Ankara

Ankara Overview

Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:

1. Where is Ankara, Turkey?

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, located in the central region of the country. It is a key political, cultural, and economic center. Known for its historical significance and modern infrastructure, Ankara has a rich blend of ancient monuments and contemporary buildings. It is well-connected both domestically and internationally, making it an ideal starting point for travelers heading to other parts of Turkey and the world.


2. The Neighboring Cities and Countries of Ankara, Turkey

2.1 Neighboring Cities in Turkey:

Ankara is surrounded by several notable cities in Turkey:

  • Istanbul (west)
  • Eskişehir (northwest)
  • Konya (south)
  • Kayseri (east)

2.2 Neighboring Countries:

Ankara shares borders with several countries:

  • Greece (west)
  • Bulgaria (northwest)
  • Georgia (northeast)
  • Armenia (east)
  • Azerbaijan (east)
  • Iran (southeast)
  • Iraq (south)
  • Syria (south)

3. International Airports in Ankara, Turkey

3.1 Esenboğa Airport (ESB)

Ankara is served by Esenboğa International Airport (ESB), which is located about 28 kilometers northeast of the city center. The airport is the primary gateway for international and domestic flights to and from Ankara.

Facilities:

  • Duty-free shops
  • Restaurants and cafes
  • Lounges
  • Transportation options to the city center

3.2 Connecting Airports for International Flights

  • Istanbul Airport (IST): Major hub for international flights, especially those connecting Ankara with China.
  • Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Another airport in Istanbul, offering a range of international flights to cities in China.

4. Places to Change Flights from Ankara to China

4.1 Istanbul Airport (IST)

As the largest airport in Turkey, Istanbul Airport is a common stop for international travelers heading to China. Airlines like Turkish Airlines provide direct flights from Istanbul to various cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

4.2 Doha International Airport (DOH)

For travelers connecting from Ankara, Qatar Airways offers multiple flights to Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong via Doha International Airport.

4.3 Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Emirates Airlines offers convenient connections from Dubai to several Chinese cities. Dubai International Airport is a major hub for connecting flights to China, including cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou.

4.4 Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)

Another popular transit point is Abu Dhabi International Airport, which is served by Etihad Airways. This airport provides connections to major Chinese cities such as Beijing and Shanghai.


5. How to Travel from Ankara to the Main Cities of China

5.1 Ankara to Beijing

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours, depending on layovers.
  • Attractions in Beijing:
    • Great Wall of China
    • Forbidden City
    • Tiananmen Square
    • Temple of Heaven

5.2 Ankara to Xi’an

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours with one or more layovers.
  • Attractions in Xi’an:
    • Terracotta Army
    • Ancient City Wall
    • Big Wild Goose Pagoda

5.3 Ankara to Shanghai

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours.
  • Attractions in Shanghai:
    • The Bund
    • Shanghai Tower
    • Yu Garden
    • Jade Buddha Temple

5.4 Ankara to Hong Kong

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours.
  • Attractions in Hong Kong:
    • Victoria Peak
    • Star Ferry
    • Temple Street Night Market
    • Disneyland Hong Kong

5.5 Ankara to Guangzhou

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours.
  • Attractions in Guangzhou:
    • Canton Tower
    • Shamian Island
    • Cantonese cuisine
    • Chimelong Safari Park

5.6 Ankara to Chengdu

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours with one layover.
  • Attractions in Chengdu:
    • Giant Panda Research Base
    • Sichuan hotpot
    • Mount Qingcheng
    • Wuhou Shrine

5.7 Ankara to Kunming

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours.
  • Attractions in Kunming:
    • Stone Forest
    • Yunnan Nationalities Village
    • West Hill
    • Green Lake Park

5.8 Ankara to Chongqing

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 11-13 hours, with stopovers.
  • Attractions in Chongqing:
    • Yangtze River cruise
    • Chongqing Zoo
    • Hongya Cave
    • Jiefangbei Shopping District

6. China Visa for Turkish Citizens

6.1 Tourist Visa (L Visa)

To visit China, Turkish citizens need a tourist visa (L visa). The following documents are typically required for the application:

  • Valid passport with at least six months of validity.
  • Completed visa application form.
  • Passport-sized photo.
  • Proof of flight reservation (round-trip).
  • Hotel booking or itinerary in China.
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements).

The visa processing time is typically 7-10 business days. Applications can be submitted at the Chinese Embassy in Ankara or Istanbul.


7. Transportation from Ankara to China

7.1 By Air (Flights from Ankara to China)

The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Ankara to China is by air. Major airlines provide connecting flights through hubs like Istanbul, Doha, and Dubai.

  • Flight Duration:
    • Ankara to Beijing: Approx. 8-10 hours (with a layover).
    • Ankara to Shanghai: Approx. 10-12 hours (with a layover).
    • Ankara to Hong Kong: Approx. 10-12 hours (with a layover).

7.2 By Train

Once you arrive in China, high-speed trains are the most efficient way to travel between major cities. China’s bullet trains connect cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, offering fast, convenient travel options.

7.3 By Road

Travel within China is also possible by bus, taxi, or ride-sharing services like Didi. Major cities have extensive metro networks, such as in Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong.


8. Tour Packages from Ankara to China

8.1 Popular China Tour Packages from Ankara

Several tour companies offer all-inclusive packages from Ankara to various destinations in China. These packages typically include flights, accommodation, meals, and guided tours.

8.1.1 Beijing & Xi’an Cultural Tour

Explore the historical and cultural landmarks of Beijing and Xi’an:

  • Beijing: Visit the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
  • Xi’an: Discover the Terracotta Army and Ancient City Wall.

8.1.2 Shanghai & Suzhou Garden Tour

Enjoy the modern vibes of Shanghai and the classical gardens of Suzhou:

  • Shanghai: Visit The Bund, Yu Garden, and Shanghai Tower.
  • Suzhou: Explore the Classical Gardens of Suzhou.

8.1.3 Yangtze River Cruise

Take a Yangtze River Cruise, exploring scenic landscapes, ancient towns, and historical sites along the river.

8.1.4 Sichuan & Chengdu Panda Tour

Experience Chengdu’s famous Giant Panda Research Base and indulge in Sichuan cuisine and hotpot.