Cappadocia is a beautiful region in central Turkey that is known for its unique landscape of mountains, valleys, and caves. If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, you may be researching the best places to stay. The region is divided into four main areas: Urgup, Goreme, Uchisar and Avanos. Each area has its own unique charm, so choosing the right one for your needs is important. This guide will help you decide which area is best for your stay in Cappadocia. No matter which region you choose, Cappadocia is a magical destination it’s easy to find the perfect place to call home while exploring Cappadocia.
If you’re planning on a trip to this magical town as a first-timer, we advise you not to cram your days. Pick a borough or a region, and get the most out of your stay for a few days to explore in their own right. You’re going to love it!
Truly, finding accommodation can feel overwhelming and stressful at first, and we totally feel you! Therefore, we’re here to help you get your bearings in Cappadocia.
Staying in Cappadocia – Overview
Cappadocia is a beautiful and unique region of Turkey that attracts visitors from all over the world. If you’re planning to travel to Cappadocia, it’s important to start making your plans well in advance. There are a lot of things to see and do in this region, and careful planning is essential in order to make the most of your trip.
Excursion planning can be complicated, and you’ll need to book your transportation and accommodation well in advance. Cappadocia is usually crowded during public holidays and the summer vacation season. For this reason, you should make your reservations early in order to receive the best value.
Transportation in Cappadocia
Before you make your decision on where to stay in Cappadocia, it is important to plan transportation carefully. The best way to explore Cappadocia is by car or minibus. Car rental companies are widely available, and the roads are well-maintained. Minibuses are also a popular option for transportation in Cappadocia.
There is an extensive network of minibuses that connect the different towns and villages in the region. Traffic is not a problem in Cappadocia, so you can easily get around by car or minibus.
Regional Accommodations – Which is the Best Region to Stay in Cappadocia?
Urgup Region
Known as the “World City” the Urgup region makes it possible for you to reach every important attraction on foot. Guests can participate in daily tours to fully explore Cappadocia, or discover the valleys, walking in nature and marveling at ancient history firsthand.
Be sure to explore the Devrent Imagination Valley, Pancarlik Valley, Kızılcukur Red Valley, or the Gomeda – Uzengi Valleys. Find fossils dating back 10 million years at the Urgup Museum, discover the handmade dolls at the Cappadocia Art and History Museum, or learn more about ethnography at the Ortahisar Ethnography Museum.
Other important attractions include the Temenni Hill, Kadi Castle and Altınkapili Tomb, and the Mazi Underground City. With everything to do, you will be wishing you had more time to explore!
In this area, you can find many boutique hotels with a variety of price ranges suitable for any budget. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, reserve one of the mansions from the Seljuk period which have been resorted and turned into businesses. Additionally, sleeping overnight in one of the famous caves is also another popular option during weather appropriate seasons.
Transportation to Urgup from the airports in Nevsehir and Kayseri is easier, but there are ample public transportation networks to Avanos and Goreme as well for those interested in fully exploring the area.
Urgup Highlights
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 and Mustafapasa Village
Urgup Video Tour
You can watch the below video your to see how Urgup looks like.
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Goreme Region
The Goreme Region is considered one of the most beautiful regions in Cappadocia and is quickly becoming one of the most popular thanks to its incredible natural beauty and rich history! One of the most magical places to visit in this region is the Goreme Open Air Museum, which features an exceptional collection of churches, chapels, and madrasahs dating back to the 11th and 12th century.
Additionally, there are also numerous valleys and hiking trails to explore, making it the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy the incredible scenery. For those interested in learning about the locals, visit the village of Çavuşin, one of the oldest settlements in the area just 4 km away.
With over 200 unique accommodations, guests can have an authentic experience in some of the restored houses, mansions, and unique boutique hotels. You can walk to everywhere in this area, and there are easy transportation options to the other regions in Cappadocia. Taste some of the local dishes such as Nevşehir pan, agpakla (dried beans) and other traditional dishes.
Goreme Highlights
- 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
- Many additional large and small churches dating 11th & 12th centuries
Goreme Video Tour
You can watch the below video your to see how Goreme looks like.
NAT GEO Goreme with Mock VO from Kayla Wumer on Vimeo.
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Uchisar Region
Uchisar is best known for its luxury hotels and stunning views of Cappadocia. Nestled atop a hilltop, Uchisar is the highest settlement in all of Cappadocia and offers panoramic views of the unique landscape below. In this region, you can watch some of the best sunsets in all of Cappadocia.
The town is also home to many of Cappadocia’s most luxurious and chain hotels, making it a popular choice for travelers looking for a relaxing and comfortable stay. While Uchisar may not be as crowded or central as some of the other towns in Cappadocia, it still offers plenty to see and do.
Visitors can explore the numerous caves and hiking trails, visit the local markets, or simply enjoy the incredible views. While in this area, be sure to check out Uchisar Castle, where you can taste some of the specialty dishes of Cappadocia, as well as sampling other international cuisines. Known as the “Roof of Cappadocia” take some of the best pictures in this stunning area!
Uchisar Highlights
- Uchisar Castle
- Tigraz Castle
- Kuran Castle
- Karakale
- Guvercinlik Pigeon Valley
- Kocabag Winery
- Cappadocia Art and Culture Museum
Uchisar Video Tour
You can watch the below video by Peter and Yen your to see how Uchisar looks like.
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Avanos Region
If you’re looking for a historical and cultural experience, Avanos is the perfect place for you. This region of Cappadocia is considered the birthplace of art, and there are plenty of opportunities to appreciate its rich history.
From ancient cave dwellings to well-preserved ruins, there’s plenty to explore. And if you’re interested in trying your hand at some traditional crafts, Avanos is also home to several studios where you can watch artisans at work. From pottery to carpentry, there’s sure to be something that catches your interest.
Avanos is at the tip of the Cappadocia area, which means that it is a bit less touristic than Goreme and Urgup and may be far from some of the common tourist attractions. The area does feature some of it’s own tourist highlights, such as the natural Zelve Valley, Ozkonak Underground City and Uzumlu Church.
Guests can also take magnificent pictures while swinging over the Kizilirmak River & Bridge. While you may need to take transportation to reach the other areas, you can still walk around the quaint town of Avanos, and you can still stay in the cave homes and historical mansions in this area.
Avanos Highlights
- 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
Video Tour
You can watch the below video your to see how Avanos looks like.
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Ortahisar Region
Ortahisar, just like Uçhisar, is smaller and quieter than Ürgüp and Göreme. Located 5 km from Ürgüp, it’s less crowded despite its touristic richness. Ortahisar is one of the oldest settlements of Cappadocia that hosted many civilizations. Thanks to geographical and cultural characteristics, it’s dominated by rock caves carved into the valley slopes.
The most important feature of Ortahisar is the famous Ortahisar Castle, the largest fairy chimney of Cappadocia. It’s one of the world’s first examples of multi-story settlements and the most critical element that shapes the region. Surely, the hotels around Ortahisar Castle create unique, authentic, and extraordinary experiences for your stay, full of activities, concerts, and more.
Ortahisar is very close to almost everywhere. For example, if you like museums, Ortahisar Ethnography Museum are a place you can visit. If you love nature, visit İbrahimpaşa Village in the Balkan Valley; you can walk. Join a bicycle or balloon ride. Visit Hallaç Monastery, Cambazlı Church, and Pancarlık Valley in the vicinity. Explore the local eating, drinking, and shopping opportunities.