Ankara may not have the glamorous charm of Istanbul, but it’s a city full of surprises—rich in culture, history, and local flavor. Unlike larger cities, Ankara’s best experiences are often found away from the crowded tourist hotspots. We particularly like the Ankara: Private Walking Tour with a Local, which offers a personal glimpse into the city’s lesser-known corners. Visiting with a local means uncovering stories and secrets you can’t find in guidebooks, making your time in Ankara more authentic and memorable.
While Ankara’s attractions are rich, sometimes the best way to understand a city is through its people. That’s why this list features a mix of personalized walks, cultural explorations, and even a culinary experience—offering options suited for different interests and schedules. Whether you want a relaxed stroll, a deep dive into Ottoman history, or a full-day adventure in Cappadocia, there’s something here to help you make the most of your visit.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best tours in Ankara includes a range of options: a private, customizable walking tour that brings you closer to local life; a half-day sightseeing trip in Istanbul, perfect for those combining Ankara with Istanbul; an extensive day trip to Cappadocia and underground cities that’s ideal for history and landscape lovers; and a delicious Baklava cooking class for foodies. All choices are designed to give you a deeper understanding of Turkey, whether through cultural insights, stunning scenery, or hands-on experiences.
1. Ankara: Private Walking Tour with a Local
At number 1, this private walking tour offers a highly personalized way to explore Ankara. For $41 per person, you’ll spend anywhere from 2 to 6 hours wandering through the city’s streets with a passionate local guide. Unlike fixed-group tours, this experience adapts to your interests—whether you’re eager to see historic sites, hidden corners, or local hangouts.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on authentic connections and insider tips. You’ll learn tips and tricks about the city’s best cafes, shops, and viewpoints—things you won’t find in a guidebook. The guide encourages questions and interests, making it ideal for curious travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience. Reviews give it a solid 4.6 out of 5, praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful, personal introduction to Ankara. It’s especially suited for those who prefer to avoid large groups and want to discover secret spots known mainly to locals. The only downside might be if you prefer a structured itinerary—you set the pace and the route.
Bottom Line: A flexible, affordable way to see Ankara with an insider, suitable for travelers craving personalized connections and local stories.
2. Istanbul: Half-Day Tour with Topkapi Palace
Number 2 on our list is a half-day sightseeing tour of Istanbul that covers major highlights like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome. For $145, you’ll enjoy a comfortable 4.5-hour journey through the Ottoman and Byzantine eras, riding in a luxury vehicle that makes navigating Istanbul’s busy streets easier.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a quick but rundown of Istanbul’s most famous sights. Visiting these landmarks provides a solid foundation of Turkey’s rich history, with the added convenience of an expert guide sharing stories about the minarets and the imperial palace. The tour also offers scenic views and photo stops, enriching your understanding of the city’s scale and beauty.
While it’s a bit pricier than some other options, the quality and efficiency are worth it for visitors with limited time. The tour is best suited for first-timers who want a curated experience without the hassle of planning. It’s not ideal if you prefer a deeper dive into local neighborhoods or less touristy attractions.
Bottom Line: A great choice for a fast, high-quality introduction to Istanbul’s highlights, especially if your time is limited but you want a full cultural context.
3. Ankara: Daily Private Cappadocia & Underground City Tour
Number 3 is a full-day private Cappadocia and underground city adventure from Ankara. For $1,174, you get a 15-hour guided tour that covers the Goreme Open Air Museum, Urgup, Avanos, Uchisar, Kaymakli Underground City, and several scenic stops along the way.
What makes this tour exceptional is its ability to condense two days’ worth of sightseeing into a single day. The guide is experienced in sharing local secrets about the region’s famous fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and ancient sites. The tour is designed to avoid the crowds and large group pressures, giving you a more relaxed, authentic experience.
The itinerary is packed but well-paced, with plenty of breaks, photo stops, and commentary. Reviews highlight how the guide’s expertise enhances understanding of Cappadocia’s history and geology. While it’s a considerable expense, the convenience of a private guide and vehicle, combined with the ability to customize, makes this a standout.
This tour suits travelers who want to explore Cappadocia without the hassle of multiple days away from Ankara. It’s ideal for history, geology, and landscape lovers eager to see the region’s highlights in one day.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, private day trip perfect for those wanting a deep, personalized experience in Cappadocia without taking extra days off Ankara.
4. Ankara: Baklava Cooking Class
Number 4 on our list is a Baklava cooking class, offering a warm, hands-on culinary experience for $61 per person. Over four hours, you’ll learn how to make Turkish baklava from scratch in a cozy, home-style kitchen.
This class focuses on authentic techniques—from kneading the dough to simmering fragrant syrup. Alongside your fellow participants, you’ll also prepare a savory börek and a fresh meze like kısır or mercimek köftesi. The instructor emphasizes Turkish hospitality, sharing stories over strong coffee and treats.
What makes this experience special is its intimate setting and the chance to take home your recipes, along with warm memories of Turkish hospitality. The reviews note the friendly atmosphere and the quality of the food—many mention how it’s a highlight of their trip.
While it’s a bit shorter than other experiences, it appeals most to food lovers eager to learn a local craft and enjoy a meal you made yourselves. If you’re looking for a cultural, culinary activity that’s fun and delicious, this is a great choice.
Bottom Line: An engaging, authentic cooking class that combines learning, tasting, and socializing—perfect for foodies and curious travelers alike.
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, think about your schedule, budget, and interests. For a personalized, deep dive into Ankara’s streets, the private walking tour offers flexibility and local insight. If your time in Istanbul is limited, the half-day Topkapi Palace tour provides a quick overview of key sights. For a full-day adventure outside Ankara, the Cappadocia trip is ideal for exploring the region’s landscapes and underground sites with ease. Lastly, if you love cooking or want a taste of Turkish hospitality, the baklava class offers a memorable hands-on experience.
Consider your interests—history, scenery, food—and how much time you want to spend. Booking early is always wise, especially for popular experiences like Cappadocia tours and cooking classes.
Concluding Thoughts
Ankara’s best tours offer a wide array of ways to explore Turkey’s capital and beyond. If you’re after a personal connection, the private walking tour is hard to beat. For a quick cultural fix, Istanbul’s half-day highlights are perfect. History buffs will love the all-in-one Cappadocia trip, while food lovers will enjoy learning to make baklava in a home-style setting.
No matter your style, each of these options provides a different way to experience Turkey’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. To get the most out of your trip, consider your interests and schedule carefully—and don’t forget to book early, especially for the more popular experiences. With the right choice, your time in Ankara will be full of meaningful stories and delicious memories.