• Day Trip from Istanbul
• Rating : Private

1 Day Trip to Hattusa and Alacahöyük from Istanbul

Embark on an unforgettable exploration of Turkey’s ancient heartland with this meticulously crafted day trip from Istanbul to the historic sites of Hattusa and Alacahöyük for the history buffs. This unique itinerary blends the romance of overnight train travel with the thrill of uncovering the mysteries of the Hittite civilization, offering a seamless and enriching experience. You can extend this package with our Cappadocia trips

Turkey Travel Itinerary

Evening Departure from Istanbul

Begin your adventure with an evening departure from Istanbul aboard a luxurious sleeping car train bound for Ankara. Settle into your private, cozy compartment for a restful night’s sleep as the train glides through the Turkish countryside. For a touch of elegance, visit the onboard restaurant car to enjoy a meal or a drink while mingling with fellow travelers. Arrive in Ankara refreshed and ready for a day of discovery.

Morning Arrival in Ankara Travel to Alacahöyük ( 205 km)

After having rested during the overnight train travel, arrival in Ankara around 07:00. Meet your driver and guide at the exit of the terminal and departure for a scenic drive to Alacahöyük, a key archaeological site that offers a window into the Hittite civilization. This ancient city, one of the earliest urban settlements in Anatolia, is renowned for its well-preserved ruins and significant historical finds.

Alacahöyük Ancient City and Museum

Alacahöyük holds a pivotal place in Hittite history, featuring 14 settlement layers spanning four cultural periods from the Chalcolithic to the Late Bronze Age. Marvel at the remnants of Anatolia’s first known dam, a testament to the Hittites’ engineering prowess. The site’s 13 royal tombs from the Early Bronze Age are a highlight, yielding treasures such as intricate gold, silver, and bronze jewelry, ceremonial items, and sun disks that reflect the sophistication of Hittite artistry. The Alacahöyük Museum showcases these artifacts, offering deeper insights into the architectural and cultural achievements of the Hittites.

Mid-Morning to Afternoon: Hattusa and Yazılıkaya

Continue to Hattusa (Boğazköy), the ancient capital of the Hittite Empire, established around 1700 BCE. This sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of history, with ruins spanning the Hatti, Assyrian, Hittite, Phrygian, Galatian, Roman, and Byzantine eras.

Yazılıkaya Open-Air Sanctuary

Your first stop is Yazılıkaya, a sacred rock sanctuary revered by the Hittites. Wander through its open-air chambers adorned with striking reliefs of gods, goddesses, and mythological scenes carved into the rock faces. These intricate depictions, dating back over 3,000 years, offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of the Hittites and their pantheon of deities.

Hattusa City Ruins

Next, explore the expansive ruins of Hattusa, where the Hittite civilization flourished. Key highlights include:

• Great Temple: A monumental structure dedicated to the storm god Teshub and the sun goddess Arinna, showcasing the Hittites’ architectural grandeur.

• Lions Gate: An iconic entrance adorned with lion reliefs, symbolizing strength and protection.

• King’s Gate: A majestic portal featuring a warrior relief, believed to represent a Hittite king or deity.

• The Tunnel: A remarkable 70-meter-long underground passage, showcasing Hittite engineering ingenuity.

• City Walls: Stretching over 6 kilometers, these fortifications highlight the city’s strategic importance.

• Summer Palace: A serene complex offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Lunch and Boğazköy Museum

Pause for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Turkish cuisine. Afterward, visit the Boğazköy Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Hattusa and nearby sites. Admire statues, pottery, cuneiform tablets, and jewelry that illuminate the daily life, trade, and artistry of the Hittite and Phrygian civilizations.

Revisit Alacahöyük briefly to soak in any missed details or to reflect on the site’s historical significance. This second stop allows for a deeper appreciation of the site’s role in shaping Anatolia’s cultural landscape. After a full day of exploration, drive back to Ankara for an evening flight to Istanbul, concluding your journey with memories of ancient wonders and the comfort of modern travel.

Included and Excluded