FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Ankara

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: TRY 1200/day🚇 Good Transit☀️ Best: Jun, Sep, Oct

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Ulus

Features the most affordable accommodation and dining options while being close to historical sites.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Ankara

1

Ulus

Budget

Ankara's historic old town, home to ancient ruins, traditional markets, and government buildings.

culturehistory buffsbudgetfirst-timers
  • +Rich in history and historical sites
  • +Authentic local markets
  • +Very budget-friendly options
  • -Can feel gritty and less maintained in parts
  • -Limited modern dining and nightlife
  • -Requires more awareness of surroundings
🏨 Divan Çukurhan🏨 Hotel Samdan🏨 Ankara Plaza Hotel
2

Kızılay

Mid-range

The bustling heart of Ankara, a commercial and social hub with endless shops, cafes, and transport links.

first-timerssolo travelersnightlifebudget
  • +Excellent public transport access
  • +Wide range of dining and shopping options
  • +Lively atmosphere
  • -Can be very crowded and noisy
  • -Lacks historical charm compared to other areas
🏨 Grand Hamit Hotel🏨 Hotel Mithat🏨 King's Cross Hotel Ankara
3

Çankaya

Luxury

An upscale residential and diplomatic district known for its leafy streets, modern amenities, and embassy presence.

luxurycouplesfamiliesdigital nomads
  • +Safer and quieter atmosphere
  • +Good selection of upscale restaurants and cafes
  • +Proximity to embassies and international organizations
  • -Less central for historical sightseeing
  • -Can feel more residential and less tourist-oriented
🏨 JW Marriott Hotel Ankara🏨 The Marmara Ankara🏨 Boutique 13
4

Tunalı Hilmi Caddesi / Kavaklıdere

Mid-range

A vibrant, trendy street lined with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars, popular with locals and expats.

foodiesnightlifecouplesculture
  • +Excellent dining and entertainment scene
  • +Lively and fashionable atmosphere
  • +Good mix of local and international influences
  • -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
  • -Accommodation options are more limited and can be pricier
🏨 Divan Çukurhan🏨 Cankaya Konuk Evi🏨 Latanya Hotel Ankara

Daily Budget (Budget)

TRY 1200/day

Hostel dorm bed at Cheers HostelTRY 400
Simit from a street vendor and a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local 'esnaf lokantasi' (tradesmen's restaurant)TRY 300
AnkaraKart (public transport card) top-up for buses and metroTRY 100
Visit Anıtkabir (Mausoleum of Atatürk) - free entry, explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (entry fee)TRY 400
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Ankara

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🚶

Hamamönü

FREE

Wander through beautifully restored Ottoman-era houses, many now charming cafes and craft shops. It's a picturesque glimpse into Ankara's past, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

streetAltındağ
🚶

Kızılay Square (Kızılay Meydanı)

FREE

While busy, Kızılay is the vibrant heart of modern Ankara. Locals gather here, and you can find countless eateries, shops, and lively street performers, offering a true taste of city life.

streetÇankaya
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Ankara

More Ankara Guides

Full Ankara guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers