The main arrival point for passengers travelling to Ankara by coach is ASTI, the Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal. The terminal has public transport and road links to every part of the city, and planning your onward journey in advance saves time, especially on business and student trips.
Getting from ASTI to the City Centre
ASTI's Ankaray connection is one of the most popular ways of reaching the central districts. Depending on where you are going, you can continue by metro, municipal bus, shuttle or taxi. Lines and operating hours can change, so check official public transport sources on the day you travel.
If you arrive early in the morning or late at night, it helps to work out connection times and alternative transport in advance. Inside the terminal, follow the signs and use only authorised transport points.
A Short Sightseeing Plan for Ankara
First-time visitors to Ankara can plan their visit around Anitkabir, Kizilay, Hamamonu and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, depending on their interests. The city is spread over a large area, so grouping nearby places into the same day cuts down on travelling time.
From ASTI to Kizilay on the Ankaray
The Ankaray station at ASTI links the terminal with Kizilay. Kizilay is the main interchange where the metro lines meet; from there you can continue by metro to different parts of the city. Depending on the district you are heading for, a municipal bus or a taxi is also worth considering.
If you have large luggage, a taxi may be more comfortable than the metro at busy times. Follow the signs inside the terminal; card and ticket sales points are close to the exit.
Half a Day in Ankara
If you arrive at ASTI in the morning and return in the evening, choosing places close to each other saves time. A visit to Anitkabir takes about two hours on average; afterwards you can stop for a meal around Kizilay and walk through the restored streets of Hamamonu.
If you plan to visit a museum, it makes sense to put the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and Ankara Castle in the same programme, as they are in the same area. Opening hours vary with the season, so check the latest information before you go.
Preparing for the Didim–Ankara Journey
- Pack a light extra layer and a bag with your personal essentials for the long journey.
- Check your phone battery and the address details you will need on arrival before you set off.
- If you are boarding along the route, confirm your chosen boarding point and time on your ticket.
- Look at the break and estimated arrival information in the journey details.
