Uncover Turkey’s Ancient Civilizations: 5-Day Gordion, Hattusas & Cappadocia Tour
|5 Days, 4 Destinations |Starts from Ankara
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Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Earn €20 in travel credits
Duration

5 days

Max Group Size

30

Departure Type

Scheduled

Guiding Method

Fully guided

Physical level

easy

Operated In

TurkishEnglish

Age Requirement

11 - 99 Ages

Tour Overview

Embark on a journey through time with our 5-day tour that uncovers the ancient civilizations of Turkey. From the majestic ruins of Gordion, the capital of the Phrygians, to the historic remnants of Hattusas, the heart of the Hittite Empire, and the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, this tour offers a deep dive into Turkey's rich cultural heritage. Explore archaeological marvels, ancient temples, rock formations, and fairy chimneys, all while immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Central Anatolia. With a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the heart of ancient Turkey.

DiscoveryFamilyExplorerIn-depth CulturalHistoricalMuseumSolo TravelSightseeing

Route

Starts from

Ankara

Ends in

Ankara

Pickup Location

Ankara Esenboga Airport

Dropoff Location

Ankara Esenboga Airport

Tour route map

Highlights

Gordion Archaeological Site: Visit the ancient capital of the Phrygian Kingdom, home to King Midas’ famous tomb (the Tumulus of Midas), the royal palace, city walls, and the Gordion Museum, featuring a vast collection of artifacts from the Phrygian period and beyond. Hattusas – The Hittite Capital: Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Hattusas, including the grand Temple of the Hittites, Lion’s Gate, King’s Gate, and the remarkable Yazilikaya rock sanctuary, which houses ancient inscriptions and open-air temples. Ankara City Exploration: Discover Turkey’s modern capital, including the Mausoleum of Atatürk (Anıtkabir), where the founder of the Republic of Turkey is honored, as well as the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, showcasing the rich history of ancient Anatolia. Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys: Visit the famous rock formations of Devrent Valley, Love Valley, and Pasabag (Monks' Valley), and marvel at the iconic fairy chimneys that have shaped Cappadocia’s unique landscape over centuries. Pottery Tradition in Avanos: Experience the ancient art of pottery in the town of Avanos, a hub of ceramic craftsmanship dating back to 3000 BC, where you can visit a local workshop and see artisans at work. Cappadocia’s Underground Cities: Explore the subterranean labyrinths of Mazıköy and Pigeon Valley, ancient underground complexes carved into the soft volcanic rock where entire communities once took refuge from invaders. Breathtaking Valleys: Hike through Rose Valley and Kızılçukur (Red Valley), known for their vibrant rock colors and hidden churches carved into the landscape, offering a peaceful and scenic escape.

Itinerary

  • Fly from Istanbul to Ankara in the evening.
  • Meet with our guide and transfer to your hotel.
  • Overnight stay in Ankara.
  • Meet with our tour guide at 08:00 AM.
  • Drive to Polatlı (Yassıhöyük) to visit Gordion, the capital of ancient Phrygia.
  • Explore the ruins of the city, including:
    • City Walls & Royal Palace
    • Tumulus Tomb of King Midas
    • Gordion Archaeological Museum – featuring artifacts from the Antique Bronze Age, Phrygian, Hellenistic, and Roman periods.
  • Learn the legend of King Midas and the Gordian Knot, famously cut by Alexander the Great.
  • Return to Ankara & overnight stay.
  • Visit Anıtkabir – Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
  • Explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, home to the world’s most extensive Hittite collection.
  • Drive to Boğazkale for the Hattusas Tour, including:
    • The Grand Temple
    • Lion’s Gate, Tunnel & King’s Gate
    • Yazılıkaya Open-Air Temple
  • Lunch in Boğazköy.
  • Continue to Cappadocia & check into your cave hotel.
  • Overnight stay in Cappadocia.
  • Visit the Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) – famous for its unique rock formations.
  • Explore Love Valley – home to spectacular fairy chimneys.
  • Stop by Pasabag (Monks' Valley) for its three-headed rock formations.
  • Visit Avanos, known for its traditional pottery workshops since 3000 BC.
  • Discover Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia offering panoramic views.
  • Return to your hotel & overnight stay in Cappadocia.
  • Hike through Kızılçukur (Red Valley) – a scenic valley with rock-cut churches.
  • Explore Çavuşin Village, one of the oldest settlements in Cappadocia.
  • Visit Mazıköy Underground City, one of the largest in the region.
  • Stop at Pigeon Valley to see ancient pigeon houses carved into the rocks.
  • Transfer to Kayseri or Nevşehir Airport for an evening flight to Istanbul.
  • End of the tour.

Trip includes

Included

1-night accommodation in a boutique hotel in Ankara -Atalay Hotel
2-night stay in a cave hotel in Cappadocia - Elpuente Cave Hotel
PS: If This hotel list not available at the time of your booking then we will arrange smilar other hotel for your group. If you prefer a Different category hotel, there might be an additional cost

Hotel

Professional English - speaking tour guides

Guiding Method
Fully guided

Turkish English

Breakfast & Lunch

Vegetarian Halal Meat

All transfers as specified

Coach / BusMini-coach

GuidedGordion Tour
Guided Fairy Chimneys Tour
Guided Rose Valley & Mazıköy Underground City Tour 
Entrance fees per the itinerary
Hotel Room Taxes , Tours & Transfer Taxes

Uncover Turkey’s Ancient Civilizations: 5-Day Gordion, Hattusas & Cappadocia Tour – Good to Know

Weather & Best Time to Visit:

  • Ankara, Gordion, and Hattusas experience cold winters and hot summers, while Cappadocia has a continental climate with warm days and cool nights.
  • Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are the best times to visit, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Clothing & Packing Tips:

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many sites involve uneven terrain and steps.
  • Dress in layers, especially in Cappadocia, where temperatures vary between day and night.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime excursions.
  • A light jacket is recommended for cooler evenings, especially in Hattusas and Cappadocia.

Cultural Etiquette:

  • Respect local customs when visiting mosques and historical sites—cover shoulders and knees when necessary.
  • Bargaining is common in local markets, especially in Avanos pottery workshops and souvenir shops.

Food & Drinks:

  • Turkish cuisine is diverse; expect delicious meze, kebabs, and local specialties like Ankara Tava (lamb and rice dish) and Cappadocian testi kebab (clay pot kebab).
  • Cappadocia is known for its local wines, which are worth trying.
  • Always carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially on outdoor tours.

Health & Safety:

  • Tap water is generally safe in major cities, but bottled water is recommended in remote areas.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover any unexpected medical needs.
  • The tour includes some hiking and walking, so moderate fitness is beneficial.

Money & Payments:

  • Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for small vendors and local markets.
  • ATMs are available in major towns like Ankara, but they may be limited in smaller areas like Gordion and Hattusas.

Additional Experiences:

  • A hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is a highly recommended optional experience for breathtaking views of the landscape.
  • Consider visiting a traditional Turkish hammam (bathhouse) for relaxation after a day of touring.

This tour is a perfect blend of history, archaeology, and natural beauty, offering a unique chance to explore Turkey’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying scenic landscapes.

Excluded

International and Domestic Flights

Insurance: All types

Dinner
Turkey entry visa
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry
Any others expenses which are not mentioned at the included section
Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers

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