Roberta Aguirre
Ankara Esenboğa Airport, located 29 kilometres from the city centre, is the sole airport serving Ankara, Turkey. It is the fourth-busiest airport in the country, having served over 15 million passengers in 2017 alone. The airport has modern terminals, top-notch services, and a sophisticated lounge offering 24/7 comfort. If you're flying internationally, you'll likely route through Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen Airport, which means clearing customs, passport control, and security before arriving in Ankara. Upon arrival, watch out for unclear signage distinguishing between domestic and international areas. The airport provides free Wi-Fi, and there are over 250 hotels in Ankara, with prices starting at $27 USD per night.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Ankara Esenboğa Airport |
| Location | 15.5 miles from Ankara |
| Distance from Ankara city centre | 29 kilometres |
| Transport to Ankara | Line 442 bus |
| Transport time to Ankara | 43 minutes |
| Wi-Fi | “ESB-Free-WiFi” |
| Title | “Best Airport in Europe” by ACI Europe in 2009 |
| Lounge | Designed in a plain, sophisticated style, offering ultimate comfort 24/7 |
| Check-in | Online check-in available |
| Visa | Check entry/transit visa requirements; carry a printed/digital copy of your Turkish eVisa |
| Trolley | Payable in cash only |
| Baggage | Check allowance with your airline; mix a few essentials between travelling companions' luggage |
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What You'll Learn
- Getting to and from the airport: Ankara (ESB) Airport is 15.5 miles from Ankara city centre
- Check-in and security: Arrive two hours before your flight
- Visa requirements: Carry a printed or digital copy of your Turkish eVisa
- Wi-Fi: Connect to the “ESB-Free-WiFi” network
- Food: Try local dishes like Ankara döner kebab, Ankara tava, and Ankara simidi
Getting to and from the airport: Ankara (ESB) Airport is 15.5 miles from Ankara city centre
Ankara Airport (ESB) is located about 28 to 30 kilometres (15.5 to 18.6 miles) north of Ankara city centre. There are several transport options for getting to and from the airport, depending on your budget and preferences.
One of the fastest ways to get to the city centre is by taxi. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal and the journey typically takes 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost of a taxi ride ranges from 200 to 250 Turkish Lira, depending on traffic conditions and your destination. It is recommended that tourists opt for pre-arranged taxis or airport transfers for their safety.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, you can take the Havaş shuttle bus. This bus service operates regularly between the airport and key locations in the city, including Ankara's main bus terminal (AŞTİ) and Kızılay, the city's downtown area. The journey takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes and tickets cost €3.40 (TRY 130) per person. You can purchase tickets onboard with cash in Turkish Lira.
For those who prefer public transport, there is a public city bus (line 442, also known as Ankara Air) that runs 24 hours a day. The bus departs every 30 minutes between 5:00 and midnight and every 60 minutes between midnight and 5:00. The journey takes about 60 to 70 minutes and costs 65.00 TL per person. Tickets can be bought from the bus driver.
Finally, if you plan to explore beyond Ankara, you might consider renting a car directly from the airport. Several international and local car rental companies have desks at the airport, offering a range of vehicles. This option provides the flexibility to travel at your own pace and visit nearby attractions such as Cappadocia or the ancient city of Hattusa.
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Check-in and security: Arrive two hours before your flight
Ankara Esenboğa Airport is a bustling airport with a unique entry experience for international arrivals. To navigate check-in and security with ease, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport two hours before your flight. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Check-in:
Online check-in is available for most airlines and allows you to skip the long check-in lines. You can access this service through the airline's website or app, where you may also be able to reserve your seat and print your boarding pass. If you prefer to check in at the airport, look out for self-service kiosks, which are straightforward and efficient to use. Remember to check with your airline to see if they offer this option.
Security:
In Turkish airports, you can expect two security screenings. The first is at the entrance of the airport and includes the bags you'll check in. The second is after passport control. At each checkpoint, you will need to pass through metal detectors and X-ray machines. Prepare for the second screening by removing any metal items, taking out your electronics and liquids for screening, and taking off your shoes if you are wearing boots.
Documents:
Have your passport, Turkey eVisa, and other travel documents ready. Double-check that they are up-to-date and meet the entry or transit visa requirements for your destination. Keep a printed or digital copy of your eVisa, as it is linked to your passport, but you may need it in case of technical issues.
Baggage:
Check your airline's baggage allowance and weight limitations to avoid last-minute fees. Mix a few essentials with your travelling companions' luggage in case one of your bags gets lost. Keep some cash handy, as Ankara's trolley system is payable in cash only. A Euro coin or 20 Lira bill will be useful for the trolley deposit.
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Visa requirements: Carry a printed or digital copy of your Turkish eVisa
Ankara Esenboğa Airport, located in Turkey's capital, is a bustling hub that served over 15 million passengers in 2017 alone. If you're flying internationally, you'll likely route through Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen Airport, clearing customs, passport control, and security before arriving in Ankara. Even if you feel like you're on a domestic journey when you arrive in Ankara, if your trip originated outside of Turkey, you are considered an international arrival.
When travelling to Ankara, it is important to be aware of the visa requirements. For most travellers, a Turkish eVisa is required. This can be obtained electronically and is linked to your passport. However, it is always recommended to carry a printed or digital copy of your Turkish eVisa, in addition to having your passport up-to-date and within reach. This is to ensure smooth entry and avoid any issues that may arise due to technical glitches.
To obtain a Turkish eVisa, individuals can apply online through the official website of the Republic of Turkey. The process typically involves providing personal information, travel details, and payment of the visa fee. It is important to note that the visa is electronically linked to the traveller's passport, and the status will automatically appear on the screen when the passport is scanned by the Turkish authorities.
In addition to the electronic link, having a printed or digital copy of the eVisa serves as a backup in case of any technical issues. This can include situations where the passport scanning system may experience temporary glitches or the eVisa status fails to display accurately. By carrying a copy, travellers can provide proof of their visa status and facilitate a smoother entry process.
It is worth noting that visa requirements may vary depending on the traveller's nationality and the purpose of the visit. For example, official passport holders may require a visa to enter Turkey, while ordinary passport holders are typically exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Additionally, individuals planning to work, study, or conduct research in Turkey may need to obtain a different type of visa from a Turkish embassy or consulate before their arrival.
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Wi-Fi: Connect to the “ESB-Free-WiFi” network
Ankara Airport (ESB) in Turkey's capital city offers free Wi-Fi to all passengers and clients. To connect to the Wi-Fi, follow these steps:
- Turn on your device's Wi-Fi.
- Look for the "ESB-Free-WiFi" network in the list of available networks.
- Select the network name to connect.
- Open your web browser. The airport's Wi-Fi login page should appear automatically. If not, try entering a URL in the address bar to trigger the login page.
- Read and accept the terms and conditions of use.
You should now be connected to the airport's free Wi-Fi network. Please note that the network may have limited bandwidth and speed, especially during peak travel times. When using public Wi-Fi, exercise caution and avoid accessing sensitive information or entering passwords unless you are using a secure connection, such as a VPN.
Ankara Airport, with its modern architecture and unique design, has been recognised for its excellence in operations and environmental innovation. The airport provides a range of facilities, including airport lounges, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, and nearby hotels, ensuring a comfortable experience for travellers.
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Food: Try local dishes like Ankara döner kebab, Ankara tava, and Ankara simidi
Ankara has a variety of local dishes that you can try. Here are some of the dishes you can taste:
Ankara Döner Kebab
The döner kebab is a popular dish in Ankara and the rest of Turkey. It is made of thinly sliced, seasoned meat that is stacked on a vertical spit and grilled. The meat is typically lamb, beef, or a combination of both. It is often served wrapped in a flatbread with various toppings and sauces.
Ankara Tava
Ankara Tava is another well-known dish from the region. It is a type of stew made with either lamb or beef, cooked with vegetables and spices. The meat is first browned at a high temperature and then simmered at a low temperature until tender. It is often served with rice or bread.
Ankara Simidi
The Ankara Simidi is a type of bagel or bread ring that is popular in the city. It is made from a dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt, which is then shaped into a ring, boiled in a mixture of water and pekmez (grape molasses), and finally baked in the oven. The distinctive feature of the Ankara Simidi is that it is coated in sesame seeds, giving it a unique flavour and texture.
By trying these dishes, you can get a taste of the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Ankara.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to arrive at the airport two hours before your flight to make your way through check-in and security with ease.
Ensure your passport, Turkey eVisa, and other travel documents are up-to-date and easily accessible. Check your airline's baggage allowance to avoid last-minute fees.
Online check-in is available for most airlines through their website or app, where you can also select your preferred seat. Keep a Euro coin or 20 Lira bill handy for the trolley deposit if needed.
The airport is approximately 29 kilometres from the city centre. You can take the Line 442 bus from the airport to Ankara, which takes around 43 minutes.
Ankara offers a range of sites to visit, including the Anıtkabir, Eymir Lake, and Kuğulu Park. You can also enjoy local specialties such as the Ankara döner kebab, Ankara tava, and Ankara simidi.
