Exploring the Heart of the Hittite Civilization with a Private Tour from Ankara
If you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations and want a meaningful day away from the city buzz, this Private Tour of the Hittite Sites offers an immersive experience. For around $500 per person, you’ll spend roughly 11 hours exploring two of Anatolia’s most significant ancient sites—Yazilikaya and Hattusas. Led by a personal guide, the journey includes comfortable transportation, personalized attention, and a chance to step back 5,000 years into history.
Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the customized experience ensures you’re not just following a large tour crowd but truly exploring at your own pace. Second, the stunning scenery along the drive and the impressive ruins make every moment memorable.
A word of caution: the drive is about three hours each way, so it’s a long day and might be tiring for very young children or those with limited mobility. However, if ancient history, archaeological marvels, and quiet, open-air sanctuaries appeal to you, this tour is a compelling choice.
This experience suits those with a genuine interest in history, archaeology, or Turkey’s ancient past. It’s especially ideal for travelers who prefer intimate, tailored trips over large group excursions, and for anyone eager to see the famous Lions Gate, Kings Gate, and the Grand Temple with a knowledgeable guide by their side.
Key Points
- Private and Personalized: Your own guide and vehicle make for a flexible, intimate experience.
- Full-Day Adventure: Covering Yazilikaya and Hattusas in one day, with time for exploring and a local lunch.
- Historical Significance: See key Hittite landmarks, including Cuneiform tablets and important gates.
- Stunning Scenery and Ruins: Enjoy the impressive rock carvings and expansive archaeological sites.
- Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and included admission tickets.
- Value for Cost: With detailed guides and a comprehensive itinerary, the $500 fee provides good value for an in-depth, private experience.
Exploring the Hittite Heritage: An In-Depth Review
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Setting Off from Ankara: Comfort and Convenience
Our day begins early, with pickup from your hotel in Ankara, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience. The transport is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan—an important detail for such a long day. The drive takes about three hours, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the scenic views of Turkey’s diverse landscape. Traveling between Ankara and the Hittite sites is not only practical but also scenic, setting a peaceful tone for the journey ahead.
The beauty of a private tour is the flexibility; you’re not tied to a rigid schedule or large crowds. Instead, your guide can tailor the pace, spend more time where your interest is piqued, or simply enjoy the quiet countryside.
Yazilikaya: An Open-Air Sanctuary of Gods
The first stop, Yazilikaya, is an open-air rock sanctuary famed for its relief carvings of Hittite gods and goddesses. The name translates to “inscribed rock,” and it’s perfectly descriptive—these carvings are both art and spiritual symbols. We loved how the morning sunlight hits the reliefs, illuminating the bas-reliefs in a way that feels almost magical.
This site is small but packed with significance. The relief carvings are impressive, depicting deities in poses that have endured for thousands of years. The open-air setting offers a peaceful moment to absorb the spiritual ambiance of the Hittite religion.
Your guide will explain the symbolism behind these carvings, helping you understand the religious practices and mythologies of this ancient civilization. The site’s natural setting, with its rugged rock formations, makes it more than just a collection of carvings—it’s a landscape that feels connected to the spiritual world.
Hattusas: The Capital of an Empire
After about an hour and a half at Yazilikaya, you’ll head to Hattusas, the ancient Hittite capital. Here, you’ll find a sprawling archaeological complex, with structures that date back to around 3,000 BC. This is where the Hittites stored their cuneiform tablets, and it was once a bustling political and religious hub.
One of the highlights is the Lion’s Gate, a massive stone entrance that is both imposing and beautifully constructed, with bas-reliefs guarding the entrance. The King’s Gate and the Grand Temple are equally impressive, each revealing the scale and sophistication of Hittite architecture. As you walk through these ruins, it’s easy to imagine how vibrant and strategic this city once was.
A particularly memorable part, highlighted by a reviewer, was walking through a tunnel and climbing a high stone staircase—these features give a real sense of adventure and physical connection to history. The site layout is extensive but accessible; your guide will drive between different features, saving your energy for the exploration.
Lunch and Local Flavor
Midway through the day, there’s a chance to enjoy lunch at a small local restaurant nearby. This practical detail provides a break, allowing you to try some traditional Turkish cuisine and discuss the morning’s discoveries. It also offers a quieter moment to reflect and recharge before the afternoon’s exploration.
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The Rich Heritage of Hattusas
Back at the archaeological site, you’ll explore further, visiting the Citadel, the Tunnel, and the Grand Temple. Each site provides clues about the Hittite civilization’s religious practices, military prowess, and governance.
Your guide will share insights about the Cuneiform tablets, which reveal details about Hittite laws, treaties, and daily life. These artifacts are invaluable because they connect you to real documents from over 3,000 years ago, offering a tangible link to the past.
Returning to Ankara
The day wraps up with a comfortable transfer back to Ankara, arriving in the evening. The long drive offers time to process everything you’ve seen, perhaps discussing with your guide or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Authentic Experience and Practical Details
This tour’s strength lies in its personalized approach. The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor, praised in reviews, make the experience engaging rather than just a sightseeing checklist. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially in warm weather, and the admission tickets are included, saving you time and hassle.
The tour is designed for most travelers, though not recommended for children under 4. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a deep dive into ancient history without the crowds or rushed schedules of larger group tours.
The cost might seem high at first glance, but considering the private guide, transportation, and the depth of experience, it offers solid value—especially if you value comfort and tailored insights.
What Could Be a Drawback?
The main consideration is the long drive—about six hours round-trip. While the sites are worth the journey, this could be tiring, especially for those with limited stamina or young children. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full-day excursions and are eager to explore without feeling rushed.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This private Hittite site tour is perfect for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy personalized experiences. If you prefer small groups, flexible pacing, and expert guides, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s ideal for those interested in ancient civilizations, religious sites, and impressive ruins.
It’s also suitable for those who want a comfortable, informative, and in-depth look at Turkey’s ancient past, away from crowded bus tours.
Final Thoughts
For anyone curious about the Hittite civilization—a civilization that influenced the ancient Near East—this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging, and comfortable way to see the key sites. The stunning relief carvings at Yazilikaya and the extensive ruins of Hattusas provide a tangible connection to the past, making history come alive.
The private nature of the tour means you’ll get personalized attention, ample opportunities for questions, and the flexibility to explore what interests you most. The experience’s value is heightened by the knowledgeable guide and the convenience of door-to-door service, making it a memorable day.
If you’re ready to walk through ancient gates, climb stone staircases, and stand among ruins that whisper stories of thousands of years ago, this tour will reward your curiosity with authentic sights and stories you’ll remember long after you leave Turkey.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4, and children under 18 should be accompanied by an adult. The long drive and extensive walking might be tiring for young kids.
How long does the drive take?
The drive from Ankara to Yazilikaya and Hattusas is about three hours each way, making it a full-day commitment.
What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, transportation by an air-conditioned minivan, and admission tickets to Yazilikaya and Hattusas.
Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. The sites are outdoors, and weather can vary.
Is the tour flexible in terms of timing?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the schedule to some extent, allowing more time at sites or for breaks as needed.
This private Hittite sites tour delivers a rare chance to see some of Turkey’s most significant ancient ruins in comfort and style. For travelers eager to connect with history beyond the typical tourist spots, it offers a thoughtful, well-organized, and rewarding experience.