The options at a glance
| Mode | Duration | Indicative price | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|---|
| YHT train (TCDD) from Söğütlüçeşme | 4h29 on the train, 5h32 with connections | EUR 14 to 20 (economy, TRY 990 according to August 2026 press) | About one departure an hour |
| Plane (SAW to ESB) | about 1h flying, 4h11 door to door | EUR 34 to 45 (Pegasus, AJet), EUR 225 to 245 with Turkish Airlines from IST | Daily flights |
| Bus | 5h to 7h45 depending on the company, 6h35 from Esenler | EUR 15 to 30 | Varan, Metro Turizm, Kale |
| Car | about 4h10 for 442 km | EUR 47 to 67 estimated | Tolls on top |
The train: the simplest choice
YHT tickets are booked on the TCDD Taşımacılık site (ebilet.tcddtasimacilik.gov.tr) and are valid only for the date, train and seat shown. The departure station is Söğütlüçeşme, on the Asian side; plan the journey to the station from your hotel, notably with the metro and tram. Fares rose twice in 2026 according to the press: check the price on the day.
The plane and the bus
Pegasus and AJet link Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) to Ankara Esenboğa every day (see the link between the two airports). Turkish Airlines flies from Istanbul Airport (IST) at a much higher fare. The bus is mainly useful if the train is full; departures are from Esenler or Dudullu (Asian side).
Where to stay in Ankara
Most visitors stay near the centre (Kızılay, Ulus) for the museums, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, or near the station. Compare hotels in Ankara on Booking.
Before you book
- Station: departure is from Söğütlüçeşme according to Rome2rio; confirm the station and time on your ticket.
- Price: the base fare keeps rising; book early for weekends.
- Luggage: the train is more flexible than the plane for suitcases.
La rédaction Istanbul Authority
