Ankara
Ankara
Turkey
Ready to explore?
Ankara, the heart of Turkey, offers a fascinating contrast to the coastal vibes of Izmir and the sprawling chaos of Istanbul. As a high-altitude city with a continental climate, Ankara experiences fou...
About Ankara
Ankara, the heart of Turkey, offers a fascinating contrast to the coastal vibes of Izmir and the sprawling chaos of Istanbul. As a high-altitude city with a continental climate, Ankara experiences four distinct seasons that dramatically change the travel experience. From the solemn dignity of Anıtkabir to the ancient layers of the Citadel, timing your visit is key to navigating the city's hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Whether you are looking for peak cultural festivals in the spring or the budget-friendly quiet of the winter months, Ankara serves as a sophisticated gateway to Anatolian history.
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Ankara at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
March, April, May
Spring (March–May)
June, July, August
Summer (June–August)
September, October, November
Autumn (September–November)
December, January, February
Winter (December–February)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Ankara, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
4 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
Turkish Lira (TRY) daily budgets: $45–65 / day to $300+ / day
At a Glance: When to Visit Ankara
Best Overall
April–June, September–October
Cheapest
January–February
Busiest
July–August
Best Weather
May and September
For Events
April and October
For Families
June and September
For Couples
October
Budget Travel
January
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Ankara.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Ankara — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Ankara
January
-3°C to 4°C (26°F to 39°F), frequent snow, 2 sunshine hours daily.
“Best for budget travelers who don't mind the cold and want the major museums to themselves.”
February
-2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F), cold with occasional snow and rain.
“A quiet, romantic time for couples who enjoy indoor cultural activities and hearty Turkish stews.”
March
2°C to 11°C (36°F to 52°F), unpredictable rain showers, 5 sunshine hours.
“Best for theater lovers and those who enjoy the crisp, early signs of spring.”
April
7°C to 17°C (45°F to 63°F), the wettest month but increasingly sunny.
“One of the best months for culture enthusiasts due to the prestigious music and jazz festivals.”
May
11°C to 22°C (52°F to 72°F), ideal mild weather, 7.5 sunshine hours.
“The absolute best month for sightseeing and outdoor exploration before the summer heat hits.”
June
15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F), warm and dry, longest daylight hours.
“Perfect for families and active travelers who want long days and vibrant street life.”
July
18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F), hot and very dry, clear blue skies.
“Best for sun-seekers, though the heat can be intense for those used to milder climates.”
August
18°C to 31°C (64°F to 88°F), the hottest and driest month.
“A quieter month as many residents flee to Izmir for the beach, offering a more relaxed city pace.”
September
14°C to 26°C (57°F to 79°F), warm days and pleasant evenings.
“Ideal for foodies and festival-goers who want the perfect balance of warmth and activity.”
October
9°C to 20°C (48°F to 68°F), crisp autumn air, colorful foliage.
“The most atmospheric month, best for photographers and history buffs.”
November
3°C to 13°C (37°F to 55°F), chilly with increasing rain.
“Best for those seeking a somber, deeply cultural, and cinematic experience of the capital.”
December
-1°C to 7°C (30°F to 45°F), grey skies and the arrival of snow.
“A magical, wintery experience that is much quieter and cheaper than Istanbul during the holidays.”
Festivals & Events in Ankara
International Ankara Music Festival
One of Turkey's longest-running festivals featuring international symphonic orchestras and soloists.
Hotels in the city center see higher demand; book 2 months ahead.National Sovereignty and Children's Day
Massive public holiday with ceremonies at Anıtkabir and city-wide parades.
Major roads near Kızılay and Anıtkabir may be closed for parades.Ankara International Film Festival
A highlight for cinema lovers, showcasing independent Turkish and international films.
Moderate impact; popular screenings sell out quickly.Ankara Culture Route Festival
A massive 10-day series of concerts, exhibitions, and theater across various historic venues.
High city-wide energy; top performance venues sell out early.Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı)
The biggest national holiday in the capital with fireworks and massive public gatherings.
Very high; Anıtkabir is extremely crowded; book hotels well in advance.International Çubuk Pickle and Culture Festival
A unique local festival celebrating the world-famous pickles of the Çubuk district.
Low; mostly attracts locals and food enthusiasts to the district.Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı)
Military parades and air shows celebrating the end of the War of Independence.
Road closures around the Atatürk Cultural Center are common.Ankara Jazz Festival
World-class jazz musicians perform in clubs and concert halls across the city.
Moderate impact on the Çankaya nightlife district.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Ankara?
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Daily Budget
Peak
$100–180 (Mid-range, June–August)
Off-Peak
$50–90 (Mid-range, Jan–Feb)
Ankara is generally 20-30% cheaper than Istanbul. Prices spike during major political events or the April Music Festival, but winter offers significant savings on 4 and 5-star hotels.
Where to Stay in Ankara by Season
Çankaya / Kavaklıdere
Moderate to PremiumSpring and Autumn
The upscale heart of the city, home to embassies and Tunalı Hilmi street. Best for those who enjoy leafy streets and boutique shopping.
Kızılay
Budget to ModerateYear-round
The central transit hub. Ideal for budget travelers and those who want to be in the middle of the action regardless of the weather.
Ulus
BudgetSummer
The historic old town. Best in summer as the proximity to the Citadel and museums makes morning sightseeing easy before the heat peaks.
Hamamönü
ModerateWinter
Restored Ottoman-style houses turned into guesthouses. Extremely cozy in winter with traditional tea houses and fireplace dining.
What to Pack for Ankara
Spring
Pro tip: Layers are vital as it can be 20°C in the sun but feel like 10°C in the shade.
Summer
Pro tip: The dry heat is deceptive; drink more water than you think you need.
Autumn
Pro tip: September is much warmer than November; pack a heavier coat if visiting late in the season.
Winter
Pro tip: Streets in the old Citadel can be very slippery; ensure your boots have rubber traction soles.
FAQs: Visiting Ankara
What is the best month to visit Ankara?
May and September are the best months. They offer the most pleasant temperatures, minimal rain, and the city's parks are at their most beautiful.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Ankara?
The low season of January and February typically offers the lowest airfares and hotel rates.
What is the weather like in Ankara in August?
It is hot and very dry, with temperatures often reaching 31°C (88°F). However, the lack of humidity makes it feel less oppressive than Istanbul.
Is Ankara worth visiting in winter?
Yes, especially if you enjoy museums and indoor culture. Anıtkabir looks stunning in the snow, and the city's museums are less crowded.
How does Ankara's climate compare to Izmir?
Ankara has a continental climate with much colder winters and drier summers, whereas Izmir has a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and humid summers.
Is there a lot of rain in Ankara?
Ankara is relatively dry compared to coastal cities. April and May are the wettest months, but even then, it is mostly short showers.
When is the Ankara Music Festival?
It typically takes place throughout the month of April, bringing world-class musicians to the capital.
What should I pack for a trip in October?
Pack layers. You'll need light clothes for the sunny afternoons but a medium-weight jacket for the cool evenings.
Does it snow in Ankara?
Yes, snow is common from late December through early February, occasionally causing minor travel delays but creating beautiful scenery.
Is it crowded during Ramadan in Ankara?
Ankara is a secular city but respects traditions. Some restaurants may be quieter during the day, but they are 'choc-a-bloc' during Iftar (sunset). It is not overly crowded for tourists.
Also Consider: Other Destinations in Turkey
Istanbul
Istanbul offers a more humid, coastal climate with a year-round bustling atmosphere compared to Ankara's more regulated, continental seasonal shifts.
Izmir
While Ankara offers Anatolian history and winter snow, Izmir provides a mild Mediterranean climate and a vibrant beach scene during the summer months.
United Travels
Want to visit Ankara,
but still have questions?
Leave a request and our team will help you plan the perfect trip from Halifax, Atlantic Canada, or anywhere across Canada to Ankara.
UNITED TRAVELS