Ankaras Bronze Age Tour: Hattusas, Yazilikaya & Alacahöyük
Location: Çorum Province, Turkey
Country: Turkey
Rating: 4.2
Price: $1,283 per group up to 2
Supplier: Opatrip.comU.S.
When you think of Turkey’s past, it’s often the Byzantine or Ottoman eras that come to mind. But for those curious about the Bronze Age and the Hittite Empire, this tour offers a rare glimpse into an earlier chapter of history — right from Ankara. For a little over 1,200 dollars per group (up to two people), you get a full-day journey into ancient Anatolia, visiting four key sites: Hattusas, Yazilikaya, Alacahöyük, and the Alacahoyük Museum.
The tour runs about 8 hours, and with pickups included, it’s quite convenient. Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the chance to walk through Hattusas’ expansive ruins, where you can almost hear the echoes of chariots and priests, and the Yazilikaya carvings, which are striking open-air rock carvings that visualize the deities and kings of the ancient world. It’s like stepping onto a living history book.
One potential consideration is the tour’s length and pacing. It’s a packed day, with each stop lasting roughly 2 hours, so travelers need to be comfortable with a fair amount of walking and sightseeing. Also, the price might seem high for some, but when you consider that all entrance fees and transportation are included, plus a guide, the value becomes clearer — especially for those eager to explore Turkey’s ancient past in depth.
This tour suits history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable way to see some of Turkey’s Bronze Age treasures. If you’re short on time but want to maximize your understanding of Hittite civilization, this trip could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Historical depth: Visit Hattusas, once the Hittite Empire’s capital, and walk its ancient streets.
- Unique carvings: See the Yazilikaya open-air temple with its detailed rock carvings depicting gods and kings.
- Archaeological insights: Explore Alacahöyük, a key Bronze Age site, and deepen your understanding at the dedicated museum.
- All-inclusive convenience: The tour covers transportation, guide, and entrance fees—no hidden costs.
- Expert guidance: A professional guide helps you interpret the significance of each site.
- Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, making it easier to plan.
The Experience in Detail
Starting from Ankara
Your day begins with a pickup from your centrally located hotel or designated meeting point. The comfortable bus ride into the Çorum Province offers a chance to relax and get a sneak peek of the Turkish countryside—though most of your energy will be saved for walking and exploring once you arrive.
Hattusas: Walking Through an Ancient Capital
Hattusas is undeniably the centerpiece of this tour. Once the mighty capital of the Hittite Empire, it’s a sprawling archaeological site set amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. We loved the way the guided tour (about 2 hours) unraveled the story behind the crumbling stone walls, the massive city gates, and the impressive fortifications.
The ruins feel like a vast puzzle — some stones still bear inscriptions, and you can imagine the hustle of Hittite life from thousands of years ago. The guide, whose name and expertise lend authority, helped us understand the strategic importance of Hattusas’ location and its role as a political and religious hub.
Yazilikaya: Open-Air Rock Carvings
Next, the open-air temple of Yazilikaya (roughly 2 hours) provides a visual feast of carved reliefs. The site is famous for its large stone slabs decorated with deities, kings, and mythological scenes. We appreciated how the carvings give a glimpse into the spiritual life of the Hittites, reflecting their beliefs and divine kingship.
The setting is atmospheric—being outdoors amid nature adds to the feeling of walking into an ancient sanctuary. According to some reviews, the carvings are “amazing” and “truly evocative,” making Yazilikaya a highlight for many visitors.
More Great Tours NearbyAlacahöyük: Bronze Age Treasures
After a short drive, you arrive at Alacahöyük, a site that predates Hattusas by centuries. Here, the remains of a Bronze Age settlement tell stories of early Anatolian civilization. Guided for about 2 hours, we explored the mounds and excavations that reveal ancient houses, pottery, and burial sites.
This site is less crowded and offers a quieter, more contemplative experience. Many find it fascinating to see the roots of civilization in Anatolia before the Hittite empire rose to prominence. The site’s significance is reinforced by the nearby Alacahoyuk Museum, which houses artifacts unearthed during excavations — from intricately decorated pottery to stone tools.
The Museum: A Closer Look at History
The museum is a treasure trove for those eager to understand the artifacts’ context. It helps connect the dots between what you see on-site and the broader Bronze Age world. From small figurines to massive stone reliefs, the artifacts enrich your appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural complexity of early Anatolian peoples.
Practicalities and Value
The entire experience is built around convenience: transportation is provided, all entrance fees are included, and the guide helps interpret the significance of each site. The tour’s length—8 hours—means you get in-depth visits without feeling rushed. However, it’s a full day, so comfortable shoes and water are recommended.
The overall cost might seem steep, but considering the transportation, guide, and entrance fees included, it offers a streamlined way to see these significant sites. On top of that, having a guide’s insights can turn what might be just ruins into stories of kings, gods, and ancient life.
Who is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for travelers with a keen interest in ancient history and archaeology who want a thorough overview without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It suits those comfortable with a busy schedule and walking over uneven terrain. If you’re looking for a guided, educational experience that covers major Bronze Age sites in Turkey with convenience and depth, this tour offers good value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included, with pickup and drop-off from Ankara, making the day easier and more comfortable.
How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 8 hours, with roughly 2 hours allocated to each stop.
Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all site entrances are included in the price, so you won’t have to worry about additional costs on the day.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is designed for private groups, which allows for a more personalized experience.
Can I cancel the tour?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in your plans.
What language is the tour guide?
The guide speaks English, making it accessible for most travelers.
This tour offers a comprehensive look into Turkey’s Bronze Age civilization, combining archaeological exploration with the convenience of guided visits. It’s perfect for history lovers eager to see the remnants of the Hittite Empire and understand their place in ancient Anatolia’s story. Whether you’re a seasoned archaeologist or a curious traveler, this journey into the past will leave you with a new appreciation of Turkey’s multi-layered history.
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