Cappadocia is a captivating historical town in the heart of Anatolia, nestled in Nevsehir
and shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Renowned for its natural,
historical, and cultural wonders, this enchanting town has earned its place on the UNESCO
World Cultural Heritage List. With countless attractions and unique features, it's undeniably
a destination to experience at least once in a lifetime. The annual influx of millions of visitors
attests to its undeniable allure. To assist first-timers, we've compiled an insider guide offering
essential insights and practical travel tips for an unforgettable visit to Cappadocia.
Turkey's tourism industry thrives, drawing crowds, even in the winter months when
Cappadocia, a globally renowned destination and a dream holiday spot, remains a top choice
for domestic and international travelers. It entices visitors with its central Anatolian charm,
offering much beyond what standard tourism billboards portray. So, is Cappadocia genuinely
worth the visit? If your resounding answer is "Yes!" get ready to immerse yourself in the
enchanting atmosphere of Cappadocia for the coziest holiday experience.
While the prospect of exploring Cappadocia is exciting, planning can be overwhelming
without insights on transportation, accommodations, and dining options. Before you finalize
your travel plans, let's equip you with everything you need to know about Cappadocia,
including the lesser-known details that will enhance your experience. Read on for a
comprehensive guide to making the most of your time in this magical city.
I. Cappadocia is a region not village
Cappadocia is centrally located in Turkey, nestled in the heart of central Anatolia. While the
renowned towns of Goreme, Urgup, and Uchisar are commonly associated with
Cappadocia, the region encompasses a vast area that spans the cities of Nevsehir, Kirsehir,
Nigde, Aksaray, and Kayseri. The distinctive rocky landscape of Cappadocia includes
Uchisar, Urgup, Avanos, Goreme, Derinkuyu, Kaymakli, Ihlara, and the surrounding regions.
Visitors typically choose to stay in the charming towns of Avanos, Goreme, Urgup, and
Uchisar, all conveniently situated within the borders of Nevsehir city.
II. Cappadocia means that;
Cappadocia derives its name from the Persian term "Kappa Tuchia," signifying "The land
of beautiful horses."
III. What makes Cappadocia famous;
Cappadocia is renowned for its enchanting fairy chimneys, picturesque valleys, intricate
underground cities, and exhilarating hot-air balloon rides. With its meandering valleys and
otherworldly landscape, Cappadocia stands out as one of the most surreal places on Earth.
Whether exploring the unique rock formations up close or admiring the majestic views from a
distance, it's a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable adventure. The
changing colors of the valleys in each season offer a spectacular experience for every visitor.
Within some of these valleys, you might discover charming waterfalls or stumble upon fresh
fruit trees laden with plums or apricots. Winter transforms the valleys into a mystical
landscape cloaked in snow. Additionally, these valleys house historical churches intricately
carved into the rock, unique dwellings, and opportunities to visit bustling Turkish villages.
➢ Underground cities; Embark on an underground adventure to explore these incredible
cities, reaching depths so profound that some remain undiscovered. Cappadocia boasts
36 underground cities, with the largest, Derinkuyu, dating back to the 8th century BC.
Derinkuyu's existence was serendipitously revealed by a resident renovating his home.
Plummeting to a depth of about 85 meters, it accommodated over 20,000 inhabitants.
Visitors navigating its tunnels must crouch and move deliberately—a testament to their
wartime origins, designed to provide refuge during conflicts.
➢ Hot Air Balloon; Experience the allure of Cappadocia from high above aboard vibrant
hot air balloons. Capture stunning aerial shots of the valleys and fairy chimneys, reveling
in the breathtaking scenery, crisp air, and billowing clouds. Renowned for crafting
romantic moments, these balloon tours provide an ideal setting for marriage proposals or
honeymoon memories. Typically lasting 60-90 minutes, the tours accommodate 12-28
individuals per balloon basket, contingent on the balloon's size. Commencing around
5:00 am with various daily departures, while the cost may give pause, it's undoubtedly a
worthwhile adventure splurge! Ensure you pack your camera to immortalize this
extraordinary journey!
IV.In short history of Cappadocia
Cappadocia, steeped in history, is found in Christian sources and etched in ancient Luwian
inscriptions dating back to the late 6th century BC amidst the Achaemenid Kings, Persian, and
Hittite Empires. The iconic fairy chimneys profoundly influence the city's landscape. Nestled
in Central Anatolia within Nevsehir, with a population of 308,003, this enchanting historical
town, housing nearly 2,150 residents, beckons travelers to return repeatedly. Each visit
unveils discoveries—underground cities, the distinctive silhouettes of fairy chimneys, ancient
stone houses, expansive valleys, and more.
Cappadocia, nestled amidst the volcanic Mount Erciyes (ancient Argaeus) and Kayseri
(ancient Caesarea), is hemmed in by the Taurus Mountains, creating a natural boundary with
Cilicia and separating it from the Mediterranean Sea. The city continues to thrive as a tourism
hub, thanks to its extraordinary natural wonders, enchanting fairy chimneys, and a distinctive
historical and cultural heritage that invites exploration at any time.
V. Transportation to Cappadocia
(P.S; It's important to note that there are no direct international flights to Cappadocia.)
Traveling to Cappadocia from abroad requires careful planning and preparation. Researching
the best flight and transport options, booking tickets in advance, and allowing enough time for
transit and layovers are crucial steps. Regardless of your departure location, whether it's
Europe, the UK, the US, Asia, Australia, Canada, or South America, various transport options
are available to reach Cappadocia. You are confirming travel arrangements, including flights,
buses, or trains before the journey is essential to avoid last-minute surprises.
If you plan to fly to Cappadocia, you'll likely land at one of the two nearby airports: Nevsehir
Kapadokya Airport (NAV) or Kayseri Airport (ASR). Each airport has advantages and
disadvantages, so booking your flight early, especially during the holiday season, can help
you secure the most economical options.
Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) and Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) both serve as
gateways to Cappadocia, offering direct flights from Istanbul and other major cities in Turkey.
➢ Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV); Nevsehir-Kapadokya Airport (NAV) is
conveniently located 26 km from the city center, making it closer to major towns like
Nevsehir, Goreme, Uchisar, Urgup, and Avanos compared to Kayseri Airport. Despite its
small size, the airport has an international terminal with a capacity of 700,000
passengers, ensuring efficient operations. You can take airport shuttles or taxis or rent a
car to reach your hotel or downtown.Daily flights from Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir to
Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport are available for booking. The typical flight from Istanbul
to Cappadocia is approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.
➢ Kayseri Airport (ASR); Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) is approximately 75 km from
Goreme and 88 km from central Nevsehir. With a travel time of around 1 hour, you can
easily reach all regions of Cappadocia from Kayseri Airport.Daily flights to Kayseri
from major cities like Istanbul, Izmir, or Antalya can be booked.The flight duration
from Istanbul to Kayseri is approximately 52 minutes. While some hotels may arrange
airport shuttle services from Kayseri Airport to your hotel in Cappadocia, it's advisable
to check with your hotel to confirm the availability of this service.
You can reach downtown Cappadocia from the airports, including taxis, the Havas airport
shuttle bus, private shuttles, and even minibusses. Additionally, public transit options are
available within the city, allowing you to explore different parts of Nevsehir.
It's important to note that Nevsehir is a sprawling city, so when booking accommodation,
verify the distances from significant sights, bus or train stations. If you prefer a more
comprehensive exploration of the region, consider renting a car during your stay.
➢ Cappadocia by Bus; If you're traveling from Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, or Antalya, one of
the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly ways to explore Cappadocia is by
bus. Buses operate for extended hours, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy the
scenic views along the way.To reach Cappadocia by bus from these major cities, your
journey will likely bring you to Nevsehir city first. Once you arrive at the Nevsehir Bus
Terminal, minibusses or taxis can easily reach any part of the Cappadocia region.
If you're traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia by bus, expect a journey of about 10 to 12
hours, covering a distance of approximately 730 km. Istanbul has two Intercity Bus
Terminals, one on the European side called Istanbul Otogar in Esenler and the other on the
Asian side known as Harem Otogar in Uskudar.
For those coming from Ankara, the bus ride to Cappadocia (Nevsehir) takes around 4
hours, covering a distance of about 300 km. Ankara's Intercity Bus Terminal is named ASTI
in Bestepe.
*Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, it's advisable to inquire with your hotel
about the availability of a pick-up service.
VI.Accommodation
Cappadocia offers four central regions for tourists to explore: Goreme, Uchisar, Urgup, and
Avanos. Each area boasts its unique charm, making it crucial to choose the one that suits your
preferences. Regarding accommodation options in Cappadocia, you can immerse yourself in
the experience by staying in fairy chimney houses with distinctive architecture and
breathtaking views, providing the perfect vantage point to witness the colorful balloons in the
air.
VII. How far is Cappadocia from;
• The distance between Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport and Avanos is 35 km, with a car
journey taking around 45 minutes.
• The distance from Nevsehir center to Avanos is 17 km, and it takes approximately 20
minutes. Minibusses and taxis are available from Avanos to the center of Nevsehir.
• From Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport to Uchisar is approximately 35 km, and the
journey by car takes 35 minutes.
• Nevsehir's center to Uchisar is 7 km, with a travel time of around 12 minutes.
Minibusses and taxis are also available.
• The distance between Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport and Ürgüp is 49 km, with a car
journey taking about 1 hour. Minibusses and taxis are available.
• Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport to Göreme is 43 km, with an approximate travel time
of 40 minutes.
• Nevsehir center to Göreme is 21 km, taking about 30 minutes. Minibusses and taxis
are also available.
• From Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport to Ortahisar is 45 km.
• Nevsehir Center to Ortahisar is 25 km long and takes about 30 minutes.
• The distance between Urgup and Ortahisar is 6 km, and shuttles and minibusses are
available.
VIII. Transportation
Exploring Cappadocia is a breeze when you have your bearings. If time is limited, it's wise to
focus on one or two neighboring towns to make the most of your visit.
The optimal way to navigate Cappadocia is by car or minibus, given the well-maintained
roads and the widespread availability of car rental companies.
Minibuses offer another popular transportation option, forming an extensive network that
seamlessly connects different towns and villages in the region. Fortunately, traffic is not a
concern in Cappadocia, making car or minibus travel convenient, and all locations are easily
accessible from Kayseri or Nevsehir airports.
IX. Weather
Prepare for Cappadocia's weather to complement its most iconic scenic spots! Nestled in the
heart of Turkey's Anatolia, the Cappadocia region boasts a high plateau exceeding 1000
meters altitude, exhibiting a semi-arid, continental climate year-round. Summers are
characterized by heat and dryness, while winters bring cold and snowy conditions. Hence,
pack your luggage accordingly, considering the limited rainfall. In winter, brace yourself for
chilly temperatures!
Every visit reveals a unique charm and experience:
• For vibrant festivals, opt for the summer months.
• Spring offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities like nature walks, ATVs, or
cycling.
• Winter provides a romantic setting for a holiday or honeymoon amidst the snow.
• While Cappadocia is enchanting year-round, consider spring (April to June) or
autumn (September to mid-October) for an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride!
X. Must see;
• Goreme Open Air Museum: This site marks the origin of monastic education,
featuring churches, cemeteries, chapels, dining halls, and a wine cellar. Allowing
approximately 2 hours is sufficient to explore the entire complex.
• Goreme National Park; World Heritage Site since 1985, holds historical importance
as a settlement dating back to the Chalcolithic period.
• Uchisar Castle: This towering fairy chimney offers splendid panoramic views
overlooking Goreme Valley and fairy chimneys.
• Pasabag Valley: Known for its giant mushroom-like rock formations, this valley
invites visitors to hike and appreciate its natural beauty.
• Temenni Hill: The highest peak in Cappadocia features a tomb believed to belong to
Alaeddin Keykubat the 3rd and the Tahsin Aga Public Library.
• Red Valley: Renowned for the most beautiful sunset in the region, it hosts some of the
oldest churches.
• Love Valley: Named for its phallic-shaped rock formations, visitors can hike through
the valley and enjoy stunning views.
• Pigeon Valley: Named after its former inhabitants, the valley provides a unique
natural beauty, ideal for hiking.
• Zelve Open Air Museum: Showcasing abandoned rock-cut homes and churches, this
outdoor museum allows exploration of its maze of rooms and unique rock formations.
• Three Beauties Fairy Chimneys: Also known as Three Graces, these classic capped
fairy chimneys are a staple in Cappadocia, best seen towards Ürgüp.
• Derinkuyu Underground City: Located 30 kilometers from Nevsehir center, this
famous underground city features natural ventilation wells, eight floors, and a capacity
for 50,000 people, reflecting Assyrian influence.
• Kaymakli Underground City: Situated 20 kilometers from Nevsehir in Kaymakli
town, it is half the size of Derinkuyu, with a capacity for 5,000 people, dating back to
the Phrygians.
• Asmali Konak (Mansion): This famous mansion, an old Greek house from 1800,
now serves as a hotel and restaurant known as the "Old Greek House." Featuring two
floors, 15 rooms, and 32 beds, Asmalı Konak restaurant gained recognition from a
Turkish TV series.
• Hair Museum: Located in the pottery bazaar, this unique museum, featured in the
Guinness Book of Records, displays hair tufts left by over 16,000 women.Part of Chez
Galip's pottery shop, it is associated with the famous pottery master of Cappadocia.
XI. Must do;
• Witness the Sunset: Take advantage of the opportunity to capture breathtaking
images of the impressive sunset over Cappadocia's landscapes. Whether you stroll
around the gorgeous mountains, hike, run, or take a leisurely walk, plan a day for
nature and find a great vantage point. Enjoy the mesmerizing setting in one of the high
valleys, and remember to bring your camera.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Your visit to Cappadocia would only be complete with
experiencing a ride in the hot air balloons. Witnessing over 150 balloons taking off at
sunrise creates a scene you'll never forget. Make a reservation for your balloon ride
with one of the many on-site or online companies offering guidance through this
beautiful experience.
• Hiking: Explore the wealth of hiking trails that wind through Cappadocia's unique
rock formations and natural landscapes. Hikers can relish stunning views while
immersing themselves in the local flora and fauna.
• ATV Tours: Embark on a safari between Cappadocia's beautiful hills with ATVs.
Safari groups typically range from 10 to 30 people, and popular tours start around 3
pm, lasting 2-4 hours, half-day, or full-day. No license is required to drive an ATV.
• Horse Safari: Horseback riding is a favored activity in Cappadocia, offering a
different perspective to explore the stunning natural landscapes and unique rock
formations. Joining day tours, you can visit Red Valley, Rose Valley, Love Valley,
Baglidere, and Swords Valley, accompanied by trained horses and experienced guides.
• Pottery Making: Engage in crafting handmade pottery in Avanos, where pottery
workshops abound. Artists often practice their ancestral profession, and you, too, can
create your piece to take with you.
• Wine Tasting: Explore Cappadocia's wineries, known for producing unique and high-
quality Cappadocian wines. Visitors can sample these wines at local wineries while
enjoying the scenic vineyard landscapes.
XII. Must taste;
• Testi Kebab: Immerse yourself in Cappadocia's rich culture through the delectable
slow-cooked Testi Kebab, the region's most famous dish. This savory delight is
prepared in Avanos pots with a medley of vegetables, taking approximately 2 hours to
perfect. The presentation was as excellent as the taste, as the waiter broke the pot at
your table. Ensure you savor this culinary experience during your visit.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Indulge in the roasted pumpkin seeds of Nevsehir, a snack that will
surely satisfy your appetite. Grab a handful from the local bazaars and enjoy the
flavorful crunch.
• Pumpkin Seed Noodles: Delight in the winter delicacy of pumpkin seed noodles, a
side dish commonly enjoyed in Nevsehir. Don't miss the chance to savor this unique
culinary offering.
• Stuffed Leaves (Dolma): Cappadocia's vineyards contribute to the popularity of
stuffed leaves, a dish readily available on the menus of most local restaurants.
Experience the rich flavors of this classic.
• Ürgüp Meatballs: Try the distinct Ürgüp meatballs made with potatoes, offering a
unique twist compared to traditional meatballs. Treat your taste buds to this local
delicacy.
• Kayseri Ravioli (Manti): Explore the many eateries offering the famous tiny ravioli
known as Kayseri Manti. It's a must-try local cuisine that promises not to disappoint.
• Nevsehir Ravioli (Manti): Sample the Nevsehir ravioli, crafted with minced meat and
onions rolled into bread dough. Slightly more straightforward to prepare than its
Kayseri counterpart, it remains a delightful culinary experience.
• Wine: Complete your Cappadocian culinary journey by exploring the local wines.
Don't leave without savoring the classic flavors of Cappadocia's renowned wines.
XIII. Our Language & Money
With its rich cultural tapestry, Cappadocia stands as a testament to the preservation of diverse
heritages from bygone eras. While Turkish, written in the Latin alphabet, holds the official
language status, communicating comfortably in English is easily achievable throughout
Cappadocia.
* The currency code for Turkish Lira is TL/TRY and the currency symbol is ₺
Currency exchange in Goreme, Avanos, Uchisar, and the entire Cappadocia region can be
arranged either before your journey or upon arrival. For optimal exchange rates, we
recommend obtaining Turkish Liras after reaching Turkey, where exchange offices are readily
available at Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) or Kayseri Airport (ASR).
Converting any currency into Turkish Lira is common in Cappadocia, and exchange offices
are widespread across the region. These establishments are found along the streets of popular
tourist zones, districts, banks, travel agencies, Post Offices, and both Nevsehir and Kayseri
airports.
XIV. How many days should you stay?
Cappadocia stands apart from other cities, boasting an enchanting landscape with captivating
valley trails, breathtaking panoramic views, charming fairy chimneys, and intricately carved
churches and houses adorned with frescoes. The vivid spectacle of hot air balloons adds to the
uniqueness of this destination. Ensure it's on your must-see list, and consider adjusting your
itinerary to experience the beauty of Cappadocia before it becomes a distant dream!
Take your time exploring the vastness of Cappadocia; rushing through might mean missing
out on the many delights it has to offer. While some opt for day trips, a 3-4-5 day itinerary,
complete with a hot air balloon ride, allows you to savor the essence of this expansive city.
Opting for a car ride to and from the airport proves more convenient and efficient but also
treats you to the picturesque moonscape of Cappadocia, showcasing rock pinnacles and caves
visible along the highway. Begin your Cappadocian adventure right from the airport journey.
If you're short on time, a 2-day visit with daily tours is also an option, and your
hotel can assist in booking these for you.
We understand the challenge of navigating a new city, especially regarding traffic
and geography. Cappadocia has so much to offer, from museums and underground
cities to towering cave castles, churches, and monasteries. Planning your itinerary to
cover the significant spots allows you to embrace the city's wonders fully.
And there you have it – this guide is designed to equip you with the 14 essential
things to know before visiting Cappadocia. We hope you've gained insights into the
city and eagerly anticipate your exploration. Please keep us posted on your
adventures!
