LOCATION

Middle East Technical University (METU) is one of Turkey’s most prestigious and highly competitive international research universities, consistently attracting the nation's top-tier academic talent. Recognized as a leading institution in the region, METU holds the top position among Turkish universities in eight out of nine evaluated fields in the Times Higher Education (THE) 2025 Subject Rankings, boasting remarkable global standing in areas such as Education, Social Sciences, and Engineering. Hosting over 25,000 students—including more than 1,900 international students from 93 countries—the university fosters a deeply global academic environment. Its extensive network of international collaborations, prominent research initiatives, and esteemed faculty provide an intellectually vibrant and innovative setting that perfectly aligns with the vision of our congress. 

Beyond its academic excellence, METU offers an inspiring and expansive campus environment that seamlessly blends nature with modern academic life. Spread across 4,500 hectares, the campus is defined by a magnificent 3,000-hectare forest that encompasses the beautiful Lake Eymir, offering a serene natural escape just outside the city center. The vibrant campus is supported by state-of-the-art amenities, extensive sports complexes, and the prominent Culture and Convention Center, which serves as a central hub for a wide array of academic, cultural, and artistic events. This unique combination of a pristine natural landscape and world-class infrastructure ensures a memorable and highly productive experience for all congress delegates.

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METU Culture & Convention Center

The METU Culture & Convention Center has a spatial and technical infrastructure that will enable all kinds of national and international congresses, seminars, meetings, conferences and cultural events to be organized. There are nine halls, two foyers and an exhibition hall in the center. The Cultural and Convention Center, which can provide all the functions in itself without the need for outsourcing, also benefits from the wide range of possibilities of the METU campus.

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Why METU Culture & Convention Center? 

Located on a campus that is away from the rush of the city, METU Culture & Convention Center has a perfect natural environment and all sorts of social and sportive possibilities. This venue is a center that contains all the innovations of technology, architecture and infrastructure. It has all the ancillary services in the same structure.

Credit Cards 

Visa and Mastercard are accepted in many places in Türkiye, including restaurants, shops, hotels, and online platforms. When using foreign credit cards, there may be additional fees due to currency conversion. It is possible to withdraw cash from ATMs in Türkiye using international credit cards. However, additional fees may apply for this transaction. 

Languages 

The national language is Turkish. However, many business and service employees speak English, particularly the younger ones. 

Visas

Please check the visa requirements for Türkiye on the website of the Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs for your country.

Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs Visa Information 

Electricity / Voltage 

Electrical sockets in Türkiye are one of the two European standard electrical socket types. The “Type C” and “Type F”. The electrical current in Türkiye is 220 volts and the frequency is 50 Hertz. Remember that you may need a travel adapter for certain electrical devices. 

Time Zones 

The time zone in Türkiye is Türkiye Time (UTC+03:00).

Currency 

Türkiye's official currency is the Turkish Lira (TL). While many places in Türkiye accept credit cards and foreign currency for shopping, cash usage is still common. The value of the Turkish Lira can fluctuate based on economic factors, inflation, and international markets. Therefore, it would be helpful to check the current exchange rates while traveling in Türkiye. 

Useful Telephone Numbers 

All Emergencies: 112 (all over Türkiye for Ambulance, Police, Fire, Coast Guard, Gendarmery, etc.) 

Forest Fire: 177 (all over Türkiye) 

Yellow Pages: 11818 or 11811 or 11880 (all over Türkiye) 

Tourism Info: 170 (all over Türkiye)

Ankara has been the capital of Türkiye since October 13, 1923. The city center of Ankara is the second most crowded area of Türkiye and among the first 40 in the world. It can be considered the heart of Türkiye due to its proximity to Türkiye’s geographical center and its function in Türkiye’s progress. On the other hand, Ankara is one of the places in Türkiye where several civilizations in history lived, such as the Hittites, Phrygians, Lydians, and Persians.

Ankara is famous with its very own breed of cat (Turkish Angora with one blue and one green eye), angora goat, rabbit, pear, honey, and it's grape called “Misket Üzümü”.

Transportation from International Flights

Depending on your flight, you may have to go through PASSPORT CONTROL and CUSTOMS INSPECTION in Istanbul or Ankara. If you go through customs in Istanbul, you will need to transfer from the International Flights Terminal to the Domestic Flights Terminal. Please ask before you exit. Airport personnel can direct you to the domestic flight terminal when requested. Check the direction signs.

You may need to exchange some of your foreign currency for Turkish Lira as soon as you arrive in Türkiye. Bank windows are available in both airports immediately before or after passport control. Exchanging money also can be done at the PTT, open 24 hours, at both airports. METU campus also houses several banks where currency exchange might be possible.

Ankara has a continental climate with cold snowy winters due to its altitude and inland location, and hot, dry summers. Spring and autumn are generally mild, but during both seasons sudden hot and cold spells frequently occur in the region.

In September, Ankara experiences mild autumn weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 15–20°C. Evenings are cooler, often dropping below 10°C, and occasional rainfall is common.

Ankara Castle (Citadel)

Ankara Castle, perched on a hill in the old city center, is one of Ankara's most iconic landmarks. Its origins date back to the Roman era, with later additions by the Byzantines and Seljuks. The castle offers panoramic views of the city and is surrounded by narrow, winding streets filled with traditional houses, small shops, and cafes. It’s a perfect place to explore Ankara’s historical layers and enjoy its authentic atmosphere.

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Anıtkabir

Anıtkabir, the monumental mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is a symbol of Türkiye’s modern identity and independence. Located on a hill in Ankara, the complex combines impressive architecture with a serene atmosphere. The museum inside showcases Atatürk’s personal belongings, documents, and exhibits about Türkiye’s War of Independence. It’s a place of deep national pride and a must-visit for anyone interested in Turkish history.

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Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Housed in a 15th-century Ottoman building in Ankara, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is one of Türkiye’s most important museums. It showcases artifacts from various ancient civilizations that flourished in Anatolia, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, and Romans. The museum’s extensive collection includes sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and tools, offering a fascinating journey through thousands of years of history. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and anyone curious about Anatolia’s rich past.

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Cer Modern

Cer Modern is Ankara’s leading contemporary art museum, located in a creatively repurposed historic train repair workshop. It hosts a wide range of exhibitions, from modern art installations to photography and design. The museum also features a cinema, a library, and a cafe, making it a vibrant cultural hub. With its dynamic programs and events, Cer Modern is a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in Türkiye’s contemporary art scene.

Website

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Hamamönü

Hamamönü is a beautifully restored historic district in Ankara, offering a journey back in time to the Ottoman era. With its cobblestone streets, colorful Ottoman houses, and quaint cafes, it’s a cultural gem. The area is also home to small museums, art galleries, and traditional Turkish handicraft shops. Visitors can enjoy local dishes at cozy restaurants or attend cultural festivals held throughout the year.

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