For those exploring things to do in Ankara, few places capture the city’s modern identity quite like CerModern. It is more than a museum; it is a lively cultural centre where art, architecture, and social life come together.
Located between historic districts and the city's modern neighbourhoods, it appeals to seasoned art lovers and casual visitors alike. You do not need a deep understanding of contemporary art to enjoy your time here. Many travellers come to the open courtyard, stay for coffee, and end up discovering an exhibition or event by chance.
For international travellers seeking the modern art of Ankara or domestic vacationers interested in Turkish contemporary art, CerModern provides an accessible and rewarding experience. It fits naturally into a city break and adds a creative pause to any itinerary.
History of CerModern – From Railway Sheds to Cultural Landmark
The history of CerModern begins in the early years of the Turkish Republic, when Ankara transformed from a modest Anatolian town into a modern capital. In the 1920s, the railway played a crucial role in this transformation.
Originally built as railway maintenance and repair sheds, CerModern supported Ankara's rapidly expanding urban infrastructure. Over time, as railway technology evolved and the area’s function declined, the complex gradually lost its original purpose. But rather than erasing this layer of history, the city chose to retain the original structures. The team carefully restored the steel skeletons while introducing modern materials, climate control, and lighting systems suitable for art display.
The raw industrial character gives CerModern a distinctive atmosphere that differs from purpose-built museums. The structure is full of memories and stands out as a powerful example of how the city honours its past while embracing contemporary creativity.
In 2025, CerModern marked a major milestone. The museum celebrated its 15th anniversary with a specially curated programme of exhibitions and sustainability-focused art projects.
What CerModern Offers Its Visitors
The strength of this creative space lies in variety and constant renewal, ensuring no two visits feel the same. Here is what CerModern offers its visitors:
Exhibitions
The main galleries host rotating contemporary art exhibitions featuring works by Turkish and international artists, such as Ergin İnan, Claude Monet and Paul Cézanne. Displays range from photography and painting to large-scale installations and digital works. CerModern regularly changes its exhibitions, and curatorial themes often reflect social change, urban life, and global cultural dialogue.
Events and Performances
The facility often hosts events such as artist talks, panel discussions, film screenings, concerts, and seasonal festivals. Evening programmes attract a diverse audience and create a lively, social atmosphere that feels welcoming. Visitors who enjoy cultural exchange and contemporary ideas find many events especially engaging, as they foster dialogue between artists and audiences.
Workshops and Educational Programmes
Workshops and educational programmes at CerModern cater to both adults and children. These hands-on sessions are accessible for families, students, and travellers seeking interactive cultural experiences. From introductory art workshops to themed creative sessions, you can simply connect with contemporary art on a more personal level.
Courtyard and Café
The open courtyard plays a central role in CerModern’s appeal. During warmer months, it hosts outdoor screenings, performances, and temporary installations that bring the space to life. This calm spot for lunch or coffee is a popular meeting point to enjoy a relaxed cultural setting.
Practical Information for Visitors
Planning a visit to CerModern is straightforward, thanks to its clear layout and well-organised visitor facilities. The centre accommodates both short visits and longer cultural stops without feeling rushed.
Public Facilities
A well-regarded café, a museum shop, a library, and quiet seating areas await you. These facilities encourage you to stay longer and enjoy the atmosphere a little longer.
The thoughtful layout and practical features make it a relaxed cultural stop, equally suited to short visits and longer, more leisurely explorations of Ankara’s contemporary art scene.
Opening Hours
CerModern's opening hours for the exhibition halls and the museum shop are 10:00 to 19:00, Tuesday through Sunday, with the venue closed on Mondays.
CaféModern operates from 10:00 to 20:00 on the same days. As for the library, it is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00.
On days with special exhibitions or evening events, opening hours may extend, allowing visitors to come after sightseeing or business meetings.
Tickets and Entry
CerModern ticket prices vary based on the exhibition programme and scheduled events. The Salon Exhibition fee is 120 Turkish lira (TRY) at full price and 90 TRY at the discounted rate. As for the Flow Digital Exhibition, the entrance fee is 300 TRY, and 200 TRY at a discounted price.
Groups of more than 20 individuals receive a special discount, with admission free for people with disabilities and children under 7.
Furthermore, selected events, talks, or outdoor activities may be free, adding extra value for visitors.
Note: Prices are subject to change; visitors are advised to check the official website before visiting.
How Long to Plan for Your Visit
Most people spend between 1.5 and 3 hours on site. Those focusing on a single exhibition may move more quickly. In contrast, others choose to combine gallery visits with time in the courtyard or café, turning the experience into a relaxed half-day stop.
Accessibility and Comfort
The centre is fully accessible, with step-free access, ramps, lifts, and adapted facilities throughout. Clear signage and spacious interiors make navigation easy for all guests.
Moreover, guided tours are available exclusively for groups. For more information, please contact the official representative at 0312 310 00 00 / 136, or visit the official CerModern website.
How to Get to CerModern
CerModern is located in Ankara, close to the Sıhhiye district, an area well known for its transport connections and proximity to key city landmarks. Its convenient location makes it an easy destination for both leisure travellers and businesspeople with limited time.
Several public transport options sit close to the museum, making arrival straightforward even for first-time visitors. The centre is within walking distance of the Sıhhiye metro station, which connects easily with other parts of the city. Maltepe station is also nearby.
In addition, multiple city bus routes serve Celal Bayar Boulevard and surrounding streets, providing frequent service from Kızılay, Ulus, and other central districts. Gençlik Parkı and Adliye bus stops are the most convenient to get off at. This dense transport network allows guests to reach the destination quickly without complex transfers or planning.
Taxis are widely available throughout the city and provide a quick and direct route to the entrance. Those who travel by car will find open-air parking on site.
CerModern as Part of an Ankara Itinerary
For tourists exploring the city on foot, CerModern fits naturally into a wider sightseeing route. It can be easily combined with nearby attractions such as Gençlik Park or the historic Ulus area, making it a convenient cultural stop within a full day of exploring Ankara.
It works particularly well as a daytime cultural highlight, especially when paired with nearby museums or green spaces. From here, it is easy to continue toward nearby museums, parks, or shopping districts without needing additional transportation.
For city-break visitors, evening programmes provide a refined way to experience Ankara’s cultural scene beyond standard sightseeing hours. Film screenings, talks, and performances provide an atmospheric way to experience the city after sightseeing hours. Business and corporate travellers also benefit from this flexibility, as it allows them to enjoy Ankara’s cultural scene during a limited window of free time.
High-quality cultural tours in Ankara often include this location as a key stop. Whether planned as a central feature or a spontaneous addition, CerModern enhances itineraries by adding contemporary culture to Ankara’s historical narrative.
Who Should Visit CerModern?
Art and architecture enthusiasts are drawn to CerModern’s rotating exhibitions and distinctive industrial design, while first-time guests to the city gain a clear sense of Ankara’s contemporary cultural identity beyond its historic landmarks.
Families and students often ask whether CerModern is suitable for all ages, and the answer is yes. The centre’s open layout, workshops, and educational programmes make it approachable and engaging without feeling overwhelming. Younger crowds can explore creatively, while adults enjoy exhibitions at their own pace.
Business and corporate travellers frequently seek cultural experiences that fit their tight schedules. CerModern answers this need well. Its central location makes it especially convenient to have a high-quality cultural break during meetings or conferences without venturing far from their business districts.
Travellers may also wonder if CerModern Ankara is worth visiting even without a strong interest in contemporary art. In practice, many visitors come for the café, courtyard, or an evening event and discover the exhibitions along the way. This balance between culture and social space makes it a rewarding choice for those seeking a refined addition to their list of things to do in Ankara.
Best Time to Visit CerModern
Many people enquire about the best time to visit CerModern, and the ideal time depends on the type of experience they prefer. For a quieter, more contemplative visit, weekday mornings are ideal. The galleries tend to be calmer, allowing you to explore exhibitions at a gentle pace and appreciate the architectural details without crowds.
Late afternoons and early evenings suit travellers who prefer a more social atmosphere. This is when the courtyard and café become livelier and when talks, screenings, or performances often take place. Spring and early autumn are particularly pleasant, as mild weather encourages everyone to spend time outdoors and enjoy events in the courtyard.
For those planning a short stay in Ankara, aligning your visit with a temporary exhibition or evening event can add extra value, turning a simple museum visit into a memorable cultural experience.
Why CerModern Deserves a Place on Your Ankara Itinerary
CerModern stands out as a contemporary art museum that reflects Ankara’s evolving cultural identity with confidence and clarity. Its mixed industrial heritage, thoughtfully curated contemporary exhibitions and welcoming social spaces make it a valuable stop for both domestic and international travellers.
More than a place to view art, CerModern provides a way to understand the city’s modern character and creative energy. Tourists can plan their visit or discover the site spontaneously. At any rate, this visit adds cultural depth, visual interest, and a contemporary perspective to any stay in Ankara.