
Best Backpacking Destinations in Altındağ, Ankara, Turkey
1. Kızılay Square
A bustling hub with historic architecture and a variety of street food stalls.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a taste of traditional Turkish culture and daily life.
- Affordable Dining: Ideal for budget-conscious backpackers with affordable street food options.
- Central Location: Conveniently located in the heart of Altındağ, making it a great starting point.
2. Anitkabir
Ataturk Mausoleum, a significant historical monument dedicated to the founder of modern Turkey.
- Historical Significance: Provides an insight into Turkish history and Atatürk's legacy.
- Architectural Wonder: Features unique architecture blending Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman styles.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil environment for reflection and relaxation.
3. Gençler Bahçesi Stadium
Home ground of Ankaragücü football club, offering tours and a vibrant local atmosphere.
- Sports Experience: Provides an opportunity to immerse in the local sports culture.
- Architectural Interest: Features modern and impressive stadium architecture.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for backpackers interested in football history.
4. Yüksel Tower
An iconic observation tower offering panoramic views of Ankara.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
- Historical Perspective: Built in 1967, it showcases mid-century architecture.
- Affordable Experience: Ideal for budget-conscious backpackers with affordable admission fees.
5. Kocatepe Mosque
A striking mosque combining Ottoman and modern architectural styles.
- Architectural Marvel: Features an impressive dome and minarets, showcasing both Ottoman and modern architecture.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into Turkish Islamic culture and traditions.
- Central Location: Located in the center of Altındağ, making it easily accessible.
6. Ankara Citadel
An ancient castle with ruins dating back to Hittite times.
- Historical Significance: Provides a glimpse into the city's ancient history.
- Archaeological Interest: Features ruins from various civilizations, including the Hittites, Romans, and Byzantines.
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of Ankara and its surroundings.
7. Eymir Lake
A picturesque lake perfect for outdoor activities and picnics.
- Natural Beauty: Features a beautiful natural setting with mountains, forests, and clear waters.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
8. Ankara Castle Archaeological Museum
A museum showcasing artifacts from various civilizations that have ruled Ankara.
- Historical Artifacts: Displays a vast collection of artifacts, providing insights into the region's past.
- Cultural Education: Offers a comprehensive understanding of Ankara's historical background.
- Central Location: Located near the citadel, making it easily accessible.
9. Ahi Elvan Church
An ancient Byzantine church with unique frescoes and a serene atmosphere.
- Historical Architecture: Features well-preserved Byzantine architecture and intricate frescoes.
- Religious Significance: Offers a glimpse into the city's Christian history.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a serene and reflective environment for visitors.
10. Akinci Barracks Museum
A museum showcasing the Turkish War of Independence and military history.
- Military History: Provides insights into Turkey's military history, particularly during the War of Independence.
- Historical Artifacts: Displays a vast collection of weapons, uniforms, and other artifacts.
- Cultural Education: Offers an understanding of Turkey's struggle for independence.
11. Ankara Zoo
A zoological park featuring a variety of animals, including Turkish wildlife.
- Wildlife Viewing: Offers an opportunity to observe a wide range of animals.
- Educational Experience: Provides information about the animals and their habitats.
- Affordable Entertainment: Ideal for budget-conscious backpackers with affordable admission fees.
12. Ankara Ethnography Museum
A museum showcasing traditional Turkish arts, crafts, and customs.
- Cultural Experience: Offers insights into traditional Turkish culture and customs.
- Artistic Appreciation: Displays a collection of traditional arts, crafts, and textiles.
- Central Location: Located near Kızılay Square, making it easily accessible.
13. Güldere Lake
A scenic lake surrounded by forests and offering boat tours.
- Natural Beauty: Features a beautiful natural setting with forests, mountains, and clear waters.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers opportunities for hiking, boating, and picnicking.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
14. Hacı Bayram Mosque
An Ottoman-era mosque with intricate tile work and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Architectural Marvel: Features intricate tile work, showcasing Ottoman architecture.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into Turkish Islamic culture and traditions.
- Central Location: Located near Kızılay Square, making it easily accessible.
15. Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
A museum showcasing artifacts from ancient civilizations that once inhabited Anatolia.
- Historical Artifacts: Displays a vast collection of artifacts, providing insights into the region's past.
- Cultural Education: Offers an understanding of Anatolia's historical background.
- Archaeological Interest: Features artifacts from various civilizations, including the Hittites, Assyrians, and Romans.