Car Hire Ankara - Mini guide to Ankara

Ankara, the Turkish capital, was once called Angora, after the fine, soft hair (tiftik) on Angora goats, which are still a thriving Turkey tradition. Although it attracts few tourists than Istanbul and the coastal areas, the trek inland to this rather stately city is worth it to experience the real Turkey in the surrounding countryside.

Unlike Istanbul, vulnerable for centuries from neighbouring countries with imperialistic motives, Ankara lies deep within the heartland, protected, and insulated from invaders, making it a modern European-style capital. The city boasts a number of prestigious universities and technical colleges, as well as the largest library in the country.

But Ankara has its fair share of sights for visitors. The Victory Monument, in Ulus Square, honors the heroes of the War of Independence, while the monument to a Secure and Confident Future, in Gevenlik Park, is a patriotic reminder for Turks to "be proud, work hard, and have self-confidence."

The Hatti Monument, an oversized replica of a bronze solar disc on Sihhiye Square stands as a constant reminder of the country's Anatolian roots.

The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is worth a special detour, consisting of monuments and museums. Among the more fascinating exhibits are those items brought from Catal Hoyuk, the earliest known human community.

Ankarra is a stepping stone to south-central part of the country, which draws many vistors to Cappadocia in the far east of the region. Here water and wind have created a land of fantastic forms from the soft tufa rock, including forests of cones, table mountains and canyon-like valleys. The cave dwellers of Cappadocia are famous.

Further south still, Konya is best known as the birthplace of the mystical Sufi sect and is a good place to stop over between Cappadocia and the coast. Here you’ll find famous sea-side resorts offering world-class tourism facilities with a romantic Mediterranean backdrop.

Turkish airlines link all major cities, including the busy Istanbul-Ankara corridor. Most of the international flights arrive in Istanbul, a busy regional hub, and many choose to connect from here. However, Ankara International Airport is serviced by many European cities.