In central Turkey, Cappadocia boasts a stunning landscape of mountains, valleys, and caves.
If you're planning a trip, you might explore the best places to stay. The region is segmented
into four main areas: Urgup, Goreme, Uchisar, and Avanos. Each area possesses its unique
charm, making it crucial to select the one that aligns with your preferences. This guide aims to
assist you in determining the most suitable area for your stay in Cappadocia. Regardless of
your choice, Cappadocia promises a magical experience, offering many options to find the
perfect place to call home while exploring its wonders.
• OVERVIEW ABOUT STAYING CAPPADOCIA
Cappadocia, an enchanting and distinctive region in Turkey, draws visitors from across the
globe. If you're gearing up for a trip to Cappadocia, initiating your plans well in advance is
crucial. With numerous attractions to explore, meticulous planning becomes vital to
optimizing your experience.
Organizing excursions can be intricate, necessitating early arrangements for transportation
and accommodation. Cappadocia tends to be bustling, especially during public holidays and
summer vacations. Hence, securing reservations promptly ensures the best value and a
smoother travel experience.
• TRANSPORTATION
Before settling on your Cappadocia accommodation, meticulous transportation planning is
vital. Optimal exploration of Cappadocia is achieved through car or minibus travel. Car rental
services are widely accessible, and the well-maintained roads enhance the driving experience.
Minibuses also serve as a popular transportation choice throughout the region.
A comprehensive network of minibusses seamlessly connects different towns and villages.
Traffic poses minimal concerns in Cappadocia, allowing for effortless navigation by car or
minibus.
• HERE’S THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CAPPADOCIA
❖ URGUP
Known as the "World City," the Urgup region allows easy access to every significant
attraction by foot. Visitors can engage in daily tours to thoroughly explore Cappadocia or
embark on journeys through the valleys, immersing themselves in nature and experiencing
ancient history firsthand.
Explore the Devrent Imagination Valley, Pancarlik Valley, Kızılcukur Red Valley, or the
Gomeda – Uzengi Valleys. Uncover fossils dating back 10 million years at the Urgup
Museum, discover handmade dolls at the Cappadocia Art and History Museum, or delve into
ethnography at the Ortahisar Ethnography Museum.
Other noteworthy attractions include Temenni Hill, Kadi Castle Altınkapili Tomb, and the
Mazi Underground City. With so much to do, you'll wish for more time to explore!
You can find boutique hotels catering to various budget ranges in this area. If you prefer a
more luxurious experience, reserve one of the mansions from the Seljuk period that has been
restored and turned into businesses. Additionally, spending the night in one of the famous
caves is another popular option during weather-appropriate seasons.
Transportation to Urgup from the airports in Nevsehir and Kayseri is more accessible. Still,
there are ample public transportation networks to Avanos and Goreme for those interested in
fully exploring the area.
❖ HIGHLIGHTS IN URGUP
Urgup Museum
Temenni Hill Mausoleums
Kadi Castle and Altinkapili Tomb
Taskinpasa Complex
Sarihan Caravanserai
Cappadocia Art and History Museum
Kizilcukur Red Valley
Devrent Imagination Valley
Gomeda – Uzengi Valleys
Ortahisar Castle
Ortahisar Ethnography Museum
Mazi Underground City
Mustafapasa Village
❖ GOREME
The Goreme Region stands out as one of the most beautiful areas in Cappadocia and is
rapidly gaining popularity due to its extraordinary natural beauty and rich history! One of the
most enchanting places to explore in this region is the Goreme Open Air Museum,
showcasing an exceptional collection of churches, chapels, and madrasahs dating back to the
11th and 12th centuries.
Moreover, there are numerous valleys and hiking trails to explore, providing the perfect
opportunity to escape and appreciate the breathtaking scenery. For those curious about the
local culture, a visit to the village of Cavusin, one of the oldest settlements in the area just 4
km away, is a must.
With over 200 distinct accommodations, guests can enjoy an authentic experience in some of
the restored houses, mansions, and unique boutique hotels. Exploring this area on foot is
convenient, and there are straightforward transportation options to other regions in
Cappadocia. Take the chance to savor local dishes like Nevsehir pan, dried beans, and other
traditional culinary delights.
❖ HIGHLIGHTS IN GOREME
Goreme Open Air Museum
Guvercinlik Pigeon Valley
Pasabag Monks Valley
Zemi Valley
Gulludere Rose Valley
Love Valley
Kiliclar Swords Valley
John the Baptist Church
Village of Cavusin
❖ UCHISAR
Uchisar is renowned for its luxurious hotels and breathtaking vistas of Cappadocia.
Perched atop a hill, Uchisar is the highest settlement in Cappadocia, providing sweeping
panoramas of the distinctive landscape below. You can witness some of the most
captivating sunsets Cappadocia offers in this area.
Uchisar is home to many of Cappadocia's most luxurious and chain hotels, making it a
preferred choice for travelers seeking a serene and comfortable stay. Although Uchisar may
not be as bustling or centrally located as some other towns in Cappadocia, it still offers a
wealth of attractions.Travelers can explore numerous caves and hiking trails, explore local markets, or revel in the
breathtaking views. While in this vicinity, take advantage of the opportunity to visit Uchisar
Castle, where you can savor the specialty dishes of Cappadocia and sample various
international cuisines. Known as the "Roof of Cappadocia," capture some of your best
moments in this stunning area!
❖ HIGHLIGHTS IN UCHISAR
Uchisar Castle
Tigraz Castle
Kuran Castle
Karakale
Guvercinlik Pigeon Valley
Kocabag Winery
Cappadocia Art and Culture Museum
❖ AVANOS
If you're seeking a historical and cultural experience, Avanos is your ideal destination.
This part of Cappadocia is recognized as the birthplace of art, offering numerous
opportunities to immerse yourself in its rich history.
Avanos offers many exploration opportunities, from ancient cave dwellings to well-preserved
ruins. If you're keen on traditional crafts, the town has several studios where artisans
showcase their skills, ranging from pottery to carpentry.
Situated at the tip of the Cappadocia area, Avanos is less touristy than Goreme and Urgup and
may be a bit distant from some typical attractions. Nevertheless, it boasts tourist highlights
like the natural Zelve Valley, Ozkonak Underground City, and Uzumlu Church.
While you might need transportation to reach other areas, you can explore the charming town
of Avanos on foot and stay in the cave homes and historical mansions that characterize this
region.
❖ HIGHLIGHTS IN AVANOS
Zelve Valley
Ozkonak Underground City
Uzumlu Church
Kizilirmak River & Bridge
Art Experience such as clay making and pottery
Guray Ceramics & Pottery Museum
Chez Galip Hair Museum
❖ ORTAHISAR
Ortahisar, much like Uchisar, is a quaint and peaceful town compared to Urgup and Goreme.
It is situated just 5 km from Urgup and maintains a serene ambiance despite its rich tourist
attractions. Ortahisar is one of Cappadocia's oldest settlements, hosting numerous civilizations
throughout its history. Shaped by geographical and cultural characteristics, the town features
rock caves carved into the valley's slopes.
Ortahisar boasts its renowned Ortahisar Castle, Cappadocia's most enormous fairy
chimney. Serving as one of the world's early examples of multi-story settlements, it
plays a pivotal role in shaping the region's identity. Hotels surrounding Ortahisar
Castle offer distinctive, authentic, and extraordinary experiences during your stay,
complete with activities and concerts.
Situated near various attractions, Ortahisar provides easy access to museums like the
Ortahisar Ethnography Museum. Nature enthusiasts can explore İbrahimpasa Village
in the Balkan Valley on foot or engage in activities like cycling and hot air balloon
rides. Nearby landmarks include Hallac Monastery, Cambazlı Church, and Pancarlık
Valley. Don't miss the chance to indulge in local dining, shopping, and cultural
experiences.
