
Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Ankara, Turkey
1. Cappadocia
Experience hot air balloon rides and unique fairy chimneys in this moonscape region.
- Natural Wonders: Offers a breathtaking display of natural rock formations.
- Adventure Activities: Provides an opportunity for unique outdoor activities like hot air ballooning and hiking.
- Rich History: Preserves historical sites dating back to the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.
2. Kızılcahamam
Relax in thermal springs after a day of exploring ancient ruins nearby.
- Wellness Destination: Known for its therapeutic hot springs and spa facilities.
- Historical Ruins: Surrounded by ancient cities like Hamamönü and Sungurlu.
- Natural Beauty: Features picturesque landscapes with forests, lakes, and rolling hills.
3. Tuz Golu (The Salt Lake)
Discover the surreal landscape of a vast salt lake and enjoy swimming in its shallow waters.
- Natural Wonder: A unique geological formation with striking visual appeal.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers opportunities for swimming, boat trips, and photography.
- Local Culture: Provides a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of the region.
4. Bolu-Kaynasli National Park
Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting in this beautiful national park.
- Natural Beauty: Showcases diverse ecosystems, including forests, lakes, and waterfalls.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers numerous hiking trails for all skill levels.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe various bird and animal species.
5. Pamukkale
Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and marvel at the travertine terraces filled with mineral-rich pools.
- Historical Destination: Offers a glimpse into the ancient Roman civilization.
- Natural Wonders: Features unique travertine terraces and mineral-rich pools.
- Wellness Destination: Provides the opportunity to bathe in the mineral-rich waters.
6. Akyaka
Relax on pristine beaches and explore ancient ruins at nearby Myndos.
- Beach Destination: Features beautiful, uncrowded beaches for relaxation.
- Historical Ruins: Surrounded by ancient ruins like the city of Myndos.
- Water Sports Activities: Offers opportunities for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and boat trips.
7. Sivrihisar
Explore ancient rock-cut churches and marvel at the unique landscapes.
- Historical Destination: Preserves numerous rock-cut churches from the Byzantine era.
- Natural Beauty: Features unique landscapes and dramatic cliffs.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers hiking opportunities to explore the area.
8. Yerkoy
Discover Seljuk architecture and enjoy panoramic views from the castle.
- Historical Destination: Showcases Seljuk-era architecture, including a castle.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides hiking trails to explore the area.
9. Borabay
Enjoy water sports and scenic beauty at this man-made lake.
- Recreational Destination: Offers a variety of water sports, like sailing and windsurfing.
- Scenic Beauty: Features picturesque landscapes with forests, mountains, and lakes.
- Wellness Destination: Provides spa facilities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
10. Bilecik
Visit the historical sites of Sungurlu and explore the natural beauty of Keciboran Lake.
- Historical Destination: Showcases ancient cities like Sungurlu with Seljuk and Ottoman architecture.
- Natural Beauty: Features the stunning Keciboran Lake, perfect for picnics and boating.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers opportunities for hiking and birdwatching in the surrounding forests.
11. Sungurlu-Marmara
Discover ancient cities and enjoy scenic drives through the verdant countryside.
- Historical Destination: Offers a glimpse into the rich history of ancient Anatolia.
- Scenic Drives: Provides beautiful drives through rolling hills and forests.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and photography opportunities.
12. Akyazı (Sakarya)
Relax on pristine beaches or explore the historical sites in Sakarya.
- Beach Destination: Features beautiful, uncrowded beaches for relaxation.
- Historical Destination: Offers a glimpse into the historical sites of Sakarya.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides opportunities for hiking and boat trips.
13. Orhancilar-Aksaray
Explore the ancient city of Aksaray and marvel at the unique fairy chimneys.
- Historical Destination: Offers a glimpse into the rich history of ancient Anatolia.
- Natural Wonders: Features unique fairy chimneys similar to those in Cappadocia.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides opportunities for hiking and photography.
14. Pinarbasi
Enjoy the tranquil environment of this picturesque village and explore nearby historical sites.
- Rural Destination: Offers a peaceful, rural retreat.
- Historical Destination: Surrounded by historical sites like the ancient city of Daskyleion.
- Scenic Beauty: Features picturesque landscapes with forests, mountains, and lakes.
15. Besniye (Amasya)
Visit historical sites like the ancient city of Hattusa and enjoy scenic drives through the verdant countryside.
- Historical Destination: Offers a glimpse into the rich history of ancient Anatolia.
- Scenic Drives: Provides beautiful drives through rolling hills and forests.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and photography opportunities.