Cappadocia is a magical region in central Turkey. Far from Istanbul and the Turkish coast, Cappadocia is a completely unique landscape, culture and history from everywhere else in the country.
Famous for its peculiar rock formations and natural caves, fairy chimney hotels and its unbelievable ancient history. There is plenty to see and explore in this region.
However, Cappadocia is HUGE and spans more than 5000 square kilometres, which makes deciding where to stay in Cappadocia quite difficult.
But don’t worry, I’m here to help with that. Though it’s a large landscape, many of the top sites and attractions are easily accessible by public transport.
But if you have a short time in Cappadocia to see it all, you’ll want to know the best neighbourhood to stay in that is close to the attractions you want to see.
In this guide on where to stay in Cappadocia, I have detailed the best neighbourhoods as well as the main things to do in each area.
I’ve also listed some of my top recommendations for places to stay. With a range of budget-friendly and high-end places to stay to choose from. There’s something for everyone in Cappadocia.
So, let’s jump right in and find where is best for you!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Cappadocia?
- Cappadocia Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Cappadocia
- Cappadocia’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Cappadocia
- What To Pack For Cappadocia
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cappadocia
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cappadocia
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Cappadocia is one of the best places to stay in Turkey. If you’re looking for the best accommodation regardless of area, take a look below for my top picks for the best places to stay in Cappadocia.
Sultan Cave Suites | Best Hotel in Cappadocia
Most of the rooms at the Sultan Cave suites are set into the Aydinli Hill, which makes for a cool and peaceful stay. All the rooms have an en-suite with a big Turkish-style bath with stunning French windows looking out over Cappadocia.
Look out to the hot air balloons and fairy chimneys as you enjoy breakfast on the rooftop terrace at the Sultan Cave Suites. If you want to take flight yourself, the staff at the cave suites can arrange hot air balloon flights for you too.
Mithra Cave Hotel | Another Great Hotel in Cappadocia
There are so many wonderful cave hotel experiences in Cappadocia, that I couldn’t help but put two down here. Mithra Cave Hotel has such a welcoming vibe, I love the staff and the buffet breakfast here… Watching the sun come up as the hot air balloons took to the sky was simply magical.
The rooms are lush and decorated with Ottoman and artefacts from Roman Ruins scattered around the decor. The best bit about this cave hotel is that it’s just a five-minute walk into Göreme town… The perfect distance to walk in and peruse the fairy chimneys, then retreat to your suite when the heat of the day gets too much.
Kamelya Cave Hostel | Best Hostel in Cappadocia
Yes, you read that correctly, there’s a Cave Hostel in Goreme and it’s bloody epic! This small hostel not only offers two cave dorm rooms (one mixed, one female only) but it offers reasonably priced ensuite privates too!
You even get a traditional Turkish breakfast served on the terrace overlooking the town where you can spot the hot air balloons at sunrise! World’s best hostel or what!?
Anitya Duplex Stone House | Best Airbnb in Cappadocia
This stunning traditional stone house is ideal for families and guests visiting Cappadocia. With a rooftop stone terrace, guests can enjoy views over the area and a place to relax in the sun. The house includes a full kitchen and bathroom and can sleep up to four people, so there’s room for everyone. The village centre is just a 5-minute walk away, where you’ll find the ancient Ortahisar Castle.
Göreme
Formerly known by a few different names, Göreme changed its name when the nearby Göreme Valley began to thrive as a tourist destination.
Ortahisar
Ancient cobbled streets, ruins of stone houses, charming town squares: Ortahisar is like the beating heart of a Cappadocia long lost to the pages of history.
Uçhisar
South of Göreme lies Uçhisar, a quieter alternative base for exploring the captivating region of Cappadocia. The town’s houses sweep up to (and into) the iconic hill that lies at the center of Uçhisar
Ürgüp
Home to some of the most luxurious boutique hotels in Cappadocia, Ürgüp also has a modern downtown for when you’re tired of the small lanes and quiet atmosphere of the old town.
Avanos
Riverside Avanos is a relatively chilled out town in Cappadocia. The tourist trail doesn’t really extend to Avanos as a destination in itself, but instead, tourists come to admire the pottery which this town is famous for.
Cappadocia is famous for its rock formations, luxury cave hotels, sunrise hot air balloons, and its staggering ancient history. When it comes to choosing a place to stay, it is important to think about what activities you want to do as the region is massive.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Usually, people stay in the town of Göreme, home to a number of Cappadocia’s best things to do including the Göreme Open Air Museum. This museum is a collection of cave churches from the 10th to the 12th centuries AD. It’s the best place to come to get to know the region.
If you are looking for somewhere more boujee, Uçhisar is colourful and family-friendly, full of luxury cave hotels and hiking paths through Goreme National Park. Atop the hill is the incredible Uçhisar Castle, a massive rock with a castle’s worth of rooms carved into it. It’s also on the bus route to Goreme and other popular towns so there’s plenty to see and do from here too.
One of the largest towns in Cappadocia, Ürgüp provides luxury accommodation for an unforgettable stay. There’s an upmarket downtown area and plenty of opportunities for fantastic excursions.
If you’re looking for a town with more western amenities, think Starbucks, Avanos is a slow-paced provincial town on the banks of the ‘Red River’. There’s not much of a tourist scene here, accommodation is cheaper, making it great for Turkey backpackers looking to get off the beaten path.
Finally, Ortahisar is the coolest place to stay in Cappadocia. It provides a perfect blend of historic and contemporary sites, so you can experience the very best of both worlds.
Cappadocia’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now you’ve got a sense of the best areas to stay in Cappadocia, let’s look at these top areas in Cappadocia in more detail. Plus, I have some recommendations for things to do – like my personal favourite – hiding a geocache.
1. Göreme – Where to Stay in Cappadocia for Your First Time
If it’s your first time visiting the fairytale landscape of Cappadocia then Göreme has got to be the perfect base. It’s an ideal place to visit for those who want to experience the best of this region of Turkey.
The town at the heart of the Cappadocia region offers the best transport connections to other areas of the region and the whole country. What’s more, it’s the ideal place to book tours of the area including visits to the more remote spots and hot air balloon trips.
Closer to Göreme itself there are heaps of awesome hiking trails you can take right from your hotel door. It’s also the top spot to witness the hot air balloons at sunrise from just above the town.
Photo: Ralph Cope
It’s a pretty small town and can easily be covered on foot. There are plenty of great restaurants for all budgets where you can try dishes such as pides (Turkish flatbread pizzas) and Gözleme (savoury stuffed turnovers). There are also some smaller cafes as well as supermarkets for those on a mega-tight budget.
The town is pretty touristy, to be honest, with most establishments being aimed towards visitors rather than locals. This being said, it still retains unique charm due to the number of fairy chimneys actually dotted in and around the town itself.
In fact, one of the most fun things to do here is stay inside one of the cave hotels! Forget some kind of Neanderthal dusty dwelling, these are pretty much luxury hotels inside many of the ancient homes of the town. Can’t afford a luxury hotel? Well, you’re not going to miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience either, because they even have a cave hostel, how freaking cool is that!?
Cappadocia Cave Suites | Best Hotel in Göreme
Spend peaceful nights sleeping in a room carved into a cave. The luxurious surroundings of the Cappadocia Cave Suites are just a short walk from the city centre and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia!
The cave hotel boasts a beautiful terrace where guests enjoy sunset meals with views of the hot air balloons. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with a side of luxury; some even come with a private terrace with views over Cappadocia. Perfect for hot air balloon watching in peace!
Artemis Cave Suites | Best Bed and Breakfast in Göreme
This adults-only charming hotel where all the rooms are cave suites is an epic place to stay and see the magical sunrise. The rooms are one of a kind and have been carved by various settlers over the centuries and recently renovated with modern amenities.
Eat breakfast on the rooftop terrace and see the stunning views of hot air balloon flights taking off over Cappadocia. There is an on site restaurant and bar as well as a spa, so indulge in the Turkish Bath and relax.
Kamelya Cave Hostel | Best Hostel in Göreme
Yes, you read that correctly, there’s a Cave Hostel in Goreme and it’s bloody epic! This small hostel not only offers two cave dorm rooms (one mixed, one female only) but it offers reasonably priced ensuite privates too!
You even get a traditional Turkish breakfast served on the terrace overlooking the town where you can spot the hot air balloons at sunrise! World’s best hostel or what!?
Top Things to do in Göreme, Turkey:
- Mountain bike through Göreme’s rugged valleys.
- Get lost in the stunning Göreme Open Air Museum – a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the rock architecture of the region.
- Try a ‘pottery kebab’ – break open the pottery to reveal your chosen dish.
- Catch a glimpse of the legendary fairy chimneys, Cappadocia’s mystical colour-changing rock formations.
- Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring dance of the Whirling Dervishes, a centuries-old tradition that combines captivating movements with spiritual significance.
- Try a spot of valley hiking (but take a good drink bottle with you and stay hydrated) … It’s hot out here!
- Feel the romance of the grassy Love Valley.
- Visit Cavusin Greek Village with its labyrinthine cave homes and the 5th-century Monastery of John the Baptist.
- Feel your adrenaline pumping and get off the beaten paths around Göreme on a guided ATV tour.
- Admire the famous rugs and carpets that Göreme is famous for – and try your hand at haggling.
- Catch a magnificent sunset and watch the town change colour.
- Finish it all off with a relaxing trip to the local hammam (Turkish bath).
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Ortahisar – Coolest Place to Stay in Cappadocia
Ancient cobbled streets, ruins of stone houses, and charming town squares: Ortahisar is like the beating heart of a Cappadocia long lost to history. Donkeys pulling carts regularly trot through town, and old men linger over çay at street-side cafes.
Ortahisar is home to a growing number of luxury hotels as the world gets wise to the surreal beauty of this small Anatolian town.
Asyada Suites Hotel | Best Hotel in Ortahisar
This hostel has everything you could want from budget accommodation in Cappadocia including breakfast, valet parking, and wifi. Most of Cappadocia’s attractions are within walking distance, including the Dark Church and Open Air Museum. The hostel is ideal for couples and families visiting Turkey.
Ortahisar Cave Hotel | Best Bed and Breakfast in Ortahisar
With complimentary breakfast for the budget-conscious, and reasonably priced rooms, this wallet-friendly cave hotel fills the gap for hostel accommodation in Ortahisar. The laid-back atmosphere and Ottoman-style decor of the rooms will enchant you into relaxing on a rugged, rocky backdrop.
St Nino’s Garden | Best Airbnb in Ortahisar
Stay at this charming hotel for an authentic cave-dwelling experience in Cappadocia. This hotel is run by a kind couple who are more than happy to help you find anything you need. You’ll have a room tucked away in this cave hotel and have breakfast under the trees looking across the valley to the classic Cappadocia architecture.
Things to See and Do in Ortahisar:
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Visit Uzengi Valley and check out the views from one of its pigeon-house caves.
- Go admire Ortahisar’s kalesi (‘castle’) perched atop a jagged, alien-like rock – said by locals to be the tallest fairy chimney in Cappadocia.
- Journey into the heart of Turkish culture and the mesmerizing world of Turkish dance at this belly dancing show
- Marvel at the collection of antiques and knick-knacks at the eccentric House of Memories.
- Rise and shine to a sunrise viewed from a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Discover the stunning views of the valleys of Cappadocia.
- Get to know more about the area via the Ethnographic and Culture Museum.
- Embark on a descent into the depths of Cappadocia as you explore the expansive labyrinth of the Underground City.
3. Uçhisar – Best Neighborhood in Cappadocia for Families to Stay In
Uçhisar is a quieter base for exploring the captivating region of Cappadocia. The town is home to the amazing Uçhisar Castle, a warren of tunnels with a stunning vista over the surrounding area from its top.
Uçhisar is less touristy, and a great choice for those looking to get more off the beaten path. It’s close to many hiking trails and the bus route to many attractions in the region, so you’ll never run short of activities.
Museum Hotel | Best Hotel in Uçhisar
The Museum Hotel is a true living museum, even the rooms, but these have modern amenities that will take your breath away. Stay in the restored historical caves and eat on the rooftop terrace watching the hot air balloon flights take off. You’ll be eating fruits and vegetables from the garden for breakfast and relaxing in the bath or pool in your room, as you wish.
Anatolia Raymonde Cave House | Best Guest House in Uçhisar
With a variety of rooms available, this guest house is ideal for families travelling to Cappadocia. It’s ideally located close to Cappadocia National Park and Uçhisar Castle, and staff are on hand to help organise excursions, making your trip as stress-free as possible. Each room comes with an ensuite bathroom, and a buffet breakfast is served each morning.
Badem House | Best Airbnb in Uçhisar
This is the ultimate sleepover club retreat, book your stay with the crew and whip up some cocktails to sip on the rooftop terrace, stat. You can enjoy a barbecue out here any time of day, perfect for watching the hot air balloon show in the morning. This warm cave home has two fireplaces for when it cools off and four cosy beds to slumber in.
Top Things to Do in Uçhisar:
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Explore Uçhisar Castle and the extensive caves that shoot through the hill underneath it.
- Be adventurous and explore the cave houses of Pigeon Valley.
- Hike to White Valley via the trail starting in town.
- Experience traditional dances from various regions of Turkey performed by belly dancers in colourful costumes as you indulge in a traditional Turkish meal, dinner and a show!
- Do a spot of wine tasting at Kocabag Winery.
- Keep your feet on the ground and go watch hot air balloons take off
- Check out one of the local stores specializing in onyx ornaments.
- Wow, your taste buds with the Anatolian cuisine cooked by locals at the cosy Sakl.
4. Ürgüp – Where to Stay in Cappadocia for Luxury
Ürgüp also has a modern downtown area, home to some of the most luxurious boutique hotels in Cappadocia. It’s the place to be if you like things local but equipped with modern amenities.
It isn’t packed with nightlife options, but Ürgüp is well-positioned for exploring more of what the enchanting Cappadocia region has to offer.
Kayakapi Premium Caves Cappadocia | Best Hotel in Ürgüp
Choose to stay in the lap of luxury at this beautifully designed boutique hotel. Set in the rocky hillside, each room is unique and the staff is happy to help out with every aspect of your stay.
The cave hotel sits just 5 miles away from Göreme National Park, and a shuttle can be arranged to take you to the town centre. It also boasts a spa and heated outdoor swimming pool – the perfect place to unwind after a busy day’s sightseeing.
Yildiz Hotel | Best Bed and Breakfast in Ürgüp
Ürgüp lacks hostel accommodation, but Y?ld?z Hotel has everything you need for an exceptional stay. The hotel is built in stone and is even pet-friendly.
Just steps away from the centre of the action, you can choose from a private stone room or a family room. Breakfast is served on the terrace daily. Uchisar Castle is just nine km away.
Cave Life House | Best Airbnb in Ürgüp
This is an authentic cave hotel experience without having to stay at a hotel. Enjoy a traditional home with stunning multi-coloured natural stone walls and all the modern amenities. You’ll have a full kitchen to use as well as indoor and outdoor dining areas.
This home sleeps up to five people and has two bathrooms so you won’t be getting on top of each other. This is an epic option for families or a group of friends, light on the wallet, and heavy on the local experience.
Things to do in Ürgüp:
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Spare some good thoughts at Temenni Wishing Hill, learn about St. John the Russian and see the tomb.
- Discover fairy chimneys, ancient caves, and historical churches on this guided sightseeing tour that includes a tasty lunch and a pottery workshop.
- Go and see the grand mosque in the centre of town.
- Check out Ürgüp’s charming Belediye – town hall and visit Ürgüp Museum just across the road for some history lessons.
- Hop on a water taxi and take in the stunning views of the town from a different angle.
- Admire the rocky landscapes of Cappadocia from a bird’s eye view on a hot air balloon flight over Cat Valley.
- Marvel at the surreal moonscape of Pancarlik Valley.
- Take a road trip south to mystifying Sobesos – a 4th-century Roman city.
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Grab an eSIM!5. Avanos – Where to Stay Off-the-Beaten-Path in Cappadocia
Riverside Avanos is a relatively chilled-out town in Cappadocia. The tourist trail doesn’t extend to Avanos as a destination in itself, but some tourists come to admire the pottery this town is famous for.
You’ll feel like you almost have the town to yourself, especially wandering around the narrow lanes that snake up into the Anatolian hills.
Greek-Ottoman architecture still has a place here, and there are a few grand houses in town that will catch your eye. Plus, if you’re missing the comforts of home, you’ll find a McDonald’s and Starbucks here.
Riverside Mansion Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Avanos
Contemporary decor added with charming, traditional furnishings makes this luxury hotel the perfect place to stay. The peaceful riverside gives guests the chance to relax in picture-perfect surroundings on your weekend in Turkey.
Kirkit Pension | Best Hotel in Avanos
Pension is perfect for those backpacking with friends. Choose from a selection of private double, triple, or family rooms, all that is set inside a picturesque garden.
The quiet village and friendly local atmosphere will expose you to traditional life in the Cappadocia region.
Large Stone House with Terrace and Fireplace | Best Airbnb in Avanos
Just over the river from Avanos town, you’ll find this charming Airbnb with stunning views over Cappadocia. The view from the courtyard is something special and you’ll have it all to yourself with two rooms to sleep in. Make yourself at home in the big kitchen and make the most of this quiet tucked away holiday rental.
Top Things Do in Avanos:
- See the pottery artisans at work – and maybe grab a souvenir or two.
- Take a signposted walking tour of Avanos and admire its charming historical buildings.
- Enjoy an exciting hot air balloon tour and experience the extraordinary landscape of Cappadocia from above.
- Go on a relaxing and romantic gondola ride along the river or a more hair-raising jet boat ride!
- Visit the ancient Zelve Open Air Museum on the slopes of the White Mountain, home to the highest number of chimney fairies in Cappadocia.
- Get back to nature on a hike through the Ihlara Valley and marvel at the fairy chimney rock formations of Cappadocia. Visit the Derinkuyu Underground City and learn about the traditions of the locals.
- Marvel at Uchisar Castle, join a pottery workshop and see a camel-shaped rock in Devrent Valley on this guided day trip.
- And of course, catch a beautiful riverside sunset whilst sipping çay – Turkish tea.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Cappadocia
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Cappadocia and where to stay.
What To Pack For Cappadocia
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Should I Go To Turkish Night In Cappadocia?
Turkish nights in Cappadocia are fun! See the dancing, drink the drinks, let yo hair down. I recommend this belly dancing show in Ortahisar.
Where Do I Stay In Cappadocia For Luxury Hotels?
I can’t narrow this one down for ya, you’ve gotta choose. My top two are The Museum Hotel and The Artemis Cave Suites. Both of these are stunning hotels, you’ll get the true cave hotel experience and be well looked after.
What’s The Nearest Airport to Cappadocia?
Kayseri Erkilet Airport is where you wanna go, baby. I’d recommend getting your accommodation to arrange a car to pick you up, you gotta stay safe in the airport hustle. This Airport is the heart of transportation for the Cappadocia region and has a gorgeous new modern terminal.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cappadocia
Your luggage could get caught up in a hot air balloon and fly away, or a camel could eat your homework! Suss good travel insurance before your trip, stay safe!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cappadocia
It’s undeniable that visiting Cappadocia is one of the coolest things to do in Turkey. From its ancient historical roots to its stunning natural landscape, it’s a destination that every backpacker in Turkey must see.
Whatever you’re after, there’s a neighbourhood in Cappadocia that suits you. Most people choose to stay in Göreme, but each town offers its own unique views, activities, and atmospheres.
If you’re still unsure where to stay in Cappadocia, you can’t go wrong with Kirkit Pension. Super affordable and close to everything, it’s the ideal base for experiencing the region.
For something more splurgy, the Museum Hotel is my other top pick, thanks to its laidback atmosphere and helpful staff. You’ll be staying in a living museum in the cave suites, complete with personal Turkish Baths and pools.
Wherever you stay in Cappadocia, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views and magical fairy chimneys, this is a mystical place to holiday. Enjoy!
Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments, I’d love to chat.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Turkey.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Turkey.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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