From its historic landmarks to its stunning parks and superb museums, Ankara City Center has attractions at the turn of every corner. Ankara City Center is the sprawling central district of the nation’s capital and second-largest city. Wander its wide boulevards and tree-lined side streets to discover traces of old and new Turkey.

Kizilay Square is the city’s gathering place, where crowds congregate for protests, rallies and live music events. Sit by the fountain and watch the busy action unfold and shop at outlets inside the glass-walled Kizilay AVM mall. Nearby Sakarya Street is a place for bric-a-brac stores by day and lively bars by night. Wander between upscale boutiques and chic cafés on Arjantin Street.

Travel north from Kizilay Square to discover exquisite art exhibitions at Cermodern and the State Art and Sculpture Museum. The Ethnography Museum is a treasure trove of folkloric Anatolian artifacts. Hamamönü Historic Area charms with its late Ottoman houses, bakeries and handicraft markets. Observe artists at work and purchase their wares at the Sanat Sokagi arts street.

Adorned with minarets and multitiered domes, the 24,000-capacity Kocatepe Mosque is among the world’s largest mosques. Another architectural masterpiece is the Anitkabir, the mausoleum of the Turkish War of Independence leader Ataturk. Study the symmetrical design, which features square columns and arcades. Delve into Ataturk’s political and military life at the Independence War Museum.

For a break from sightseeing activities, relax at pretty parks such as Güven Park and Kuğulu Park. Catch performing arts shows at the Ankara Art Theater. See Ankara from a bird’s-eye perspective at the 410-feet (125-meter) tall Atakule Tower. It stands adjacent to Atakule mall and rises above the colorful flowerbeds, green lawns and ponds of the Botanical Park.

Get to and around Ankara City Center via an extensive network of public buses and dolmus minibuses. The city’s two metro lines interconnect at Kizilay Square. Purchase the Ankara Kart for discounted fares on buses and the metro.