Tier 1Central Anatolia
Ankara
At a glance
Population
5,864,049 (2024)
Foreign residents
142,287
Universities
21
Cost (Istanbul=100)
75
Climate
Continental
Summer: 30-35°C
Winter: -2-5°C
Drier than coast. Snow common in winter.
Humidity: Lower than coastal cities
Cost of living
Relative to Istanbul: 75 (Istanbul = 100)
Monthly student budget: 10,000 – 15,000 TRY
EGO transit student ticket 17 TRY / student transfer 10 TRY. Gazi University canteen 40 TRY. Lokanta + groceries track ~25% below Istanbul.
Universities here
21 universities total
Notable: METU (ODTÜ), Hacettepe, Bilkent, Ankara Üniversitesi, Gazi
Daily life
Transport
EGO metro + bus network. Student transit pass available.
English environment
Higher in diplomatic circles + premier campuses; drops off rapidly in residential zones
Nightlife
Çankaya, Tunalı, Bahçelievler — student + diplomatic districts
Safety
Exceptionally high — heavy government and diplomatic security presence
Göç İdaresi wait
Significantly shorter than Istanbul
International community
Tight-knit — often organised via university societies and embassy events
Food
- Ankara tavası (slow-cooked meat and orzo)
- Ankara-specific simit
Famous for
- Anıtkabir (Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk)
- Ankara Castle
- Extensive parks
For students
Pros
- Exceptionally high safety
- Deeply established academic rigour
- Lower living costs than Istanbul
- Access to diplomatic networks
Watchouts
- Harsh winter climate
- No coastal access
- More bureaucratic, slower-paced urban environment
Practical
Airports: ESB (Esenboğa Airport)
Sources