Cappadocia, located in the heart of Turkey, is a destination that seems straight out of a fairy tale. Known for its unique rock formations, fairy chimneys and underground landscapes, this region offers an unparalleled experience for every traveler. In this article, we will take you on a journey through two of the most popular tours to explore Cappadocia: the Red Tour and the Green Tour. In addition, we will be in detail about other tours such as the famous balloon flight and how to enjoy your trip through Cappadocia 100%. Likewise, we will be sharing all the travel tips we experienced so that you can go safely and just hoping to enjoy every moment.
Where is Cappadocia and How to Get There
Cappadocia is a historical region in Central Anatolia, Turkey. It is known for its unique geological formations, ancient cave dwellings, and rich history. The region spans several provinces, with the most famous areas located within the provinces of Nevşehir, Kayseri, and Aksaray.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Kayseri Airport (ASR): The nearest major airport to Cappadocia is Erkilet International Airport in Kayseri, which is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the main tourist areas of Cappadocia. There are regular domestic flights from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major Turkish cities. Some international flights also land here.
- Nevşehir Airport (NAV): Another option is Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport, located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the main tourist areas. It offers fewer flights compared to Kayseri Airport but is closer to the key sites.
From either airport, you can take a shuttle bus, taxi, or rental car to reach your accommodation in Cappadocia. Shuttle services are often coordinated by hotels and tour operators.
- By bus:
Cappadocia is well connected by long-distance buses from major cities in Türkiye. The trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia lasts approximately between 10 and 12 hours, if you come from Denizli the bus takes between 8 and 9 hours, while the trip from Ankara lasts between 4 and 5 hours. Major bus companies such as Metro Turizm, Nevşehir Seyahat and Kamil Koç offer comfortable and frequent services to Nevşehir, Göreme, Ürgüp and Avanos.
- By Train:
There is no direct train service to Cappadocia, but you can take a train to Kayseri and then continue by bus or taxi. The train journey from Istanbul to Kayseri takes about 12 hours.
- By Car:
If you prefer to drive, Cappadocia is accessible via well-maintained highways. The drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia takes around 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The drive from Ankara takes about 3-4 hours.
Getting Around Cappadocia
Once in Cappadocia, you can explore the region using various modes of transportation:
- Rental Car: Renting a car provides the most flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace.
- Local Tours: Many visitors opt for organized tours (like the Red and Green Tours) to cover the major attractions conveniently.
- Public Transportation: There are minibuses (dolmuş) and buses connecting towns and major tourist sites, but they may not cover all areas as comprehensively as a car or tour.
- Bicycles and ATVs: For the more adventurous, bicycles and ATVs can be rented to explore the valleys and trails.
In conclusion Cappadocia is easily accessible by air, bus, train, or car, making it a convenient destination for travelers from within Turkey and abroad. Now that you know how to get there and how to get around, what to expect to know what to do in Cappadocia, so traveler, here we leave you all the details of the best tours of this wonderful place. Without a doubt, we recommend doing them all, because each experience is unique and invaluable.
Booking.comThe Red Tour: A Journey Through History and Nature
The Red Tour is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of Cappadocia. This tour includes visits to several of the region’s most iconic sites:
- Göreme Open-Air Museum: The Göreme Open-Air Museum is an extensive monastic complex with churches, chapels, and monasteries carved into the rock. This site, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features well-preserved frescoes dating from the 10th to the 12th centuries. The murals narrate biblical stories and offer a fascinating glimpse into Byzantine art. Notable churches include the Apple Church (Elmali Kilise), the Dark Church (Karanlik Kilise), and the Snake Church (Yilanli Kilise).
- Pasabag Fairy Chimneys: Also known as the Monk’s Valley, the fairy chimneys in Pasabag feature uniquely shaped rock formations that resemble giant mushrooms. These natural structures formed over millennia due to wind and water erosion on volcanic rock. In the past, hermit monks inhabited these chimneys, and some monastic cells carved into the rock can still be found.
- Avanos: Avanos is a charming town situated on the banks of the Kızılırmak River, also known as the Red River. The town is famous for its pottery tradition that dates back to the Hittite period. Here, visitors can watch traditional pottery demonstrations and participate in workshops to create their own ceramic pieces. The red clay used in the pottery comes from the Kızılırmak River, making each piece unique.
- Love Valley: Love Valley is famous for its phallic-shaped rock formations that rise like giants in the landscape. This valley offers an easy hike with stunning panoramic views and is a popular spot for photography. The formations are the result of differential erosion of volcanic rock, creating these distinctive structures.
- Uçhisar Castle: Uçhisar Castle is the highest rock formation in Cappadocia and offers a panoramic view of the region. This natural fortress has been used as a stronghold and refuge for centuries. Visitors can explore the rooms and tunnels carved into the rock and enjoy an unrivaled view of the fairy chimneys and surrounding valleys from the top.
Below we leave you two of the best red tours we found in Cappadocia:
- Private/Shared Cappadocia Red Tour with Expert Local Guide Book here
- Red Plus small group tour with guide in Spanish, food & tickets Book here
The Green Tour: Adventure and Nature at Its Best
The Green Tour is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers. This tour takes you to explore some of Cappadocia’s most impressive landscapes and underground wonders:
- Derinkuyu Underground City: Derinkuyu is one of the largest and deepest underground cities in Cappadocia, capable of housing thousands of people. Excavated to a depth of approximately 85 meters, this city includes tunnels, food storage, stables, churches, and ventilation shafts. It is believed to have been used by early Christians as a refuge during persecutions and invasions.
- Ihlara Valley: Ihlara Valley is a canyon approximately 14 kilometers long, with a river flowing through it. This valley is known for its rock-cut churches, many of which are decorated with Byzantine frescoes. The hike along the Melendiz River offers spectacular views and an opportunity to enjoy nature and history in a tranquil setting.
- Selime Monastery: Selime Monastery is the largest rock-cut monastery complex in Cappadocia. It includes a church, kitchen, stables, and many other rooms connected by tunnels. The monastery’s architecture is impressive and offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient monastic life.
- Göreme Plateau Viewpoint: This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Cappadocia, with its rock formations and fairy chimneys. It is an ideal place to take photographs and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The plateau is a perfect vantage point to appreciate the scale and uniqueness of the Cappadocian landscape.
Below we leave you two of the best green tours we found in Cappadocia:
- Cappadocia: Small Group Guided Green Tour with Lunch- Book here
- Cappadocia: Guided Green Tour with Lunch and Entrance Ticket. Book here
Hot Air Balloon Ride: An Unforgettable Experience
One of the most iconic activities in Cappadocia is the hot air balloon ride. This unique experience allows you to see the region from an entirely different perspective:
- Sunrise Takeoff: Balloon rides usually start at dawn, offering the opportunity to see the sun rise over the fairy chimneys and valleys. The colors of the sunrise add a special magic to the landscape.
- Panoramic View: From the balloon, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Cappadocia, with its rock formations, underground cities, and picturesque valleys. The feeling of gently floating over the terrain is unmatched.
- Duration and Safety: Flights typically last between 60 and 90 minutes and are operated by experienced pilots who ensure a safe and memorable experience. Upon landing, many companies offer a champagne toast to celebrate the flight.
Without a doubt we will share with you two of the best options you have to live this adventure 100%
- Cappadocia: Goreme Hot Air Balloon Flight over Fairychimneys Book here
- Cappadocia: Hot Air Balloon Trip in Goreme with Breakfast Book here
Travelers tips
Gastronomy of Cappadocia
The gastronomy of Cappadocia is a delightful blend of traditional Turkish flavors with unique regional influences. Some dishes and drinks you must try include:
- Testi Kebab: This is a typical dish of Cappadocia where meat and vegetables are slowly cooked in a sealed clay pot. The pot is broken open at the table to serve its contents, providing a unique culinary and visual experience.
- Manti: Small pasta dumplings filled with meat, similar to ravioli, served with a yogurt and garlic sauce, and sprinkled with spices like dried mint and paprika.
- Güveç: A slow-cooked stew made in a clay casserole that can include meat, chicken, or vegetables. It is a comforting and flavorful dish.
- Cappadocian Wines: The region is known for its wineries and vineyards. Local wines, made from indigenous grapes, are the perfect complement to any meal.
- Baklava: A classic Turkish dessert made of layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
Money in Cappadocia
You should know that like the other regions of Turkey, the official currency of Cappadocia is the Turkish Lira, its symbol is ₺ and its code is TRY. The most common exchange rate for the lira is with the euro.
Although most establishments accept credit cards, we recommend that you bring cash, because most local tours only accept cash. Likewise, if you need to take the bus or private transportation, it will be much more profitable for you to pay with cash. In our case we had very few Turkish liras but we managed to make our payments in euros and American dollars, so it never hurts to have a cash reserve.
You should know that in Cappadocia you will find ATMs, however it is better to be prepared because in many cases the exchange rate offered by banks is higher than the market, so we reiterate, bring cash.
What to wear in Cappadocia?
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
- Layers: The weather in spring and autumn can be quite variable, with cool mornings and evenings but warm afternoons. Wear layers to easily adapt to temperature changes.
- Light Jacket or Sweater: A light jacket or sweater is useful for the cool mornings and evenings.
- Comfortable Pants: Hiking pants or comfortable jeans are suitable for walking and exploring.
- Hiking Shoes: Good hiking shoes or comfortable sneakers are essential for navigating rocky terrain and lots of walking.
- Hat and Sunglasses: The sun can be quite strong, so bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself.
- Sunscreen: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, especially if you’ll be outdoors for long periods.
Summer (June to August)
- Light and Breathable Clothing: In summer, temperatures can get quite high during the day. Wear light, breathable clothing made of cotton or linen.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will help protect you from the sun.
- Comfortable Shoes: Comfortable sandals or lightweight hiking shoes are ideal for walking.
- Sunscreen: This is especially important in summer. Apply it generously and frequently.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle with you.
Winter (December to February)
- Warm Clothing: Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Bring a warm coat, gloves, scarf, and hat.
- Layers: Just like in spring and autumn, layers are useful for adjusting to temperature fluctuations throughout the day.
- Winter Boots: Warm, waterproof boots are essential, especially if there’s snow or ice.
- Thermal Underwear: Consider wearing thermal underwear to keep warm.
General Considerations
- Wind and Water-Resistant Clothing: A wind and water-resistant jacket can be useful in any season, especially if you plan to go ballooning or explore the valleys.
- Modest Clothing: Remember that Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, and it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
For the Hot Air Balloon Ride
- Warm Clothing: Balloon rides are typically early in the morning when it’s still cold. Wear a warm jacket and extra layers.
- Comfortable Shoes: Again, good hiking shoes or comfortable sneakers are recommended, as you might be standing for a while.
Cappadocia is a destination that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to adventure and nature. Both the Red Tour and the Green Tour will allow you to explore the best of this magical region, each with its own approach and charm. In addition, you cannot miss enjoying the exquisite local cuisine and the unforgettable experience of a hot air balloon ride.
With these recommendations, you will be well prepared to enjoy everything Cappadocia has to offer and experience one of the best trips of your life. We hope you enjoy your visit to Cappadocia as much as we enjoyed sharing these details with you! Now pack your bags and enjoy the magic of Turkey.
