Private Tour of the Hittite Sites

Traveling through Turkey, especially for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts, often means enjoying layers of civilizations that shaped the region. The Private Tour of the Hittite Sites offers just that—an opportunity to explore the remnants of one of Anatolia’s earliest and most influential civilizations. This full-day excursion takes you from Ankara, the modern capital, into the rugged, mountainous heartland of the Hittites, visiting iconic archaeological sites like Yazilikaya and Hattusas.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it’s private, meaning you’ll enjoy personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide and a flexible pace that suits your interests. The drive through scenic landscapes adds to the journey, and the well-curated stops mean you get a solid overview of the Hittite empire’s key sites. However, with a cost of $500 per person, it’s an investment—though one that many find worthwhile given the exclusivity and depth of experience.

This tour is perfect for history lovers, cultural explorers, and anyone eager to see the ancient ruins that predate many well-known civilizations. On the flip side, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a more relaxed, less structured approach, this might feel a bit intensive. Nevertheless, for those keen on uncovering Anatolia’s ancient secrets, this is a rewarding choice.

Key Points:

• Personalized Experience: Private guide ensures tailored insights and flexibility.
• Cultural & Historical Depth: Visits to Yazilikaya and Hattusas reveal ancient Hittite religion and architecture.
• Scenic Journey: The drive through Turkey’s beautiful landscape enhances the adventure.
• Comprehensive Sites: Includes iconic landmarks like Lions Gate, Kings Gate, and the Grand Temple.
• Full-Day Excursion: Around 11 hours, making for a thorough, immersive day.
• Value for Enthusiasts: Includes transport, guide, and admission tickets, offering good value for a specialized archaeological trip.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Trip

Starting Off: Early Morning Departure

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am from your hotel in Ankara. We loved that the experience begins with hotel pickup, relieving travelers of the hassle of navigating to a meeting point early in the day. The drive lasts approximately three hours, covering about 208 kilometers through Turkey’s striking landscape—think rolling hills, lush valleys, and scattered rural villages—setting a picturesque scene for the day ahead.

Yazilikaya: An Open-Air Sanctuary

Our first major stop was Yazilikaya, an open-air religious site that translates to “inscribed rock.” This site is a real highlight. You’ll walk through a natural rocky area adorned with reliefs of Hittite gods and goddesses, carved into the stone over 3,000 years ago. The reliefs are captivating, especially when bathed in the morning sunlight, which our guide noted as a particularly atmospheric time to visit.

The review from Suzanne_L captures this well: “Most memorable was leaving a temple through a tunnel and climbing a high stone staircase to re-enter.” The site offers a peaceful, almost mystical vibe, enhanced by the natural surroundings. Admission is included, so you just need your camera and curiosity.

Lunch Break: A Taste of Local Flavors

After exploring Yazilikaya, the group drives to a nearby town for lunch. The included meal provides a chance to sample local Turkish dishes, which we found to be simple but flavorful. The small local restaurants offer a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for recharging before the afternoon’s explorations.

Hattusas: The Heart of the Hittite Empire

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Hattusas, the ancient capital of the Hittites. This sprawling archaeological site is packed with history and impressive ruins. Highlights include the Lion’s Gate, a massive stone entrance decorated with carved lions, and the Kings Gate, which is smaller but equally significant. The Grand Temple remains an evocative reminder of the religious practices of the time.

The site is large and spread out, but the tour includes a vehicle for moving efficiently from one key feature to another—something many travelers appreciate, especially when covering significant ground like this.

Suzanne’s review mentions, “Hattusas is a large, spread out site. We were able to drive from one feature to the next,” which underscores the convenience of the guided tour, making the experience less physically demanding. We also loved the chance to see the tunnel and climb the high stone staircase—things that really bring the ruins to life.

Final Highlights & Return to Ankara

After a full day of exploring, the tour wraps up with a leisurely drive back to Ankara, expected to arrive around early evening. The full itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing for breaks and photos along the way, making it a well-balanced day.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable local guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned minivan—making the day comfortable and hassle-free. Tickets to the sites are also covered, so you won’t have to fuss over additional costs during the day.

Food and drinks are not included, apart from the provided lunch, so plan to bring some snacks or water for the journey. The tour is suitable for most travelers but isn’t recommended for children under four or for those with mobility issues, given the walking and climbing involved.

The tour operates daily, with a start time of 9:00 am, and can be booked about 54 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Cancellation policies are flexible, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours prior.

Authentic Traveler Insights

We found that the personalized nature of this tour really shines through. The guide’s detailed explanations and friendly demeanor helped bring the ruins to life. Suzanne_L appreciated the “very personable” driver and guide, noting the new air-conditioned vehicle was a comfort on the warm day.

The ability to drive between features made Hattusas more accessible, especially considering its size. The tour’s structure allows for a relaxed pace, so you can take your time at each stop and soak in the views and history without feeling rushed.

The highlight, according to reviews, is the stunning scenery and impressive ruins, combined with the chance to learn about the Hittite religion and architecture. The tour’s emphasis on key sites like Yazilikaya’s reliefs and Hattusas’ gates offers a well-rounded glimpse of this ancient civilization.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This private guided experience offers excellent value for those with a keen interest in ancient civilizations and archaeological sites. The inclusion of transportation, guide, and entrance fees means you get a comprehensive day without worrying about extra costs. The personalized approach ensures your questions are answered, and your interests catered to.

The scenic drive and stops at stunning ruins make this a memorable outing, especially for travelers wanting more than just a quick glance at history. If you enjoy walking through history with a knowledgeable guide, this trip delivers in spades.

However, be prepared for a full day out — it’s approximately 11 hours — so comfortable shoes, water, and a camera are musts. The tour’s exclusivity also means it’s better suited for those who prefer a tailored experience over crowded group trips.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Ideal for history enthusiasts, archaeology fans, and those eager to see the heartland of the Hittite Empire. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a private, guided experience and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves. It suits those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Not recommended for very young children or travelers with mobility issues, given the walking and climbing involved. If you’re up for a day of exploring ancient ruins and soaking in scenic views, this tour offers a meaningful and memorable way to connect with Turkey’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the drive from Ankara to Hattusas?
The drive takes about three hours, covering roughly 208 kilometers through Turkey’s scenic landscape.

Are site entrance tickets included?
Yes, admission to Yazilikaya and Hattusas is included in the tour price.

What’s the best time to visit Yazilikaya?
Visiting in the morning when sunlight hits the reliefs creates a more atmospheric experience, as noted in reviews.

Is food provided during the tour?
Lunch is included, but snacks or drinks aren’t, so plan accordingly.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for children aged four and under.

What should I bring along?
Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera are advised for exploring the sites.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adjust the pace or focus if desired, within the planned schedule.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for booking.

Is this tour suitable for history buffs?
Absolutely. It provides a deep dive into the Hittite civilization with expert guiding and access to key archaeological sites.

This Private Tour of the Hittite Sites from Ankara offers a rare chance to walk through the remains of an ancient civilization that once rivaled Egypt and Assyria. The combination of scenic drives, expert guiding, and exclusive access to the ruins makes it a worthwhile investment for those passionate about history and archaeology.

Travelers who value a personalized experience, want to maximize their day with minimal hassle, and love discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures will find this tour particularly rewarding. The stunning views, impressive ruins, and in-depth storytelling promise a memorable journey—one that stays with you long after you’ve left Turkey’s ancient heartland.

Whether you’re a dedicated history lover or a curious traveler eager to uncover Anatolia’s roots, this tour bridges the gap between the past and present beautifully. It’s a comprehensive, thoughtfully curated experience that brings the grandeur of the Hittite Empire into your own story of travel.