Cheapest Flights to Ankara
About Ankara
Ankara, the capital city of Türkiye, is the country’s second-largest city after Istanbul, with a population of approximately 5.1 million residents as of 2024. Located in the heart of Anatolia, Ankara serves as Türkiye’s administrative, political, and cultural hub, blending modern architecture with historical landmarks.
The city experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer temperatures often range between 25°C (77°F) and 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F). The most pleasant times to visit Ankara are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and the city’s parks are in full bloom.
Esenboğa International Airport (ESB), located about 28 kilometers northeast of the city center, is Ankara’s main gateway for international travelers. Direct flights from major Saudi Arabian cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are offered by airlines like Saudia and Turkish Airlines, with an average flight time of 4–5 hours.
Ankara’s culinary scene reflects the diverse flavors of Anatolian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes like döner kebab, manti (Turkish dumplings), and gözleme (savory flatbread). The city is also known for ankara tava, a local lamb and rice dish. Turkish tea and coffee are staples, often served with sweets like baklava or lokum (Turkish delight).
Tourists in Ankara can explore a mix of historical and cultural landmarks. The Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, is a must-visit site and a symbol of modern Türkiye. The Museum of Anatolian Civilizations houses an extensive collection of artifacts that trace the region’s history back to the Bronze Age. The Roman Temple of Augustus and the Hacı Bayram Mosque reflect the city’s ancient and Ottoman heritage.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Atatürk Forest Farm and Zoo offers a green retreat within the city, while Eymir Lake, located just outside Ankara, is popular for picnics, cycling, and rowing. The city’s numerous parks, such as Gençlik Parkı and Seğmenler Park, provide tranquil spots for relaxation and social gatherings.
Saudi Arabian citizens can visit Türkiye visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism and business purposes. Travelers must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date. It’s advisable to confirm entry requirements prior to travel, as policies can change.
Transportation to Ankara City Center from Airport
Ankara Esenboğa Airport
You can get to Ankara’s central locations like Kızılay, AŞTİ, Gar, Sıhhiye and Ulus from the capital’s only airport Esenboğa Airport using Belko Air municipal buses, EGO buses, taxi, and personal vehicle.
You can also rent a car at Esenboğa Airport, which is located 28 km from the city center.
Belko Air
A service of the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality, these buses provide transportation between the airport and central locations in the city, like Kızılay, Sıhhiye, and Ulus. The 442/A and 442/K lines operate between 6 am and 12 am in both directions. These 45-passenger buses feature hostess services.
EGO Buses
The 442-3 bus line takes off at the terminal exits. While the line is infrequent it does provide transportation to AKM, Ankara Arena, Güvenpark, Ulus, and Sihhiye.
Taxi
Within the city taking a taxi is generally affordable but since the airport is located 28 km from the city center, getting to the city by taxi is a more expensive alternative.
Rental Car
Located in the domestic terminal at the Esenboğa Airport are 11 car rental agencies, including Sixt, Avis, Budget, Central and Hertz. You can rent a car to get to the city center; there are car rental agencies located in the city center as well. The city is easy to navigate by car when its not rush hour.
Airport Information
The Esenboğa Airport is frequently used by government staff and therefore features many amenities. Those awaiting their flight in the domestic terminal can get a quick bite to eat or some coffee at Caffe Nero, Ankar Café, Bus Gate, or Bufe Ic Hat. If you prefer local Anatolian flavors head to Tadinda Anadolu. Bomonti Brasserie is ideal for those interested in international cuisine. This terminal also has fast food restaurants like Burger King.
If you’re traveling internationally, the departures and arrival terminals have many cafes, kiosks, and bars. You can also enjoy some tax-free shopping at Duty Free after you go through passport control. Both terminals have souvenir shops and kiosks that sell general items.
