Exploring the Hittite Heartland: A Detailed Look at the Private Tour of the Hittite Sites
If you’re curious about Turkey’s ancient past, a private tour of Yazilikaya and Hattusas offers a pretty compelling way to connect with the early civilizations that shaped the region. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, it’s clear that this experience appeals to history buffs, curious travelers, and those who enjoy a well-organized, personalized outing.
What really catches the eye about this tour are two things: first, the chance to walk through Hattusas, the once-mighty Hittite capital, with its impressive ruins and relics; and second, the opportunity to marvel at Yazilikaya, a stunning open-air sanctuary filled with intricate rock carvings. On the downside, the trip involves a lengthy drive, around 3 hours each way, so be ready for a full day on the road.
This tour is best suited for those who want an in-depth, private experience—offering flexibility and a guided narrative that makes history come alive. If you’re after a detailed, tailored exploration of Turkey’s ancient sites and enjoy learning from a knowledgeable guide, this might be just what you’re looking for.
<- Private and personalized service enhances the experience.
- Full-day trip offers a deep dive into Hittite history with visits to Yazilikaya and Hattusas.
- Comfortable transport and hotel pickup make logistics easier.
- Stunning views and impressive ruins make this a memorable outing.
- Cost at $500 per person reflects a premium, tailored experience.
- Suitable for travelers interested in archaeology and history, but not recommended for very young children.
What to Expect from the Tour
This private tour begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel in Ankara. The drive to Hattusas takes about three hours, but don’t let that deter you—Turkey’s landscape along the way is quite scenic, and the anticipation of exploring ancient ruins makes the journey easier.
Yazilikaya is the first stop. Known as “inscribed rock” in Turkish, this open-air shrine is a highlight. You’ll walk among massive rock reliefs depicting gods and goddesses, with the morning sunlight casting impressive shadows that really bring the carvings to life. The setting is atmospheric, and you might find yourself imagining ancient rituals performed here thousands of years ago. The site visit lasts about an hour and a half, and admission tickets are included, so no extra fuss about entry fees.
After Yazilikaya, there’s a chance to grab a quick lunch in a nearby small restaurant—nothing fancy, but a good chance to recharge before heading into the main Hittite city.
Hattusas is where the tour really shines. As ancient ruins go, this site is sprawling and full of history. You’ll get to see key landmarks like the Lions’ Gate, the King’s Gate, the Tunnel, the Citadel, and the Grand Temple. These spots reveal how the city was fortified and organized, giving a glimpse into its former grandeur.
The Lions’ Gate, in particular, is famous for its carvings—imposing stone lions guarding the entrance, a perfect photo opportunity. The Grand Temple and other structures will show you how the Hittites worshipped, governed, and built their urban spaces. Walking through these ruins is like stepping back in time, with the stones whispering stories of kings, battles, and religious ceremonies.
The guide’s insights typically make these visits even richer; they connect the dots and tell you what the cuneiform tablets found here tell us about Hittite society. As one reviewer put it, “most memorable was leaving a temple through a tunnel and climbing a high stone staircase to re-enter,” which encapsulates the tactile feel of exploring these ancient sites.
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The Practical Side: Logistics and Comfort
The tour’s transport is via air-conditioned minivan, which makes the long drive more comfortable. The fact that it’s a private tour means you can set the pace, ask questions, and linger longer at sites that catch your interest. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, removing the hassle of coordinating transportation.
Cost-wise, $500 per person may seem steep at first glance, but it’s important to consider what’s included: private guide, transportation, admission tickets, and personalized service. This kind of experience is often worth the investment if you value comfort, flexibility, and expert narration.
The tour lasts around 11 hours, so be prepared for a full day. It starts at 9:00 am, giving you ample time to enjoy the sites without feeling rushed. Keep in mind, it’s not recommended for children under 4, mainly due to the length and walking involved.
The Experience from the Reviews
What do previous travelers say? One person, Suzanne, left a glowing review, emphasizing the “personable” guide and “new AC vehicle,” which made a big difference on a long day. She also appreciated the ability to drive from one site to another, which saved energy and time. Her highlight? “Leaving a temple through a tunnel and climbing a high stone staircase to re-enter,” which hints at the active, exploratory nature of the trip. She also enjoyed visiting Yazilikaya and the local museum, rounding out her experience.
Another reviewer shared similar sentiments, praising the stunning views and the fact that the site is large and spread out, making the drive between features convenient. This suggests that the tour is well-organized and allows you to see a lot without the fatigue of walking endless distances.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience works well for history enthusiasts eager to see the actual ruins and monuments of the Hittite civilization. If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights and wants a private, flexible schedule, this tour is a good fit.
It’s also suitable for travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road in exchange for a tailored, premium experience. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer shorter, more relaxed outings, this might not be ideal, given the full-day commitment and walking involved.
The Sum Up
This private tour of Yazilikaya and Hattusas offers a solid way to connect with Turkey’s ancient past in comfort and style. The personalized attention, combined with expert guides and well-chosen sites, creates a memorable experience that goes beyond just sightseeing. The included transportation and flexible pacing are real plus points for those who value convenience and a tailored approach.
While the price tag reflects the private, all-inclusive nature of the trip, many travelers agree that the value is there—especially if you want to make the most of your day exploring these iconic sites without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The stunning views, impressive ruins, and engaging stories make it a worthwhile option for anyone with a serious interest in archaeology or history.
If you’re planning a trip to Ankara and want to get a good sense of Turkey’s ancient civilizations, this tour will likely check all your boxes. It’s a day filled with unique sights, fascinating stories, and the kind of personalized service that can turn a good trip into a great one.
Private Tour of the Hittite Sites
“We liked the driver and guide. Very personable. New ac vehicle.”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4, mainly because of the length and the amount of walking involved. Older children who enjoy history might find it interesting, but be prepared for a full day.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, transport by an air-conditioned minivan, and admission tickets to Yazilikaya and Hattusas. Food and drinks are not included unless specified.
How long does the tour take?
The entire day lasts about 11 hours, starting at 9:00 am. It’s a full-day experience with plenty of time to explore each site.
Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can ask your guide to spend more or less time at certain stops or include additional nearby sites if possible.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water, and perhaps a camera. Since it’s a full-day outing, packing light but adequately is wise.
What if sites are closed?
If any of the main sites are temporarily closed, the tour provider will offer an alternative site of similar interest, ensuring you still get a meaningful experience.
This tour, with its blend of archaeological wonder, personalized service, and scenic views, offers a compelling way to spend a day exploring Turkey’s Hittite past. Whether you’re a dedicated history buff or a curious traveler, it’s a trip that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories.
