trip from istanbul to cappadocia

How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia In 2024: 5 BEST Ways

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Are you planning a trip to Turkey and wondering how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia? You’re in the right place!

Located in the Anatolia region of Turkey, Cappadocia is one of the most unique destinations in the country. The region is dotted with breathtaking landscapes – from epic rock formations known as fairy chimneys to hidden underground cities and painted cave churches.

But perhaps the most spectacular experience is riding one of the hot air balloons at sunrise, marveling a the picturesque valleys of Cappadocia .

Okay, enough teasing.

As you have expected, there are many ways to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia. It is one of the most popular routes in Turkey and one that we’ve done many times.

In this article, we’ll be sharing tips and tricks on how to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul, the best mode of transport, approximate travel time, and other essential travel details. So let’s jump right into it.

Key Takeaways: How To get From Istanbul to Cappadocia

• The most convenient and quickest way to get to Cappadocia is by taking a direct flight from Istanbul.
• The cheapest way is to take a long-distance bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia.
• However, if you want to enjoy the stunning scenery that Turkey has to offer, buses or car rentals are the way to go. You can stop at small towns and markets along the way to experience the local culture.
• I f you don’t plan on spending a lot of time in Cappadocia , it might be better to take one of the guided tours from Istanbul to Cappadocia. This way, you don’t have to plan any of the logistics and can enjoy your trip as much as possible.

Distance From Istanbul To Cappadocia

Before you decide which mode of transportation to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia, let’s figure out how far the two places are from each other. Contrary to popular belief, Istanbul is really far from Cappadocia, approximately 800 km or 497 miles in fact.

To give you some perspective, it takes about 8 to 10 hours of driving to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia and vice versa, or about an 80-minute plane journey.

This is why it is important to plan properly and have a thorough Turkey itinerary, otherwise, you might waste a lot of time commuting.

From Istanbul To Cappadocia By Plane: The Quickest Way

Flying is the quickest and perhaps the most convenient way to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia. The domestic flights are somewhat affordable (not as affordable as buses), and they only take 80 minutes. This is perfect for those with a short 7-day trip in Turkey .

Which Istanbul Airport To Depart From?

As you might’ve heard, Istanbul got a new airport in 2018 . Known as Istanbul Airport (IST), it is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the world.

With the addition of Istanbul Airport, there are now a total of two airports in Istanbul where travelers can fly to Cappadocia. The other being Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).

The main difference between the Istanbul Airport and SAW Airport is that the Istanbul Airport is on the European Side and the Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is on the Asian Side.

Generally speaking, the Istanbul Airport is going to be more convenient because the European Side is where most tourists stay. It is where the historic center of Istanbul, Sultanahmet, and the modern center of Istanbul, Taksim, are located.

Both airports in Istanbul offer regular flights to Cappadocia, but Istanbul Airport is generally a little bit more convenient to get to. Of course, if you have a airport shuttle planned, then none of this really matters.

Which Cappadocia Airport to Fly Into?

Before you book your Istanbul to Cappadocia flight, Cappadocia also has two airports. While it makes very little difference which airports you fly from in Istanbul, it does make a difference which airport in Cappadocia you fly into .

There are two airports in Cappadocia:

• Kayseri Erkilet International Airport (ASR)
• Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV)

The Kayseri Airport is generally cheaper, but it is located a little further out of Goreme (the historic center of Cappadocia and the most popular place to stay). It is about 75 kilometers, or an hour drive, from Kayseri Airport to Goreme.

Nevşehir Airport is a little bit more expensive, but it is located about 40 kilometers (40-minute drive) from Goreme. Nevsehir Airport is located inside the UNESCO Heritage Site of Cappadocia while Kayseri is not. The ride from Nevsehir Airport to the center of Cappadocia is much more scenic than the one from Kayseri Airport.

Both airports are completely fine to fly into, as long as you have a pre-arranged shuttle waiting for you. Because there is no public transportation from the airports to Goreme, tourists are often scammed by taxi drivers at those airports.

Which Airline to Fly With?

There are three airlines that serve the Istanbul to Cappadocia flight route:

• Turkish Airlines
• Pegasus Airlines
• Aztec Airways

Turkish Airlines offer the best quality but since it is such a short flight, it doesn’t matter much. It is worth noting that Turkish Airline is the only airline that flies out of Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European Side. The other two airlines fly out of Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. 

From Istanbul To Cappadocia By Bus: The Most Economical Way

Long-distance buses going from Istanbul to Cappadocia depart regularly from both Istanbul’s European side and Asian side. There are a lot of bus terminals in Istanbul, and it is important that you (more importantly, your taxi driver) get it right.

If you are visiting Istanbul as a tourist, chances are, you’ll be staying on the European side near Taksim or Sultanahmet. The main bus station (otogar) on the European side of Istanbul is  Esenler Otogari , which is quite accessible by public transportation.

The buses that depart on the European side often make stops on the Asian side, so if you are staying on the Asian side, you can usually just go to the nearest bus stop for Cappadocia. You don’t need to go all the way to the bus station on the European side.

There are many bus companies that operate between Istanbul and Cappadocia, but we recommend using Metro Turizm, as their buses are clean, comfortable, and they have been reliable at showing up.

Other bus companies that we have used and recommend are Kâmil Koç, Pamukkale Turizm and Güney Akdeniz. There are several others, but we haven’t used them so can’t comment on their efficiency.

Buses from Istanbul to Cappadocia stop at Göreme, which is the historic center of Cappadocia and where you should stay. This means you can save some money on a taxi or a shuttle compared to taking a flight!

If you are staying in Avanos or Uchisar, you will need to get the minibus from Goreme to your hotel. The minibuses operate every 20 minutes from Goreme bus station (conveniently where the long-distance bus drops you off) though they don’t always arrive at the official timetable. You may have to wait a while.

📚 Read More: Best Hotels In Cappadocia With Views Of Hot Air Balloons

How To Buy Bus Tickets in Istanbul

All bus tickets and schedules can be found on the Turkish official bus website here . Theoretically, you can purchase tickets through this website, but we’ve never been successful.

If you cannot purchase a ticket online, it is important that you get there the day before and buy your ticket, especially during the peak season. Buses do get full, especially if you buy the ticket near its departure time and date.

There are tour agencies throughout the historic center of Istanbul that can help you buy tickets, so you can save the time and effort of going to the bus station and back.

Alternatively, what we’ve been doing is getting it with 12Go.asia . They are a reliable company and we’ve had nothing but good experiences with them. But it is worth noting that not all bus companies are on their site.

Should You Take A Night Bus or Day Bus From Istanbul To Cappadocia?

Because the journey is over 10 hours, we recommend the night bus because you can sleep through most of it. Turkey’s long-distance buses are quite comfortable and safe, but sleeping might still be a problem for you.

If you are traveling on a budget in Turkey , you can even save some money. A night bus is cheaper than a flight and you can even save on a night of accommodation because you’ll be sleeping on the bus.

Don’t Miss Out on the BEST Experience in Cappadocia!

No trip to Cappadocia is complete without taking an epic hot air balloon flight at sunrise!

Make sure you reserve your tour well in advance to avoid missing out or paying any additional fees last minute!

Guided Tour From Istanbul To Cappadocia

Because there can be a lot of logistics to plan when going from Istanbul to Cappadocia, some travelers might prefer a guided tour that includes everything from flights to hotels and hot air balloon rides to where to eat in Cappadocia all sorted.

However, picking the right tour can be quite tricky. How many days is enough in Cappadocia ? What do you need to pack? Etc, etc, etc.

📚 That is why we’ve written a full guide on the best tours from Istanbul to Cappadocia here .

From Istanbul To Cappadocia By Train

Another option to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia is by train. Unfortunately, there is no direct train from Istanbul to Cappadocia, which means that travelers would have to switch to a bus.

The high-speed train (called Yüksek Hızlı Tren or YHT for short ) from Istanbul can only take travelers as far as Konya or Ankara . From there, you’ll have to switch to a long-distance bus.

The high-speed train from Istanbul to Ankara takes about 4 hours with multiple departures daily. However, the train station is in Pendik, which is the Asian side of Istanbul, and can take quite a bit for those coming from the historic center such as Sultanahmet or Taksim.

The train from Istanbul to Konya takes about 4 hours to complete. The train goes from Istanbul, stops at the city of Eskişehir, and then finally arrives in Konya. There are several stops along the way as well.

Once you arrive in Ankara or Konya, you can take a long-distance bus to Cappadocia.

• From Ankara, it takes about 3 to 4 hours to get to Cappadocia by bus
• From Konya, it also takes about 3 to 4 hours to get to Cappadocia by bus

Note that the long-distance buses in Cappadocia are never direct, so there are going to be other stops along the way.

Unless you are planning on making a stop in Ankara or Konya anyways, taking the train is usually not quicker or more convenient than the bus. The pros of taking the train are definitely more legroom and the ability to walk around.

📚 Read more: How to Get to The Asian Side from Istanbul Airport

Driving From Istanbul To Cappadocia

The last method to how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia is by driving. To do that, you would need to have a rental car.

The benefit of driving from Istanbul to Cappadocia is that there are several towns and cities along the way that are worth stopping. It is also a lot quicker than the bus if you make the journey direct, but we don’t recommend that since it’s an 8-hour drive.

The roads in Turkey aren’t bad. But from our experience, Turkish drivers can get very aggressive when driving, so be extra careful when driving in Turkey. The towns and scenery along the way definitely make the drive worth it. Plus, having a car in Cappadocia will make getting around much easier.

If you are planning on driving from Istanbul to Cappadocia with a rental car, here are the places we recommend checking out:

• Bursa – Bursa is the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Travelers will find UNESCO World Heritage Sites in a city surrounded by beautiful nature and a national park. It is one of the best places near Istanbul to visit !
• Iznik – The birthplace of the famous Iznik tiles, which are used to decorate some of the most famous landmarks in Turkey , such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar and the Harem inside Topkapi Palace.
• Beyşehir – A small town located on the Beyşehir Lake. It’s a rather peaceful town with the beautiful wooden Eşrefoğlu Mosque.
• Ankara – The capital of Turkey is filled with some of the country’s best museums and things to do. Don’t miss the Atatürk Mausoleum and the historic center.
• Eskişehir – The name Eskişehir literally translates to “Old City” in Turkish. But, the town is the perfect mix of modern infrastructure, historical buildings, and nature. It has hip cafes, restaurants and a lively atmosphere thanks to its big student population.

How To Get From Istanbul To Goreme?

There are many ways to get from Istanbul to Goreme, the historic center of the Cappadocia region. You can take a flight from one of the two airports in Istanbul to either of the Cappadocia Airport (Kayseri Erkilet Airport or Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport) and then get a shuttle or taxi to Goreme.

The cheaper alternative to get from Istanbul to Goreme is a long-distance bus. Unlike taking a flight, the buses go directly to Goreme from Istanbul, so you won’t have to get a taxi.

You can also rent a car to drive from Istanbul to Goreme, but note that it is an 8-hour drive.

📚 Read More: Where To Stay In Cappadocia: Best Neighborhoods and Hotels

Can You Take a Day Trip From Istanbul to Cappadocia?

One of the most often asked questions is “Can you take a day trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia”.

The answer is yes. Would we recommend it? Definitely no!

If you take a day trip to Cappadocia, you have to rush your itinerary and skip out on some of the most notable attractions in Cappadocia. Not only that but you also miss out on the chance to take the legendary (and I mean, LEGENDARY!) hot air balloon rides over the epic landscapes of Cappadocia.

How to Take a Day Trip From Istanbul to Cappadocia?

But if you only have a few days in Turkey, you might only be able to see Cappadocia on a day trip, and that is totally fine.

To do that, you must take a flight there. We recommend the earliest flight that departs from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

After you get there, you want to either rent a car or take a Cappadocia tour and explore as much as you can. We recommend the Red Tour if you only have 1 day , which takes you to Love Valley, Goreme Open Air Museum, and Uchisar Castle.

The Green Tour takes you to Red and Rose Valley, Derinkuyu or Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley and Pigeon Valley.

Make sure you don’t miss the flight back to Istanbul. The last one is usually around 11:50 PM so you have plenty of time!

Day Tour from Istanbul to Cappadocia

Because there is a lot of planning involved when taking a day trip to Cappadocia from Istanbul, we typically recommend taking a guided day tour. These tours have everything arranged – from flights, transport, food, to places to visit. It is the most hassle-free way of visiting Cappadocia on a day trip.

How to Get From Cappadocia to Istanbul?

If you have read the entire article, then getting from Cappadocia to Istanbul is super easy. You can pick any of the methods above, whether it is taking a flight, going on a long-distance bus, renting a car and driving, or just taking a tour. You can also take a bus from Cappadocia to Konya or Ankara, and then switch to Turkey’s high-speed train to Istanbul.

Everything is pretty much the same but reverse when you go from Cappadocia to Istanbul instead of the other way around.

Related Reading: Which Is Better: Istanbul or Cappadocia?

From Istanbul To Cappadocia FAQs

Is istanbul in cappadocia.

No, Cappadocia is not in Istanbul. Cappadocia is actually very far away from Istanbul, approximately 800 kilometers or 497 miles to be exact. By bus, it takes about 10 to 12 hours. By plane, it takes about 80 minutes.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Cappadocia?

The best time to visit Cappadocia is autumn, ideally in the months of September and October. During this time of the year, the weather is still dry with little rainfall, which means the hot air balloons in Cappadocia will take off regularly. The temperature is much cooler during this time compared to the summer, allowing visiting to go explore the outdoors in Cappadocia!

Is It Safe To Drive From Istanbul To Cappadocia?

Driving from Istanbul to Cappadocia is generally safe. The road conditions between the two places in Turkey are typically very good. However, travelers should beware of aggressive drivers, which Turkey has plenty of.

Conclusion: Getting From Istanbul To Cappadocia

As you can see, there are many ways to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia. For the majority of travelers, taking a flight, a long-distance bus, or a guided tour is the most convenient way.

However, visitors that want to do a road trip in Turkey should definitely not miss the chance to drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia!

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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From Istanbul to Cappadocia: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 1, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

There is a lot of transport choice when it comes to getting from Istanbul to Cappadocia . Your decision will depend on how much time you've allocated for your trip and the style of travel you prefer.

From a speedy, fully pre-organized tour to using public transport or a self-drive road trip, every level of comfort is covered. Discover the best ways to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

On This Page:

• From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Airplane
• From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Bus
• From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Tour
• From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Train & Bus
• From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Car

1. From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Airplane

For travelers on a short trip, flying direct to Cappadocia from Istanbul is a popular option.

Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines offer regular flights to Cappadocia's two airports throughout the day and night. The flight time is 80 minutes.

Turkish Airlines offer the most options for Cappadocia-bound flights. Six services daily head to Kayseri Airport from either Istanbul International Airport or Sabiha Gökçen Airport, and one service at least departs daily from Istanbul International Airport for Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport.

Pegasus Airlines flights to Cappadocia all depart from Sabiha Gökçen and arrive at Kayseri Airport.

Although your choice of flight will probably depend more on the most suitable departure time for you, it's worth knowing the differences between Cappadocia's two airports.

Kayseri Erkilet Airport is in the city of Kayseri, approximately 80 kilometers east from the villages that are at the center of Cappadocia's tourism industry.

Much smaller Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport is just north of the town of Gülşehir, approximately 40 kilometers northwest of the villages.

Pre-booked airport shuttle services offer door-to-door transport from both airports to the hotels in the Cappadocia villages. Journey time from Kayseri Airport, depending both on the waiting time for all passengers booked on the shuttle to exit the airport and on which village you're staying in, can take up to two hours. From Nevşehir Airport, the shuttle bus services rarely take longer than 30 minutes door to door.

Seats on these privately run airport shuttles must be booked in advance. These transfers are normally organized by your hotel.

2. From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Bus

A few different bus companies offer direct transport from Istanbul's main Esenler Otogar (bus station) and Istanbul's other bus station, Alibeykoy Otogar to Nevşehir Otogar on the outskirts of Nevşehir city, approximately 18 kilometers west from the Cappadocia villages (depending on which village you're staying in). Some bus companies also provide direct drop-off to Göreme and Avanos. If you're staying in either of these towns, choose a bus offering direct drop-off so you don't have to wait for another bus in Nevşehir.

The major companies plying this route are Nevşehir Seyahat , Kamil Koç (which is owned by the European Flixbus company so uses both names) and Metro . The journey time takes between 11 and 12 hours.

Most departure options leave during the evening, depositing you at Nevşehir bus station the next morning. There are a couple of day-bus services though, which are great for travelers who enjoy watching the scenery pass by.

There is very little ticket price difference between the companies who work this route, so your decision on which service to use will mostly be made on departure time.

All the buses are fitted with comfortable, airline-style seating, which includes individual entertainment systems and charging points for your phone, and an on-board conductor service, which offers complimentary hot and cold drinks and a snack.

There are direct minibus services to the Cappadocian tourism centers of Göreme, Ürgüp, and Avanos from Nevşehir Otogar (bus station).

3. From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Tour

Those short on time on their Turkey trip may want to opt for a prearranged Cappadocia side-trip tour from Istanbul.

This is a hassle-free option, where all transport, transfers, activities, and accommodation are organized for you, so you can just sit back and enjoy your Cappadocia visit.

Be aware that the shortest Cappadocia side-trip tours from Istanbul are two days, not one-day tours. With tourist attractions here spread throughout the region, you need at least 48 hours for a snapshot trip.

The in-location overnight stay also allows you to participate in the region's famous hot-air ballooning activity , which takes place at dawn. Cappadocia tours from Istanbul typically do not include this in their price but offer it as an optional extra, which they can book for you.

For a small group tour with passenger numbers capped at 15, the 2 Days, 1 Night Cappadocia Tour offers an itinerary that covers a number of Cappadocia's natural and historical attractions on a short trip.

The tour includes return flights from Istanbul with door-to-door airport transfers for both flights and two regional tours with a professional guide while in Cappadocia. These include a short hike in Rose Valley and entrance fees to Göreme Open-Air Museum and Kaymakli Underground City, an overnight stay in a cave-hotel, and two lunches and breakfasts. Hot air ballooning can be booked while reserving your place on the tour but isn't included in the tour price.

A very similar private tour version is the 2 Days Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul . This tour includes return flights from Istanbul, direct airport transfers for both flights, a one-night stay in a cave-hotel in Göreme, and two guided tours of some of Cappadocia's highlights. These guided tours include visits to Derinkuyu Underground City and Göreme Open-Air Museum, two lunches and two breakfasts. Hot air ballooning can be organized by the tour company but is an extra non-included activity in the tour price.

Note that these snapshot-style tours are quite rushed due to limited time so won't suit some travelers. You will be heading out on a tour directly after your airport transfer into Cappadocia and you'll need to be packed and ready to go on day two in the morning as you'll be directly transferred to the airport after your day two tour finishes.

Note that arranging a Cappadocia tour through an Istanbul travel agency costs more than organizing a similar tour through a local Cappadocia travel agency and – due to not being so limited by time constraints – tours arranged in Cappadocia can include sights and tourist attractions that are farther out in the region, such as Ilhara Valley.

4. From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Train & Bus

The high-speed train line between Istanbul, Ankara, and Konya means, if you have a bit more time to spend on the journey to Cappadocia, you can add in stops at two of central Anatolia's most important cities into your trip.

With a leisurely pace, you could fit in both cities along the route, or choose one as an overnight stop.

Ankara , Turkey's capital, is home to the important Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Anıtkabir , the mausoleum of Atatürk (the founder of the modern republic of Turkey).

Konya is filled with restored Seljuk-era mosques and monuments, and is the home of the whirling dervishes and the Mevlana Museum , one of Turkey's major pilgrimage sites.

There are eight high-speed train services, taking four and a half hours, from Istanbul to Ankara daily.

To Konya direct from Istanbul, there are three services, with a journey time of four hours and 15 minutes.

If you're planning to stop in both cities, there are high-speed train departures seven times daily from Ankara to Konya, taking just under two hours for the trip.

Train tickets should be purchased in advance, as seats do sell out.

From both Ankara Otogar (bus station) and Konya Otogar there are bus services to Nevşehir Otogar, the main transport hub of the Cappadocia region.

5. From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Car

Hiring a car to drive across the Anatolian countryside from Istanbul to Cappadocia means you have the freedom to explore some of the major historic highlights of the region along the way.

Although you could also visit most of these destinations by public transport, the journey would be much less straightforward and would take longer to achieve.

Three of the best stops if journeying by car on this route would be the preserved Ottoman village of Safranbolu (410 kilometers east from Istanbul); the Phrygian ruins of Gordion (468 kilometers southeast from Istanbul or 272 kilometers south from Safranbolu); and the Hittite ruins of Hattuşa, which sit in the village of Boğazkale (307 kilometers southeast from Safranbolu or 305 kilometers east from Gordion).

From Hattuşa, it's a further 196 kilometers drive south to the village of Göreme, the heart of Cappadocia's tourism industry.

Safranbolu and Boğazkale both have accommodation for overnight stops along the way. There are also plenty of other tourist attractions and historic sites in the hinterland surrounding both these destinations, so it's well worth allowing yourself a few days for your entire journey.

Sights along the way:

To make the most of having your own wheels, as you come into the Cappadocia region, stop off at some of the area's lesser-seen sights along the way.

Hacıbektaş, 57 kilometers northwest from Göreme, is a pilgrimage town for the Bektaşı order (a mystical offshoot of Islam) and is home to the Hacıbektaş Veli Museum within a restored dervish lodge.

From here, head 28 kilometers south to the Church of St Jean on the outskirts of the small town of Gülşehir. Inside this hollowed out rock-cone you'll find some of Cappadocia's best restored and finely detailed mid-Byzantine frescoes (dated from the 13th century) yet, because it's off the main tourist route, it only receives a handful of visitors.

Another two-kilometer hop west down the main highway, and you arrive at the Byzantine monastery complex of Açık Saray , with its refectory building and churches carved out of the rock and thought to date back to around the 7th century. From here it's only a short 23-kilometer drive southeast, onward to Göreme.

Driving in Turkey is relatively straightforward thanks to main highways being in excellent condition and good signage for towns, tourist attractions , and historic sites. Note that gas is expensive in Turkey though, so self-drive trips will always work out more expensive than other transport options.

More on Turkey

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Cappadocia Tours & Trips from Istanbul

An adventure starting in Istanbul is a great way to see Cappadocia. We have 46 tours that range from 3 days up to 16 days. The most popular time for tours from Istanbul is September, which has the most tour departures.

46 Cappadocia tours from Istanbul with 147 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia | 6 Days with 1 flight

Our driver and hotel in Istanbul were excellent. Guides were also excellent.

• Photography

Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia | 7 Days with 1 flight

Excellent trip! Great communication leading up to arrival so I felt everything was well-organized, and the trip itself was excellent - informative, fun, and adventurous. Highly recommended!

7 Days Best of Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Package

Would highly recommend City of Sultans. The itinerary was excellent and I was kept up to date at all times about what was happening, meeting and pick up times etc. well done to Ozgur and the team!

3 Days-Cappadocia Tour from/to Istanbul

It was magical. The historic places visited, museums, under ground city, charming restaurants in town and of course tour guides. Especially on day 1. I do not remember his name but i made a mental note with his name as "the gentle giant". I booked for a single room in the option and was given the most amazing room in a cave hotel. Even had sauna/turkish bath ensuite. Loved the whole experience! Thank you

7 Days Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Tour

Wholeheartedly recommend this tour. We saw all of the highlights of Istanbul and Cappadocia. Senol organized everything and every aspect went smoothly. Such a stress free way to travel. Thankyou Senol

Istanbul&Cappadocia-4 Days

A well planned trip. Everything went well right from pick up and drop. Never had to wait and was always on time. The hotel provided was excellent and food on board was good. They did provide vegetarian options too. I was a bit skeptical as tour altikum quoted a lesser price than others but service was excellent. I would strongly recommend them. Overall a good way to see Istanbul.

3 Days Best of Cappadocia Tour from/to Istanbul

This tour was fantastic from start to finish. The communication was excellent with instructions on what was happening, the food was fantastic as well as the hotel, and the tour guide was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tour if you visit Cappadocia.

• Sightseeing

5 Days - Istanbul Cappadocia Tour

Had an overall amazing experience. Everything was very organised perhaps the only thing is to make sure checking time is clear before booking flights as we first arrived at around 9 and our check in time was not till 2. Other than that we loved our stay in Istanbul and Cappadocia.

A Tale of Two Marvels: Istanbul & Cappadocia 7 Day Tour

It was amazing expriences with this two beauty. I have been in Istanbul before. But cappadocia is the most interesting city i haven't seen before. We left the hotel early in the morning, accompanied by the relevant guides, and went to the balloon area. Everyone should have this experience. Dorak tourism guides always helped us. They have all the information about the city. The cars they used, the equipment, everything was the latest model and luxury.

3 Days - Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

Everything went smoothly from transfer from our Istanbul hotel until arrived back on the third day. Guide in Cappadocia was excellent. The only minor issue was the very poor buffet breakfast at the hotel- no beautiful Turkish bread just boring sliced white bread. Little fruit or western breakfast options like muesli. And basic automatic coffee machine not producing balanced coffees.

3 Days Cappadocia & Pamukkale

Absolutely we enjoy the tour... Arrangements were fantastic with good knowledgeable tour guide. I would recommend to my friends. We enjoy the tour as it without and delay or hurry.suitable for relaxation and family tour.

• Walking Adventure

Turkey Indepth

• Hiking & Trekking

3 Day Highlights of Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

The three day Cappadocia tour was amazing!! The cave hotel that we stayed at was unique, artistic and so beautiful! Waking up in the morning with the skies overhead filled with colorful hot air balloons was a sight to remember forever! Next time we come we will definitely take a balloon ride. The places that the tour guides took us were very interesting and the guides were extremely knowledgeable and thoughtful (especially Ms Cini!!) The food was absolutely delicious!

Customized Private Turkey Trip of Istanbul & Cappadocia, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Istanbul to Cappadocia 3 Days by Plane

An amazing tour! Both North and South Cappadocia are an amazing one exciting in a lifetime opportunity to see guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, spoke multiple languages and let us have free time at every stop so we could see what we wanted too. Bus driver was amazing, lunch was great (drinks extra) and very accommodating with hotels and transport- either by bus or airline there.

What people love about Cappadocia Tours from Istanbul

Tour was great. Two things to note: tour stated that the maximum amount of people was 18. Actual amount of people was 31. The hotel in Istanbul was outdated. It would have been a better experience to stay at an updated hotel

Had such a great time !! Our tour guide Nadir, was a very caring person, and he was very professional. He had great knowledge about Turkey, thanks to him we learned a lot. Turkey was a very beatiful country, I definitely want to come again. Overall the hotels were clean and comfortable. Highly recommend this tour !

The best part of the tour was the organization, and Cappadocia did not disappoint! Each driver and tour guide was on time, even early in most cases. They were very polite and made me feel safer as a lone traveling woman.

Tours starting from Istanbul

• Istanbul to Istanbul tours (45)
• Family from Istanbul (39)
• In-depth Cultural from Istanbul (33)
• Explorer from Istanbul (23)
• Private from Istanbul (6)

The Best Turkey Road Trip Itinerary: Istanbul to Cappadocia

As a tourist destination, Turkey has a lot to offer with a rich and diverse history, incredible scenery and amazing food. Turkey is also a good choice for travellers on a budget. With meals costing around $10 it’s much cheaper than the rest of Europe in 2024.

But being such a big and varied country you could be left wondering, what are the best places to see on a Turkey road trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia ?

I first travelled through Turkey in 2015 as part of a Silk Road tour. I loved it so much I’ve been back many times since and live part time near the seaside town of Kas.

So I decided to put together this guide to visiting the best destinations on a Turkey road trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia . At each destination I describe what to see, which activities to try and where to stay.

Disclaimer:  Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!

General Info on Türkiye (Turkey)

• Capital City – Ankara
• Currency – Lira
• Language – Turkish
• Population – 79.8 million
• President – Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

Europe or Asia? The Bosphorus marks the edge of Europe so technically Turkey is in both Europe and Asia. However, the majority of the country is in Asia, and to me it feels more Asian than European, so I’m going with Asia!

Why Visit Turkey?

Travelling to a country is made great for me by a few simple things – great people, great food and great sights. Turkey has all of this in abundance .

When I first entered Turkey, our overnight stop was Trabzon on the Black Sea Coast. I’d arranged a place to stay but my phone decided to malfunction and suddenly I didn’t have directions to the hotel. Speaking zero Turkish at the time, I stopped to ask a local man for directions.

He didn’t speak any English but he was determined to help me so, unbeknownst to me, he called his son. Five minutes later his son, who handily spoke English, joined us and was able to call the hotel on my behalf.

Then he, along with his dad, drove us to a point where the hotel owners had brought mini-buses to collect me and my group. What legends!

My subsequent visits to Turkey are all filled which similar stories of kindness and helpfulness.

In terms of exploration, Turkey has a plethora of historic sites to visit , along with beautiful landscapes to admire along the way. I’ll touch on some of them in this post.

And as for the food, well that’s a whole other topic, which I cover in more depth in this  post .

How To Travel From Istanbul To Cappadocia

There are several options to get from bustling Istanbul to the unique landscape of Cappadocia.

1. The fastest option is to take an Istanbul to Cappadocia flight. Flights are offered by Turkish Airlines and Pegasus and fly from Istanbul to Neveshir or Kayseri. These can cost as little as $50 USD. ( Check latest prices here ). From these towns one must take a shuttle or bus to Goreme, which is the best base for exploring Cappadocia.

2. Another option is to take an overnight bus. These typically take 10 to 12 hours and are a cheaper option than flying. (Around $20-$30 USD)

3. The third option, and in my opinion the best option, is to embark on an epic Turkey road trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

Car rental in Turkey is pretty cheap and very straightforward and I can recommend LocalRent . Whenever I visit Turkey, typically to Dalaman airport, I book the car online and then once I arrive, there is someone from the car rental agency waiting outside the airport to hand me the keys. A few signatures later and I’m on my way.

4. The final way to make this journey overland is to join an overland tour much like the trips I run 🙂

Read on to discover more about the best places to visit in Turkey , on a classic overland route from Istanbul to Cappadocia .

Top Tips for Driving in Turkey

1. In Turkey they drive on the right (In case you’re flying in from the UK!)

2. There are several types of roads in Turkey which include:

• High speed highways, officially called Otoyol. These are toll roads for which you need a prepaid tag that is displayed in your windscreen. However, this is not required on this route. If you find yourself on one of the roads without a tag, you can pay at the manned barriers or take a ticket at the unmanned barriers. These can be paid later at a post office (PPT) or Zirat Bank.
• State roads, which are free dual carriageways but have intersections and traffic lights
• Provincial roads which are typically single carriage country roads

3. The speed limits vary according to the type of road but these are well signposted.

4. An international driving license is compulsory for most foreigners so that your license is translated to Turkish.

Turkey Road Trip Map: Istanbul to Cappadocia

Turkey Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s a quick look at the best Turkey road trip itinerary from Istanbul to Goreme. This itinerary will take around two weeks to complete:

1. Istanbul

What can I say about this great Turkish city that hasn’t already been said before? The city where East meets West, where empires have reached new heights and where cultures have collided. It truly is a magnificent city.

It’s the start and finish of the fabulous Silk Road, so it was quite fitting that my first visit to Istanbul was at the conclusion of a 119 day overland adventure that started at the opposite end of the continent, in Mongolia (which as it happens is where the Turkic language originates)

This is a route that I have since completed twice more, so time spent in Istanbul before and after trips has added up over the last few years. It’s a city where I have always felt at ease (as far as cities go), although as a solo female traveller in Istanbul  it’s always best to have your wits about you.

There is so much on offer in Istanbul and most of it is well documented so there are no surprises, but here are my personal favourite things to do.

They are focused on the Sultanahmet area of Istanbul. I would recommend spending 2 or 3 days in Istanbul to fully explore this fabulous city.

Read Next: Unmissable things to do in Istanbul

1. Hagia Sofia / Aya Sofya

This incredible building has to be at the top of the list as it’s such an iconic landmark. It has had many incarnations initially as a church, then as a mosque and now as a museum. A fabulous building to admire from outside and from within.

Travel Tip: No tripods are allowed in any of the museums in Istanbul.

2. Grand Bazaar

You can get lost for hours just wandering the alleyways of the Grand Bazaar. The Grand bazaar is not as authentic as bazaars in Eastern Turkey such as Sanliurfa or Mardin but it gives you a good feel for what once was. Practise your haggling skills as there are certainly some bargains to pick up.

3. Basilica Cistern

More than just a great place to escape the summer heat, the Cistern has 336 columns to admire. It was originally built to store water for the Great Palace and other buildings above, but was left to decay under the Ottomans. Thankfully in the 1980’s it was cleaned and renovated for all to enjoy.

4. Sunset on a rooftop in Sultanahmet

There are many rooftop restaurants on which to enjoy a meal and a drink in Sultanahmet. Some offer better views of the Bosphorus and some better views of Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque.

The Severn Hills restaurant I think offers great views of both. The best tables get reserved so get in early if you want prime position!

Top Istanbul Tours

• Luxury Yacht Bosphorus Sunset Cruise $
• Full day Classic Istanbul Tour $$
• Taste of Two Continents Food Tour $$$

Where to stay

On our last visit we stayed at the Antique Hostel . We got a private room for under 30 euros a night which I think is a pretty good deal for a capital city! The hostel has a great terrace for enjoying views of the Bosphorus and is in a perfect central location in Sultanahmet.

For something more luxurious try the White House Hotel . The rooms are exceptional and the terrace views overlooking Sultanahmet are amazing.

2. Eceabat – 340km, 5 hours

The first stop on this Turkey road trip is at Eceabat, which is a town located on the Gallipoli Peninsula at the edge of the Dardanelles. It is the closest town for a visit to the Gallipoli battlefields and memorials.

Gallipoli is now a beautiful pine forest but in 1915 it was the site of a horrible battle where thousands of brave men lost their lives.

During the First World War the Allied forces attempted a land invasion on the Gallipoli peninsula in order to secure safe passage through the Dardanelles straits. With safe passage they could sail up the Strait and capture Constantinople (Istanbul).

The mission was a massive failure, resulting in huge losses for both the Allies and the Turks.

Do a tour of Gallipoli and discover some of the horrors of trench life during WWI. If you can plan your visit in line with ANZAC Day, you will be able to attend the moving memorials that take place at the cemeteries. I recommend booking a tour with TJ Tours (see below).

After a day spent learning about  Gallipoli, head to Boomerang bar for a BBQ next to the beach. If you’re feeling brave try some Raki with the owner.

TJ’s Hotel is a good little hotel run by a great guy called, you guessed it, TJ! TJ is also an awesome tour guide for Gallipoli so if you stay with him he can arrange your tour for the site. Also, if one of your relatives was involved in the landing, you can e-mail TJ in advance and he’ll do some research on them for you.

Alternatively you can book a Gallipoli day tour from Istanbul here .

The new 1915 Canakkale Bridge which crosses the Dardanelles is now complete (March 2022). This is the longest suspension bridge in the world and is quite impressive to drive over. If you have no interest in visiting Gallipoli you could bypass the peninsula and head directly to Troy.

3. Troy – 37km, 1 hour plus a ferry to cross the Dardanelles

You must know the story of the Trojan wooden horse right? Perhaps seen the movie with Brad Pitt as Achilles? Well, a short distance from Eçeabat across the Dardanelles, you can find the famous site where the Trojan Wars took place.

To cross the Dardanelles to Canakkale you need to catch the ferry. These leave regularly throughout the day.

Take a tour of the 3000bc archaeological site and a have a compulsory selfie with the wooden horse!

Pro tip : The horse that was used in the 2004 movie Troy with Brad Pitt, is now on display in the city centre of Çanakkale. The horse at the site is just a replica 🙂

A new museum was opened in 2018 to celebrate the year of Troy. The museum is on the left just before you enter the main car park. It wasn’t open when we were there but I’ve heard good things. This tour of Troy from Çanakkale includes a tour of the new museum.

Opposite the museum is a restaurant where you can enjoy some çay and a bite to eat. The owner, Mustafa Askin, is probably the best guide you can get for Troy. He knows so much about Troy he even wrote a book about it ! 

Haggle for a good price as he will make the site come alive for you. Without a guide the site won’t mean much as it’s very much in ruins. At the very least, get the audio guide available to purchase at the entrance windows.

Where to Stay

On our last visit we opted to camp on the coast just 11km from the site near Yeniköy. There is a basic campsite right next to the beach so you can sit back and imagine a fleet of a thousand ships sailing by to make their attack on Troy.

Assos / Behramkale – if you would prefer not to camp you could drive south, a further 64km from Troy, to the pretty pre-Roman port of Assos. Assos Hotel has fairly cheap rooms and is located right on the water’s edge.

4. Selçuk – 369km, 5 hours

The next stop on this Turkish road trip is at Selçuk, a small but bustling town known as the gateway to the mighty Ephesus. The town itself has lots of places to explore such as Saint John’s Basilica, the Temple of Artemis and the cemetery of the Severn Sleepers.

Alternatively, if you happen to be in Selçuk on Saturday, you can experience the local farmers market and get a glimpse of rural Turkish life.

The ancient city of Ephesus was the 4th largest city in the eastern Roman Empire and is an absolute must visit on your trip to Turkey. You will need at least half a day here and I recommend arriving early to avoid the heat and big tour groups.

As one of Turkey’s best ancient ruins , even those not interested in history won’t fail to be impressed by the Grand Theatre and Library of Celsus.

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A short drive up into the mountains from Selçuk will bring you to Şirince village which is a real hidden gem in Turkey . The village was was previously inhabited by Greeks and their influence is still clear to see, however Şirince is most famous for it’s fruit wine.

I’ll be honest, the fruit wine isn’t really to my taste but it is still fun to try as you wander around the cobbled stone alleyways.

Atilla’s getaway – Love, love, love this place! Atilla’s Getaway has always been a stop on the classic Turkish overland route from Istanbul to Cappadocia, predominantly as a camping spot.

Now luxurious rooms have been added, so along with an outdoor pool, bar, terrace and pool table, it’s the perfect place to spend a night or two after a day of exploring. Atilla also cooks amazing food if you want an easy evening meal.

If you’d prefer to be based in the town itself, try the Celsus Boutique Hotel . This gorgeous hotel boasts an indoor and outdoor pool and is conveniently located near the main town attractions.

5. Pamukkale – 191km, 3 hours

Travelling further along on our Turkey road trip we now head inland towards Pamukkale, which is a two for the price of one kind of site. Pamukkale consists of travertine terraces filled with pools of water, as well as the ruins of a Greek-Roman city.

The white terraces have formed from calcium carbonate that has slowly been deposited by the flowing water of multiple hot springs. When the Roman’s happened upon the area they discovered the hot springs were a great place to rest their weary bones and promptly decided to build a city at the top!

Enter the site from the bottom and walk up through the terraces. No shoes are allowed on the travertines themselves in order to prevent erosion , so take a bag to carry them in. Once at the top you can then explore the ruined city of Hierapolis which is famed for its colonnaded street, intact theatre and numerous sarcophagi.

If you’re happy to pay a little extra you can then bathe in the ancient pool at the top of the   terraces (Cleopatra’s Pool), much like the Romans would’ve done. You can spend most of the day exploring this sight and as always, arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.

There are numerous places to stay in Pamukkale . For a budget option but try Baydil campsite located right at the bottom of the terraces. The campsite comes complete with its own waterpark which is open in the summer months.

For a hotel with the best views over the terraces try Hotel Sahin . It has an outdoor pool and some rooms have private balconies overlooking Pammukale. Don’t miss the traditional Turkish breakfast on the roof terrace before you start you day.

The Natural Park just across the road can provide some nice reflection photos of the terraces, especially at sunset.

6. Ölüdeniz – 206km, 3 hours

Ok I’ll hold my hands up and say Ölüdeniz wouldn’t normally be the kind of place I would visit as it’s more of a beach vacation town. However, if travelling on this route from Pamukkale to Kaş, it makes sense to stop here and use it as a base for lots of other activities.

For a complete list of all the things to do in Ölüdeniz , see this post. However, some of the best things to do in Ölüdeniz include the following.

1. Paraglide over the Blue Lagoon

This is probably the most famous activity in Ölüdeniz and no doubt offers the best view of the Blue Lagoon. There are various outfitters that offer paragliding tours which you can book online here .

2. Get wet in Saklikent Gorge

Saklikent Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world and is a great place to cool off in the hot summer months. Upon entering the gorge the water is quite shallow and the gorge is quite wide but the more you venture in, the more narrow it becomes.

River shoes are highly recommended along with a waterproof camera, just in case. For an extra cost you can try some river tubing for 30 minutes along the gentle rapids. There are also plenty of restaurants at the entrance to feed your hunger!

3. Visit the ruined Greek town of Kayaköy

This is a huge Ghost Town just a short drive away from Ölüdeniz. It was once a bustling town comprised of Greeks and Turks living happily alongside each other.

However, after the rise of the Turkish National Movement, minorities like the Greek Orthodox were forced to flee or face persecution. What remains, is a museum village consisting of hundreds of abandoned Greek style houses which are free to roam around.

Click here to see a short video of visiting Kayaköy.

4. Hike the start of the Lycian way

The Lycian Way is a long distance trail that runs for 540km along the Turkish coast from Fetiye to Antalya. The start of the trail is on the mountain just above Ölüdeniz. Taxi drivers in town will be more than happy to take you to the start and wait for your return.

By hiking just a few kilometres you can get a feel of what the trail has to offer. It also provides the best views of Ölüdeniz beach and the blue lagoon (aside from paragliding!)

5. Take a boat trip to Butterfly valley

The beautiful bay of Butterfly valley can only be accessed by boat. There are many vendors in Ölüdeniz that offer full day tours to Butterfly valley . If you’re not keen on a boat trip you can drive to a view point high upon the cliffs above, just 10 minutes from Ölüdeniz or you could even hike down into the valley if you’re brave enough!

For a complete guide to visiting Butterfly Valley, take a look at this post!

6. Explore Patara

Patara is another two for one kind of place, in that you have a beach and a Lycian/Roman ruin in close proximity to one another. Patara was an important Lycian city and was one of the “Big 6”.

Patara’s importance is demonstrated by the presence of a parliament building. A place where members of the elected Lycian League met to discuss state affairs.

7. Visit Xanthos

Xanthos was another important city in Lycia and was the capital city of the Lycian Federation. As well as the Harpy and pilar tombs, the amphitheatre and the Roman-Byzantine street, Xanthos also contains the Xanthian Obelisk. This pilar is covered with the longest Lycian inscription known to exist, a language which we still haven’t fully decoded.

This day tour includes visits to Xanthos, Saklikent Canyon and Patara Beach.

If you want to splash out on an all-inclusive resort with multiple pools, located right on the seafront, try Liberty Lykia. For a hotel situated in the famous Blue Lagoon try Sugar Beach Club or for a gorgeous apartment in the heart of Oludeniz try the Salonika Suites .

7. Kas – 131km, 2 hours

Ah I love Kas (Kaş). It has a special little place in my heart and is my most visited place in Turkey. This seaside town is quieter than other resorts like Fethiye , Ölüdeniz or Antalya as it’s a little further away from either Dalaman or Antalya airports.

Time spent in Kaş can be as busy or as relaxed as you would like it to be , since it has a variety of beaches and activities to suit. Top activities include wandering the pretty cobble streets and shopping at the local boutique stores, scuba diving, visiting the ancient amphitheatre and relaxing on the beaches.

For a detailed post on things to see and do in Kas, read this guide .

The budget option for tonight is Kas Camping but for a beautiful glamping experience, try Joy Glamping on the other edge of town. For a comfortable hotel with incredible views over the bay choose Luna Kas .

8. Olympos – 121km, 2 hours

Having driven along the coast for the final time on this Turkey road trip, you will next arrive at Olympos. Olympos is also the last of our Lycian cities before we head inland to central Turkey.

1. Chimaera flames

At night take a trip to see the Chimaera flames. From the car park it is a 20-30 minute hike up the side of Mt Olympos to see the naturally occurring cluster of flames that constantly burn from the rock. Most trips will run after dinner as the flames are best seen at night.

2. Beach and ruins

To access the beach you have to pay an entrance fee. This fee also grants you access to the ruins of Olympos, which you have to walk through in order to get to the beach beyond. The ruins are only small but worth a look around on your way to/from the beach.

Why in a tree house of course! It is the thing to do at Olympos and there are many places to choose. My favourite tree house stays are Saban Tree Houses and Bayrams Tree Houses

If you don’t still harbour your childhood dream to sleep in a tree house, more comfortable en suite rooms are also available.

9. Antalya – 78km, 1.5 hours

The next stop on this epic Turkish road trip is Antalya. Located in a region known as the Turkish Riviera, Antalya is Turkey’s largest international coastal resort city. The city is known for its beautiful Mediterranean beaches, historical landmarks and cultural attractions.

Top things to do in Antalya include wandering the streets of the Old Town to see impressive sights such as Hadrian’s Gate and the Fluted Minaret, taking a boat trip to see the thunderous Duden waterfalls or enjoying a day trip to nearby Koprulu Canyon,  Aspendos or Thermessos ruins.

For a complete guide to all the things to do in Antalya, see this post.

For those on a budget, check out  Camp & Hostel Antalya  which offers shared accommodation with a traveller-friendly vibe.

For a family friendly resort, located right on the beachfront, try the  Sealife Family Resort Hotel which  has everything you need for your time in Antalya including swimming pools, a spa and a traditional Turkish bath.

10. Göreme, Cappadocia – 537km, 7 hours

Göreme is the gateway to a big adventure playground! It’s the place where you can rise at the crack of dawn to take a hot air ballon flight , find adventure on a quad bike tour or go for a hike and get lost in places with romantic names such as love valley.

Spoiler alert! Love valley isn’t actually that romantic…you’ll discover why once you get there!

For many, Göreme the final destination on a cross-country road trip in Turkey and the drive to get here is easily the biggest on this Turkey itinerary.

The geology in the region of Cappadocia is very unique so it’s definitely worth having a few days to explore. This is without doubt one of the prettiest places in Turkey.

For all the top things to do in Cappadocia see this guide .  Alternatively, if you’re looking for an easy Cappadocia itinerary see this 3 day Cappadocia itinerary.

If you plan on visiting Cappadocia in Winter, don’t miss this guide .

In  Göreme  itself, a budget friendly option is  Kookaburra cave hotel . It’s small, centrally located, with a lovely rooftop terrace from which to admire the views (and balloons). 

With a more premium budget take a look at  Cappadocia Cave Suites  or  Sultan Cave Suites, both of which are centrally located in Göreme .

Beyond Cappadocia

Onwards to northern turkey.

Why stop your Turkish road trip in Cappadocia? If you want to continue your overland adventure why not continue on towards Georgia ? This small mountainous country is fabulous for trekking, has lots of history and is home to some of the best wine in the world!

If continuing onto Georgia a great sight to visit is Sümela monastery, don’t miss the local market at Maçka and take a little time to explore the Black Sea City of Trabzon.

Onwards to Eastern Turkey

If your onward travels takes you towards southern Anatolia be sure not to miss the best bazaar in Turkey at Sanliurfa , the spellbinding statues of Nemrut Dagi and the charming Silk Road city of Mardin .

Basic Turkish

How to pronounce all the squiggly letters.

Atatürk was a very forward thinking leader so as part of his reforms he decided that Turkey should convert to a latin based script. Thankfully for us Westerners that makes trying to pronounce Turkish words a little easier.

However, you will notice there are a few strange looking letters in there, so here is a basic introduction to get you going.

• ç – ‘ch’ as in church. For example çay (chai)
• ş – ‘sh’ as in should. For example Kaş (Kash)
• ğ – is silent so just ignore it. For example President Erdoğan (Erdoan)
• ö – ‘ur’ as in fur.
• ü – just like German ü
• ı – the undotted i makes an ‘uh’ sound as in plus

Helpful phrases

• Hello – Merhaba
• How are you? – Nasilsin?
• I’m fine. How are you? İyiyim (pronounced ‘ee eem’) sağol, sen nasılsın?
• Thank you – Teşekkür ederim
• Please – lütfen
• No – Hayır or yok
• Where are the toilets? – Tuvalet nerede?
• Sorry – Pardon

The Best Time To Visit Turkey

The best time for a trip to Turkey is between the summer months of April and October . Be warned it can get very hot on the coast in July and August and the areas away from the coast, such as Cappadocia, get pretty cold in the winter months.

Turkey Road Trip Summary

This concludes my Turkey road trip planner from Istanbul to Cappadocia. I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed putting it all together.

Turkey is a huge country with lots of incredible destinations to see. This road trip covers a small section of the country from Istanbul, along the coast to Cappadocia in Central Turkey. Along this classic overland route there are many incredible sights to see such as Troy, Ephesus, Pammukale, Olympos and Cappadocia.

The best way to enjoy this route is to rent a car and embark on an epic Turkish road trip!

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Louise is a Mountain Leader and Snowboard Instructor from South Wales. As a former Adventure Tour Leader she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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What to See & Do?

By visiting Cappadocia from Istanbul, you’ll both visit Istanbul and Cappadocia at the same time in just a fantastic one day trip during your stay in Istanbul. You’ll find plenty of things to do and see in Cappadocia.

* Explore and enjoy Capadocia’s magnificent scenery of fairy chimneys, valleys, man-made rock-cut dwellings.

* Admire the Goreme Open Air Museum .

* Visit the Underground City of Kaymakli .

* See rock-cut churches and chapels from the early Christian and Byzantine periods.

* Walk through the fantastic Pasabag Monks Valley .

* Admire the Uchisar castle and the nearby Piegons valley .

* Watch the magnificent sunrise on hot air balloon ride from 3000 feet above the ground, take your commemorative flight certificate and enjoy a after-flight champagne celebration.

* Enjoy the famed pottery workshops , buy or try to make your own quality earthenware .

* Taste and shop the region’s delicious wines .

* Enjoy horse safari and quad safari along the lunar landscape

* Experience a one night stay in a luxury cave hotel .

The best Cappadocia tours from Istanbul

Make sure you don’t miss out on anything by booking Cappadocia tours. Find the right tour for you, whether you just want to visit Cappadocia in a day, two days or fancy exploring Turkey package tours including Cappadocia.

You should keep in mind that, Cappadocia hot air balloon ride prices vary between 100-150 EUR per person .

Istanbul to Cappadocia tour prices varies depending on the season, service quality and demand density. Book online in advance as they are selling out quickly. And free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance.

Here, we only suggest the proven tours from our collaborators, and top rated ones with travelers’ comments. You’ll be guaranteed with the best price regarding the quality of service.

Cappadocia tours by Toursce

Address: Kocamustafapasa Mah. Kocamustafapasa Cad. No:107, Istanbul Web: toursce.com

2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Flight

Discovering Cappadocia’s eroded landscape is a top experience in Turkey, but reaching the remote region can be a challenge if time is limited. Combining round-trip flights , ground transport, and activities, this small-group tour is an easy way to maximize your sightseeing time. Included boutique accommodations are in a cave hotel , for a uniquely Cappadocian experience that ensures a memorable stay.

• Included round-trip flights cut down on transit time
• Two days of tours feature important Cappadocia highlights
• Group size is capped at 15 for more personal service
• Convenient, door-to-door transport from your Istanbul hotel

Book your Cappadocia trip from Istanbul

Explore Cappadocia on a 2-day trip from Istanbul and marvel at the iconic fairy chimneys. Enjoy the convenience of flights, accommodation in a cave hotel, airport transfers, and lunch.

• Visit Goreme Open Air Museum, Devrent Valley, Pasabag, Uchisar, Ortahisar, and more
• Visit Red and Rose Valley to enjoy a panoramic view of the Pigeon Valley
• Explore underground cities of early Christians & see rock-cut churches
• Learn about the ancient art of ceramics at Avanos village
• Spend less time waiting in lines, and more time exploring Cappadocia with a guide

Private Day Trip to Cappadocia from Istanbul

The ultimate time-saver tour, this express excursion lets you discover the highlights of Cappadocia and be back in Istanbul by nightfall. Travel by private vehicle through the region, visiting iconic attractions like Goreme National Park, the rock-carved houses of Pigeon Valley, and Kaymakli Underground City. Flights, admission tickets, lunch, and door-to-door ground transfers are included.

• A full-day private guided tour of Cappadocia from Istanbul by plane
• Explore the region’s most unmissable attractions in a single day of sightseeing.
• Enjoy an all-inclusive package covering flights, lunch, and ground transportation
• Action-packed itineraries are fully customizable and unique to your private group

See the highlights of Cappadocia on an insightful day trip, including Goreme Open Air Museum and the famous fairy chimneys. Enjoy a roundtrip flight from Istanbul and eat a typical lunch in Avanos.

• See Cappadocia’s top attractions with skip-the-line tickets
• Learn how to make pottery from local experts
• Try delicious Turkish cuisine
• Experience fascinating views of fairy chimneys
• Choose between a shared group or private day trip

Although many cross-country tours in Turkey only allocate a day to Cappadocia’s preternatural landscape and innovative architecture, most travelers find that a two-day tour strikes the right balance between seeing the region’s highlights and sacrificing time elsewhere in the country. See all of the highlights of Cappadocia comfortably during this two-day tour departing from Istanbul.

• Transport, tour guides and accommodation are all pre-arranged for you
• Spend less time waiting in lines, and more time exploring Cappadocia
• Breathe easy: get around comfortably in a non-smoking vehicle
• Enjoy a memorable scenic sunrise flight by Hot Air Balloon

Lose yourself in Cappadocia’s fairytale landscapes on this trip from Istanbul with flights, museum tickets, cave hotel accommodation, roundtrip airport transfers, and a guided tour.

• Explore the oldest churches of Cappadocia in the Goreme Open Air Museum
• Visit Rose Valley, Uchisar, Pigeon Valley and the pottery town of Avanos
• Experience Cappadocia’s famous dish, Testi Kebab

Immerse yourself in the outdoor wonders of Cappadocia by going on this comprehensive 2-day tour. Save hours of research time and benefit from having a full itinerary planned out for you—including flights , airport transfers , select meals , and a stay in a cave hotel in Goreme . Choose to add on a sunrise hot air balloon flight if you wish (additional cost) , and visit lots of other top sights such as the underground city Derinkuyu and Uchisar Castle.

• Slow down and spread your Cappadocia sightseeing over two days
• A hassle-free experience with flights and airport transfers included
• No need to navigate—a guide takes you around local sights
• See Goreme Open Air Museum and the underground city of Derinkuyu

Get a comprehensive tour of Cappadocia from Istanbul over the course of two days. Travel by bus , which allows you to take in the landscape and listen to commentary instead of fussing with directions and driving yourself. Spend the night in a boutique cave hotel and visit area highlights such as the Fairy Chimneys, Uchisar castle, the Kaymakli Underground City, the Rose Valley, and the Goreme Open-Air Museum. An optional balloon flight gives you the chance to soar high over Cappadocia’s countryside.

• Overnight bus tour of Cappadocia from Istanbul
• Learn about the area through guided commentary
• All entrance fees, lunch, and entrance fees included
• One night stay at a boutique cave hotel is included

All Above Recommended Tours

by Getyourguide

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We took the 2 days tour by plane. Totally worth it. The tour operator planned it out very well with lots of information. The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly and we had enough time to spend our Cappadocia days on our own with shops and several other sights that we wanted to see. Would recommend to this Cappadocia day trip anyone as this place is a must see in the world and we had this chance while we were on Istanbul. We have no regrets that we had a 2 days escape to see this wonderful place.

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How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia

Want to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia – one of the most unique places in Turkey? Find out how to travel to the region by car, bus and plane.

If you’re planning a holiday to Turkey, I’d recommend starting in Istanbul, then travelling to Cappadocia for a few days, and finishing with a little bit of beach time in somewhere like Alanya or Antalya.

For me, Cappadocia is one of the most magical places on the planet. The unique scenery, the history, the beauty! It’s not like anywhere else I’ve been. Over a few days I spent my nights sleeping in a cave hotel (and it was amazing!), went hot air ballooning, ate my bodyweight in delicious Turkish cuisine and soaked up the history on various tours around the region.

Most people visit Cappadocia for a few days, but I think you could spend a week there and still not see everything. It’s just incredible.

It’s also a great destination if you’re on a budget. Accommodation is plentiful and reasonably priced, with nights in beautifully converted caves starting around £20 per night.

Istanbul to Cappadocia Map

If you’re planning a trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia, this map should help! I’ve marked on it the main airports, bus terminals and towns so you can plan the route that works for you.

Here is a map to give you a better idea of the locations and the distance from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

How Far Is Cappadocia From Istanbul?

The distance between Istanbul and Cappadocia is 567 km, or by road, it is 756 km.  I think a lot of people underestimate that distance! It’s a long way, so my advice is to fly if you can.

Flying From Istanbul to Cappadocia

Flying from Istanbul to Cappadocia is the simplest option, and this isn’t where costs rack up. Nope, there are some VERY cheap flights to Cappadocia.

The flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia’s Kayseri Airport takes 1 hour 20, and when I checked you could book for as little as £12!

The Istanbul to Cappadocia flights depart from two airports: Istanbul Atatürk Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport. As a bit of advice, Istanbul Atatürk Airport is considerably closer to the city centre and much easier to get to, so I’d recommend going from there.

Both Turkish Airlines and Pegasus (low-cost Turkish airline) fly to Kayseri Airport in Cappadocia. I’ve had some of my best flights in the world with Turkish Airlines, so I’d definitely recommend them. Saying that, when I visited Cappadocia, I flew with Pegasus and the flight was very comfortable.

But wait, there’s another airport in Cappadocia! You can also fly from Istanbul to Nevşehir Airport, which is actually a little closer to the main towns. The only thing is there aren’t so many flights, and it’s the difference of about 20 minutes by car!

There are a lot of flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia – I counted over 16 just going to Kayseri in a 24-hour period, so you won’t struggle to find something at a time that suits you.

I’d recommend booking via SkyScanner , a reliable flight booking and comparison platform that I use personally. It’s super simple, comparing prices across all the airlines available. You can search and book here:

Read More: Hot Air Ballooning In Cappadocia, Turkey  and  21+ Things To Know Before Booking Your Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight

Looking for somewhere to stay in the region? Check out: The Best Cave Hotels In Cappadocia

Getting From Kayseri Airport To Cappadocia  

Once you reach Kayseri Erkilet Airport, you’ll need to sort transport to get to the region. As a guide, the main town of Goreme (where the majority of hotels are) is just over one hour’s drive from the airport.

You can hire a car at Kayseri Airport for around £20 a day. If you want to do a self-guided trip around the region, then this could be a good option. However, a car isn’t necessary, especially as all the tours that you’re likely to do (hot air balloon, green tour etc.) will collect you from your hotel each day.

Most hotels will arrange transfers from the airport for you, so definitely speak to them in advance of your arrival for peace of mind. You can expect to pay a max of 60 TL (£8.60 / 10 EUR) for Kayseri Airport or 50 TL (£6.90 / 8 EUR) for Nevsehir Airport.

I found quite a few companies online offering shared transport for as cheap as 5/6 EUR per person, so I’d recommend doing your own research before booking, and checking the latest prices and offers. Also, if you’re a big group or family, you may find a private taxi or transfer more economic.

Read More: Top Things To Do In Cappadocia, Turkey 

Bus From Istanbul To Cappadocia

A few friends of mine have caught the bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia. The bus journey takes around 10 hours (although sometimes as many as 12). There are night buses, which leave at 11.45pm and get to Goreme at 8.30am, so if you’re good at sleeping on public transport, you could leave Istanbul in the evening and wake up in Cappadocia.

Metro Turizm has nightly buses, and their website works in English which helps if your Turkish is as bad as mine! Istanbul’s main bus terminal is Otogar, which is located to the north west of the city centre (marked on the map above).

The night bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia takes you all the way to Goreme. When I checked, the bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia cost 110 TL (£15 / £17) (approx.).

If you’re struggling with your Istanbul to Cappadocia bus booking, I’m sure your hotel reception will be happy to assist.  

Driving From Istanbul To Cappadocia

If you’re on a big road trip around Turkey, and time isn’t a huge factor, then you could drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia by car. Personally I wouldn’t choose to get there this way, as it’s a really long journey (and I’m far too impatient!)

So, let’s look at the numbers… Istanbul to Cappadocia distance by road: 756km / 470 miles Istanbul to Cappadocia driving duration: 8 hours+

It’s a pretty epic journey, but it’s doable. It’d make more sense to enjoy it as a road trip, and perhaps stop a night at somewhere along the way e.g. Ankara or somewhere lesser known like Eskişehir which has an fascinating Ottoman history, amazing castle and pretty wooden houses.

Istanbul To Cappadocia Train

Please note, there is no train from Istanbul to Cappadocia, however much I’d love there to be – the views out of the window would be amazing! The only way to use a train would be to travel between Istanbul and Ankara by train, then catch a bus to Goreme.

Cappadocia Tours From Istanbul

If all of these options are sounding like a hassle, and you just want a few stress-free days in Cappadocia, consider booking a tour. Most include a few meals, a guide to teach you all about the sights, tours of the famous landmarks, and accommodation in a beautiful cave hotel.

Here are a few that look good, but definitely have a shop around and check the small print for all the details on what’s included…

There are tours like this one which transports you from Istanbul to Cappadocia by plane for a 2 day / 1 night trip, with a guided tour and a hot air balloon ride.

Check latest prices and availability

Or if you want to stay longer, this Istanbul to Cappadocia tour lasts 3 nights and also includes a hot air balloon flight.

Or if this is a once in a lifetime trip, consider doing it on style on a luxury tour like this one .

I hope this has helped you plan your journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia. Once you reach magical Cappadocia, I’d recommend booking some day trips to see the sights, take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the mind-blowing views, and enjoy staying in a cave hotel! It’s one of the most incredible places I’ve ever been, so I hope you fall in love with it too!

Cappadocia Travel Guides

Continue planning your trip with my handy travel guides to visiting Cappadocia.

Top Things To Do In Cappadocia, Turkey

From exploring the underground cities, to visiting the epic castle and staying in a cave hotel, find out the best things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey.

Hot Air Ballooning In Cappadocia

Find out what it's like to take a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia, Turkey, including prices, what to expect on the day and why this is one of my favourite things to do in Cappadocia!

21 Things To Know Before A Hot Air Balloon Flight In Cappadocia - Travel Tips For A Hassle Free Adventure

From when to visit and how to book, to what to expect and wear on the day, these these tips will help you plan your Cappadocia hot air balloon experience.

The Best Cave Hotels In Cappadocia

Wondering where to stay in Cappadocia? Historic and unique - it’s time to check out the best cave hotels in Cappadocia.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

8 thoughts on “How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia”

This is such a helpful guide. I’ve always wanted to go to Cappadocia and it sounds just as magical as it looks!

Thanks Jess – it’s so easy to get there, you should definitely do it! x

This is a great post and your photos are beautiful. We’re trying to plan a Turkey/Greece trip. Do you know if there is any easy way to get to the Greek Islands? Seems like we have to fly from Cappadocia to Istanbul to Athens to Santorini. True?

Thanks Jennifer! I’m afraid I haven’t done that route so I don’t know but I imagine that’s probably true as the airports near Cappadocia are quite small / mainly service destinations in Turkey.

Love your blog! We are debating Cappadocia this summer but wondering about safety. Was this a concern for you there?

Hi Joan, I’d check the FCO site before travelling, but it was perfectly safe when I visited! I loved it.

Loved the detailed post on Cappadocia. Can you please guide on how did you book such a cheap flight any website that you can recommend or did you just buy the ticket. Please let me know

I’d take a look at Skyscanner or Omio and see what the cheapest options are. Pegasus offer very reasonable flights!

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• August 22, 2023
• By TheBestIstanbul

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia

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Cappadocia is once in a Lifetime Travel Destination

For many travelers, Cappadocia is the ultimate destination, and it’s easily accessible from Istanbul. You can cross this dream destination off your bucket list with just a 2-day trip. Our comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know for a smooth journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia. Let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime – read on to find out more.

Istanbul to Cappadocia

Traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia is one of the most popular journeys in Turkey, as it offers visitors a chance to experience the country’s rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, making the journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia can be a bit confusing, with several different travel options available.

When to Visit Cappadocia?

The most popular times to visit Cappadocia are definitely the springs. April 15 – June 15 and August 15 – October 15 are the two important seasons of Cappadocia. During these periods, the weather is neither too cold nor too hot. You can enjoy pleasant valley walks and carry out your sunset activities without worrying about the weather.

It is true that Cappadocia has a different spirit in every season. In the winter, Cappadocia is covered in white, and in the summer, the evening coolness will give you a different experience.

My first recommendation is spring, followed by summer, and finally, winter.

Best Ways to Get to Cappadocia from Istanbul

There are several options for getting from Istanbul to Cappadocia, including by plane, bus, and car. Each method has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your travel needs and budget.

The quickest and most convenient way to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia is by plane. Direct flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia’s Nevsehir Airport are available, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. From the airport, it’s a short taxi ride or shuttle bus ride to your hotel in the Cappadocia region.

You can check the Prices & Availability down below now:

Taking a bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia is a popular option for budget travelers. Buses depart from Istanbul’s main bus station, Esenler Otogar, and take approximately 10-12 hours to reach Cappadocia. The journey is long, but scenic, and offers a chance to see the country’s rural landscapes and small villages along the way. The bus is the cheapest way to go if you are a backpacker or budget traveler. You can book your Bus ticket via obilet.com . You should search from Istanbul to Kapadokya.

Driving from Istanbul to Cappadocia is a great option for those who want to have more control over their travel itinerary and take the scenic route. The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours and is best made in a comfortable and well-equipped car. You can stop on your way at some other attractions or you can take different Routes to visit cities like Ankara. Obviously traveling by car makes you flexible and you can take advantage of it. The road between Istanbul and Kapadokya is very good so you can enjoy the scenic route. Stop by some local Restaurants and enjoy traditional cuisine. You can Rent your car with Rentalcars.com which shows the best car hire deals.

If you are an experienced motorbike rider and feel confident navigating through different types of terrain, then it could be a great adventure to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia on a motorbike. You will have the freedom to explore the countryside at your own pace and experience the natural beauty of Turkey along the way.

However, if you are a beginner or inexperienced rider, it may not be the best idea to undertake such a journey. The roads in Turkey can be challenging, especially in the mountainous areas between Istanbul and Cappadocia. The traffic in Istanbul can also be very congested and chaotic, which could be overwhelming for some riders.

Additionally, the weather can also be a factor to consider. If you plan to travel during the winter months, the roads can be icy and treacherous, making it more difficult to ride safely.

Overall, traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia by motorbike can be an exciting adventure, but it is important to carefully consider your level of experience, the time of year you plan to travel, and the condition of the roads before embarking on this journey. It is always recommended to wear proper safety gear and to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

You can check out the Prices & Availability for rental bikes in Istanbul with the tool down below:

2-Day All-Inclusive Cappadocia Guided Trip From Istanbul

If you want to save yourself the hassle of booking transportation, hotels, balloon tours, and museum visits by purchasing a reasonably priced 2-day guided trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia. With this package, all your travel arrangements will be taken care of, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your adventure.

On this trip from Istanbul, you will get flights, museum tickets, cave hotel accommodation, roundtrip airport transfers, and a guided tour. You can Opt-In for a Baloon Ride if you like!

Book Your All Inclusive Tour From Istanbul to Cappadocia

What to Expect Along the Way?

Cappadocia became UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 under the name Goreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia.

No matter which travel option you choose, the journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to see some of Turkey’s most iconic landmarks, including the historic city of Konya nearby, the famous hot-air balloon town of Goreme, and the stunning rock formations and caves of Cappadocia.

When traveling by bus, you’ll have the chance to take in the scenery and visit small villages, where you can sample local cuisine and meet the friendly locals. When flying, you’ll have the convenience of a quick and efficient journey, with the added bonus of stunning views of Cappadocia from the air.

If you choose to drive, you’ll have the freedom to stop and explore at your leisure, taking in the sights and sounds of the countryside as you travel through central Turkey. No matter which travel option you choose, be sure to bring your camera and capture the memories of your journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

Hot-Air Baloon Tour in Cappadocia

One of the most famous tourist attraction from Cappadocia is Hot-Air Baloon Tours

Cappadocia is famous for its hot air balloon tours because of its unique landscape and natural formations. Here are some of the things that make hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia special:

Otherworldly landscapes: Cappadocia is known for its unique rock formations, including “fairy chimneys” and otherworldly landscapes that have been formed by centuries of volcanic activity and erosion. Hot air balloon tours allow visitors to experience these landscapes from a bird’s eye view, providing a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.

Sunrise views: Hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia typically take place at sunrise, which means that visitors can experience the stunning colors of the sunrise over the unique landscape of Cappadocia. This creates a magical and memorable experience that is hard to replicate.

Weather conditions: The unique weather conditions in Cappadocia make it a perfect location for hot air balloon tours. The area experiences very little wind, which means that the balloons can fly very close to the ground and can hover above the unique rock formations, providing an up-close view of the landscape.

Photography opportunities: Hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia provide excellent opportunities for photography. The unique landscape and sunrise views provide a stunning backdrop for photos, and the balloons themselves can be an interesting subject for photography.

Hot-Air Baloon Tour is once in a lifetime experience

How much does Hot-Air Baloon Tours costs?

The cost of hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia can vary depending on a number of factors, including the season, time of day, and the operator that you choose. However, in general, hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia are considered to be a premium and relatively expensive activity.

The price of a hot air balloon tour in Cappadocia typically ranges from around 150-300 USD per person , depending on the duration of the tour and the level of service provided by the operator. Some operators may charge more for longer tours, while others may include extras like hotel transfers, breakfast, or champagne toasts.

While the cost of a hot air balloon tour in Cappadocia may be relatively high, many visitors consider it to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is well worth the investment. The stunning views and unique landscape of Cappadocia, combined with the exhilarating adventure of a hot air balloon ride, create a truly unforgettable experience that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

Baloon Tours on Sun Rise is the most famous Tour

Overall, the hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia provide a unique and unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty with an exhilarating adventure, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the region.

Book Hot Air Baloon Ride in Cappadocia

Where to Stay in Cappadocia?

Cappadocia offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, including hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and traditional cave houses. Here are some popular areas to consider when choosing where to stay in Cappadocia:

Goreme: This is one of the most popular areas to stay in Cappadocia, located in the heart of the region and close to many of the main attractions. Goreme offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, including cave hotels and guesthouses. Many of the accommodations in Goreme offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and it’s a great base for exploring the area.

Uchisar: Uchisar is another popular area to stay in Cappadocia, known for its stunning views of the surrounding valleys and fairy chimneys. This area is home to some of the most exclusive and luxurious hotels in the region, as well as some more affordable guesthouses and boutique hotels.

Avanos: Avanos is a charming town located on the banks of the Kizilirmak River, known for its traditional pottery and handicrafts. This area offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere than some of the more touristy areas of Cappadocia, and it’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more authentic experience.

Urgup: Urgup is a lively and bustling town located in the center of Cappadocia, known for its vibrant markets and traditional architecture. This area offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, as well as a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Ultimately, where you stay in Cappadocia will depend on your personal preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for. Regardless of where you choose to stay, the unique landscape and attractions of Cappadocia are sure to make for an unforgettable trip.

The Best Hotels in Cappadocia

The otherworldly region of Cappadocia is a fairy tale comes to life, boasting a geological spectacle of honeycomb hills and peculiar rock formations that must be seen to be believed. Moreover, the region’s rich human history is an integral part of its charm, as the soft stone has been used for centuries to carve underground homes in the countryside, once inhabited by the Hittites, Persians, and early Christian Romans. This cavernous architectural style has led to the emergence of many unique and thrilling hotels in the area, as visitors flock to witness the breathtaking natural wonder.

Luxury Hotels

The region is abundant in luxury hotels, and we have selected two recommendations that we think you’ll enjoy.

Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge

Location: uchisar, website: arianalodge.com.

Ariana combines the geological spectacle with high-end luxury

Experience the luxurious lifestyle without compromising on sustainability at the Ariana Luxury Lodge, which boasts breathtaking views of the Uchisar Valley, a deluxe concierge service offering private guided tours, and a restaurant set within beautiful grounds. The lodge itself is an impressive architectural feat that seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape.

Check Price & Availability for Ariana Lodge

Museum Hotel Cappadocia

Location: uchisar website: museumhotel.com.

Museum Hotel is unique

The Museum Hotel is probably the most luxurious and best hotel in Cappadocia, but let’s not forget to mention that it is also the most expensive hotel in the region.

As one of the first hotels to bring the luxury hotel concept to Cappadocia, the Museum Hotel is a super-splendid and mysterious boutique hotel located in a very large area in Uchisar, with only 30 stunning rooms.

The Museum, which is Turkey’s only Relais & Chateaux hotel, takes its name from the hundreds of priceless historical artifacts belonging to the Hittite, Roman, Seljuk and Ottoman periods that are displayed with great care in all hotel rooms, common areas, cave tunnels and the hotel restaurant, registered in the Nevsehir Museum.

Museum Hotel has a Cave Hotel Concept

The hotel is also among the hotels with unique views, as the most important visual values of Cappadocia such as Goreme Valley, Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, Red Valley, Avanos, and Erciyes Mountain can be seen from all rooms. In addition to all these features, it should also be noted that the Museum Hotel’s rooms have luxury details such as Jacuzzi and hammam, and the hotel has shared use of an enormous, luxurious swimming pool with a magnificent view.

Check Availability & Price for the Museum Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels

In Cappadocia, there is a wide selection of hotels in the mid-range category. It is hard to narrow it down because there are many good options. Here you can find the two recommendations from us which you will like.

Traveler’s Cave Hotel

Location: göreme, website: hotel.travelerscave.com.

At Traveler’s Cave you will have a great view

It is a great option for those who want to stay in Göreme with its terrace and amazing view. The hotel is a 5-minute walk to the center of Göreme. The rooms are carved out of volcanic rocks. If you go there, be sure to watch the sunrise or sunset from the terrace for us. If you want to rent, the hotel has rental bicycles.

Check Availability & Price for Traveler`s Cave

Goreme Suites

Location: göreme website: goremesuites.com.

Terrace View of Hostel Terra Vista

Goreme Suites offers a peaceful and romantic stay with magnificent views of Cappadocia, excellent services, and in-room free wireless internet. All of the accommodations have a rustic and comfortable decorations, as well as unique Cappadocia views. The hotel serves a daily open buffet breakfast. It also provides car and bicycle rental services for you to explore the surroundings.

Check Availability & Price for Goreme Suites

With WayAway, you can take advantage of cashback deals and earn money back on flights and hotel bookings that you were already planning to make. Don’t miss out on this opportunity and book now to benefit from the cashback deals.

Budget Hotels

There are also many options for travelers on a budget. You can find a range of affordable hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in different parts of Cappadocia, especially in the towns of Göreme and Ürgüp. Some of these budget accommodations may offer fewer amenities than more expensive options, but they can still provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are two recommendations you can look at.

Antique Terrace Suites

Location: göreme website: antiqueterracesuties.com.

Antique Terrace Suites offers a great view

Antique Terrace Suites boasts a superb location and stunning views from its terrace. The hotel provides exceptional cave rooms, allowing guests to experience an authentic and unique stay.

Staying in the houses carved into the rocks, which are the symbol of Cappadocia, would be a perfect holiday choice for those who truly want to immerse themselves in nature and experience the history and mystery of the region.

Check Availability & Price for Antique Terrace Suites

Hostel Terra Vista Location: Göreme Website: facebook.com/terravista

Out of all the options listed, Hostel Terra Vista stands out as the most affordable. It is an excellent choice for budget-friendly lodging in Cappadocia, located in close proximity to the main attractions. Despite its low cost, guests can still enjoy a comfortable holiday experience. Hostel Terra Vista has received numerous positive reviews and is highly recommended by many sources.

Check Availability & Price for Hostel Terra Vista

You can discover budget-friendly deals on hostels depending on the season. To find the best deals, you can visit the hostel-worlds website and browse their current offers.

In conclusion, traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia is a must-do for anyone visiting Turkey. Whether you choose to fly, take the bus, or drive, the journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience filled with stunning scenery and cultural experiences. With its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and friendly locals, Cappadocia is a destination that should not be missed. So, book your trip today and start planning your journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

And if you are not hyped enough then I recommend you to Listen & Watch Ben Böhmers performance Live above Cappadocia:

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Istanbul to Cappadocia: How to Get to Cappadocia From Istanbul Painlessly

If you’re planning to travel to Cappadocia – and you should! – you are likely starting your journey in Istanbul.

However, Turkey is a huge country, and Cappadocia isn’t exactly close to Istanbul. The distance between Istanbul and Cappadocia is a whopping 735 kilometers, so it takes about 9 hours to drive between the two.

There are a few ways to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia, so I’ll detail them all in this post, so you can figure out the best method for how to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul in terms of time, ease, and cost.

The Best Method to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia: Flight

The easiest way to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia is definitely by flying, and it’s cheaper than you’d think. Due to the depressed Turkish lira, flights are often really affordable for people purchasing with stronger currencies like the dollar, pound, or euro.

There are two main airlines that serve the routes from Istanbul to Cappadocia: Turkish Airlines (often operated by AnadoluJet) and Pegasus. Prices vary, but they are generally in the $30-60 USD range, which is pretty affordable.

Getting from Istanbul to Istanbul Airport

There are two airports in Istanbul, and the main airport is brand new; Istanbul Ataturk Airport is now closed (thank god because that airport suuuuucked ). Those two airports are Istanbul New (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). Most flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia depart from Sabiha Gökçen, which is a bit closer to the city than the new airport.

The best way to get to Sabiha Gökçen is via the Havabus from Taksim Square, which costs 18 lira ($3 USD) and takes about 90 minutes.

To get to the new main Istanbul airport, you can take Havaist which also costs 18 lira, about $3 USD. These will depart from Taksim, Beşiktaş, and Sultanahmet as well as other destinations. The ride takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic.

Alternately, it may be less hassle (but higher cost) to book an inexpensive airport transfer. Here are shared shuttles to IST and private transfers to IST. For Sabiha Gökçen, you can take this private transfer .

From Kayseri Airport to Cappadocia Hotels

There are two airport options for arriving in Cappadocia: Nevşehir (much closer) than Kayseri (further, but not so bad).

I took a shuttle from Kayseri to my hotel in Göreme, on a shared shuttle service just like this one . Private transfers are also available at a higher cost, but they are still reasonably priced.  I recommend this private transfer service offered on GetYourGuide, which is one of the companies I use most often when booking airport transfers. These companies provide services to both Nevşehir and Kayseri; just specify when booking.

Whichever you opt for, they will easily and safely take you to your hotel without the hassle of haggling with a taxi driver upon landing or stressing out about public transportation. It’s a far better way to start your trip!

There are local buses, but I’ve never taken one so I can’t speak to my experience. As far as I’ve been able to research, you have to take a shuttle into Kayseri bus station and then onwards to Göreme, which is run by Kamil Koc and runs four times a day. Doing that would cost you about 10 euros total, so it’s cheaper than a spot on a shuttle but definitely more hassle. If you do this route – let us know how it goes for you in the comments!

From Nevşehir, I imagine you could do something similar – take a shuttle from the airport to city center and then catch a bus – but I wasn’t able to find any information online, nor did I fly into Nevşehir so I’m not familiar with that airport.

For that reason, I’m inclined to recommend a shared shuttle for budget travelers or a private transfer if you want a faster, more private means of getting to your hotel, say if you’re visiting Cappadocia with your loved one for a special occasion.

TL,DR: Is flying from Istanbul to Cappadocia worth it?

Yes, definitely! Even factoring in getting to the airport, checking in, and booking a transfer out to your final destination, it’s a lot more comfortable and relaxing to fly.

The Next-Best Method to Get From Istanbul to Cappadocia: Night Bus

If budget is a concern, a night bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia is not a bad option. Typically, a bus between these two destinations will cost about 130 lira, about $20 USD, so it’s cheaper than even the cheapest flight options.

However, it does take about 10 to 12 hours given how slow buses go, how many stops it makes, and how long the distance is between the two destinations are. But if you’re the kind of person who can knock out on a bus and get a decent night’s sleep (I envy you) this is a good option.

I haven’t done the night bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia, but I did take the night bus from Cappadocia to Pamukkale as the next leg of my trip. I was surprised by how comfortable the buses in Turkey are and they’re definitely a step above Balkan buses to be sure! They have some light snack and drink services included for free on long-distance buses, which I really appreciated, and they were good about stopping frequently for bathroom and leg-stretching breaks.

As a solo woman, in my personal experience, I felt safe traveling on a night bus alone. I generally feel very safe traveling through Turkey, but again, that’s just me and my own personal comfort levels.

I traveled on Pamukkale between Cappadocia and Denizli/Pamukkale and it was excellent, but as far as I know, they don’t service the Istanbul toCappadocia route. Instead, I’d opt for Kamil Koç which has a great reputation too. Metro is not recommended by Turkish locals, both for the lack of comfort as well as lax driving safety standards, so I’d skip them.

To do this trip, go to Istanbul Esenler Otogari (you can get there via the metro, M1 line) and then take a night bus to Cappadocia.

That will put you in Cappadocia arriving in the morning, so you can maximize your time and not waste a day of travel.

It’s really up to you what you find more comfortable, but I was happy that I chose the plane as it was a lot more comfortable than a night bus for me.

Getting from Istanbul to Cappadocia on a Guided Tour

Finally, the last option would be to do a guided excursion from Istanbul which would take care of all transportation costs. This is likely more expensive than booking each aspect independently but can be a great choice if the thought of planning your own Cappadocia itinerary , picking your own cave hotel , finding the best photography spots , and deciding the right tours to take seems overwhelming.

There are several options for tours to Cappadocia from Istanbul, so I’ll list the best two at different price points for different budgets.

This 2-day tour is the cheapest option which departs by overnight bus and covers all your transportation costs, entrance fees, accommodations, and meals except for dinner.

However, this tour doesn’t account for a hot air balloon ride so if that is your main reason for visiting Cappadocia is to do one, it wouldn’t be the right choice for you. Read more about the itinerary and inclusions here.

This 2-day tour is more expensive, but it goes by plane and also includes a hot air balloon ride and two full-day tours and one night in a boutique hotel accommodation. You’ll get to see the Göreme Open Air Museum, Uçhisar Castle, Cavasin “Ghost Town,” Ilhara Valley, Selime Monastery, Derinkuyu Underground City, and so much more – and of course, the famous hot air balloon at sunrise, which is one of my travel moments of all time.

It’s basically the ultimate, jam-packed Cappadocia itinerary for people who have limited time but want the most epic experience possible without the hassle of planning their own trip. I recommend it highly for busy travelers for whom time is more of a concern than money! Read more about the itinerary here.

Other Ways to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia

There are a few other ways to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia, but none are really ideal.

There is no direct train between Istanbul and Cappadocia. However, if you wanted, you could take a bus to Gebze, then take the train from Gebze to Konya, and then take a bus from from Konya to Göreme. It seems like more hassle than it’s worth unless you’re like… super into trains.

Alternately, you could rent a car and drive, but clocking in at a minimum of 8 hours of driving time with nothing too exciting in between, it seems like this wouldn’t be a great choice, especially if you’d need to return to Istanbul by car later. The cost of gas alone would be at least $120 USD each way, so you wouldn’t really save much over flying in additional to the rental car and insurance costs.

List of Recommended Cappadocia Tours

If you’re planning your own Cappadocia itinerary, here are a few of the tour companies I recommend most. The *** indicates that I took that tour and deem it to be one of the best!

Cappadocia: Shared Airport Transfer Service Cappadocia Private Airport Transfers

Hot Air Balloons

Hot Air Balloon Tour of Cappadocia: Royal Queen Flight (60 minutes) *** Cappadocia: Royal King Flight by Royal Balloon (90 minutes)

Excursions & Activites

Cappadocia ATV Tour Adventure  Göreme: Dinner and Folk Show at a Cave Restaurant Full-Day Small Group Cappadocia Green Tour *** Red Tour: North Cappadocia with Göreme Open-Air Museum Full-Day Cappadocia Blue Tour with a Small Group

More Cappadocia & Turkey Travel Resources

If you want to travel to Cappadocia, we have this massive DIY Cappadocia itinerary post that will be helpful to read if you are not going on a guided excursion. If you’re curious about the most Instagrammable places in Cappadocia , we’ve got you covered. We’ve also written extensively about  the best cave hotels  for all budgets here in Cappadocia.

For Istanbul, we also have a ton of resources! We’re working on our massive things to do post, but for now, you can check out our Instagram guide to Istanbul , our favorite  Istanbul neighborhoods and where to stay , and tips for  shopping in Istanbul . If you visit in winter, we have a special winter in Istanbul guide.

If you’ll be spending time in Istanbul, check out our essential Istanbul travel tips and our best Istanbul safety tips. 

For more general Turkey information, check out this guide to  planning a trip to Turkey (including visa information)  and this guide to other  beautiful places to visit in Turkey .

We have tons more Turkey and Balkans resources, and we publish new content nearly daily. Bookmark our  Turkey  and  Balkans  travel pages so you can find any new resources that come out before your trip!

Headed to Cappadocia? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, make sure to travel with a valid  travel insurance  policy. While we feel safe in Turkey, especially in Cappadocia, you need to be covered in case of an emergency. Travel insurance covers you in case of theft or an accident, which can save your trip if there’s an incident.

For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads .  I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

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16 comments.

Very good information 👍

Thank you! Enjoy your trip!

The most experienced information, one should take the advice before planning the tour, this is the best guide i have read it. Thank for the lovely information. I am traveling to Turkey next month 20th November.

You’re welcome. Enjoy your trip!

Hi there 🙂 I am trying to browse to Kamil Koc website for booking bus trip from Istanbul to Capadocia. However the location with Cappadocia/ Kapadokya is not listed in the website list. Did you buy the ticket directly from the website?

Have a nice day!

Cheers, Min

We didn’t. Maybe you can email them for clarification?

And oh, wanted to thank you for a very informative entry on Istanbul – Cappadocia. Thank you very much! definitely helps a lot.

You’re welcome! Enjoy your trip!

Hi sofia I am planning a trip to Turkey, we live in Denver colorado. Can you please help guide as in where to stay in Istanbul and anything else that’s important to know. thanks so much!

Here’s our Istanbul Hotel Guide and our post on how to plan a trip to Turkey. We have quite a few more resources, but check out 50 Essential Istanbul Travel Tips for Your First Visit to the ‘Bul .

Of course, we would not advise booking anything until the borders have reopened.

Thanks for helpful information, love to explore Istanbul and Cappadocia. Hope everything going well and the border open again to receive tourist.

We hope so as well!

Really love your work. Really informative and structurally written. You guide us as it’s flowing in the right direction. Never read such information before. Thanks so much. I have a question tho for the travel agent in Cappadocia. And also for going back to Istanbul, Do we take the same kind of transportation of coming in ? We were thinking of taking the plane.

Yes however you get there you should use the same to return. Thank you!!

Great info thanks👍Looking forward to visit Cappadocia.

Enjoy your trip!

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How to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia

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With its fairytale landscape, magical rock formations, and hot air balloon-filled sky, Cappadocia is one of the most popular destinations to travel to from Istanbul. 352 miles separate the bustling city of Istanbul and the ethereal Cappadocia and, given the popularity of the route, it’s relatively easy to travel between the two!

We’ve used a variety of transportation between Istanbul and Cappadocia on our visits to Turkey and have put together this guide on traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia to help you plan your travels.

Most visitors to Turkey arrive by air through Istanbul International Airport. Depending on your mode of transport there are a few options for traveling between Istanbul and Cappadocia or directly from Istanbul Airport to Cappadocia.

There are 4 popular transportation options for traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia:

• By Air: Fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia
• By Road: Rental Car to drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia
• By Road: Bus between Istanbul and Cappadocia
• Tour: join a tour from Istanbul to Cappadocia

Istanbul to Cappadocia tip: there is no direct train between Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Where to Stay in Cappadocia

There are 5 main areas to stay in Cappadocia that all offer great options for places to stay and the towns of Göreme and Uçhisar are the most popular options. Our favourites include:

• Sultan Cave Suites, Goreme: made famous on Instagram for its epic rooftop terrace and views across Göreme and the sunrise balloons, Sultan Cave Suites is one of our favourite hotels in Cappadocia. The rooms are cave suite style and hewn into the rock: they are cosy and presented at a very high standard –  check prices now!
• Rox Cappadocia, Uchisar –  We stayed in the Rox and the experience was exceptional. The rooms are cave style and the breakfast delicious. The view from the roof terrace is one of our favourites in Cappadocia  –  check prices now!
• Mithra Cave Hotel  – The next door neighbour of the Sultan Cave Suites, the Mithra Cave Hotel also offers excellent panoramic views of the hot air balloons but it’s possible to secure rooms at lower rates. Mithra also has a resident dog and rooms range from basic cave rooms to two bedroom cave suites –  check prices now!

Book your Cappadocia hotel now

1 | Istanbul to Cappadocia by Air

• Flight time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Three airlines (Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and Turkish Airlines’ regional airline, AnadoluJet) operate direct flights between Istanbul and Cappadocia. Depending on the time of year, flights can be relatively cheap and there are regular departures throughout the day.

When choosing your flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia make sure to consider the departure airport in Istanbul:

• Turkish Airlines (IST to ASR): Turkish Airlines fly between IST (Istanbul International Airport) and ASR (Kayseri Erkilet International Airport close to Cappadocia). If you are arriving by air to IST or are based near the major sites on the European side of the city then I’d reccomend flying from IST.
• Pegasus Airlines/AnadoluJet (SAW to ASR) : both Pegasus and AnadoluJet depart from SAW (Sabiha Gokcen Airport) in Istanbul. SAW is located on the Asian side of Istanbul so can be less convienent than IST if you staying on the European side of the city.

Getting to your Cappadocia hotel from Kayseri Airport

It takes just over 1 hour to travel from Goreme or Uchisar After arriving at Kayseri Airport.

• Private Transfer : private transfers are a popular option and ensure a seamless and comfortable transfer – check prices here!
• Shared Transfer : a less expensive option to a private transfer, shared transfers are convienient for travel between the aiport and accomadation – check prices here!
• Bus : a regular bus tranfer is the cheapest option. Buses depart from Kayseri Central Bus Station between 7am and 9pm daily. Tickets cost around Euro 3.

Book your transfer now

2 | Istanbul to Cappadocia by Rental Car

• Drive time: 8 hours direct

Renting a car is an awesome way to explore Turkey and we’ve had some amazing road trips through the west of the country. Outside of the gridlock of Istanbul, driving in Turkey is a pleasant experience and we’ve always felt safe.

If you are planning on driving between Istanbul and Cappadocia, check out our tips for renting a car in Turkey and, if you want to explore the country further, our Turkey itinerary .

We recommend two driving routes between Istanbul and Cappadocia:

Istanbul to Cappadocia Direct

It takes around 8 hours to drive the 470miles/760km between Istanbul to Cappadocia.

If you are arriving in Istanbul International Airport (IST) then we recommend staying overnight in an airport hotel and setting off first thing the next morning for Cappadocia. If you are staying in Istanbul then, again, setting off early is essential to escape before the traffic jams start!

Istanbul to Cappadocia via Safranbolou and Hattusha

This is a great route if you want to do some sightseeing on the way to Cappadocia. It takes 9.5hours to drive the route and we spent two nights in Safranbolou to give us time to explore.

• Istanbul to Safranbolou: 250miles/400km (2.5hours) – the Ottoman City of Safranbolu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 2,000 traditional Safranbolu red roofed houses lining its cobblestone streets. It once played a key part in the caravan trade as the main commercial link between the Orient and Europe.

• Safranbolou to Hattusha: 186miles/300km (4hours) – we’re huge fans of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Turkey so wanted to include a detour to Hattusa, an archaeological site with ruins of temples, a royal residence and fortifications. Hattusha was the capital of the Hittite Empire, an ancient Anatolian people, in the late Bronze Age.
• Hattusha to Cappadocia: 155miles/250km (3hours) – from Hattusha it’s 3hours to Cappadocia so, if you start your journey early in the afteroon, you can catch a Cappadocia sunrise on arrival.

3 | Istanbul to Cappadocia By Bus

• Bus journey time: 12 hours

Buses depart frequently for trips from Istanbul to Cappadocia. The main operators are Metro Turizm, FlixBus, Kamil Koc and Öncü Seyahat and passengers can travel during the day or take an overnight bus – there are multiple departures throughout the day and night so it doesn’t require too much advance planning.

Tips for taking the bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia

• Reserving tickets: outside of very busy times you can usually reserve your tickets on the day of travel, either at the bus station or the bus company office. If you are worried about availability then stop by the bus station/bus company office in advance to reserve your tickets. There are some online reservation systems but they can be difficult to navigate without understand Turkish or having a Turkish ID. You can always ask at your accomadation for some guidance.
• Seats: most bus companies allow you to choose your seat in advance and the most comfortable buses have a single row of seats and a double row of seats. It’s more spacious and single seats are great for solo travelers.
• Bus Station: the main bus station, Istanbul Otogar, is huge so arrive early. There are some convience stores to purchase snacks and the individual bus companies have waiting areas and offices. The station is located at the Otogar tram stop via the M1a or M1b red metro line.
• Bathroom breaks: there are bathroom breaks along the route.
• Getting to your Cappadocia accomadation: depending on your bus and route, you will finish your journey in Neveshir or Goreme. For buses which terminate in Neveshir, the bus company usually provides a shuttle to Goreme. If your bus finishes in Goreme then you can get a taxi/hotel pick up from there on arrival. You can check out our guide to where to stay in Cappadocia for accomadation ideas and, if you want a rooftop terrace view of the balloons, check out our guide to the hotels with the best view of the balloons in Cappadocia .

4 | Istanbul to Cappadocia: By Tour

If you prefer to join a tour then there are some excellent options from Istanbul. A tour is a great choice if you like all the logistics, transfers and schedule to be taken care off and they are great for squeezing a lot of sightseeing into a short time.

• One day Cappadocia tour: this one day tour includes return flights between Istanbul and Cappadocia, hotel pick up and drop off, lunch and a guided tour. Stops include Piegon Valley, Kaymakli Underground City, Rose Valley, Cavusin and Ortahisar Castle – check itinerary and prices here!
• Two day Cappadocia tour: this extensive two day tour includes return flights from Istanbul, airport transfers and one night accomadation in Cappadocia. Stops include the Goreme Open Air Museum, Devrent Valley, Pasabag, Uchisar, Ortahisar, Piegon Valley – check itinerary and prices here!

Book your tour now

5 | Istanbul to Cappadocia: By Train

We often get asked about taking the train from Istanbul to Cappadocia but unfortunately, there is no direct train between the two.

There are 2 options for train travel if you want to include some additional stops on your itinerary:

• Istanbul to Ankara by train, bus from Ankara to Cappadocia: it takes 4.5 hours to travel by train from Istanbul to Ankara and a further 3.5/4 hours by road to Cappadocia.
• Istanbul to Konya by train, bus from Konya to Cappadocia: it takes 4.5 hours to travel by train from Istanbul to Konya and a further 3.5/4 hours by road to Cappadocia.
• If you’re planning to stop in both cities, it takes 2 hours to travel by train between the two.

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Home > How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia (& Back) In 2024

How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia (& Back) In 2024

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

Here is your comprehensive guide on how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia. Bus travel, plane, train, and car rides, we’ve got all the info you need to have you hot air ballooning in no time.

Plus, I have also detailed how to get from Cappadocia to Istanbul.

Turkey is packed with tourist hotspots , but two of the most iconic have to be the historic city of Istanbul and the central natural beauty of the magical Cappadocia .

The problem is that Türkiye is quite a large country, so most people are put off traveling to various spots that seem far away from one another. The good news? Turkey’s public transportation network is extremely high quality, meaning you can explore as much as possible, provided you do your research.

A weekend trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia is entirely possible, but you might still wonder how to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul. There are several different routes you can take.

Of course, you need to take your time exploring Istanbul before you leave this iconic and downright beautiful city.

There are perhaps more historical landmarks here than many other cities can boast in the world, from the beautiful Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus Bridge, Basilica Cistern, and the modern world of Taksim, to much, much more, this is a city which is going to take a lot more than one visit to say you’ve done it.’

However, Istanbul is a bustling place, so perhaps you want peace and quiet at the end of your break or in the middle.

In that case, Cappadocia, Türkiye is the ideal spot!

Cappadocia is located in the central portion of the city, and it has semi-arid land. You’ve undoubtedly seen pictures of Cappadocia in the past, with those iconic hot air balloon rides hovering over the “fairy chimneys,” the colossal rock formations formed over hundreds of years.

Cappadocia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , so you can expect some serious drama and beauty. Cappadocia is located in Goreme National Park , but Monks Valley is also home to some of these iconic rock formations. You’ll also find cave hotels, houses dating back to the Bronze Age carved into the rocks, and many churches, as this part of Türkiye was a refuge to some of the earliest Christians.

Cappadocia is a must-visit whether you go on a hot air balloon ride or keep your feet on the ground. The surrounding area is packed with stunning nature, and you can take many walking trails, too, ideal both in summer and winter . Below, we’ll tell you how to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Distance To Cappadocia From Istanbul

Despite all those fantastic reasons to visit and explore Cappadocia, it is not exactly close to Istanbul . The distance from Istanbul to Cappadocia is 456 miles or 734 km by road, which is significant.

However, you can cover the Istanbul to Cappadocia distance in several ways, from flying to bus rides and even by train. Check out how to go to Cappadocia from Istanbul and the Istanbul to Cappadocia travel time below.

Istanbul To Cappadocia Map – How To Get To Cappadocia From Istanbul

Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia By Plane – Cappadocia Flights From Istanbul 

The fastest way to get from Istanbul to the Cappadocia region is to fly. Although it’s not the cheapest way to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia (the bus wins in this category), it’s still incredibly budget-friendly! 

Istanbul has two main airports: Sabiha Gokcen and the new Istanbul International Airport . Both offer domestic flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia. One is on the Asian side, and one is on the European side, so choose your airport carefully.

You can fly from Istanbul to Nevsehir or Kayseri and connect to Cappadocia. These are the two closest airports .

Flying To Nevsehir

If you choose to fly to Nevsehir, your flight will take around 1 hour and 20 minutes, and you can then jump in a taxi or hire a car and get to Goreme National Park (Cappadocia) in just under 45 minutes, depending upon traffic.

There are not as many flight options to Nevsehir as to Kayseri.

• Often as cheap as $20/day, this is an excellent option if you want to explore the region at your own pace
• Many hotels will arrange airport transport for you, so definitely check.
• Costs vary, but expect about 50 TL (8 EUR) for Nevsehir Airport.
• Shared transport companies can be as cheap as 5/6 EUR per person, so check around online.
• Taxis are a great option if you have a large family
• Private Transfer

Private Transfers

It is much like a taxi, except you can book ahead and have a driver waiting for you at the airport terminal. Someone to carry your bags lead the way, and, best of all, you’ll know the fixed cost ahead of time, no matter the crazy traffic.

Get a quote on your private transfers here.

Flying to kayseri.

Both Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines (a low-cost Turkish airline) fly to Kayseri Airport, and the flight time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

You might wonder why people would bother flying to Kayseri if Nevsehir is quicker, but flights to Kayseri are cheaper.

• Take the shuttle from Kayseri Airport to the center of Kayseri: 15 minutes in duration; the shuttle runs every 3 hours
• Then, take the bus to Goreme: 1 hour 20 minutes in duration; buses run every 4 hours
• Often as cheap as $20/day, this is a great option if you want to explore the region at your own pace
• Costs vary, but expect about 60 TL (10 EUR) for Kayseri Airport 
• Shared transport companies can be as cheap as 5/6 EUR per person, so check around online

It is much like a taxi, except you can book ahead and have a driver waiting for you at the airport terminal. Someone to carry your bags, lead the best way out, and, best of all, you’ll know the fixed cost ahead of time, no matter the crazy traffic.

• Guide To Cappadocia Airport Options

Airlines That Fly From Istanbul To Cappadocia Turkey

Turkish Airlines, Aztec Airways, and Pegasus Airways (low-cost airlines) fly to Cappadocia from Istanbul, and you’ll find a range of fares. You can check plane tickets online or head to the airport and book your ticket at the office on the day or a few days beforehand to ensure a seat.

Turkish Airlines is the only one that will fly out of Istanbul Airport on the European side of Istanbul. The other two operate out of Sabiha Gokcen.

Brands We Use And Trust

Way to get from istanbul to cappadocia by bus.

Türkiye is a vast country, but it has high-quality, long-distance bus companies that connect major towns and cities – one reason why the cheapest way to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul is via bus. Kamil Koc, Pamukkale , and Metro are the main bus lines.

You will find offices for all major bus companies at the bus stations in Istanbul (Istanbul’s main bus terminal is Otogar) and ticket offices for the companies in and around the city .

Suppose you book your ticket from a ticket office within the city, e.g., Besiktas, Taksim , Kadikoy, or elsewhere. In that case, you will have a free service shuttle that will take you to the central bus station in Alibeykoy on the European side. From there, you will connect to your main bus and reach Cappadocia from Istanbul in around 9 hours and 15 minutes, although it’s sometimes longer, depending on your chosen service line.

Buying Bus Tickets To Visit Cappadocia Or Istanbul

We recommend you book your bus tickets here., what to expect on the istanbul to cappadocia bus.

These buses are very comfortable, and you book your seat ahead of time, meaning you can choose where you sit. There is onboard WiFi and toilets. You’ll stop several times along the journey, and there is a refreshment service on board, with tea, coffee, soft drinks, and biscuits . This option is a super-affordable and convenient way to cover the Istanbul-Cappadocia distance comfortably.

Night Bus Istanbul To Cappadocia

There are also overnight bus transport options for those who can sleep through the night. The night bus from Istanbul leaves at approximately 11:45 p.m. and arrives in Goreme at 8:30 a.m.

The bus journey is a great way to get there without wasting a travel day! Metro Turizm has nightly buses, and you can make your booking online.

This is a highly budget-friendly option, but remember it’s a long ride, between 10 to 12 hours.

Traveling From Istanbul To Cappadocia By Car

Another option is to hire a car and drive . This is an excellent option for a road trip through Türkiye , as it’s a long journey. The road to Cappadocia from Istanbul takes you through the capital city of Ankara , so you may even like to stop for a few hours (or a few days!) and check out another city. To Cappadocia from Istanbul by car, you’ll undoubtedly see some rather beautiful sights along the way.

• Ankara To Cappadocia: Approx 3 hours 15 minutes (331 km)
• Istanbul To Cappadocia: Approx 7 hours 30 minutes (760 km)

The journey by car to Cappadocia took us 8 hours and 30 minutes, but this depends on traffic, which can become a little heavy getting out of Istanbul and around Ankara . There are many car hire offices in Istanbul , with big-name companies operating outside the main airports.

Turkey’s main highways are very modern and safe . However, anywhere you’re not used to driving, take care and read up on road rules ahead of time to give you prior information.

Get a quote on a car rental here.

Cities to visit along the way.

If traveling by car, you have the flexibility to add in a few stops along the way. Some great options on the Istanbul to Cappadocia route include:

• Yalova – Yalova is a beautiful city located just outside of Istanbul. It is known for its hot springs , which are said to have therapeutic properties.
• Bursa  – 2 hours into your journey, you will come to the university town of Bursa . Bursa was the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire and is known for the landscape in and around the city, which is surprisingly green and lush, overlooked by the huge Uludag mountain range.
• Iznik  –  Iznik is an ancient city  known for its stunning ceramic tiles, which were used to decorate the walls and ceilings of the churches. It is also home to the Green Mosque – one of the most famous in the country.
• Eskişehir – Eskişehir is known for its lively nightlife, many parks and gardens , and universities. There are also several fascinating museums in the city, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which houses artifacts from throughout Turkey’s history.
• Ankara – Türkiye’s capital city will show you a slightly different way of life, as it’s far more traditional in this part of the country compared to the westernized beach resorts on the south coast or the tourist feel of Istanbul . 

Best Way To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia By Train

A fourth option to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia is to go by train . Although this is possible, there currently is no direct Istanbul Cappadocia train, nor is there a Cappadocia Istanbul train. However, if you are set on taking the train in Turkey , here are your options:

• Konya Connection: Take a bus service from Istanbul to Gebze with a train connection to Konya.  You can take another bus from Konya to Göreme , the main town in Cappadocia.
• Ankara Connection: Travel between Istanbul and Ankara by train on the high-speed train line , then catch a bus to Goreme.

These are feasible options to cover the distance between Istanbul and Cappadocia, but they are probably not worth the effort and hassle if we’re completely honest.

The three other ways to visit Cappadocia from Istanbul we described above are much more convenient and straightforward.

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Cappadocia Tours From Istanbul With A Guided Tour

If all of the options for covering such a long distance feel a little overwhelming, you can also make your life easier by booking a  tour to Cappadocia from Istanbul , which includes transport there and back. These tours often include accommodation, meals, and guided tours of the famous landmarks once there. 

Traveling Between Istanbul And Cappadocia FAQs

How far is cappadocia from istanbul.

456 miles or 734 km by road. The drive from Istanbul to Cappadocia will be just under an 8-hour drive by car.

What are the ways I can get to Cappadocia from Istanbul?

Plane, car, train, bus, and guided tour – there are plenty of ways to travel between Cappadocia and Istanbul!

What is the quickest way to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

Taking a direct flight between Istanbul and Cappadocia is the fastest, most convenient way to travel.

What airport should I depart from when flying from Istanbul To Cappadocia?

Both Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) offer flights to Cappadocia. Istanbul Airport tends to be a little more convenient as it’s located on the European side of the city, which is the easiest to get to as it’s close to most tourist hotels.

What airport should I fly into in Cappadocia?

You can fly into Kayseri Erkilet International Airport (ASR) or Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV). Kayseri is the cheaper option but is further from Cappadocia. Nevşehir is more expensive but has a shorter, more scenic route to Goreme.

We’d recommend arranging a shuttle or private transport from the airport to Goreme ahead of time, no matter which one you fly into.

Should I take the night bus or the day bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

The night bus is the cheaper option, and since the drive is 10 hours, it’s also a good way to sleep through most of the trip.

Is there a direct train from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

No – currently, no direct train travels from Istanbul to Cappadocia. You can take a train from Istanbul to Ankara or take a train from Istanbul to Konya. You can take a bus From Ankara or Konya the rest of the way. It’s a good option if you want to add stops in Ankara or Konya to your itinerary anyway.

What is the easiest way to tour Cappadocia from Istanbul?

Taking a guided tour is the least stressful way to plan your Cappadocia excursion from Istanbul. Travel, accommodations, meals, and tours are all prepared for you, meaning you just have to show up!

Can you take a day trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

Yes, however, we’d recommend staying at least one night. If you are set on a day trip, you will need to fly between the cities. Take the earliest flight, rent a car once there, or join a tour  ( the Red Tour would be our recommendation ), then fly home on the last flight out.

Now that you know how to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia, we hope that you enjoy your Cappadocia trip.

You can also consider going from Cappadocia to Greece and continuing your Balkans travel experience across the border. Details are coming soon on how. 

• Best Hotels In Cappadocia, Turkey
• A Guide To The Cappadocia Blue Tour
• A Guide To The Red Valley Cappadocia
• A Guide To Pigeon Valley Cappadocia
• Is Cappadocia Expensive – A Cost Summary
• Where To Eat In Cappadocia – Best Restaurants

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Cappadocia Day Trip from Istanbul

$ 370.00   per person

On the day trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia, round-trip flights to either Kayseri or Nevsehir are included. The full-day itinerary encompasses key highlights of Cappadocia, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes of Devrent Valley, the artisan town of Avanos, the rich historical tableau of the Goreme Open Air Museum, the towering Uchisar, and the fascinating Kaymakli underground city.

Obtain your tour price in USD by selecting tour dates and specifics below:

Please Pick a Tour start Date

• Detailed Itinerary
• Inquire About This Trip
• Reviews (12)

Cappadocia Day Trip from Istanbul: Scenic Rock Views

You will be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul around 4:30 am and will be transferred to the domestic airport for your flight from Istanbul to Kayseri or Nevsehir between 6:00 – 7:30 am. Upon arrival at Kayseri or Nevsehir airport, you will be picked up and transferred to Cappadocia. In Cappadocia, you will meet your professional tour guide to begin your full-day tour of Cappadocia.

On the tour you will be able to see the following sites:

Devrent Valley:  Devrent is situated on the northern slopes of Aktepe, 1km from Pasabaglari (Monks’ Valley) and 5 km from Avanos. The ruins at Devrent are spread over three valleys, which also house several pointed fairy chimneys with large stems.

Avanos:  A center of terra cotta work of art since 3000 BC, it is a town where you will be invited to visit a traditional pottery workshop, which is possibly set deep into the hillsides. The clay, which comes from the Red River passing through the town, gives life both to the land and to the local economy.

Break for lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant. After lunch, continue your tour to:

Zelve Open Air Museum :  Located in Cappadocia, Turkey, the Zelve Open Air Museum showcases a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. The museum features ancient cave dwellings and churches carved into the region’s iconic rock formations. Originating as a monastic settlement in the 9th century, Zelve offers visitors a chance to explore and understand the ancient way of life in the area. A half-day visit is ideal for fully experiencing this unique historical site.

Uchisar: Uchisar is a troglodyte town situated right in the middle of Cappadocia . It is named after the enormous piece of rock in the center of the town, which was once used as a castle. This extraordinary rock is the highest peak of the area with a view of whole Cappadocia and Erciyes (Argeus) Mountain.

Note: Due to security reasons, interior access to Uchisar Castle and its caves is not allowed. You may take panoramic photos from the exterior.

Kaymakli: Kaymakli underground city is one of the largest and deepest of the 40 others in Cappadocia. It has eight floors, although not all are open to the public.

At the end of the tour around approximately 4:00 pm, you will be transferred to Kayseri or Nevsehir airport for your late evening return flight between 7:00 – 11:00 pm (flight duration is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes) to Istanbul . END OF OUR SERVICE and TOURS.

• Included Meal(s): Lunch

Important notes:

• Please note that your return flight from Kayseri / Nevsehir to Istanbul will arrive at either the New Airport in Istanbul or at the Sabiha Gökçen Airport depending on the availability of flights on the ticket purchase date.
• If you have a preference to return to a specific airport in Istanbul i.e. Sabiha Gokcen or Istanbul New Airport, you must request your choice of the airport in Istanbul by email prior to your tour booking. Any changes requested once your booking is confirmed will incur an additional cost.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul airport, you will have to arrange your own pick-up service from Istanbul airport to your hotel in Istanbul. This transfer is not included as part of your package tour services with us. Our service ends upon your flight arrival at Istanbul Airport.

INCLUDED in the Tour Price:

• Pick up from Istanbul hotel and transfer to Istanbul Airport (on the European side of Istanbul only)
• Domestic flight tickets from Istanbul to Kayseri or Nevsehir and from Kayseri or Nevsehir to Istanbul only
• Professional licensed English speaking guide during the tour
• Entrance fees mentioned by the itinerary
• Local taxes and service charges

NOT INCLUDED:

• Drop off transportation service from Istanbul New Airport OR Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul Hotel upon returning to Istanbul
• Any optional tours
• Tips to staff, items of a personal nature
• Travel insurance

WHAT TO BRING:

• Hiking shoes

IMPORTANT INFO:

• The order of the itinerary is indicative and subject to change, but all visits described will take place.
• This tour must be booked at least 3 days in advance.
• This tour itself is private with a private car and a private English-speaking tour guide. However, please note that pick-up, drop-off, and all transportation will be shared and will not be private.
• Private transfer service will be at an additional cost. Please let us know if you require an Additional Info: private transfer service.
• Vegetarian lunch option available upon request
• The normal arrival time in Istanbul is between 8:00 – 11:00 PM. If you are planning on reserving your plane back home that same day, we recommend you book a plane ticket from 1:30 AM onwards, to avoid missing your flight.
• We strongly urge you not to book travel arrangements from Istanbul to your home destination on the day of your tour. We cannot be responsible for common or uncommon travel delays in our arrival time back to Istanbul.

WHEN TO BOOK?

• Book as soon as possible to guarantee availability, especially during public holidays and festivities.
• You can book up to 2 days before (Istanbul local time) if there are still places available. If less than 2 days before start of your requested tour date, please contact us by email or phone as it would be a last minute booking that will need to be checked for availability before your tour reservation is confirmed.

Inquire About this Trip

Please fill out the information below and we will be in touch shortly with your personalized quote.

12 reviews for Cappadocia Day Trip from Istanbul

Paul L – March 10, 2015

Fantastic day tour, very informative and well worth the money and time. I would definitely recommend it as trouble free way to visit Cappadocia.

Laura R – March 13, 2015

Very informative tour! I loved it! Our guide Ayla was extremely pleasant and she has made the tour excellent!!!

Sandra H – May 12, 2015

Best way to see most attractions of Cappadocia in one day. Excellent local tour guide.

Harry S – August 21, 2015

The itinerary was well planned, very well organized. Thank you for a truly memorable visit to Cappadocia. Tour guide, Murat, was very good

Janet T – August 23, 2015

Excellent way to see all the sights of Cappadocia in a day. Would definitely recommend this excursion to anyone visiting Cappadocia.

Birute – May 24, 2016

1 day Cappadocia tour by plane. Just unforgetable, good management. Thanks a lot

Arush K – August 17, 2018

This tour was great! We wanted a Cappadocia day on our honeymoon and hesitated with the price, but found it was definitely worth it. Our guide Aylin showed up promptly and was friendly. She was so knowledgeable about the entire area it really added to our experience. Highly recommend.

Huey-Wen T – August 30, 2018

We loved our Cappadocia day trip! It was so convenient to get picked up and dropped off right at our hotel in Istanbul. We left about 4:30 am and got back to Istanbul around 9:30 pm. I would definitely recommend this tour company to friends and family!

Bharat K – September 7, 2018

Our family had an amazing first visit to the Cappadocia with One Nation Travel. Our local guide Aylin did an amazing job showing us the highlights and most beautiful panoramic views ever. The lunch we had was great. I would very strongly recommend that you go with Aylin.

Siddarth Kothiwale – September 24, 2018

My wife and I had spent an amazing day in Cappadocia with our driver and tour guide, Aylin. During the trip, he explained the history, agriculture of Cappadocia and answered all our questions professionally. She was very nice and helpful all the way on the trip. Highly recommend!

Debashree G – December 15, 2018

Hi Bilal, the trip went well. We are at the airport heading towards Istanbul. Our guide in Capadocia Okta was very good, he was knowledgeable and professional. Overall the trip was great. Thank you .

Victor A. – December 31, 2021

We had an unforgettable day trip to explore Cappadocia. Everything was perfect. Highly recommend!

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Istanbul to Cappadocia: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

When travelers envision Turkey, the iconic sights of Istanbul and the stunning beaches of Antalya often steal the spotlight. Yet, hidden away in the heart of Anatolia, lies a region that promises a journey like no other. From the vibrant energy of Istanbul to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, this is a tale of a different Turkey.

Venturing from the bustling bazaars and historic mosques of Istanbul into the heartland of the country reveals a realm of secrets and surprises. This is the Turkey of untamed wilderness, mystical underground cities, and ancient cave dwellings. It’s a land where hot air balloons drift through the dawn-painted skies, revealing the surreal beauty of Cappadocia’s unique topography.

In this off-the-beaten-path adventure, we’ll explore the charming villages that time forgot, meet warm-hearted locals who share their traditions, and unearth tales of ancient civilizations etched into the very rocks that form this otherworldly landscape. Travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia promises to be an experience that touches your soul and fills your heart with the magic of discovery.unforgettable travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

Transportation Options for Your Istanbul to Cappadocia Journey

When embarking on any journey, one of the key aspects that can significantly impact the travel experience is transportation. How you get from one place to another can influence the entire adventure, from the speed and convenience of your trip to the sights and sounds you encounter along the way. Exploring the fascinating destinations of Istanbul and Cappadocia requires thoughtful consideration of transportation options.

In this section, we delve into the various means of getting around, helping you navigate the terrain with ease and efficiency. From the bustling streets of Istanbul, where ferries and trams weave through a city that straddles Europe and Asia , to the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia , known for its hot air balloon rides and serene hikes, we will guide you through the practical aspects of travel.

Whether you’re a traveler seeking the thrill of a road trip, the convenience of domestic flights, or the leisure of a scenic train ride, we’ll unravel the options available to you. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and insights needed to make informed decisions about transportation during your journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia.

Istanbul to Cappadocia By Plane

Istanbul to cappadocia by road, istanbul to cappadocia by bus, istanbul to cappadocia by rail, guided tours, tips for travelers, best time to visit.

Flights from istanbul to cappadocia is an ideal choice for those who want to reach Cappadocia quickly. You can start by travelling to one of Istanbul’s major airports. Istanbul Airport, which is the main international airport in Istanbul and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, or Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, an important international airport on the Asian side of Istanbul, will be the right choice.

You can reach Cappadocia from Nevsehir Cappadocia Airport, which is the most common arrival point. Alternatively, you can also reach Kayseri Airport, which is convenient for access to the Cappadocia region.

Purchasing Flight Tickets:

To secure your flight tickets for this seamless and swift journey, you can use the following methods:

Online Booking: Visit the official websites of Turkish airlines like Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, or AtlasGlobal. These airlines offer comprehensive online booking systems, allowing you to select your preferred travel dates, compare prices, and make reservations.

Travel Agencies: Local and online travel agencies specializing in Turkey travel can assist you in booking your flights. They often have access to a variety of airlines and can provide package deals that may include accommodations and additional services.

Airports : If you prefer the convenience of in-person booking, you can also purchase flight tickets at Istanbul Airport or Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Airports typically have ticket counters or kiosks operated by airlines and travel agencies where you can make reservations.

Reaching Cappadocia from the Airports: Once you arrive at either Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Airport , you can reach Cappadocia by using various transportation options:

• Shuttle Services: Both airports offer shuttle services to the key towns and regions within Cappadocia. These shuttle services are often coordinated with flight schedules for a hassle-free transfer.
• Private Transfers: You can arrange private transfers from the airports to your accommodation in Cappadocia . Many hotels and travel agencies offer this service for added comfort and convenience.
• Car Rentals: If you prefer more flexibility in your travel, you can rent a car directly at the airports. Car rental counters are available, and it’s a convenient choice if you plan to explore the region independently.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airports, and they can take you to your chosen destination in Cappadocia. Make sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

These transportation options from the airports to Cappadocia ensure a smooth transition, allowing you to begin your adventure in this unique region with ease.

For those seeking a picturesque journey, an Istanbul to Cappadocia by car offers a unique adventure with various routes to explore. Here’s a look at the starting point in Istanbul, alternative routes, and the notable places you can visit along the way.

Starting Point: Istanbul

Your journey begins in Istanbul, a vibrant and historic city where East meets West. Before hitting the open road, take some time to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

Route 1: Istanbul to Cappadocia via Bursa

Travel through Bursa: As you leave Istanbul, head south towards Bursa. This city is renowned for its historic sites, including the Grand Mosque and the Bursa Citadel. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the local Iskender kebab.

Continue to Eskişehir: Your journey continues through the picturesque countryside to Eskişehir. This city offers cultural attractions and a glimpse of modern Turkey. Visit the Eskişehir Odunpazarı Houses and explore the vibrant streets.

Arrival in Cappadocia: After Eskişehir, your route takes you through Aksaray, and finally, you’ll reach Cappadocia.

Route 2: Istanbul to Cappadocia via Ankara

Travel through Ankara: Depart from Istanbul and head southeast to the capital city, Ankara. While in Ankara, explore its rich history and visit landmarks like Anıtkabir, the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

Continue to Aksaray: After Ankara, your journey continues to Aksaray, where you can explore the Caravanserai of Sultan Han, a historical stop for travelers.

Arrival in Cappadocia: From Aksaray, you’ll reach Cappadocia, known for its mesmerizing landscapes, fairy chimneys, and underground cities.

If you do not have a car, popular online car hire platforms such as Hertz, Avis and local rental companies offer car hire services. You can pick up your hire car in Istanbul and drop it off in Cappadocia. As another option, travel agencies can help you book a rental car and arrange chauffeur services to make your journey comfortable.

There are several bus companies that operate routes from Istanbul to Cappadocia, with Göreme being one of the popular destinations. These buses are usually comfortable and equipped for long-distance travel. Some reputable bus companies include Metro Turizm, Nevşehir Seyahat, and Kamil Koç.

In Istanbul, you can catch a bus to Cappadocia from several bus terminals, including:

• Esenler Bus Terminal: Located on the European side of Istanbul, this is one of the largest and busiest bus terminals. Many bus companies have departures to Cappadocia from this terminal.
• Harem Bus Terminal: Situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, this terminal also offers bus services to Cappadocia. It’s especially convenient if you’re staying on the Asian side of the city.
• Taksim Square: Some bus companies provide shuttle services or have offices around Taksim Square, a central location in Istanbul. Check with your chosen bus company for specific departure points in the city.

Where to Get Off: Göreme, Cappadocia

Bus services usually arrive at the Göreme Bus Station, making it convenient for travelers to access accommodations and local attractions. From the bus station, you can easily reach your hotel or continue your exploration of Cappadocia.

Schedules and Ticketing: Bus schedules can vary, so it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. You can check the schedules and book your tickets through the official websites of the bus companies or visit their offices in Istanbul.

Additionally, some travel agencies in Istanbul can assist you in booking bus tickets to Cappadocia.

While there may not be a direct Istanbul to Cappadocia train route, Turkey boasts an enchanting railway network that provides a different kind of adventure through this mesmerizing country.

• Istanbul to Goreme Online Booking : Visit the official website of the Turkish State Railways (TCDD) to book tickets in advance.
• Train Stations: Tickets can also be purchased at major train stations, including Istanbul’s Sirkeci Station.
• Travel Agencies: Some agencies can help you with train ticket bookings.

Take a Train to Ankara:

Your first leg of the journey will be a train ride from Istanbul to Ankara, the capital city of Turkey and a key transit point for your Cappadocia adventure. Istanbul’s Sirkeci Station or Söğütlüçeşme Station are where you can board the train to Ankara.

Option 1 – Continue to Konya:

From Ankara, you have the option to continue your journey by boarding a train to Konya, an ancient city steeped in history. You’ll depart from Ankara’s main train station.

Option 2 – Continue to Kayseri:

Alternatively, you can choose to take a train from Ankara to Kayseri, which is closer to Cappadocia and offers a convenient gateway to the region. Kayseri is well-connected with the Turkish railway network.

Reaching Cappadocia from Konya or Kayseri:

• Shuttle Services: Both Konya and Kayseri offer shuttle services that can take you to various towns and regions within Cappadocia. These services are often coordinated with train schedules for a seamless transfer.
• Private Transfers: Arrange for a private transfer from Konya or Kayseri to your accommodation in Cappadocia. Many hotels and travel agencies in the region offer this service for added convenience.
• Car Rentals: If you prefer flexibility in your travels, you can rent a car upon arriving in Konya or Kayseri. Car rental agencies are available, allowing you to explore Cappadocia at your own pace.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available at train stations in Konya and Kayseri, and they can take you to your chosen destination in Cappadocia. Ensure you agree on the fare with the driver before setting off.

When it comes to hassle-free exploration from Istanbul to Cappadocia, guided tours offer the ideal solution. These expertly curated tours provide a deep dive into the remarkable Turkish destinations without the burden of planning and logistics.

1. Istanbul to Cappadocia Cultural Adventure

This comprehensive cultural adventure starts in Istanbul and takes you on a fascinating journey to Cappadocia. Discover Istanbul’s landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar . It then offers an excursion exploring the unique geological wonders of the region, including fairy chimneys and cave churches. The tour includes accommodation, domestic flights, guided sightseeing and more.

2. Istanbul and Cappadocia Hiking Adventure

If you’re a nature enthusiast, this adventure commences in Istanbul and then takes you to Cappadocia for a remarkable hiking experience. In Istanbul, explore the city’s cultural sites like the Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. Afterward, you’ll fly to Cappadocia for guided hikes through picturesque valleys and rock formations. The tour includes accommodations, domestic flights, guided sightseeing, and trekking activities.

These guided tours not only provide enriching experiences in Istanbul but also seamlessly transition your journey to Cappadocia, offering you the convenience of knowledgeable guides and well-planned itineraries.

You can purchase tickets for these tours through established online travel agencies that specialize in Turkish tours and inquire about availability at the respective tour meeting points in Istanbul. This ensures that you’re well-prepared for an incredible adventure from Istanbul to the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia.

Traveling to new destinations, whether it’s Istanbul, Cappadocia, or anywhere in the world, is an exciting adventure. To make your journey more enjoyable and seamless, consider the following tips:

• Transportation Choices : Decide whether to fly, take a bus, or rent a car. Flying is fastest, but driving or taking a bus allows for scenic views and stops.
• Accommodation Booking : In Cappadocia, cave hotels are unique—book in advance for the best experience.
• Balloon Ride : Book a hot air balloon ride early, as they’re popular and weather-dependent.
• Cultural Sites : Plan to visit historical places like the Göreme Open-Air Museum and underground cities.
• Local Tours : Consider guided tours for insights into the region’s history and geology.
• Packing Appropriately : Nights can be cool, even in summer, so pack layers. Bring comfortable shoes for hiking.
• Try Local Delicacies : Sample Cappadocian pottery kebab and testi kebab.
• Respectful Attire : Carry a scarf and dress modestly if you plan to visit mosques and religious sites.
• Photography : Charge your camera; Cappadocia’s landscapes are unforgettable, especially during golden hour.
• Stay Connected : If relying on GPS for navigation, ensure you have a local SIM card or data plan.

Remember that every journey is a unique experience, and while planning is essential, some of the most memorable moments can be unplanned and spontaneous. Enjoy your travels and make the most of every moment!

The ideal time to visit a destination can vary greatly depending on your personal preferences, the activities you wish to pursue, and the climate you find most comfortable. Here’s a general overview of the best times to visit Istanbul and Cappadocia, two of Turkey’s most enchanting destinations:

• Spring (April to June): Spring is a fantastic time to visit Istanbul. The weather is mild, and the city’s gardens and parks burst into colorful bloom. Tourist crowds are still manageable during this season.
• Fall (September to October): Similar to spring, autumn offers pleasant weather, making it an excellent time to explore Istanbul. You can enjoy cultural festivals, and it’s less crowded than the summer months.

Cappadocia:

• Spring (April to June): Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Cappadocia due to its mild temperatures and the blossoming landscapes. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities and hot air balloon rides.
• Autumn (September to October): Much like spring, autumn offers comfortable temperatures, stunning scenery, and a quieter atmosphere. Balloon rides and hiking are delightful during this time.
• Winter (December to February): If you’re a fan of unique experiences, consider a winter visit to Cappadocia when the landscapes are blanketed in snow. This season also brings fewer tourists and lower prices.

It’s important to note that both destinations have their own unique charm throughout the year, so the best time for your visit largely depends on your interests. Summers in both Istanbul and Cappadocia can be quite hot, but they’re perfect if you enjoy long, sunny days.

On the other hand, if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, spring and autumn are excellent choices. Winter is a less crowded but equally magical option for those who enjoy the allure of a quieter, snow-covered landscape.

For more option about things to do in Cappadocia make sure to read our blog!

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How to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia + Bus Schedule

This is the updated travel guide from Istanbul to Cappadocia and from Cappadocia to Istanbul by bus and other modes of transportation. This travel guide includes bus schedules and corresponding fares.

If you’re planning a trip to the mesmerizing region of Cappadocia , which is highly recommended, chances are you’ll be starting your journey from Istanbul .

However, it’s important to note that Turkiye is a vast country, and Cappadocia is not exactly in close proximity to Istanbul. The distance between Istanbul and Cappadocia spans approximately 735 kilometers, resulting in a lengthy 9-hour drive between the two destinations.

Fortunately, there are several transportation options available for making the journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia . I’ll outline each method in this post, providing details on travel time, convenience, and cost. Considering these factors, you can determine the best approach for reaching Cappadocia from Istanbul that aligns with your preferences and priorities.

What's inside this post?

From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Plane

If you’re on a short trip and want a convenient option, flying directly from Istanbul to Cappadocia is popular. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines offer regular flights throughout the day and night, with a flight time of about 80 minutes.

Turkish Airlines provides more flight options, with six daily services from Istanbul International Airport or Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Kayseri Airport, and at least one daily service to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport from Istanbul International Airport. Pegasus Airlines operates flights from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Kayseri Airport.

Cappadocia has two airports, each with its own characteristics. Kayseri Erkilet Airport is located in Kayseri, around 80 kilometers east of the main villages in Cappadocia. Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport is a smaller airport north of Gülşehir, approximately 40 kilometers northwest of the villages.

To ensure a smooth transfer to your accommodation in the Cappadocia villages, it’s recommended to pre-book an airport shuttle service. These services can be arranged through your hotel and provide door-to-door transport. The journey from Kayseri Airport can take up to two hours, depending on the waiting time and your specific village. From Nevşehir Airport, the shuttle bus services usually take no more than 30 minutes.

Remember to make your reservation in advance for the privately run airport shuttles, which are typically organized by your hotel for added convenience.

From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Bus

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a night bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia is often the most affordable option, costing around USD29. However, it’s important to note that the journey is quite long, typically lasting between 11 and 13 hours, covering a distance of 730 km (454 miles).

Despite the long travel time, the night bus offers the advantage of taking you directly from Istanbul to Cappadocia without any transfers. If you are able to sleep comfortably on buses, this could be the preferred mode of transportation for you.

Several bus companies operate overnight services on this route, including Metro Turizm and Nevşehir Seyahat, providing options and flexibility for travelers.

From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Tour

If you’re short on time during your Turkiye trip, consider a prearranged Cappadocia side-trip tour from Istanbul. These tours provide a convenient and hassle-free experience with all transport, transfers, activities, and accommodation taken care of.

Keep in mind that the shortest tours typically last two days, allowing for a glimpse of Cappadocia’s attractions. You’ll also have the chance to participate in the popular hot-air ballooning activity at dawn. While hot air ballooning is usually an optional extra, the tour companies can arrange it for you.

Options like the 2 Days, 1 Night Cappadocia Tour offer return flights, airport transfers, guided tours, a cave-hotel stay, and meals. Alternatively, the 2 Days Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul provides a similar private tour experience. Note that these snapshot-style tours can feel a bit rushed, but if you prefer a more comprehensive experience, consider booking through a local Cappadocia travel agency for more flexibility. They can include additional attractions like Ilhara Valley. Keep in mind that arranging a tour through an Istanbul travel agency may be more expensive than booking directly with a local agency.

From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Train & Bus

Istanbul is conveniently connected to Ankara and Konya by high-speed trains, with a stop in Eskişehir. From Ankara or Konya, you have the option to travel to Cappadocia by bus or a rental car for a distance of 232 km (144 miles), which typically takes around 4 hours.

Istanbul to Cappadocia Bus Schedule

• First trip: 8:30 pm
• Last trip: 10:50 pm
• Trip interval: 20 minutes to an hour
• Check the latest bus schedule or book online

Cappadocia to Istanbul Bus Schedule

• First trip: 6:14 am
• Last trip: 9:38 pm
• Trip interval: 30 minutes to an hour

While we strive to provide up-to-date information on our blog, it’s important to note that schedules for the Istanbul to Cappadocia route may occasionally change without prior notice. To ensure the most accurate and current schedule, we recommend clicking here to access the latest information and booking platform for this route. This will enable you to check the updated schedule and conveniently book your ticket for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

From Istanbul to Cappadocia by Car

If you’re seeking the freedom to explore historical sites while traveling from Istanbul to Cappadocia, renting a car is a great option. Public transportation can be more complicated and time-consuming. Three notable stops along the route are the preserved Ottoman village of Safranbolu, the Phrygian ruins of Gordion, and the Hittite ruins of Hattuşa. From Hattuşa, it’s a further drive to the village of Göreme in Cappadocia. Both Safranbolu and Boğazkale offer overnight accommodations, and there are plenty of attractions in their surroundings. Driving in Turkiye is relatively easy due to well-maintained highways and clear signage, but keep in mind that gas prices can be high.

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From Istanbul to Cappadocia

Last Updated on August 23, 2023

Cappadocia is one of Turkey's most popular tourist destinations, with almost 3 million tourists visiting in 2023. It is famous for its hot air balloons, underground cities, cave hotels, and breathtaking sights. So, many travelers wonder how to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul.  

You have many choices when traveling the 730 km (454 miles) from Istanbul to Cappadocia , in central Anatolia ( map ). It is worth to note while each method has its advantages, it is important to choose the technique fitting for your unique conditions. Generally, the most preferred method is to travel by plane.

The fastest option from Istanbul to Cappadocia is to travel by plane . If purchased in advance, tickets are not expensive. The entire journey by air from your Istanbul hotel to your Cappadocian hotel can be done in 4 to 5 hours if all goes well.

You have two major airports near Cappadocia to travel by plane from Istanbul; Nevşehir-Kapadokya Airport(NEV) and Kayseri's Erkilet Airport (ASR). Shuttle vans operated by Argeus Tourism and Rock Valley Travel can take you from both airports directly to your Cappadocian hotel .

There are several daily nonstop flights from Istanbul's Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to Nevşehir-Kapadokya Airport(NEV) and Kayseri's Erkilet Airport (ASR) on Turkish Airlines , AnadoluJet , and Pegasus Air .

If you're arriving from abroad and you plan to visit both Istanbul and Cappadocia, consider leaving your Istanbul visit until the end of your trip. Arrive at Istanbul New Airport's (IST) International Terminal on your international flight, walk to the Domestic Terminal, and catch a flight directly to Cappadocia (if the connection timing works.) You'll save yourself a back-and-forth transfer from the airport and unpacking and repacking at your Istanbul hotel .

Turkish domestic flights are often much more expensive if purchased outside of Turkey, so you should consider having a good Turkish travel agent make your internal flight reservations or make them yourself on the airline's website. Turkish travel agencies can also help with any other arrangements ( private guides , hotels , rental cars , yacht cruises ) you may need. 

Our Recommended Agency

Pupa tourism.

We recommend Pupa Tourism . This reputable agency is available to make any arrangements for you anywhere in Turkey and can provide quality guided tours, hotel reservations, car rentals, airport pick-up, and more. Pupa is one of the best-staffed agencies in the country, with personnel in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus. 

Antalya, Turkey

There are no direct trains between Istanbul and Cappadocia. However, high-speed trains connect Istanbul with Ankara and Konya via Eskişehir . 

From Konya , you can continue to Cappadocia by bus or a rental car for the 232 km (144 miles) journey, which will take approximately 4 hours. It is advisable only to choose this option if you fairly know Turkish or are an experienced traveler since it can get confusing for most.

A night bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia is usually the cheapest way to go for approximately $30. However, it's a long ride of 10-12 hours, covering a distance of 730 km (454 miles). Still, Turkish buses are comparatively comfy with amenities such as air conditioners and reclining seats. 

So, if you can sleep on buses, this may be your favored way as it takes you directly between the two points. Moreover, several companies run nightly buses, including Metro Turizm and Nevşehir Seyahat.

The most efficient way to buy a ticket is to ask your hotel to help reserve your seat. When leaving Istanbul, board your bus at the Harem Bus Terminal if possible. Your journey will be almost an hour shorter than if you board at the main bus terminal ( Büyük Otogar ) in Bayrampaşa/Esenler.

Due to the long drive of 800 km (500 miles; map ), which takes 8 hours without stops, it only makes economic sense if several people share the car and the fuel expense . Leaving Istanbul is a traffic nightmare, but the otoyol (expressway) then goes through some fine mountain scenery. The countryside south of Ankara is more monotonous until you pass Aksaray and enter Cappadocia .

Use the E-80 otoyol (expressway) between Istanbul and Ankara to save time, then follow the E-90 highway south from Ankara to Aksaray , then go east along D300, the ancient Silk Road, to Nevşehir . This way, you avoid the heavy long-distance truck traffic along the alternate route, E88/D765, via Kırıkkale and Kırşehir. Plus, you can always check Google Maps and Yandex Maps, as they offer timely information and directions within Turkey. 

Visit Cappadocia Today!

Visiting Cappadocia is a great choice to enjoy the amazing scenery of Turkey. You can ride a hot air balloon, take long walks, stay at cave hotels and visit underground cities. 

Moreover, you have many options for traveling between Istanbul and Cappadocia. While each method has unique advantages, choosing the best option fitting for you is advised. 

Regardless of your choice, remember to enjoy the trip and your visit to Cappadocia. 

—by Tom Brosnahan , updated by Can Turan

Popular Cappadocia Tours

What is the cheapest way to get from istanbul to cappadocia.

The cheapest way to travel between Istanbul and Cappadocia is to take a bus costing around $30-$35.

What is the fastest way to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

The fastest way to travel between Istanbul and Cappadocia is to take a plane. 

Can we go from Istanbul to Cappadocia by train?

There are no direct routes between Istanbul and Cappadocia. However, you can use a train to travel to a city closer to Cappadocia. 

Is it worth driving from Istanbul to Cappadocia?

If you like road trips, you can experience the local life and sights, thus making the whole trip worthwhile. Otherwise, it would be too costly and take too much time.

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Should we rent a car or go by bus from Ankara to Cappadocia? - Istanbul Forum

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Should we rent a car or go by bus from Ankara to Cappadocia?

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5 replies to this topic

Very often busses daily from Ankara to Göreme, taking just less than 4 hours.

Bus schedules can be found here:

http://www.obilet.com

Jane, hopefully you will be spending more than a single day in Cappadocia. This area warrants 3 or more days to fully appreciate this wonderland!

thank you! Jane

Yes, we'll be there for three days. thank you. Jane

By bus, you need to follow the bus "rule" and you can't stop in places you want to have rest or take pictures :-) or just to enjoy one or more particular breathtaking sceneries or even to restroom.

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