Turkey: The Complete Guide To Cappadocia

Cappadocia is just as magical as it photographs and is definitely worth the hype.

Cappadocia

This guide outlines everything you’ll need to know to plan your trip! Learn where to stay, which Turkish restaurants to dine at, and what to do in the region. Cappadocia is an extraordinary destination for friends, couples, and families to visit.

Let’s be honest…. the reason you’ve most likely considered traveling to Cappadocia (Ka-pah-doe-kee-ya) is not because of its rich history. Like most people (myself included), you were influenced by photos on social media. I don’t know if I had ever heard of this place or considered travel to Turkey prior to watching IG videos of hot air balloons taking flight during sunrise or women “modeling” in flowy dresses on a roof deck surrounded by balloons.

Whatever your reason… Cappadocia is worth the visit!

About Cappadocia:

Cappadocia is located in the central region of Turkey. It is made up of four cities: Nevsehir, Kayseri, Aksaray and Niğde. Within the region are smaller towns; one of them is Göreme, and it is the main hub for tourists.

In Persian, “Cappadocia” means “Land of Beautiful Horses.” Civilization in the region dates back thousands of years when entire communities were built into caves in the surrounding hillsides.

Its topography is made up of unique rock formations and the famous “fairy chimneys.” Volcanic eruptions millions of years ago resulted in a top layer of solidified, thick rock, and an underlying layer fine, volcanic ash which has eroded away over millions of years due to wind and rain.

Official Currency: Turkish Lira

ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. Most establishments in Cappadocia accept credit card as a means of payment, but you should always have cash readily available.

Getting Around:

Cappadocia has two main airports: Keysari and Nevsehir.

The flight from Istanbul is about one hour to either airport. Traveling to the main town of Göreme requires a one-hour drive from Keysari Airport or forty-five minutes from Nevsehir Airport. Many hotels offer private transportation. To save some cash, you can hop in a ride-sharing van for only 10€/pp. If you opt for one of these, your driver will greet you at the exit of the airport holding a sign with your name, pack your luggage up, and drive you to the door of your hotel. You will make multiple stops at other hotels along the way, all within 5 to 10 minutes of each other.

Should you rent a car?

Renting a car is not necessary. Almost all tours and activities include pickup and drop-off service from your hotel. You’ll also be waking up extra early to capture the sunrise, so if you chose to do one of tours the same day, the back of the tour bus is a great spot to catch a nap in between stops.

Length of Stay: 3 NIGHTS

I would recommend a minimum of three nights. You’ll need at least one morning to ride in a hot air balloon, as well as one morning to watch the experience from the ground. If you’re a real history geek and want to learn all about the region, consider staying anywhere from five to seven days.

Best Time To Visit:

Summer weather brings the sweltering arid, heat. July and August hit daily highs averaging around 90°F. It’s a good time to travel here, BUT if you plan to participate in most of the outdoor activities, you’ll find yourself feeling HOT, HOT, HOT. Oppositely, Cappadocia experiences freezing cold winters with rain and snow. Therefore, in my opinion, the best time to visit is in the late spring (May, early June) and early fall months (September, early October).

Helpful Tip: Hot air balloon flights run year-round, but can be cancelled due to wind, rain and snow. Flights are officially a “go” on the morning of their departure, and although most flights in the summer go off without a hitch, you may be faced with delays.

Where To Stay:

As I’ve previously mentioned, most tourists prefer to stay in the town of Göreme. It is extremely safe and everything you’ll need for your stay is within walkable (but hilly) distance from most hotels. You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops, traditional restaurants, and famous cave hotels to chose from.

Here’s a list of some great hotels to choose from:

Sultan Cave Suites: offers one of the best rooftops to watch the sunrise in Göreme. Rooms are spaciously decorated with antique Turkish decor; you can even select a room with a private terrace or balcony. All guests are welcome to use the swimming pool of the sister hotels: Kelebek Special Cave Hotel and Aza Cave Hotel.

Terra Cave Hotel: 19th century quaint, boutique, hotel with 15 guest rooms. It’s known for an accommodating staff and large terrace to have a drink at sunset and watch the sun rise.

Mithra Cave Hotel: elegant, rustic-chic hotel with a terrace restaurant offering stunning views. Rooms are decorated with traditional Turkish decor.

Where To Eat:

Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant & Sedef Restaurant: These two restaurants are both located in Göreme, highly rated, and serve delicious, traditional Turkish cuisine. If you’re a first-timer, make sure to order the testi kebab (“pottery kebab”) which is a stew of meat, tomatoes, and vegetables and the mantı (Turkish ravioli).

Some other great Turkish-style restaurants:

Top Deck Cave Restaurant: family-owned restaurant located in a small cave; make reservations in advance

Dibek: warm, friendly atmosphere; seated on cushions around a table.

Coffeedocia: located in the center of Göreme; offers Turkish tea and hookah with a large patio area.

Seten Restaurant: located in the Sultan Cave Suites hotel; indoor/outdoor seating with one of the best views of Göreme. Delicious salads and extensive wine list!

What To Do:

Finally, we have reached the fun stuff! There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Cappaodocia year-round. Here’s a list of some of best things the region has to offer….

Soar in a hot air balloon with Turquaz Balloons or Butterfly Balloons
Wake-up early to watch the balloon-filled sunrise
Book a sunset quad tour
Wander through the Uchisar Castle
Horseback riding tour
Hike Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, and Rose Valley
Experience a Turkish hamam at Kelebek Hamam & Spa
Visit the Open Air Museum
Shop around Göreme
Take a full day tour of the different parts of the region: Red Tour or Green Tour
Visit the Underground City