Introduction

Traveling between Istanbul and Ankara can be a challenging task, with various transport options available. Each option has its own unique advantages and drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the most popular and effective ways to get from Istanbul to Ankara, including high-speed trains, flights, buses, and other alternatives.

High-Speed Train Option

The so-called 'high-speed train' between Istanbul and Ankara doesn’t live up to its name. Although it is labeled as a high-speed train, its top speed does not exceed 250 km/h. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and costs 475 Turkish liras (TRY).

If you are departing from Emin?nü or Taksim, your journey might look something like this:

Take a bus to either Atatürk or Sabiha G?k?en Airport Board a flight to Esenbo?a Airport in Ankara, which takes around 1.1 hours Add an additional 2.9 hours for road time, check-in, and terminal waiting to reach a total of approximately 4 hours for the entire journey

Alternatively, you could take a train from Kad?k?y to Ankara, which usually takes about 5 hours to reach the center of the city.

Air Travel Option

The fastest and arguably cheapest option to travel from Istanbul to Ankara is by air. Flights are readily available and depart from both Atatürk and Sabiha G?k?en airports. The duration is around 1.1 hours, with an additional 2.9 hours required for getting to the airport, check-in, and terminal waiting, making the total journey time around 4 hours.

However, the challenge lies in getting from Istanbul to the airports. For example, the journey from Emin?nü or Taksim to the airports can be quite long and requires several transfers.

Bus Option

A bus is another good option, and for those who prefer direct journeys, it is the most convenient. The bus service is excellent, and there are direct routes from Istanbul to Ankara. It is also the most budget-friendly mode of transport. The cost is lower, and the terminals are less crowded and dirty. Simply board the bus at one of the terminals and head directly to Ankara, with an additional 2 hours for the journey, making the total around 4 hours.

For those traveling to rural or eastern destinations such as Cappadocia, you can board the bus to Ankara and continue to Cappadocia. From Ankara, you can take a dolmu? (minibus) to Goreme or Avanos, where you can explore the underground ancient cities of Cappadocia.

Other Options

There are cheaper options available, but they are slower. Sleeper trains offer a good alternative for overnight travel. The cost is around 10 Euros, and it takes about 20 hours to get from Istanbul to Ankara, allowing you to sleep on the train.

For those who need a quick ride and don't mind sharing a cabin, ride-sharing services are available online. Taxis and dolmu? (minibuses) are also options, but they can be more expensive than buses and might be difficult to find.

Lastly, you can always choose to walk or hitchhike, but these options are more challenging and time-consuming.

Conclusion

Choosing the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Istanbul to Ankara depends on your priorities. If time is a critical factor, then air travel or bus services are the best options. If budget is a concern, then the bus or sleeper train might be the best choice. Whichever mode of transport you choose, enjoy your journey and arrive at your destination with the comfort you desire.