What Is Kızılay and Why Visit It?
Kızılay Ankara is the central district of Turkey’s capital and the city’s main commercial and transport hub in the Çankaya district. The neighbourhood surrounds Kızılay Square (Kızılay Meydanı). One may compare it to London’s Times Square, where major boulevards intersect, public transport lines meet, and routine life unfolds in an unending sequence.
It is important to note that the area is named after the former headquarters of the Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay Derneği), which once stood here. As time passed, the title became synonymous with Ankara’s commercial, political, and social centre.
Today, visitors come to Kızılay for a glimpse into the contemporary beat of Ankara. Government buildings, shopping streets, cafés, restaurants, cultural venues, and various hotels define it. Additionally, the Kızılay neighbourhood is easily accessible by public transport from Ulus, Hamamönü, and Ankara Castle.
Kızılay vs Ulus: Old Centre and New Centre
If Ankara were a tree, Ulus would be the roots and Kızılay the trunk and branches. This is how Ulus and Kızılay convey two distinct symbolic cores.
Ulus preserves a deep history rooted in centuries of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman history. When tourists walk its narrow streets and historic mosques, they can get a feel of that accumulated heritage.
Kızılay, by contrast, is more organised, formal, and businesslike. It is where the modern view of the 20th-century Republic was fulfilled, expanding into commerce, governance, and contemporary life.
Together, they sustain Ankara’s identity. One nourishes from below, the other shapes what the world sees above the ground.
Can both be visited in one day?
Yes, travellers can tour Ulus and Kızılay in one day. The metro connects two neighbourhoods in 10 minutes, making it helpful to explore the Roman ruins in the morning and enjoy Kızılay shopping and dining in the afternoon.
A Brief History of Kızılay
Today, Kızılay Ankara is the busiest district in the capital – a whirl of traffic, shops, and people. But this bustling hub was not always here. Unlike the ancient citadel up on the hill, Kızılay’s history is shorter but entirely deliberate.
The 1920s: A Blank Canvas
Before the 1920s, the new Turkish Republic needed a new capital, and Ankara needed a symbol of its westward-looking future. So, planners started working on the new quarter. They called the new district Yenişehir – “New City.” The German planner Carl Lörcher sketched the first dream: a garden city of low villas, green spaces, and a monumental government thoroughfare.
The 1930s–40s: The Boulevard Takes Over
Hermann Jansen, another German, then reshaped the dream. His 1932 plan broke up Lörcher’s formal monumentality and drew a powerful, straight line through the city: Atatürk Boulevard. This spine connected the old heart of Ulus to the new presidential complex in Çankaya and made Kızılay Square a major urban intersection in central Ankara.
This is when the wide boulevard attracted more than bureaucrats. Bookshops such as Bilgi and Tarhan moved from Ulus to Kızılay. Students from the new university filled the streets. The boulevard became a stage for the afternoon walk. At Piknik Restaurant, near the Social Security building, Ankara's middle class tasted American-style portions and elegant living for the first time. Across the road, the Bulvar Palace Hotel hired a Spanish pianist, imported fridges from abroad, and hosted diplomats from the nearby parliament.
The 1950s–70s: New East-West Axes
The 1957 Yücel-Uybadin Plan was implemented. To meet the huge demand, the city filled every gap. The low villas vanished, replaced by concrete blocks. The famous Kızılay Square, once a gracious public space, gradually turned into a busy traffic junction. The green gardens of the garden city? Buried under asphalt and buildings.
The planners added two new east-west axes – Ziya Gökalp and Gazi Mustafa Kemal Boulevards. They carved up the remaining open spaces. Yet the square remained Ankara’s stage for protest and politics because people continued to gather here.
Things to Do in Kızılay, Ankara
Among Kızılay attractions and tourist highlights are important historic buildings from the early Republican era (1920s-1940s). Their architecture is a vivid example of the new Turkish capital’s transformation.
Kızılay Square
Let us start with Kızılay Square, a dynamic urban intersection and the area's main public transport hub. Today, it serves as a meeting point for locals and a gateway to the shopping streets. But in the 1920s-30s, its grounds housed the Turkish Red Crescent headquarters. We have mentioned this fact earlier. Although the original structure no longer exists, it gave the district its historical significance.
Güvenpark
One of the most recognisable Kızılay landmarks in the Kızılay Square area is Güvenpark. Republican urban reforms were successful, resulting in a green oasis in the 1930s. Today, it is a perfect spot to pause in the dense urban fabric. The 1935 Security Monument (Güven Anıtı) inside the park commemorates the early years of the Republic and denotes trust in the Turkish police and gendarmerie.
Ankara Palas
The next historical landmark is in Ulus, but we highlight it here because it helped shape central Ankara, including Kızılay’s growth. As you stroll through Ulus, pay attention to the Ankara Palas across the Republic Museum (Cumhuriyet Müzesi/Second Grand National Assembly Building). Completed in 1928, it was once a prestigious early Republican guest house that hosted diplomats and members of parliament.
Ankara Historic Ministries
Ankara historic ministries and major administrative buildings across the Kızılay–Çankaya axis were constructed in the 1920s-30s.
For instance, the Ministry of National Defence (Millî Savunma Bakanlığı) and the Ministry of Interior (İçişleri Bakanlığı/on Google map: Türkiye Cumhuriyeti İçişleri Bakanlığı). They are surrounded by the Atatürk and the İsmet İnönü boulevards and Milli Müdafa and Vekâletler streets. Both structures are more than one hundred years old. The year of establishment is 1920.
The adjacent Gendarmerie General Command (Jandarma Genel Komutanlığı) is also worthy of attention. What makes it really interesting for visitors is that it was built in 1839, during the late Ottoman period, at the very beginning of the Tanzimat Reforms.
The elegant Çankaya Mansion (Çankaya Köşkü) functioned as the official vice-presidential and presidential complex from 1923 to 2014. This landmark is closely associated with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and marks the southern end of the Kızılay–Çankaya administrative spine.
Kızılay Museums and Cultural Venues
Kızılay offers two landmarks in Ankara where culture tourists can engage with history and art. The Zafer Bazaar Fine Arts Gallery (Zafer Çarşısı Güzel Sanatlar Galerisi) on Zafer Square, north of Kızılay, operates in the historic Zafer Bazaar building. The gallery hosts temporary fine arts exhibitions, painting and sculptural displays, educational workshops, and public programmes.
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Zafer Square lies the 75th Anniversary Republic Education Museum (75. Yıl Cumhuriyet Eğitim Müzesi). It commemorates the history of education in Turkey and the reforms introduced during the early Republican era. Its halls include historical classroom reconstructions, teaching materials from different decades, archival documents, photographs, and textbooks.
Kızılay Ankara Shopping: AVMs, Street Markets, and Food Scene
Kızılay AVM
Perhaps the main shopping landmark in Kızılay, Ankara, is Kızılay AVM. This mall sits opposite Güvenpark, right in the heart of the district. Inside, visitors will find everything they would expect under one roof. These are some of the best fashion and clothing brands, furniture stores, and home and kitchen goods shops. Cafés welcome hungry visitors looking for a break. And the cinema is always a great option, especially when there is a must-see blockbuster on the big screen.
Ankara Streets and Turkey’s Book Culture
As you stroll north along Atatürk Boulevard from the city centre, be sure to make a short detour to the Zafer Bazaar (Zafer Çarşısı) in Sıhhiye. It was here that Ankara’s book culture emerged.
Over time, many bookstores moved closer to Kızılay. From the 1970s through the 1990s, this area became Ankara’s intellectual artery. Students gathered in nearby cafés to discuss politics, society, and poetry. Independent publishers and small bookstores flourished here.
Booksellers, such as Dost Kitabevi (est. 1977) and İmge Kitabevi (est. 1984), are continuing heirs of the tradition.
Kızılay Restaurants, Cafés, and Dining
The Sakarya Street and the nearby lanes feature seafood restaurants. Two restaurants to note are Besi Balık Pişirme and Can Balik. “Balık” simply means “fish” in Turkish. And at Göksu Lokantaları, they are said to have excellent chocolate and orange soufflés on their menu.
Much further south of the centre, on Alaçam Street 19, you can have a delicious breakfast at UN Bakery Tea and Coffee. “Un” stands for “flour” in Turkish.
Food enthusiasts will find numerous eateries along Ziya Gökalp Street and Tuna Street. There are also many great spots around Mithatpaşa Street, as you head south between Atatürk Boulevard and Mithatpaşa.
Addressed at 74/1 Bestekar Street, running parallel to Tunus Street, the beloved Laviniya Meyhane has built a loyal following. Guests often say they would give it “10 stars if possible”, and some even travel from Istanbul specifically to dine here. With a refined meze selection, fresh seafood, and a warm atmosphere, Laviniya Meyhane represents the more traditional, convivial side of Kızılay dining.
Vegan Food in Kızılay
What to eat in Kızılay if you are vegan? Tourists will find several amazing options within walking distance of the centre. At 49 Tunus Street, Junk Vegan offers plant-based versions of traditional Turkish dishes, serving authentic yet fully vegan food in Ankara. It is one of the closest dedicated vegan restaurants to Güvenpark, around a 20-minute walk from the square.
Closer to Kuğulu Park, three popular spots sit near one another: Vinni The Vera Witch, praised for its vegan desserts; At Eathica Eatery, guests can appreciate its stylish interior and international cuisine; and Terradan Vegan Pub & Muftar, where even vegan “steak” features on the menu.
Kızılay Transportation: How to Get There from Hamamönü, Ulus and Ankara Castle
Kızılay is Ankara’s main transport hub. Visitors can easily reach the neighbourhood from the following historic districts of Ankara.
From Hamamönü
If you are visiting the restored Ottoman houses of Hamamönü, walking to Kızılay is entirely possible. It is about 2.2–2.3 km away, which means a pleasant 30–35-minute walk. Visitors can choose between a few easy routes:
- Via Ziya Gökalp Avenue (about 31 minutes)
- Via Gevher Nesibe Street (also about 31 minutes)
- Via Atatürk Boulevard (roughly 34 minutes)
For those who would rather not walk, a taxi usually takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Optionally, travellers can walk to the Kurtuluş Station, take the Ankaray light rail (A1) to 15 Temmuz Kızılay Milli İrade, then walk 5 minutes to Kızılay in central Ankara.
From Ulus
To get to Kızılay from Ulus takes only a few stops. Municipal buses 278, 279, and 281 depart from the Ulus area (Hacı Bayram bus stop) and reach Kızılay in under 15 minutes, with short walking connections to and from the bus stops.
The metro is another quick and convenient option, connecting Ulus to Kızılay in just 5–10 minutes.
From Ankara Castle
For visitors starting at Ankara Castle, the easiest option is to walk downhill to Ulus first (about 15–20 minutes). From there, they can continue their journey by bus or metro. Bus lines such as 486, 195-4, 408, 439, and 446 connect the Ulus area to Kızılay from the Ulus Ziraat Bankası, with total travel time averaging 20–30 minutes, including walking.
Where to Stay: Kızılay Hotels and Apartments
Many Kızılay hotels are within walking distance of restaurants, cafés, shops, and cultural venues, reducing the need for taxis. The neighbourhood suits travellers who prefer accommodation in central Ankara, close to public transport and daily city life.
Accommodation options around Kızılay Square range from budget-friendly city hotels to comfortable mid-range establishments, appealing to business travellers and short-term visitors. Hotels such as Ickale Hotel, Gurkent Hotel, and Demora Hotel in Ankara offer central stays at moderate prices.
In recent years, furnished apartments and short-term rentals have also increased, particularly along streets such as Karanfil Street. This growth in apartment stays in Ankara is driven by rising interest in central living, student demand, medical tourism, investment, and business stays.
Is Kızılay Safe?
Yes, Kızılay is considered safe for visitors, particularly during the day and early evening. As Ankara’s central transport hub, the area around Kızılay Square is busy with commuters, students, office workers, and tourists throughout the day. The constant pedestrian activity, combined with a visible police presence near Güvenpark and metro entrances, contributes to a well-monitored environment.
Kızılay also hosts major government buildings and commercial offices, which increases security oversight compared to quieter residential districts. Streets such as Karanfil Street remain lively into the evening due to cafés, shops, and restaurants.
As in any large city centre, travellers should take standard precautions: keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas, be attentive near metro stations and bus stops, and avoid poorly lit side streets late at night.
Overall, Kızılay is one of Ankara’s most populated and actively policed districts.
Kızılay Ankara Walking Route: From Republic Square to Karanfil Street
Stop 1: Kızılay Square
Starting point
What to pay attention to while strolling the modern heart of Ankara:
- Heavy pedestrian flow – a true transport hub
- Metro entrances connecting multiple lines
- The commercial and political pulse of the city
- Spend around 30 minutes observing city life.
Stop 2: Güvenpark
Walk 2 minutes south from the square.
Designed in the 1930s as part of Ankara’s early Republican urban plan, this park represents the innovative capital vision.
Highlights:
- Güven Monument (1935)
- Early Republican monumental sculpture
- A historic gathering and protest space
Spend 15–20 minutes here.
Stop 3: Atatürk Boulevard – The Government Axis
Walk south along Atatürk Boulevard toward Çankaya.
Along this axis, you will see monumental administrative buildings such as:
- Ministry of Interior
- Ministry of National Defence
These buildings highlight early Republican architecture – symmetrical, solid, and influenced by European architects such as Clemens Holzmeister.
What to observe:
- Clean geometric façades
- Stone cladding
- Wide boulevard planning
Walk 15–20 minutes along this stretch.
Stop 4: Karanfil Street
Head back toward Kızılay and enter Karanfil Street – a pedestrian street where student culture pulses. It runs parallel to Atatürk Boulevard.
Historically associated with bookstores and intellectual life, including:
- Dost Kitabevi
Expect:
- Independent shops
- Cafés with outdoor seating
- University students and artists
Spend 20–30 minutes browsing and relaxing.
Stop 5: Human Rights Monument
Located on nearby Yüksel Street.
This 1990 bronze monument (İnsan Hakları Anıtı) became a symbolic site for civic expression and peaceful demonstrations.
Short stop – 5–10 minutes.
Stop 6: Kocatepe Mosque
From the monument, walk about 10–15 minutes southeast toward Kocatepe Hill.
Completed in 1987, Kocatepe Mosque is the largest mosque in Ankara and one of the most eye-catching landmarks in the Kızılay area. Its four minarets and large central dome can be seen from several points in the district.
Spend 15–20 minutes exploring the courtyard and interior (outside prayer times).
Optional Extension (30–40 minutes)
If you would like to extend the walk south toward the Çankaya district of Ankara, continue along Atatürk Boulevard toward:
- Çankaya Mansion
This area marks the symbolic administrative end of the Kızılay–Çankaya axis.
Whether visitors are searching for Kızılay hotels, shopping streets, museums, or transport connections, Kızılay remains the most strategic base for exploring Ankara.