Private Tour of the Hittite Sites

Exploring the Ancient World: A Review of the Private Tour of the Hittite Sites

If you’re visiting Ankara and looking to step back thousands of years into Turkey’s ancient past, this private tour of the Hittite sites offers a thoughtfully curated experience. It’s a full-day adventure that takes you from the bustling modern city to the quiet, monumental ruins of Yazilikaya and Hattusas — two of the most significant remnants of one of Anatolia’s oldest civilizations. The tour is tailored to small groups or individuals, which means you’ll get personalized attention from your guide, making the experience both educational and flexible.

What I love about this tour are two specific things: First, the customized service that allows you to explore at your own pace, and second, the chance to see Yazilikaya’s open-air reliefs at just the right time of day, when the sunlight highlights the ancient carvings beautifully. A potential consideration is the long drive—about three hours each way—which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to spending a lot of time on the road. But for history lovers eager to see these legendary sites without feeling rushed, this tour strikes a good balance.

From the impressive rock carvings to the sprawling ruins of Hattusas, this experience offers a rare glimpse into the life of the Hittites, whose empire once rivaled Egypt and Assyria. Plus, with admission tickets included and a local guide who is personable and knowledgeable, you won’t have to worry about extra costs or navigating alone. It’s a day packed with history, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private tour means personalized attention and flexibility in visiting the sites.
• Yazilikaya’s open-air sanctuary features impressive reliefs of Hittite gods—best seen in the morning sunlight.
• The Hattusas ruins include important structures like the Lions Gate, Kings Gate, and the Grand Temple, giving you a comprehensive look at the ancient city.
• Transport is via comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, making the long drive more pleasant.
• The local guide gets high praise for being personable, knowledgeable, and helpful.
• Price at $500 per person offers good value considering the private service and included tickets.

Journey to the Heart of the Hittite Empire

This tour begins early in the morning with hotel pickup, usually around 9:00 am. The drive from Ankara to the Hittite sites takes approximately three hours. During the journey, you’ll travel through some of Turkey’s most scenic landscapes—rolling hills, rugged countryside, and quiet villages—setting the perfect mood for stepping back in time.

Yazilikaya is the first stop, a short drive from the main ruins. It’s an open-air sanctuary that showcases stone reliefs of gods and goddesses, carved into natural rock formations. The name itself means “inscribed rock,” which gives you a clue that these carvings were meant to be seen and admired. Many visitors find Yazilikaya particularly captivating in the morning light, as the reliefs are lit up in a way that makes the ancient deities seem almost alive.

Your guide, whose personable nature is highlighted by past guests, will walk you through the significance of each relief and explain how the Hittites worshipped their gods, making the site much more meaningful. Expect about an hour and a half here, including admission.

Exploring the Capital: Hattusas

After Yazilikaya, you’ll enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant—a good chance to sample some regional flavors and rest your legs before more walking. Post-lunch, it’s time for the main event: the sprawling ruins of Hattusas, the Hittite capital that dates back to around 3000 BC.

Here, the grounds are large and spread out, but your guide will help you focus on the highlights: the Lions Gate, a massive stone entrance guarded by carved lions; the King’s Gate, an impressive stone arch that once protected the city; the Grand Temple, where you can imagine ancient rituals taking place; and the Citadel and Tunnel, which reveal the strategic importance of this site.

Guests have raved about the ease of getting around — the site is big but manageable, especially with your guide driving you from feature to feature. One visitor mentioned leaving a temple through a tunnel and climbing a high stone staircase, experiences that give you a real sense of the builders’ ingenuity and the scale of Hattusas’ defenses.

With admission included, you’ll spend about an hour and a half exploring the ruins. This part of the tour offers a tangible connection to the world of the Hittites, whose cuneiform tablets and monumental architecture reveal a civilization that was sophisticated and influential.

The Value of a Private Tour

The $500 per person fee may seem high at first glance, but it covers all entrance fees, transportation, and personalized guiding, making it a hassle-free way to see these sites without the stress of logistics or crowds. The fact that you’re traveling in a new, air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly guide makes the long drive comfortable and enjoyable.

Many past travelers, like Suzanne, appreciated the personalized service. She noted, “We liked the driver and guide. Very personable. New ac vehicle.” The small-group or private format means you can focus on your specific interests, ask questions, and linger longer at points you find most compelling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs interested in ancient civilizations, photographers eager for stunning scenic views, and adventurous travelers willing to spend a full day on the road. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate personalized service and want to avoid the crowds of larger tour groups.

If you’re traveling with family, note that the tour isn’t recommended for children under 4, but older kids who enjoy archaeology and history tend to find it fascinating. Also, keep in mind the long drive—it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those who can handle a bit of road time in exchange for a rich experience.

Price and Logistics: Is it Worth It?

At $500 per person, this private tour offers a significant level of comfort, flexibility, and depth of experience. The admission tickets and transportation are included, so there are no hidden costs. Given the personalized attention and expert guiding, many find the price justified, especially if you’re eager to learn about the Hittites without feeling rushed or lost in crowds.

The start time at 9:00 am allows for a full day of exploration, returning to Ankara in the evening. The free cancellation policy adds a layer of reassurance, giving flexibility in case your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Yazilikaya and Hattusas provides a rich and engaging look into one of Turkey’s ancient civilizations. It’s a well-organized, comfortable, and informative experience that will appeal most to those with an interest in archaeology, history, and cultural heritage.

You’ll appreciate the personalized guiding, the stunning ruins, and the chance to walk where the Hittites once walked. The long drive is a consideration, but if you’re excited by the prospect of uncovering the secrets of the past, it’s a small price to pay.

For travelers seeking a deep dive into Turkey’s ancient civilization, this tour offers excellent value and an unforgettable day of discovery.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Ankara.

What is the tour duration? The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, including travel and sightseeing.

Are tickets to the sites included? Yes, both Yazilikaya and Hattusas entrance fees are included in the price.

Can I book this tour last-minute? You can, but most bookings are made around 54 days in advance. Confirmation is quick, unless booked within 2 days of travel.

Is food included? No, meals and drinks are not included, but there’s time for lunch at a local restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children aged 4 and under; older children and teenagers with interest in history will enjoy it more.

What should I wear or bring? Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Bring some water for the day’s journey.

What if the sites are closed? If any site is closed, an alternative similar museum or site will be visited, so your day remains full of learning and exploring.

This tour balances comfort, history, and personalized service, making it an excellent choice if you want to see the Hittite empire’s remains without feeling hurried or overwhelmed. It’s a trip that’ll leave you with vivid images of ancient stone reliefs, mighty gates, and stories of a civilization that once shaped history.