Bogazkale Travel Guide

Discover the historical and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, local culture, and more in Bogazkale, Turkey. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary, transportation options, and safety tips.


Introduction to Bogazkale

Bogazkale, a hidden gem in Central Karadeniz, sits in the heart of Turkey’s Black Sea region. It is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture lovers. This charming town offers visitors an opportunity to explore the ancient wonders of the Hittite Empire, experience the natural beauty of the region, and immerse themselves in local culture. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together this comprehensive travel guide to Bogazkale, including a list of places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, and practical tips to make your stay safe and enjoyable.

List of Places to Visit in Bogazkale

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hattusa: The capital of the Hittite Empire is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Bogazkale. Marvel at the ancient city walls, temples, and royal palaces, and learn about Hittite art and culture at the onsite museum.
  • Yazılıkaya: The nearby Yazılıkaya rock sanctuary is a fascinating place to explore Hittite rock-cut reliefs and carvings. The site is considered a sacred place for the Hittites, and the impressive reliefs in the main chamber showcase their religious beliefs.
  • Alacahoyuk: Another important archaeological site in Bogazkale is Alacahoyuk, where visitors can see the remains of an ancient Hattian and Hittite settlement.

Natural Attractions of Bogazkale: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ilica Waterfall: Located in the nearby town of Ilica, the waterfall is a scenic spot surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool beneath the falls.
  • Boztepe: The hilltop of Boztepe offers panoramic views of the countryside and the town below. A popular spot for watching the sunset, visitors can hike up or drive to the top.
  • Kirikkale Canyon: A scenic canyon outside of Bogazkale that is perfect for hiking, camping, and rappelling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bogazkale

  • The Hittite Trail: An ancient trail that once connected the Hittite capital of Hattusa to the Mediterranean coast. The trail is a great option for hikers and an opportunity to see some of the scenic views of the region.
  • Bike the Ancient City: Visitors who prefer biking can take the “bike the ancient city” tour, which takes riders on a 3-hour tour of the ancient city, allowing them to explore the ruins while enjoying the outdoors.

Best Things to Do in Bogazkale: Activities and Tours

  • Attend a Hittite Festival: Visitors can experience Hittite culture by attending the annual Hittite Festival in Hattusa in August. The festival features traditional music and dance, cultural exhibits, and local food.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside and enjoy the spectacular views of the valley.
  • Learn the Art of Pottery: Visitors can learn the traditional art of pottery from local artisans in Bogazkale.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bogazkale

Day 1: Explore Hattusa and the Hittite Museum Day 2: Bike the ancient city and visit Yazılıkaya Day 3: Trek to Ilica Waterfall and relax in the natural pool Day 4: Visit Alacahoyuk and learn about Hittite history Day 5: Explore the surrounding villages and learn ancient traditions Day 6: Hike Kirikkale Canyon and enjoy a picnic Day 7: Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the scenery from above

Food and Drink Scene of Bogazkale

Must-Try Dishes

  • Manti: A traditional Turkish dish consisting of small dumplings filled with meat, served with garlic yogurt and spices.
  • Cigkofte: A spicy vegetarian snack made with tomatoes, onions, and fine-grained bulgur wheat.
  • Lahmacun: A thin Turkish pizza topped with ground meat, onions, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Raki: A traditional Turkish alcoholic drink made from anise, often enjoyed with mezze.
  • Ayran: A refreshing drink made with yoghurt, water, and salt, commonly served with meals.

Where to Stay in Bogazkale: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bogazkale has a range of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Some of the best options include:

  • Aslantas Hotel: A cozy hotel located near the city centre, with great amenities and friendly staff.
  • Cinarli Kasri: A historic mansion turned into a boutique hotel, providing excellent service and stunning views of the valley.
  • Karayucel Ciftligi: A rustic guesthouse, surrounded by nature, offering visitors the chance to experience rural life in Turkey.

What to Buy in Bogazkale: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ceramic and pottery: Handmade ceramic dishes and plates make for great souvenirs
  • Pure Honey: Bogazkale is famous for its high-quality honey, which visitors can purchase directly from local beekeepers
  • Handcrafted souvenirs: Visitors can find keychains, magnets, and other souvenirs made by local artisans, perfect for taking a piece of Bogazkale home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of Bogazkale

Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites. It is also customary to remove shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home. Friday is a Muslim holy day, and some businesses may close earlier or not open at all.

Best Time to Visit Bogazkale

The best time to visit Bogazkale is from April to June and September to November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. Summer can get hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy, making outdoor activities challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bogazkale

Do:

  • Respect local customs and dress appropriately
  • Learn basic Turkish phrases, and try to interact with locals
  • Explore local bazaars and markets to experience the local culture

Don’t:

  • Haggle too aggressively in markets, as it can be considered rude
  • Take photos of people without asking for permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bogazkale

Bogazkale is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas alone. It is also important to carry a copy of your passport and other important documents in case of theft or loss.

Health in Bogazkale

Visitors should have up-to-date vaccinations and take necessary precautions against mosquito bites, particularly during the summer months. Tap water is not recommended for drinking, and it’s advisable to carry bottled water.

Getting to Bogazkale: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bogazkale

The nearest airport to Bogazkale is Ankara Esenboga International Airport, located 170 km away.

Bus Stations Near Bogazkale

There are no direct bus services from Istanbul or Ankara to Bogazkale, but visitors can take a bus to nearby cities like Corum or Sungurlu and then take a taxi to the town center.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or arrange private transportation from Ankara or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Bogazkale

Bogazkale is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Bogazkale: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Amasya: A picturesque city located 160 km from Bogazkale, famous for its Ottoman-era architecture and stunning natural beauty.
  • Cappadocia: An otherworldly region located 400 km away from Bogazkale, famous for its unique rock formations, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides.
  • Ankara: Turkey’s capital city is located 180 km away from Bogazkale and is worth a visit for its museums, architecture, and vibrant culture.

Conclusion

Bogazkale is a unique destination in Central Karadeniz, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural and historical wonders of Turkey. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ancient Hittite capital, hiking through canyons, or learning traditional pottery techniques, Bogazkale has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make your visit unforgettable.

Sphinx Gate, Hattusa Sphinx Gate, Hattusa