Cappadocia is a magical land in Turkey. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale, with towering rock formations and hidden caves. You can even stay in a hotel that used to be a cave!
This guide will help you plan your trip to Cappadocia Türkiye. I’ll tell you about the best places to stay, things to see, and how to get around.
Let’s go on an adventure!
About Cappadocia Türkiye
Cappadocia, formerly known as Kapadokya is strictly located in the middle of todays Turkey . This is where perfectly nature and history combine most wonderfully. In millions of years those imagining fairy chimneys that are tall and slender like fairy-tales emerged due to work of nature.
However, interesting as its stones, so to speak, are, Cappadocia is much more than that. Cultures and societies have been here for many thousands of years and they have taken these rocks for homes and churches and filled them with paintings.
One of the most interesting things about Cappadocia is its underground cities. Early Christians used these cities as hiding places when their religion was new and not widely accepted. Some important early Christian thinkers, like the Cappadocian Fathers, came from this area. John of Cappadocia, who was a Patriarch of Constantinople between 517 and 520 AD, also came from here. Even though there were conflicts around it, Cappadocia stayed mostly peaceful during the Byzantine era.
Today, Cappadocia is a world-famous tourist spot. It’s known for its unique landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. The region is southwest of Kayseri, a big city with airport and train connections to Ankara and Istanbul. The landscape of Cappadocia was formed by sedimentary rocks from lakes and streams, along with ash from volcanoes that erupted between 9 and 3 million years ago. Over time, wind and water eroded the soft volcanic rocks, creating the amazing pillars and tall, skinny formations we see today.
In a town called Goreme, in the heart of Cappadocia, people carved out homes, churches, and monasteries from these soft rocks. Between 300 and 1200 AD, Goreme became an important center for monks. The town was first settled during the Roman period when Christianity was spreading.
Many of the rock-carved churches and homes in Goreme still stand today, telling stories from the past. The Goreme Open Air Museum is one of the most famous places in Turkey. It has over 30 rock-carved churches and chapels, many with stunning frescoes from the 9th to 11th centuries.
Cappadocia is a place where the past feels alive. Visitors can explore its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and unique culture. Whether you’re walking among the fairy chimneys, exploring ancient underground cities, or admiring the old artwork in rock-carved churches, Cappadocia offers a journey through time that you won’t forget.
If You’re Going to Cappadocia, How Many Days You’ll Stay Here?
Well, It depends on you, but I’d say five days. Yes, you need to stay here full five days to explore the beauty of Cappadocia.
You might think it’s a lot, but there’s so much to see and do in this amazing part of Turkey. You’ll find new things to explore every time you visit Cappadocia. Also, You definitely don’t want to leave wishing you had more time!
With five days, you can visit both Goreme and Uchisar, and see all the best spots like viewpoints, museums, underground cities, valleys, and beautiful hiking trails. Plus, the early morning hot air balloon flights can be tiring, especially in the summer. Staying longer means you can have a more relaxed schedule and enjoy your trip more.
Which is the Best Time to travel Cappadocia Türkiye?
The best time to visit Cappadocia is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like hot air ballooning and hiking, and there are fewer crowds.
Summer (June to August) is the hottest and busiest time of year. It’s still a great time to visit, but hotels are more expensive.
Winter (November to March) is the off-season, but the snow-covered fairy chimneys are really beautiful. Hot air balloon rides still happen, even in the snow!
Cappadocia’s Must-See Attractions
There are many things to see in Cappadocia, but here are the top seven attractions you can’t miss:
1. Goreme Open Air Museum
One of the major attractions of the region is the Goreme Open Air Museum. Inside it is possible to meet with ancient churches that were hewn in rock, and paintings on the walls.
2. Zelve Open Air Museum
Nearly, there is the Zelve Open Air Museum which looks like an abandoned town with ceased caves and churches.
3. Ihlara Valley
If you dare for a more daring experience try the Ihlara Valley. It is a steep sided valley with a river running in the middle. It’s also possible to take a walk on the valley floor and there are some amazing goofy poorly lit churches carved into the cliff face.
4. Underground Cities
If you have some spines left in your back then you can go for an underground city excursion where both the cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu are famous for. They were established many years back with the main purpose of offering shelter to the people. They have tunnels, rooms and they even have stages for the stables!
5. Rock Formations
It is also a home to many beautiful rocks structures in the world. The Pasabag is a fairytale valley and it has a number of mushroom like shaped tuff cliffs called fairy chimneys. Another place of interest is the Devrent valley the rocks in this area resemble animals.
6. Ancient Towns
For archaeology and history lovers, there are two great historical places Gulsehir and Avanos to visit. Gulsehir is one of the oldest regions of Cappadocia; Avanos is the potter’s town.
7. Hidden Gems
As you tour the region, you’ll also come across hidden cave churches and caravanserais. Caravanserais were inns built along the Silk Road, where travelers could rest and get food.
What You Should Know Before Traveling to Cappadocia
Below are some things you should keep in mind if you want a great and memorable trip to Cappadocia:
Make arrangements for a 5-7 visit
It is possible to visit the main sites of interest in Cappadocia within two days, but, to get a closer look at the fascinating landscape and rock-hewn churches, a week would be ideal. Don’t worry that you spent a lot of time, because there are so many things to discover.
Book Your Hot-Air Balloon Ride Early
A hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys is a must-do. It’s best to schedule your flight for the second day of your trip. Weather conditions can sometimes cancel flights, but booking early gives you time to reschedule if needed. You can even book ahead of time, especially during busy seasons.
Choose the Before-Sunrise Balloon Flight
There are two balloon flights each day – one before sunrise and one after. The early flight is your best bet. Weather changes can cancel the later flights, and you’ll miss seeing the amazing sunrise over the landscape.
Stay in a Cave Hotel
Cappadocia is famous for its cave hotels, where you can sleep in rooms carved out of rock. Many of these hotels are beautifully furnished, making your stay both unique and comfortable. However, some cheaper cave hotels might be dark and damp, so do some research before booking.
Pick the Right Season
Cappadocia has something to offer in every season. Spring and autumn are less crowded and have pleasant weather. Summer is ideal for balloon rides, while winter offers stunning snowy views. However, hiking in winter can be tough, and summer can get very hot. Also, be aware that Cappadocia is a popular spot for Turkish tourists, so it can be busy during public holidays.
Be Polite and Friendly
It is a well-known fact that Turks have an excellent sense of hosting. You will definitely find many people smiling at you as a sign of welcoming. A normal etiquette that is usually employed next to an individual for the first time is shaking of hands. No matter if you do not like what the other person said, do not be rude or loud to them. If you think you’ve been charged more, let the owner know politely without any dispute so that they can adjust the bill.
Avoid Discussing Politics
When it comes to politics, you should be cautious when discussing it, particularly in Türkiye. They prefer you not to talk at all on certain subjects such as any news happening in the world, Turkey or even their president. It is a criminal offence to make fun of the country or its leaders.
Drink Alcohol Responsibly
Alcohol is available in Cappadocia, and you’ll find local wine in most restaurants. However, public drunkenness is frowned upon. Enjoy your drinks, but do so in moderation.
Earthquake Safety
After the 2023 earthquake in southern Türkiye, many tourists wonder about the risk in Cappadocia. While Türkiye is prone to earthquakes, major quakes are rare in Cappadocia. You might feel a small tremor, but it’s unlikely you’ll experience anything more serious.
Avoid Drinking Tap Water
The tap water in Cappadocia is safe but doesn’t taste very good. Most locals only use it for cooking or making tea. Consider bringing a portable water filter, or drink bottled water. If you use bottled water, try to recycle the bottles where possible.
Where to Stay in Cappadocia
Goreme or Uchisar? They both are equally good for accommodations. There are more hotels and restaurants in Goreme and more of fairy chimneys in this region than in Uchisar although it has big castle. If you stay more than a few days, then you may as well do both!
Recommended Hotels
- Argos (Uchisar): One of the finest hotels
- Aza Cave Hotel (Goreme): Cool pool and beautiful fairy chimney views.
- Imperial Cave Suites (Goreme): Great for a budget traveler, with fairy chimneys and an indoor pool.
- Kelebek Special Cave Hotel (Goreme): Has amazing views of Goreme.
- Koza Cave Hotel (Goreme): Highest rooftop terrace in Cappadocia.
- Local Cave House (Goreme): Awesome pool setting.
- Museum Hotel (Uchisar): Looks like a living museum!
- Rox Cappadocia (Uchisar): Small and luxurious with great views.
- Sultan Cave Suites (Goreme): Famous rooftop for watching balloons.
- Terra Cave Hotel (Goreme): Cozy and spacious rooms.
- Yunak Evleri Cappadocia (Urgup): Unique cave rooms in a 19th-century mansion.
FAQs About Cappadocia Türkiye
How much does it cost to stay in a cave hotel?
The price of a cave hotel room can vary from $53 to $1,000 per night. It depends on the hotel and when you visit.
Do you need a guide to explore the Goreme Open Air Museum?
You don’t have to, but you can rent a headset with a walking guide. This will tell you more about the museum.
How much does a hot air balloon ride cost in Cappadocia?
A hot air balloon ride usually costs between $135 and $200 per person.
Is Uber available in Cappadocia?
No, but there are other apps you can use to get around. These are like Uber, but for Cappadocia.
