Hamamönü Ankara
A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era district in Ankara, offering picturesque streets, charming houses, artisan shops, and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Hamamönü Ankara
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era district in Ankara, offering picturesque streets, charming houses, artisan shops, and a peaceful escape.
"A very charming place with a unique atmosphere, beautiful architecture, great restaurants and shops. It's a gem!"
🚶♀️ Wander Off the Beaten Path
Explore side streets for authentic finds and quieter spots away from the main tourist flow.
📸 Perfect for Photography
The charming architecture and vibrant colors make it a great spot for photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ottoman Era Architecture
Throughout Hamamönü
Wander through beautifully restored Ottoman houses, a picturesque glimpse into Ankara's past.
Artisan Shops & Crafts
Main streets and side alleys
Discover unique handmade crafts and traditional goods in charming local boutiques.
Atmospheric Cafes
Various locations
Relax and enjoy the ambiance with a Turkish coffee or tea in a historic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm, Skip the Crowds
Photography & Culinary Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander Off the Beaten Path
Explore side streets for authentic finds and quieter spots away from the main tourist flow.
📸 Perfect for Photography
The charming architecture and vibrant colors make it a great spot for photos.
Best Things to Do in Ankara for a 3-Day Stay
Is it worth spending a few nights in Ankara?
☕️ Savor a Turkish Coffee
Take a break at a traditional cafe and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
🛍️ Authentic Souvenir Hunt
Look for genuine handmade crafts; avoid mass-produced items.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander Off the Beaten Path
Explore side streets for authentic finds and quieter spots away from the main tourist flow.
📸 Perfect for Photography
The charming architecture and vibrant colors make it a great spot for photos.
☕️ Savor a Turkish Coffee
Take a break at a traditional cafe and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
🛍️ Authentic Souvenir Hunt
Look for genuine handmade crafts; avoid mass-produced items.
🍽️ Research Food Options
While charming, some find it hard to locate good, traditional food.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hamamönü is widely praised as a charming and atmospheric district with beautiful Ottoman architecture, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Visitors enjoy the picturesque streets, artisan shops, and cafes, though some note that the area can feel commercialized with mass-produced goods and high-volume music. Finding authentic, affordable food can sometimes be a challenge.
"A very charming place with a unique atmosphere, beautiful architecture, great restaurants and shops. Why don't they write about it in guidebooks? It's a gem, a showcase of Ankara!"
Magdalena Ziółek-Wojnar
"Must visit! Gives you a completely different vibe than the busy city and its atmosphere. Enjoy walking in all corners and stop by to eat something and enjoy the view."
Rawan El Adawi
"It was an interesting area, with nice architecture, and the good thing was that the castle and grounds were free and didn't require a ticket. There were a lot of traditional shops that were interesting to see, but there was nothing worthwhile to buy, it was just fun. But I couldn't find a good restaurant and went to the city center for lunch. This place was very suitable for photography."
Mohammad Baghban
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hamamönü is easily accessible from the Ankara city center. You can take a taxi, which is a quick and convenient option. Alternatively, local buses frequently run from various parts of the city towards the Ulus area, which is a short walk from Hamamönü. Some travelers suggest walking from Ulus Square if you enjoy a stroll.
Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of Hamamönü due to its historic and pedestrian-friendly nature. There are public parking lots in the nearby Ulus area, but they can fill up, especially on weekends. It's often recommended to use public transport or taxis to avoid parking hassles.
While both are significant Ankara landmarks, walking from Anıtkabir to Hamamönü is quite a distance (several kilometers) and not typically recommended. It's best to use public transport or a taxi to travel between these two locations.
The best way to explore Hamamönü is on foot. The area is designed for leisurely strolls, allowing you to appreciate the architecture, browse shops, and stop at cafes. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
Yes, Hamamönü is well-connected by public transport. Buses heading towards Ulus will bring you close, and from Ulus Square, it's a short walk. Check local bus routes for the most direct options from your starting point in Ankara.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry into the Hamamönü district itself is free. You can wander through the streets, admire the architecture, and visit the market areas without purchasing a ticket.
While the district is free to enter, some specific museums or restored houses within Hamamönü might have a small entrance fee. It's advisable to check on-site for any applicable charges for individual attractions.
Hamamönü is an open district, so you can visit at any time. However, individual shops, cafes, and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically opening in the morning and closing in the evening. For specific attractions, check their individual schedules.
While there might not be official guided tours readily available at all times, you can often find local guides offering their services in the area, especially on busier days. Alternatively, exploring independently allows for a more personal discovery of the district.
Hamamönü occasionally hosts cultural events, festivals, and markets, particularly during national holidays or specific seasons. It's worth checking local event listings closer to your visit for any special happenings.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire district is a photographer's delight! Focus on the colorful Ottoman houses, narrow cobblestone streets, traditional doorways, and the vibrant market stalls. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day creates beautiful scenes.
Early mornings offer soft, golden light and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoons also provide lovely light. Midday sun can be harsh, but it can also create dramatic shadows.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban and historical areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's highly unlikely that drones are permitted within Hamamönü. Always check local regulations before flying any aerial equipment.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm equivalent, is great for capturing both street scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the charming narrow streets. Don't forget a comfortable camera bag for all the walking.
It's polite to ask permission before taking photos inside private establishments like shops and cafes, especially if you're not a paying customer. Many shopkeepers are happy to let you photograph their wares if you show interest.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hamamönü offers a range of dining options, from traditional Turkish cuisine to more contemporary cafe fare. You'll find gözleme, kebabs, and various mezes. Many cafes serve Turkish coffee and tea.
While some restaurants can be tourist-priced, you can find more reasonably priced options, especially if you look for takeaways or explore slightly off the main thoroughfares. Some reviewers suggest that takeaways are a bit cheaper.
Finding a universally recommended 'best' restaurant can be subjective, as some visitors found it hard to locate good traditional food. It's best to wander, check menus, and perhaps read recent reviews on your phone for places that catch your eye.
While Hamamönü is more about the atmosphere, you might find Ankara Tava (a lamb dish) or Beypazarı Güveci (a slow-cooked stew) if restaurants specialize in regional cuisine. Otherwise, enjoy classic Turkish staples like kebabs and mezes.
Most Turkish restaurants offer vegetarian options like vegetable kebabs, mezes (like hummus, ezme, stuffed vine leaves), and salads. Vegan options might require specific requests, but are generally available with common Turkish dishes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open spaces and pedestrian-friendly streets are generally safe for supervised exploration. The unique architecture provides a good backdrop for family photos, creating lasting memories of your visit to this historic district. Look for small shops selling traditional toys or sweets that might delight younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't limit yourself to the main streets; explore the narrower alleys for unique perspectives and hidden gems. Capture the details of doorways, window frames, and the lively atmosphere of the market stalls. Be mindful of the crowds, especially on weekends, and consider visiting during weekdays for a more serene photographic experience. Remember to always ask for permission before photographing inside shops or private establishments.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the atmosphere, the architecture, and the street photography, which are all free activities. You can find reasonably priced Turkish coffee and tea at many cafes. If you're looking for souvenirs, compare prices across different shops and be prepared to haggle politely for better deals on handmade items.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ottoman Ankara
The restoration efforts in Hamamönü have been crucial in preserving this unique atmosphere. Many of these historic homes now house artisan shops, cafes, and small museums, allowing visitors to experience the past while enjoying contemporary comforts. The district is particularly known for its vibrant market stalls selling local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. While some reviewers note that many items are mass-produced, diligent searching can uncover authentic handmade treasures.
Beyond the architecture and shopping, Hamamönü offers a relaxed ambiance that is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the modern city. It's a place to slow down, enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee, and appreciate the historical significance of Ankara. The district's charm is amplified by its picturesque setting, making it a popular spot for photography and leisurely exploration.
Navigating Hamamönü: Tips for a Memorable Visit
When it comes to dining, while Hamamönü boasts numerous cafes and restaurants, some visitors suggest that finding truly traditional and reasonably priced food might require a bit of exploration. Don't hesitate to venture down smaller alleys or look for takeaway options, which can be more budget-friendly. The experience of discovering a hidden culinary gem can be as rewarding as the meal itself.
For those interested in photography, Hamamönü is a dream. The colorful houses, intricate architectural details, and lively market scenes provide endless subjects. The best light for photography is typically during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. Remember to be respectful when photographing inside shops or private residences; always ask for permission first.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit