With a history stretching back millennia, Cappadocia encompasses a region of Anatolia in central Türkiye known for its magical landscapes, lovely valleys and underground cities. This region attracts tourists from around the world but is also known for its viticulture and history. Major cities Nevşehir and Kayseri (Caesarea) offer access to towns such as Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar and Derinkuyu.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Most international travelers fly into İGA Istanbul Airport and connect via daily non-stop flights on Turkish Airlines or Pegasus Air to either Nevşehir- Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri’s Erkilet Airport. Airport shuttles, buses and taxis service the airports, as do several car rental agencies. Public transportation is not well-suited to sightseeing in the region, so renting or hiring a car and guide prove excellent options, and there are numerous reputable guided tour companies as well.
LODGING
Dinler Hotels – Ürgüp
This 5-star modern property offers something for everyone: on-site dining and lounges, a business center, 24-hour room service, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center and salon services, Turkish bath and sauna, and an outdoor playground.
Mehmet Dinler Boulevard, Ürgüp, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Türkiye, tel 90 384 341 3030 urgup.dinler.com
Esbelli Evi Cave Inn
Choose from 10 authentically restored cave houses offering high-speed WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, as well as terraces and gardens. Knowledgeable, welcoming staff offer recommendations for local activities and restaurants.
Dolay Sokak 8, Ürgüp, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Türkiye, tel 90 384 341 3395 esbelli.com
Gül Konakları (Rose Mansions) Sinasos
Consisting of two 19th-century Greek Ottoman stone mansions, this property offers 19 rooms in a peaceful setting. In addition to the soothing rose garden, guests enjoy hospitable staff and traditional, local dishes in the on-site restaurant with a tandoor oven.
Yeni Mah. Sumer Sok. 9, Mustafapaşa, Ürgüp, Cappadocia, Türkiye, tel 90 384 353 5486 gulkonaklari.com
DINING
Happena Cappadocia
Featuring the Hittite and ancient Anatolian cuisine of Cappadocia, the menu offers a wide selection of appetizers as well as entrées featuring lamb, veal and quail; vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available. Guests enjoy terrace seating and lovely views.
Kelebek Special Cave Hotel, Aydinli Mah. Yavuz Sok. 1, Göreme, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Türkiye, tel 90 538 400 2520 happenacappadocia.com
Köşebaşı Kapadokya
Enjoy traditional Turkish kebap gastronomy and garden terrace dining as well as wood-fired oven Turkish pizza and vegan options. Cocktails, beer and fine local wines are also served.
Karşibucak Cd. 50, Göreme, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Türkiye, tel 90 549 132 5000 kosebasi.com
The Plum Restaurant
Located in Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge, Plum offers seasonal Mediterranean menus created from farm-fresh local ingredients. Terrace seating offers views of vineyards and Cappadocia’s unique formations.
Tekelli Mah., Tekelli Kumesi 8, Uchisar, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Türkiye, tel 90 384 219 2223 arianalodge.com
ATTRACTIONS
Derinkuyu Underground City
Cappadocia boasts dozens of underground cities; Derinkuyu, reaching depths of 280 feet, is the largest. Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, its 18 levels, once housing up to 20,000 residents, feature wine and oil presses, stables, cellars, chapels and schools. Book a guided tour from one of several tour companies to get the most from the experience.
Derinkuyu, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Türkiye, tel 90 384 381 31 94
Göreme Open Air Museum
Another World Heritage site, this collection of historical rock-hewn monasteries and cave churches, most from the 10th through 12th centuries, features impressive architecture and vibrant frescoes. You may rent an audio guide and tour on your own or book a tour through one of several tour companies.
Göreme, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Türkiye
Hot-Air Balloon Tours
Flying in a hot-air balloon over the fairy-tale landscape of Cappadocia at sunrise is considered a must by most visitors to this region. Book online with a reliable vendor well in advance. For a multiday visit, book your flight on the first day of your trip in case weather cancels your plans. That allows you to reschedule and not miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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