport hub, with many public transport options. The area is ideal for those who want to be close to the action, shop, or enjoy the city's nightlife.

Recommended hotels:

Guvenay Business Hotel

A modern hotel with excellent amenities, the Guvenay offers spacious rooms and professional services within walking distance of Kızılay's shops and attractions.

Average cost: 75€ per night.

The Ankara Hotel

A modern hotel that combines luxury and comfort, ideal for those seeking a high-level experience in Kızılay. It offers a gym, sauna, and excellent services.

Average cost: 100€ per night.

Ankara City Hotel

Economical and practical, the Ankara City Hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at a very affordable price, ideal for visitors who want to be close to the centre of the action.

Average cost: 50€ per night.

Yavuz Hotel

An excellent choice for those looking for cheap and comfortable accommodation near Kızılay's most important commercial and cultural attractions. It offers basic amenities at a very affordable price.

Average cost: 40€ per night.

Best Western Hotel 2000

A classic choice for those seeking comfortable accommodation at affordable prices, with spacious rooms and all the necessary amenities for a pleasant business or leisure trip.

Average cost: 70€ per night.

5. Bahçelievler: Ideal Area for Families and Relaxing Holidays

Bahçelievler is one of Ankara's most beautiful and tranquil areas, ideal for families and visitors seeking a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. This area is full of greenery, with wide avenues, parks, and family tavernas, making it perfect for those who want to escape the city's noise without being far from the centre.

Bahçelievler also offers many options for shopping and dining, as it hosts large shopping centres and local shops. Access to the centre of Ankara is easy and quick via public transport, making it ideal for visitors who want peace, but also easy access to all attractions.

Recommended hotels:

Anadolu Hotels Downtown Ankara

A luxurious hotel offering comfortable rooms and premium amenities, such as a spa, indoor pool, and restaurant. It is ideal for families and those seeking relaxation.

Average cost: 130€ per night.

The Green Park Hotel Ankara

With a modern design and all the amenities a visitor might need, the Green Park offers excellent value for money. Ideal for families and professionals.

Average cost: 90€ per night.

Gazi Park Hotel

Quiet and comfortable, the Gazi Park is ideal for travellers who wish to enjoy relaxation and peace. It offers beautifully decorated rooms and a garden.

Average cost: 70€ per night.

Hotel Marya

A small and friendly hotel offering comfort and excellent services at an affordable price. Ideal for families and travellers on a lower budget.

Average cost: 60€ per night.

Park Inn by Radisson Ankara Çankaya

A modern hotel with elegant decor and excellent service. It features a gym and restaurant, and is located in a quiet area with easy access to the city centre.

Average cost: 100€ per night.

How to Get to Ankara

Ankara is connected to major Greek cities via direct flights and connecting routes. From Athens, the flight duration to Ankara is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with daily flights from Athens International Airport. There are also flight options with layovers in major cities, such as Istanbul.

If you are travelling from Thessaloniki, there are also flights to Ankara, although most often you will need to transit through layovers, such as Istanbul or Athens. The total travel time ranges from 2 to 3 hours depending on connections.

To find the best options and prices for air tickets, visit travelo.gr, where you will find all offers for flights from Greece to Ankara and other destinations.

Ankara is a city that offers something for every visitor – from rich history and cultural attractions to its cosmopolitan life. Whether you are travelling for business or to explore its beauties, the areas we have covered above offer many choices for your accommodation. Choose the area that best suits your needs and enjoy an unforgettable experience in the Turkish capital. To find the best deals on hotels and flights, visit travelo.gr and organise your trip with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is best for accommodation in the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you are looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic city centre. For a quieter stay at a good price, prefer neighbourhoods slightly outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodations with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first acquaintance with the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the cuisine, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base-trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without crowds of tourists.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, reviews from real guests, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for the peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as being a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a visitor-friendly destination. As with any trip, caution is advised with personal belongings in crowded areas and on public transport, and use reliable means of transport. Accommodations with high ratings are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.