Daily Hattusas Tour from Cappadocia

Explore the Ancient Hittite City of Hattusa with a Guided Tour from Goreme

The Daily Hattusas Tour from Cappadocia offers a well-rounded journey through the remnants of the Hittite Empire, a civilization that thrived over 4,000 years ago. Priced at $343.92 per person, this 9-hour full-day experience includes hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and visits to key archaeological sites such as Yazilikaya and the Bogazkale Museum. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 8 reviews, reflecting its quality and the knowledgeable guides leading the way.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts and curious travelers who want to explore Hattusa comfortably and with expert commentary. While the drive includes some foggy moments, the sightseeing and insights at the archaeological sites make it a worthwhile day trip. It suits most travelers, especially those eager to deepen their understanding of Turkey’s ancient civilizations, with group sizes capped at 20 people for a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $343.92 per person for approximately 9 hours, the tour provides a comprehensive day trip from Goreme.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes hotel pickup, transport, lunch, afternoon tea, and guidance by a licensed professional.
• Essential Stops: Visits to Yazilikaya, the Hattusa archaeological site, and the Bogazkale Museum highlight the historical depth of the Hittite civilization.
• Expert Guide: The guide offers detailed explanations about the UNESCO World Heritage Site, enhancing understanding of the ruins.
• Timing: An early start at 9:00 am ensures travelers maximize daylight for sightseeing.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Starting Point and Logistical Details

The tour begins at 9:00 am with hotel pickup in Goreme, making it convenient for visitors staying in the area. The air-conditioned minivan provides comfortable transportation throughout the day, ensuring smooth travel between sites. At the end of the day, guests are dropped back at their hotels, closing a well-organized and hassle-free experience.

Visiting the Heart of the Hittite Empire: Hattusa

The primary attraction is the Hattusa archaeological site, which was once the capital of the Hittite Empire. Set on the acropolis, the ruins include impressive carvings and structures such as the Lion’s Gate and Sphinx-like carvings. The pottern tunnel near the royal city walls showcases ancient engineering prowess. Exploring these ruins offers a vivid glimpse into the Hittite civilization, with guides providing context about their beliefs, rituals, and daily life.

Yazilikaya: The Open-Air Ceremonial Site

The first stop on the tour is Yazilikaya, a rock inscription site believed to be a place of worship. The reliefs of gods and goddesses carved into the rock walls are particularly striking, illustrating the religious practices of the Hittites. This outdoor shrine, which features fresh water springs, offers a peaceful setting to appreciate the spiritual life of the ancient civilization.

Discovering Hattusas’ Architectural Marvels

As the tour progresses in Hattusa, visitors see the carvings and pillars decorating the city’s entrances, including the iconic Lion’s Gate. The ruins allow for an understanding of the city’s layout, including the urban planning and defensive features like the pottern tunnel. The guide offers insights into the significance of each structure, making the exploration both informative and engaging.

The Bogazkale Museum: Artifacts and Context

In the afternoon, the tour continues to the Bogazkale Museum, which houses artifacts from Anatolian civilizations, with special emphasis on the Hittite and Hattusa remains. Exhibits include written tablets, stamps, and bronze tools, providing tangible links to the ancient past. The museum helps put the archaeological site into context, illustrating how artifacts reveal aspects of Hittite life and administration.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package covers lunch featuring local cuisine, afternoon tea, bottled water, and professional guiding. Transport is by air-conditioned minivan, making the day comfortable despite the early start. The hotel pickup and drop-off streamline logistics, preventing the hassle of navigating independently.

The tour excludes drinks, so travelers should consider bringing their own beverages, especially if they prefer specific drinks or need extra hydration. The small group size maximizes interaction with the guide, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized insights.

Pacing and Timing

Starting at 9:00 am allows ample time for each site visit, with the tour designed for a relaxed but comprehensive exploration. The stops at Yazilikaya and Hattusa are each about an hour long, providing enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The museum visit adds a cultural dimension before returning to Goreme by early evening, roughly 3 hours after the site visits.

The Experience of the Guide and Group Size

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially their ability to explain complex Hittite history in an accessible way. The small group size ensures more personalized attention and a comfortable pace. Travelers particularly appreciate the guide’s storytelling, making the history come alive as they walk through the ruins.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most travelers will find this tour accessible, a moderate level of walking is involved on uneven terrain, typical of archaeological sites. The early start helps beat the midday heat and crowds, but travelers should still prepare for warm weather and comfortable shoes. The drive includes some foggy moments, so patience during transportation is advisable.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Cappadocia

Unlike other excursions focused solely on ballooning or scenery, this tour dives deep into Turkey’s ancient history, visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site with guided commentary. The combination of site exploration, museum visits, and cultural insights makes it a rich day for history buffs and curious explorers alike.

The all-inclusive nature, with lunch, tea, and transport included, offers good value, especially given the expert guidance. The small group size enhances the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts on the Hattusas Day Trip

This guided tour from Goreme offers a comprehensive and well-organized way to explore the Hittite capital of Hattusa and related sites. The expert guide brings the ruins to life with engaging stories and detailed explanations, making this more than just a walk through ancient stones.

While the drive can be foggy, the site visits and museum provide a rewarding glimpse into Turkey’s Bronze Age civilizatons. This tour is especially suitable for those interested in archaeology, history, and cultural heritage. If you’re looking for a full-day, educational experience that enriches your understanding of the ancient world in Turkey, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers round-trip transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, afternoon tea, and guidance from a licensed professional.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Goreme in the early evening.

Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking and exploration on uneven terrain are involved. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy available if cancelled at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled start time.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and personal drinks if desired, as drinks are not included in the tour.

How many people are in each group?
The tour groups are limited to 20 travelers to ensure a more personal experience and better interaction with the guide.