Discover Ankara's skyline from Atakule, a striking 125-metre tower in Çankaya. Opened in 1989, it is one of the tallest towers in the city. Atakule also offers breathtaking city views from its revolving restaurant. Dive into history and panoramic sights at this iconic landmark, a tribute to Turkey's heritage and a must-visit for an unforgettable view.
Atakule, a standout landmark in Ankara, is a cultural icon nestled in the Çankaya district of Ankara. Opened on October 13, 1989, this 125-metre tower was designed by architect Ragıp Buluç. It serves as a tribute to Turkey's modernity and architectural innovation. The tower was named to honour Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founding father of the Republic of Turkey. Its name consists of two words, 'Ata' meaning ancestor and 'Kule' meaning tower. The tower also symbolises the blend of historical reverence and modern progress.
Atakule offers visitors a unique 360-degree view of Ankara from its famous revolving restaurant, Sevilla, which turns completely every hour. From the restaurant, diners can enjoy panoramic cityscape views while enjoying their meal. The tower also features a static restaurant, Dome, and a café called UFO, adding variety to its dining options. Below the tower is the Atrium shopping mall, which is the first modern mall in Ankara. It provides shopping and entertainment, marking another milestone in the city's urban development. From its high vantage point to its deep cultural ties, Atakule remains a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Discover this captivating experience as part of Turkey travel packages, where modernity and scenic beauty converge for an unforgettable urban exploration.
Highlights
• Marvel at the iconic 125-meter tower Atakule, which defines Ankara's skyline and architecture.
• Enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Ankara from Sevilla, the revolving restaurant at the tower's summit.
• Experience unique dining that rotates 360 degrees every hour, offering a constantly changing cityscape.
• Shop at the pioneering Atrium, Ankara's first modern shopping mall, located conveniently at Atakule's base.
• Relax at the UFO café beneath the open terrace and enjoy casual drinks and light snacks.
How To Reach
- By Road: Atakule is located 6.3 kilometres from the city centre of Ankara.
- By Bus: Public buses such as Line 112 directly connect the city centre of Atakule. Alternatively, you can also avail bus numbers 408, 413 or 413-3 from Guvenpark near Kızılay Square and get off at the park near Atakule/ The journey typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes from Kızılay, the city centre.
- By Car: Driving from Kızılay, you would head north via Atatürk Boulevard, following the signs for Çankaya and then to Atakule. The drive is about 6.3 kilometres and usually takes 15 minutes in moderate traffic.
- By Metro: Ankara's metro system is efficient for reaching Atakule. From Kızılay metro station in the city centre, you can get to Kocatepe station on the M1 line. Atakule is 4.1 kilometres from there, which is about a 10-minute taxi or bus ride away.
Best Time To Visit
Atakule is a wonderful year-round destination for visitors. The observation tower welcomes guests in all seasons.
- Best Day of the Week: Weekdays are perfect for a visit to Atakule, especially since the tower is less crowded on these days. Monday to Friday visits ensure a more relaxed experience without the weekend hustle.
- Best Time of the Day: Late morning to early afternoon, between 11:00 a.m. and 02:00 p.m., is optimal. This timing avoids early crowds and catches the best light for city views.
Other Essential Information
Tips to Visit:
1. Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues at the entrance.
2. Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more serene experience.
3. Keep a camera ready for stunning photos from the observation deck.
4. Dine at Sevilla restaurant for lunch to enjoy the view with less evening crowd.
5. Allow extra time for security checks at the entrance of the tower.
6. Use public transport to reach the tower since parking spaces are limited around Atakule.
7. Remember, the observation deck can be cooler, so carry a light jacket.
8. Be at the revolving restaurant at sunset for a memorable dining experience.
Dine at the Revolving Sevilla Restaurant
Indulge in a unique dining experience at Sevilla, the revolving restaurant atop Atakule. As it rotates, you will enjoy continuous, changing vistas of Ankara while savouring exquisite Turkish and international cuisine. This restaurant completes one rotation every hour, ensuring every meal comes with a fresh perspective of the city. The menu features seasonal specialities and classic dishes prepared with the freshest local ingredients.
Experience Cultural Events and Exhibitions
Atakule often hosts various cultural events and exhibitions that reflect Turkey's rich heritage and contemporary art scene. These events are a great way to engage with local culture and history during your visit, adding depth to your experience of Ankara. The tower's event schedule includes art exhibits, music concerts, and seasonal festivals, often featuring performances by local and international artists.
