When planning a family trip to Turkey, destinations like Istanbul or Cappadocia usually steal the spotlight. But if you’re looking for a unique, kid-friendly city full of culture, fun activities, and wide-open spaces, Ankara—Turkey’s capital—deserves a spot on your itinerary.
In just two days, Ankara offers a perfect blend of history, play, learning, and relaxation for families traveling with children. This complete 2-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time and create unforgettable family memories in Ankara, a city which, by the way, is HUGE!
Day 1: Discovering History and Exploring Ankara’s Outdoor Gems
Morning at Anıtkabir: A National Monument That Fascinates Kids
Start your Ankara adventure at Anıtkabir, the grand mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. While a mausoleum might not sound child-friendly at first, Anıtkabir is surprisingly engaging for kids. The massive open spaces allow children to roam freely, while the ceremonial guard changing often grabs their attention with its precise, synchronized movements.
Inside the museum, interactive displays and multimedia exhibits tell the story of Atatürk’s life and the formation of modern Turkey in a way that even younger visitors can appreciate. After the tour, stroll through Peace Park—a beautifully landscaped area surrounding the monument where kids can run and parents can relax.
Midday Stroll and Snack on Tunalı Hilmi Street
After exploring Anıtkabir, head over to Tunalı Hilmi Street, one of Ankara’s most vibrant avenues. Here, you’ll find cozy cafes and bakeries where your family can take a well-deserved snack break. Grab some freshly baked simit (a sesame-crusted Turkish bagel), fresh fruit juices, or sweet Turkish pastries that children will love.
The atmosphere is lively, safe, and very family-friendly, with plenty of small parks nearby where kids can play.
Visit Kocatepe Mosque: Awe-Inspiring Architecture
Next, take a short ride to Kocatepe Mosque, Ankara’s largest and most iconic mosque. Even if your children aren’t usually interested in architecture, the mosque’s towering minarets, massive domes, and intricate designs will likely leave them wide-eyed. The large courtyard allows for relaxed exploration, and the peaceful ambiance offers a perfect moment of quiet after the busy morning.
Afternoon of Art and Play
CerModern: Modern Art That Engages Young Minds
In the afternoon, shift gears and visit CerModern, Ankara’s leading contemporary art center. Unlike many art galleries, CerModern often features interactive exhibits that engage children and encourage creativity. Kids can walk through colorful installations, participate in workshops, or simply enjoy the playful atmosphere.
Parents will appreciate the fresh, modern art while children discover that museums can be fun and hands-on.
Evening at Gençlik Park: Family Fun in the Heart of Ankara
Finish your first day at Gençlik Park, an expansive urban park packed with kid-friendly activities. Multiple playgrounds, mini amusement rides, and green spaces create a relaxed environment where kids can let loose. Enjoy a family ride on the mini train or paddle boats, grab some cotton candy, and watch the sunset over the park’s peaceful lake.
For dinner, nearby neighborhoods like Kızılay or Kavaklidere offer countless family-friendly Turkish restaurants serving pide, köfte, and kebabs—dishes almost every child enjoys.
Day 2: Nature, Science, and Fairy Tales
Morning at Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo
Begin your second day at the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo (Atatürk Orman Çiftliği). This large complex offers something for every age: farm animals for younger kids, exotic animals at the small zoo, and an aquarium that captivates with colorful marine life.
Parents can explore the replica of Atatürk’s childhood home while kids enjoy watching cows, goats, and monkeys. Don’t forget to visit the organic market to grab fresh local honey, cheese, or produce for a tasty snack.
The wide-open spaces, tree-lined paths, and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for a family outing.
Midday Break at Armada Shopping Mall
By lunchtime, head to Armada Shopping Mall for a comfortable break. Turkish shopping centers are very family-friendly and usually feature indoor playgrounds or game centers where kids can recharge while parents enjoy coffee or a proper meal.
Armada offers a wide range of dining options—from traditional Turkish fare to international choices—making it easy to find something for every family member.
Afternoon at Harikalar Diyarı: Wonderland for Kids
The highlight of your second day will surely be Harikalar Diyarı (Wonderland Park), one of the largest theme parks in Ankara. Giant fairy tale statues like Snow White, Pinocchio, and the Seven Dwarfs greet visitors throughout the park, creating a magical atmosphere for children.
With large playgrounds, wide walking paths, boat rentals, mini golf, and endless green spaces, this park offers hours of entertainment for kids of all ages. Parents can relax under shady trees while kids explore the themed zones, climb, ride, and play freely.
If you packed a picnic, this is the perfect place to spread out a blanket and enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal together.
End with Science at Feza Gürsey Science Center
Before wrapping up your Ankara trip, make one final stop at the Feza Gürsey Science Center, located close to Wonderland Park. This interactive science museum allows kids to get hands-on with fun scientific experiments and educational exhibits. From physics to optical illusions, children of all ages will enjoy learning while playing.
If you’re lucky, you may catch one of the science shows, where experiments are demonstrated live in a way that captures both children’s and adults’ imaginations.
Family Travel Tips for Ankara
- Best times to visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
- Getting around: Taxis, metro, and buses are efficient, but renting a car can be more convenient with kids. We did not rent one though.
- Where to stay: Central areas like Çankaya, Kızılay, and Kavaklidere offer excellent family hotels.
Where to Stay in Ankara with Kids
- Hilton Garden Inn: Comfortable, central, and good value for families.
Ankara: A Family-Friendly Destination Full of Surprises
Ankara might not be the first city that comes to mind for a family trip, but after two full days of fun, learning, and exploration, you’ll realize it’s a hidden gem. With its balance of culture, education, wide-open parks, and child-friendly attractions, Ankara offers an unforgettable experience for families visiting Turkey.
So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for a surprisingly fun family adventure in Turkey’s capital city!
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