If you scroll through Instagram from time to time, chances are high you’ve already seen some pictures taken in the magical region of Cappadocia. This place is mainly known for its hot air balloon flights and epic landscapes. After lurking for 2 years, I finally made it to this dreamy destination. I’ve spent 5 days in Cappadocia and created the ultimate travel guide for you.
If you have a trip planned, or are thinking about visiting Cappadocia, keep on reading.
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BEST TIME TO VISIT CAPPADOCIA
The region of Cappadocia can be visited all year around and hot air balloons fly every month of the year if the weather allows is. Peak season is Summer time with July and August as the most busy months – note that temperatures can reach more than 40C°. If you want to escape the large crowds and the hottest time of the year, I’d suggest visiting during May/June and September/October.
Snow is possible during Winter time, which can create a very magical landscape all-round Göreme.
I personally visited in early June. Mornings were chilly, but it got very hot during the day (30C°).
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HOW TO GET THERE
The easiest way to reach the region of Cappadocia is by plane or (night) bus.
Arrival by plane:
There are 2 airports in the area: Nevşehir Airport (40 minute drive from Göreme) & Kayseri Airport (70 minute drive from Göreme). You can fly into these small airports from different neighbouring cities: Istanbul, Izmir and Antalya.
On arrival, it’s best to have your shuttle booked in advance, ideally via your accommodation. These services are well-organised and will be more affordable than grabbing a taxi at the airport. Note that there is no public transport at the airport.
Arrival by (night) bus:
If you don’t mind a longer journey and want to save some cash, the (night) bus might be the ideal option for you. These buses leave from various cities in Turkey. From Istanbul and Izmir, the journey to Cappadocia takes up to 12 hours, from Antalya and Pamukkale it’s around 8 hours. Most buses are night buses and are described as comfortable.
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WHERE TO STAY
Göreme is the most popular town in the region of Cappadocia as it’s closely located to some main attractions such as Göreme Open Air Museum, Rose Valley and Göreme Panorama. You’ll find the most hotels and restaurants in this area as well. For your first visit, Göreme is definitely the best choice.
Hotel recommendations in Göreme:
- Caftan Cave Suites – Stunning terrace, great price value
- Mithra Cave Hotel – Amazing views
- Sultan Cave Suites – Incredible large terracce
- Koza Cave Hotel – Hotel with the highest rooftop in Göreme
- Local Cave House Hotel – One of the few hotels with a pool
Other towns to consider are:
- Uçhisar: a quiet town, surrounded by amazing landscapes
- Ürgüp: luxury hotels, closely located to some popular Valleys
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HOW MANY DAYS
Many people think that the hot air balloons are the only things to do/see in Cappadocia, but this is definitely not the case! Read my other blogpost to find out the top things to do in Cappadocia.
I’d recommend to book at least 3 full days to be able to explore many parts of the region. Also, you want to have as much chances as possible to fly/see the hot air balloons. Try to book your hot air balloon flight the first morning of your stay. If the flights are cancelled, it might be postponed to the next day. Even though flying in a balloon is a magical experience, watching them take off is something you need to experience as well.
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HOW TO GET AROUND
The best way to get around the main attractions in Cappadocia is by taxi or to rent a car. There is no public transport in the town of Göreme nor anywhere else in the region of Cappadocia. Another option is to book an organised tour where you’ll visit different parts of Cappadocia by mini-van or ATV.
Also read: 8 things to know before visiting Cappadocia
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FOOD & DRINK RECOMMENDATIONS
The town of Göreme offers restaurants and bars around every corner. The options are endless and all the meals I had during my stay were exceptionally tasty! Here are some recommendations, make sure to save them.
Taste tasted myself:
- Seten Bar & Restaurant
- Dusk by Koza (drinks only)
- Fat boys
- Mozaik Restaurant
- SunShine Cafe
- Inci cave restaurant
Recommended by others:
- Dibek Restaurant & Cafe
- Old Cappadocia Cafe and Restaurant
- Top deck restaurant
- Crazy Ali Cafe
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THINGS TO DO IN CAPPADOCIA
The list of things to do in Cappadocia is endless. Check out my other blogpost where I share the top things to do in Cappadocia
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