If you’re planning a trip from Ankara to Cappadocia, you have multiple travel options, each with its own advantages. Whether you prioritize speed, cost, or flexibility, this guide will help you find the best way to travel from Ankara to Cappadocia.
Our Best Tips
- For Budget Travelers → Take the bus for an affordable, direct route.
- For Adventurers → Rent a car and explore the scenic drive.
- For a Unique Experience → Take the train to enjoy Anatolia’s landscapes.
- For Speed → Consider flying (despite the layover).
Taking a Bus from Ankara to Cappadocia: Affordable and Convenient
Buses are the most cost-effective and direct way to reach Cappadocia from Ankara. Several reputable bus companies operate daily routes, offering comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats and onboard services.
Bus Operators and Routes
- Metro Turizm – Multiple daily departures from ASTI bus terminal to Göreme.
- Kamil Koç – Another well-known provider with frequent services to the region.
- Nevşehir Seyahat – Offers direct routes with pick-up/drop-off points in Ürgüp, Avanos, Göreme, and Nevşehir.
Travel Time and Costs
- Duration: ~4 to 5 hours
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, snacks, USB charging, and comfortable legroom.
Where to Book
- Online via official bus company websites.
- At the AŞTİ bus terminal in Ankara.
Who Should Take the Bus?
- Budget-conscious travelers.
- Those looking for direct, hassle-free travel with no transfers.
- Tourists who prefer overnight buses to save time and accommodation costs.
Driving from Ankara to Cappadocia: A Scenic Road Trip
For those who enjoy the freedom of driving, renting a car is a great way to explore Cappadocia and its surroundings.
Route Overview
- Distance: ~285 km (177 miles)
- Estimated Driving Time: ~4 hours
- Recommended Route:
- Take D750 highway south towards Aksaray.
- Merge onto D300, which leads directly to Nevşehir and Göreme.
Pros of Driving
✔ Flexibility – Stop at scenic locations like Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake) along the way.
✔ Comfort – No need to adhere to bus schedules.
✔ Ideal for Groups – Cost-effective when splitting rental and fuel costs.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Car Rental Options
- Available at Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) or downtown agencies.
- Most international and local providers offer affordable rental deals.
Who Should Drive?
- Travelers who want more control over their schedule.
- Visitors planning to explore off-the-beaten-path areas in Cappadocia.
Train Travel from Ankara to Cappadocia: A Unique Experience
Although there’s no direct train from Ankara to Cappadocia, you can take a train to Kayseri and continue by bus or taxi.
Train Details
- Route: Ankara → Kayseri (by train) → Cappadocia (by bus/taxi)
- Duration: ~6 hours by train + 1.5-hour bus/taxi ride
- Operator: TCDD (Turkish State Railways) – Güney Kurtalan Ekspresi, Doğu Ekspresi
Who Should Take the Train?
- Travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic journey.
- Budget-conscious visitors who don’t mind the extra travel time.
Flying from Ankara to Cappadocia: Fast but Limited
There are no direct flights between Ankara and Cappadocia, but you can fly via Istanbul.
Flight Details
- Airports: Ankara Esenboğa (ESB) → Istanbul → Nevşehir (NAV) or Kayseri (ASR).
- Total Duration: ~4-6 hours (including layover).
- Ticket Cost: Prices vary based on season and airline promotions.
Transfers from the Airport
- Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) – Closer (~40 min drive).
- Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) – Slightly farther (~1 hour drive).
- Shuttle services, taxis, and car rentals are available at both airports.
Who Should Fly?
- Travelers with tight schedules who prioritize speed.
- Those booking flights in advance for potential discounts.
Which airport is best for Cappadocia: Kayseri or Nevşehir?
Both Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) and Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) serve Cappadocia, but Nevşehir Airport is closer (40 minutes away), making it more convenient.
However, Kayseri Airport has more frequent flights and better transportation options, making it the preferred choice for many travelers. If you’re looking for the shortest transfer time, fly into Nevşehir Airport, but if you need more flight options and possibly lower fares, choose Kayseri Airport.
