Cappadocia:
What to See, Airport and History

What city is Cappadocia located in?

Cappadocia is not one city, but a historical region located in Central Anatolia, Turkey. It includes several cities and provinces such as Nevsehir, Kayseri, Aksaray and Kirsehir. Each of these provinces has its own unique natural and cultural attractions that attract tourists from all over the world.

Nevsehir is one of the popular cities in Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys and underground cities such as Derinkuyu and Kaymakli.

History of Cappadocia

The history of Cappadocia dates back many centuries and is associated with various civilizations and cultures that have influenced the region over time. Here is a brief overview of historical events and significant periods of Cappadocia:

Ancient Civilizations: Cappadocia has ancient roots and was inhabited as early as the Neolithic era around 7500 BC. For more than a thousand years, the region was influenced by various ancient peoples such as the Hittites, Hurrians, Hurrians, Phrygians and Lydians.

Period of Persian rule: In the 6th-5th centuries BC, Cappadocia became part of the Persian Achaemenid Empire. It remained a satrapy of the Persian Empire until the conquest of Alexander the Great in 334 BC.

Time of Greco-Roman Civilization: After the death of Alexander the Great, Cappadocia became part of his legacy, and subsequently came under the rule of the Seleucids, Mithridatids of Pontus and the Roman Empire. The influence of Greek and Roman cultures had a significant impact on the region.

Rise of Christianity: In the second and third centuries AD, Christianity began to penetrate Cappadocia, and the region became one of the first places of formation of a Christian community. Cappadocian saints such as Basil the Great, Gregory of Nazianzus and Gregory of Nyssa lived and worked here.

Byzantine Era: In the 5th century, Cappadocia became part of the Byzantine Empire, and Christian culture and architecture continued to develop.

Ottoman Empire: In the 13th century, after the capture of Constantinople, Cappadocia became part of the Ottoman Empire. This period was marked by the development of Turkish culture and architecture.

Modern times: After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire at the beginning of the 20th century, Cappadocia became part of the Turkish Republic, which was founded in 1923. Over the years, the region has become a popular tourist destination, known for its unique natural formations and historical sites.

Today, Cappadocia remains an important tourist destination, attracting people from all over the world for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes and unique natural formations.

What to see in Cappadocia in one day

Cappadocia offers many amazing attractions and there are many interesting places to see in one day. However, given the limited time, it is recommended to focus on the most significant and characteristic places.

City Khujans: Start your day with a visit to the city Khujans. Some of the most popular hujans are in the cities of Nevsehir, Goreme and Uchisar. They are unique rock formations created by erosion and served as important habitats for the ancient inhabitants of Cappadocia.

Goreme: Visit Goreme National Park, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can see amazing rock formations called fairy chimneys, as well as many ancient Christian churches carved into the rocks. It is especially worth visiting the Open Air Museum to learn more about the history and culture of this amazing place.

Uchisar: Next, travel to Uchisar to visit its famous rock fortress, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area and the mountains of Cappadocia. This is one of the highest points in the region and an ideal place for photography.

Avanos: Conclude your day with a trip to Avanos, an ancient city famous for its beautiful streets and rock houses. Here you can also see the traditional crafts such as ceramics and pottery for which the city was famous.

Hot air balloon in Cappadocia

If you find yourself in Cappadocia, then you should definitely try one of the most exciting adventures in life – a hot air balloon ride! This is a truly unique experience that will leave an unforgettable memory.

Imagine yourself floating in the air, above the stunning fairy chimneys and mystical landscapes of Cappadocia. You will have the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunrise as the first rays illuminate the amazing rock formations and the soft dawn colors the entire nature in beautiful hues. You will not be able to keep your admiring glances from this fabulous picture.

Once your balloon rises higher, a panorama of the horizon will open up and you will see the beauty of Cappadocia that cannot be expressed in words. Gentle winds will accompany your flight, creating a unique atmosphere of freedom and magic.

Don’t forget to take your camera or smartphone with you to capture this unforgettable moment. You will have to share your photos and memories of your hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia with your friends and family!

Where in Cappadocia are Hot Air Balloons

In Cappadocia, hot air balloons take off from various points and their exact location may vary depending on weather conditions and the time of year. But there are several popular places where hot air balloons usually take off:

• Goreme
• Uchisar
• Nevsehir
• City of Avanos

How much does it cost to ride a hot air balloon in Cappadocia?

The price of a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia may vary depending on various factors such as flight duration, provider company, included services and seasonality. Typically, the cost of a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia ranges from $150 to $300 per person.

More expensive tours may provide additional amenities such as longer flights, more luxurious baskets and better views of the Cappadocia landscape. Also, some tours may include breakfast or champagne after the flight.

Prices may be higher during popular seasons when Cappadocia attracts large numbers of tourists. If you are planning to visit Cappadocia and take a hot air balloon ride, it is recommended to book your tour in advance to ensure availability and get the best price.

How long does a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia last?

The duration of a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia is usually approximately 2-4 hours. This time includes preparing for the flight, taking off, flying over the beautiful landscapes of Cappadocia and landing.

However, it is worth considering that the duration of the flight may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and what flights the balloons are on that day. There may also be slight changes in the flight route depending on current winds.

How to Dress for a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is a unique and exciting experience, and choosing the right clothing will help you enjoy this adventure comfortably and safely.

Layer by Layer: Wearing layers is recommended as air temperatures can vary depending on altitude and flight time. The morning may be chilly at the start of the flight, but will become warmer as the sun rises. Dress so that you can easily remove or put on additional clothing.

Comfortable shoes: Choose comfortable, closed shoes with good soles, as you will need to get in and out of the basket during flight preparation and landing. Shoes or sneakers are best.

Warm Clothes: Mornings can be chilly, especially in early spring or fall. Wear a light, warm jacket, sweater or vest to protect yourself from the cool air.

Sun protection: You may need sunglasses, a hat or a cap to protect yourself from the glare and glare of high altitudes.

Avoid Long Hanging Decorations: Balloons require space and security, so it’s best to avoid long hanging decorations or large decorations that could get caught or become a nuisance.

Why do hot air balloons only fly in the morning?

Hot air balloons fly mainly in the morning, and this is due to atmospheric conditions and weather conditions. There are several reasons why morning hours are the preferred time for hot air ballooning:

1. Stability of the atmosphere: In the morning the atmosphere is usually more stable and calm. At this time, there is less chance of encountering turbulence and changeable winds, which makes hot air ballooning more predictable and safe.
2. Thermal rise: During the early morning, the earth’s surface is still cooling from the night, and this creates the conditions for thermal rise of air. When the sun rises and begins to heat the earth, the air around it also warms up and begins to rise. This thermal rise helps the balloons rise into the air.
3. Clear Visibility: The morning hours are usually characterized by clear visibility. This allows tourists to enjoy stunning views and panoramas of Cappadocia without being obscured by cloud cover.
4. Sunrise: One of the benefits of hot air ballooning in the morning is the opportunity to watch the sunrise. Seeing the sun rise over the amazing rock formations of Cappadocia is a breathtaking and magical moment that leaves an unforgettable experience.

How many people can fit in a hot air balloon

The capacity of balloons may vary depending on their size and type. Typically, hot air balloons can accommodate between 4 and 25 people, but the average number of passengers on tourist flights is usually around 12-20 people.

Commercial tourist flights in Cappadocia usually use medium or large balloons that can accommodate a group of passengers. This makes hot air ballooning a great experience for families, friends or groups of tourists who want to share this unique adventure together.

Do I need to book a balloon flight in Cappadocia in advance?

Yes, it is recommended to book your hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia in advance. Hot air ballooning in this region is extremely popular, especially with tourists, and flights can fill up quickly.

It is important to understand that the number of seats in hot air balloons is limited, and flight providers strive to ensure the comfort and safety of passengers. Booking in advance will ensure that seats are available for your desired flight time and date, especially if you have specific preferences.

In addition, booking in advance will allow you to choose the best tour operators, familiarize yourself with their reputation, flight conditions and costs. You can compare different options and choose the best tour that meets your expectations and budget.

The hot air ballooning season in Cappadocia usually starts in early spring and lasts until late autumn, but the most popular months are spring and autumn. During these periods, flight seats are quickly added to the waiting list. Therefore, in order not to miss the opportunity to experience this amazing adventure, it is recommended to book your hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia in advance.

Goreme National Park in Cappadocia

The formation of the territory began 60 million years ago. While the volcanoes were active, the lava they sprayed formed the bottom of the Goreme Valley

Settlement in Cappadocia began during the Chalcolithic period. From the 4th to the 13th centuries, erosion pillars framed in needle lace with their conical bodies were carved into churches, chapels and living quarters in the region, which entered the history of monastic life until the 13th century. When Christianity had not yet been accepted, it was the use of caves and erosion pillars as shelter and protective homes that ensured freedom of faith in Cappadocia, the homeland of the first Christians.

PS The entrance fee to Goreme National Park is 300 TL, you can visit it for free if you have a museum card.

Dawn in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is known for its breathtaking sunrise views and this is one of the most popular times for tourists to visit this region.

Hot Air Balloon: One of the most spectacular ways to see the sunrise in Cappadocia is in a hot air balloon. Many companies offer early morning flights that allow tourists to watch the sun rise over the region’s fairy chimneys and landscapes from above.

Viewpoints: Cappadocia has several viewpoints and peaks from which you can watch the sunrise. For example, Uchisar and Goreme offer incredible views of chimneys and valleys. You can also choose a hotel or restaurant located on the hills or cliffs to enjoy the views from comfort.

Walking: Get up early and go for a morning walk through the valleys and hills of Cappadocia. The quiet and secluded atmosphere of the morning will make your walk especially pleasant and allow you to enjoy the sunrise surrounded by unique natural formations.

Cave Hotels: If you stay at one of the cave hotels in Cappadocia, you will have the unique opportunity to watch the sunrise directly from your room or the common area of ​​the hotel.

What is the best hotel to stay in Cappadocia?

• Divan Cave House Hotel
• Aydınlı Cave Hotel
• Kayakapi Premium Caves – Cappadocia
• Aren Cave Hotel & Art Gallery
• Arinna Cappadocia
• Goreme Inn Hotel
• Artemis Cave Suites
• Vineyard Cave Hotel

On average, hotel prices in Cappadocia can range from around 50 to 300 euros per night, or even higher for the most luxurious options. Prices may also vary depending on the season: during the high tourist season, which is usually spring and autumn, the cost of accommodation may be higher than during the low season, such as winter.

If you’re traveling on a budget, you can find affordable accommodation options in hostels, budget guest houses or mid-range hotels. If you are looking for a more luxurious and unique experience, Cappadocia offers luxury five-star hotels, cave hotels and boutique hotels with interesting designs and ambience.

It is recommended to book your hotel in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure the best accommodation and best rates. This will also allow you to choose the most suitable accommodation option according to your preferences and budget.

What to try in Cappadocia

In Cappadocia you can enjoy the richness and variety of Turkish cuisine.

Don’t forget to also try a variety of local cheeses, vegetable dishes, pies and other local specialties. Cappadocia offers many opportunities to explore Turkish cuisine and enjoy the authentic flavors of this unique region.

Testi Kebabı – Restaurant Saklı Konak

Testi Kebabı is a traditional Turkish dish often served in the Cappadocia region and other parts of Turkey. This unique dish is prepared using a clay pot called “testi” in Turkish. The name of the dish comes from this clay pot.

When preparing Testi Kebabs, various meat ingredients such as beef or lamb, as well as vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, peppers and spices are placed in a clay pot. The pot is sealed and placed in a special oven or coal pit for slow simmering. The pot is sealed to create a steam environment inside, which ensures even cooking of the dish and retains its moisture and aroma.

Number: +90 530 568 14 983

Kabak Çekirdekli Erişte – Restaurant TIK TIK Kadın Emeği

Kabak Çekirdekli Erişte is a traditional Turkish dish that consists of thin, ribbon-like pasta, similar to noodles, cooked with pumpkin seeds. “Kabak” means “pumpkin” in Turkish, “çekirdek” means “seeds”, and “erişte” is a thin paste that is similar to noodles or fide.

To prepare Kabak Çekirdekli Erişte, first the pumpkin seeds are fried until golden brown. Then thin ribbons of paste (erişte) are added to them, which are pre-fried in oil. The result is a combination of the delicate texture of the paste with the fragrant roasted pumpkin seeds.

Number: +90 384 341 3373

Yaprak Sarma – Restaurant Kadıneli

Yaprak Sarma is a traditional Turkish dish that is also popular in many countries in the Middle East and Balkan region. This dish consists of prepared grape leaves, which are wrapped in rolls filled with rice, meat and various spices.

Prepared grape leaves are usually pre-soaked in water to soften their texture and make them suitable for wrapping the filling. The filling for Yaprak Sarma can be varied and may include rice, minced beef, lamb or chicken, onions, tomato paste, various spices such as mint, parsley, cilantro, etc.

Number: +90 384 219 20 10

Urgup Kofte

Ürgüp Köfte is a traditional Turkish dish that originates from the Cappadocia region, specifically the city of Urgup. This dish is a type of meat cutlet, which is prepared from minced meat and various spices.

Ingredients for Ürgüp Köfte typically include ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, bread crumbs, spices (such as cumin, pepper and oregano), and salt and pepper to taste. All ingredients are mixed well to obtain a homogeneous mass.

Small cutlets are formed from minced meat and fried in a frying pan or grill until golden brown on the outside and cooked on the inside. Ürgüp Köfte is usually served with a variety of side dishes such as French fries, fresh vegetables or salads, and sauces or yogurt.

Number: +90 384 341 3373

Dugu soup (Düğü Çorbası)

Dugu soup (Düğü Çorbası), a Turkish culinary tradition, is a classic and delicious soup tradition that is popular in various regions of Turkey. It is a thick and rich soup base with the addition of small pieces of dough or noodles called “düğü”.

The dough for düğü is made from eggs, flour and salt, it is rolled out in a thin layer and cut into small squares or ribbons. These small pieces of dough are then simmered in the soup until tender, giving the soup texture and unique flavor.

Number: +90 530 568 14 983

When is the best time to go to Cappadocia?

The best time to visit Cappadocia depends on your preferences and what you want to see and experience in the region.

Spring: Spring is one of the best times to visit Cappadocia. At this time the weather is usually pleasant, warm and sunny. Nature comes to life and the fields are covered with beautiful flowers. Hot air ballooning is especially popular in the spring as the weather is more stable and you can enjoy beautiful views.

Summer: Summer in Cappadocia is characterized by hot days, especially in July and August. Temperatures can reach 30-35°C and it can be quite hot for active sightseeing. However, this time is suitable for those who prefer warm weather and are not afraid of the heat.

Autumn: Autumn is also a great time to visit Cappadocia. The weather is stable and comfortable. Hot air balloon rides are especially popular in September and October as the weather is usually calm and nature displays beautiful autumn colors.

Winter: Winter can be cold and there is snow in Cappadocia. Visiting Cappadocia in winter will provide a unique opportunity to see this beautiful region covered in snow, creating a magical atmosphere. However, in winter, hot air ballooning may be less accessible due to unstable weather.

How many days do you need to be in Cappadocia?

The recommended number of days to visit Cappadocia depends on your interests, budget and available time. However, to enjoy the main attractions and unique experiences of Cappadocia, it is generally recommended to plan your trip for 3-5 days.

Of course, if you have the ability to spend more time, Cappadocia offers even more amazing places to visit and experiences. You can delve into the history of the region, take optional hot air balloon rides, hike trails in the valleys, or even try active sports like mountain biking or horse riding.

As a result, the number of days in Cappadocia depends on your interests and desire to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing region.

Cappadocia how to get there

Air travel: The fastest and most convenient way to get to Cappadocia from other regions of Turkey or international countries is by air. Cappadocia International Airport Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport serves the region, as well as a number of other airports such as Kayseri Airport and Ankara Esenboğa Airport. From there you can reach Cappadocia by car or public transport.

Rail Transportation: Some tourists prefer to travel to Cappadocia by train. Train stations in the cities of Kayseri and Nevsehir serve the region. However, keep in mind that rail travel may be less convenient and slower than air travel.

Buses: There are bus routes connecting Cappadocia to other major cities in Turkey. Many major bus companies offer regular services to Cappadocia from cities such as Istanbul, Ankara , Izmir , Antalya and others.

How to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia

There are various ways to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia: by plane, bus or car.

Air Travel: The fastest and most convenient way to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia is to take off by plane. You need to fly from Istanbul Airport to Cappadocia International Airport Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Airport. Both airports serve Cappadocia and from there you can take a taxi , rent a car or use a shuttle service to get to your destination in Cappadocia.

Bus: If you prefer a more economical option, you can take a bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia. There are many bus stations in Istanbul from where buses depart to Cappadocia. One of the most popular bus stations is the Esenler bus station. The bus ride will take about 9-10 hours, depending on the specific route and stops.

Personal Car: If you have a personal car or a rented car, you can choose to travel by road to Cappadocia. This will give you the freedom to choose your route and make stops along the way. The trip by car will take about 7-8 hours, depending on the speed and stops.

How long is the flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

Flight times from Istanbul to Cappadocia depend on the specific route and the selected destination airport in Cappadocia. Typically, a direct flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia International Airport Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Airport takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Cappadocia how to get from Antalya

Air travel: The fastest and most convenient way to get from Antalya to Cappadocia is to take off by plane. You need to fly from Antalya Airport to Cappadocia International Airport Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Airport. Both airports serve Cappadocia and from there you can take a taxi , rent a car or use a shuttle service to get to your destination in Cappadocia.

Bus: There are bus routes connecting Antalya to Cappadocia. Buses depart from Antalya Bus Station and the bus journey will take approximately 9-11 hours, depending on the specific route and stops.

Personal Car: If you have a personal car or a rented car, you can choose to travel by road to Cappadocia. The trip by car will take about 6-8 hours, depending on the speed and stops.

Cappadocia how to get from Alanya

You can also get from Alanya to Cappadocia in various ways: by bus or car. At the moment there are no direct flights from Alanya Airport to Cappadocia airports, so it is not possible to get to Cappadocia from Alanya by plane.

Bus: From Alanya there are bus routes that connect it to Cappadocia. You can go to Alanya Bus Station and choose the route that goes towards Cappadocia. The bus ride will take some time, usually around 9-11 hours, depending on the specific route and stops.

Personal Car: If you have a personal car or a rented car, you can choose to travel by road to Cappadocia. The trip by car will take about 6-8 hours, depending on the speed and stops.

Where is the closest place to Cappadocia?

The closest airports to Cappadocia are Nevsehir Cappadocia and Kayseri airports. Both airports serve Cappadocia and provide quick access to the region’s main cities and tourist attractions.

Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport: This airport is located approximately 30 kilometers south of central Cappadocia. It serves many domestic flights from various cities in Turkey as well as a number of international flights. From Nevsehir Cappadocia Airport, you can easily reach cities like Goreme, Urgup and Avanos, which are popular tourist spots in Cappadocia.

Kayseri Airport: This airport is located approximately 70 kilometers from Cappadocia. It also serves domestic and international flights. From Kayas Airport you can reach various cities and valleys of Cappadocia.