Budget Travel to Cappadocia 2024
Welcome to Cappadocia!
If you’re looking for a fantastic adventure vacation destination that is within your budget, Cappadocia is the right place.
This region is famous for its unique natural landscapes, hot-air balloon rides, and rich historical sites.
In this Cappadocia travel guide, we’ll give you practical tips and affordable travel options to make the most of your visit.
It will cover all the must-see attractions, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get there on a budget.
Key Takeaways
- Explore Cappadocia’s unique landscapes, including fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations.
- Discover the region’s fascinating history by exploring ancient caves, rock-cut churches, and underground cities.
- Experience exciting adventures like hot air balloon rides, hiking, and horseback riding through the stunning scenery of Cappadocia.
- Stay in comfortable and affordable guesthouses, hostels, or boutique hotels that won’t break the bank.
- Enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine and local dishes at affordable restaurants.
- There are several ways of getting to Cappadocia without spending a fortune.
Where is Cappadocia?
Cappadocia is not a city but an entire region located in the centre of Türkiye. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all around the world.
The main tourist town in the region is called Göreme, and it is located 730 km from Istanbul, 280 km from Ankara, and 520 km from Antalya.
The nearest airport is in Nevsehir which is located about 40 kilometres away. The airport is small most of the flights are from Istanbul or Ankara. However, there is a larger airport with more flights in the city of Kayseri, including some international flights. Kayseri is 80 kilometres from Goreme. It is a little more difficult and expensive to get to Keyseri airport, but flights tend to be cheaper.
Many tourists come to this region by bus and there is a small bus station situated right in the centre of Goreme, with direct buses coming from many large cities, including Istanbul, Ankara and Antalya.
Map of Cappadocia
Why is Cappadocia Famous?
There are several reasons why the region is such a popular holiday destination.
The region has a unique moon-like landscape. It is famous for its rock formations, often referred to as fairy chimneys, which create a fascinating atmosphere.
The strange beauty of the scenery is unlike anything else tourists can find, making the trip a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Cappadocia is also home to many attractions that appeal to a wide range of travellers. There are many historical and cultural places in the area that history buffs can visit. These include such things as old rock churches, cave dwellings, and underground cities.
Hikers who love the outdoors can go on trails through beautiful hills and canyons and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
One of the most popular activities in Cappadocia is going on a hot-air balloon ride. Many tourists come to the area to experience the unforgettable feeling of floating above the fairy chimneys and taking in the beautiful views.
A Brief History of Cappadocia
To appreciate your visit to Cappadocia, you should first understand a little about its past.
The history of the region dates back thousands of years. It region been inhabited by several civilizations, including the Hittites, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.
Cappadocia has a significant historical connection with early Christianity. In the 4th century, during the Roman Empire, Cappadocia became a refuge for Christians escaping persecution.
The region has several underground cities, where it is estimated that thousands of people sheltered for protection, as well as hidden cave churches which were used by early Christians for worship.
Pigeon were used as an ingenious ways of warning the local inhabitants of approaching armies. Pigeon excrement was also used for fertilising the vineyards where grapes were grown to make wine. The region is still famous for its excellent wines. The Pigeon egg shells were used to paint frescos on the cave walls.
The biggest lesson that we can learn from these ancient people who lived underground is their sheer determination to survive against all the odds.
Things to Do and See in Cappadocia
Fairy Chimneys
The Fairy Chimneys are one of the most iconic natural wonders in Cappadocia. These cone-shaped rock formations were created by millions of years of volcanic eruptions and erosion.
Visitors can explore the Fairy Chimneys by hiking through the valleys and admiring the surreal landscapes. You can see them in many parts of the region.
Pigeon Valley
Pigeon Valley is known for its incredible rock formations and pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. You can see some great panoramic views of the valley from behind Uçhisar Castle.
But if you prefer, you can also take a walk through this scenic valley itself and see the fairy chimneys and cave dwellings from up close. It’s a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Uçhisar Castle at Sunset
Uçhisar Castle offers panoramic views of Cappadocia. Watching the sunset from this ancient fortress is a truly wonderful experience. The town is located just a few kilometres from Göreme.
The castle is, in fact, a natural volcanic rock formation that was dug out by Byzantine settlers in about 800 AD. It was home to hundreds of Christian people and was also used as a watch tower to warn against invading armies.
The entry fee is just a few euros and it´s easy to walk up to the top, even though it looks quite high. When you reach the top, you should take care, as some of the floor is not very level. The views of the town and valley below are wonderful.
Göreme Open-Aır Museum
Located just a few kılometres from the Göreme, exploring thıs UNESCO world herıtage sıte ıs an adventure that takes you back ın tıme. The area is full of historical cave dwellings and other interesting attractions. It is a highlight of any visit to Cappadocia and you will need 1-2 hours to see it all.
You could get a taxi to get there or walk if you are feeling energetic and it isn´t too hot. The museum is also a popular stop on the guided tours of Cappadocia. There is an entrance fee of 20 euros. If you go on a tour, the price is included in the price.
It is possible to walk between Goreme and Uçhisar, where you will find a park area with several fairy chimneys. These are probably the nearest ones to visit and you can see them for free. However, they can´t be compared to the ones in the open-air museum.
Ancient Underground Cities
The underground cities of Cappadocia are a fascinating network of tunnels, rooms, and places of worship. These ancient cities were dug out of soft volcanic rock and used as hiding places from invading armies.
One of the best examples of an underground city is is the village of Derinkuyu, which was discovered in 1963. This multi-level structure is believed to have been home to up to 20.000 people. It was connected to other underground cities in the area via secret tunnels.
Derinkuyu is thought to have been used by Christians for centuries, starting in the 9th century, to escape from invading Arab armies. However, it could be much older, and some archaeologists believe that excavation could have been started by the Hittites over 2,000 years ago.
Kaymakli is another similar underground city that is located a few kilometres away. However, is smaller and more difficult to get to than Derinkuyu.
Derinkuyu and Kaymakli
The tunnels that connect the chambers are very narrow and low. These days there are lot of visitors moving along these tunnels from one level to the next, and it is a one-way system.
The circuit takes about 60 minutes to complete and there are lots of interesting photo opportunities. However, after you enter there is no way to go back and you have to continue until you finish the circuit. The entrance fee is about 13 euros.
If you have any health issues you should avoid entering the underground city. For example, breathing difficulties, claustrophobia, panic attacks, heart or knee problems.
Derinkuyu is located about 40 minutes by car from Goereme, and the cheapest option is to get a minibus. You can get a minibus from Goreme to Nevsehir bus station. Then you need to get another minibus from to Derinkuyu village. There are no timetables for minibus departures, the minibuses leave when there are enough people inside. The return journey will cost you less than 10 euros return by minibus but might take hours.
You could also get there by taxi or even rent a car. However, the underground city is a popular attraction on many organised tours, and this is the way most people go there.
Ihlara Valley
Ihlara Valley is a canyon that is famous for its stunning natural beauty and unique rock-cut churches. Visitors can hike along the Melendiz River and see the rock formations and appreciate the stunning views.
The valley is also home to many rare plants and provides a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas of Goreme. There is a nice but basic restaurant by the riverside where you can have lunch. The drinks can be expensive, so maybe just stick to water if you are on a budget.
You can only get to this valley by taxi or rented car, as there is no public transport. However, this location is also part of many organised excursions.
Hiking in Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a paradise for hikers, offering many trails with beautiful views. From short walks to multi-day treks, there are options for all fitness levels.
There are some locations near to Goreme and Uçhisar where you can easily go hiking and return on the same day, without the need of a car or taxi. Whilst other locations will require a taxi to get there.
Hiking without a guide can be risky, especially if you are not an expert, phone cover can be poor in the region and that could be a problem if you have an accident and need help.
Hiking during the summer months is also unadvisable, as the temperature can rise above 40oC. It is easy to become dehydrated and get sunstroke. It is best to hike in a group with an experienced guide during the shoulder season (spring and autumn).
Horse Riding in Cappadocia
When it comes to exploring the landscapes of Cappadocia, there are some exciting and adventurous options; horseback riding is a popular choice.
This type of outdoor adventure allows you to enjoy yourself in the natural beauty of the region while experiencing the fun of alternative forms of transport.
Guided horseback riding tours are available, ranging from a few hours to a full day, catering to all levels of experience. Many travel agencies will offer this type of excursion.
Jeep & Quad Riding Trips
If you prefer a faster-paced adventure, you should consider taking a Jeep tour or going on a quad trip in Cappadocia.
These tours give you the chance to see the region’s off-road trails, taking you to places that are hard to reach on foot or other forms of transportation.
There are several companies offering these excursions, and prices vary, so shop around for the best deal.
Air Balloon Rides in Cappadocia
One of the most exciting experiences in Cappadocia is a balloon ride. The sunrise balloon trip is particularly popular, as it offers a breath-taking view of the landscape.
Several companies in Cappadocia offer a balloon tour that provides visitors an unforgettable holiday experience.
The balloon rides start in the early morning and participants watch the sunrise as they float over the famous fairy chimneys that make Cappadocia so unique. The duration of the flights can vary, typically lasting around one hour.
However, taking a balloon ride is one of the most expensive activities in the region. The prices of balloon trips have risen a lot in the last few years. It must be considered a luxury, with prices that range from 150 to 290. The price usually depends on the company and the number of people travelling. I highly recommend the company Cappaballoons as they offer great value for money and are very professional.
If your budget does not permit you to take a balloon trip, there are two good alternatives. The first is to see the balloons rise from ground level at dawn. The second option is to watch the balloons rise from a terrace area in Uchisar.
Both options will give you the chance to take some great photos and cost nothing. Remember, most of the balloon rides leave just before dawn, so you will need to get up early to see them.
Excursions in Cappadocia
If you go to Cappadocia, you should remember that public transport to get you around the region is very poor. This makes visiting the many attractions difficult to do on a really tight budget.
Renting a car is a great way to explore the area, but it can be expensive unless you are travelling in a group and can split the cost. The distance between attractions also makes taking a taxi expensive. So, for solo travellers or even couples, taking an organised excursion is in my opinion the best option.
There are many guided tours available for visitors with different interests and preferences. These tours are a great way to ensure that you have an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Tour Agencies
You will need to do some research to make sure that the tour you book offers the best value for money. Check the itinerary of each trip and compare it to the competition; does it include lunch, and what time does it start and finish?
Trips can cost around 60 euros per day for one of the standard coloured (red, blue, green) tours, but for many people, taking a tour the best way to explore Cappadocia.
There are many travel agencies in both Goreme and Uçhisar and it is important to shop around for a good and reliable tour agency. If you buy several tours during the low season, you could try to negotiate the price a little.
Trustworthy Travel in Uçhisar town centre is a good option, and TravelSavvy in the centre of Goreme, is also highly recommended.
Green, Blue and Red Tour
The three most popular tours that help you to visit the region in just a few days are coded by colour: the blue tour, the green tour, and the red tour. These three tours are designed to maximise your sightseeing experience. Each tour covers different attractions in the region.
However, this may not always be the case. The tours are not standard, and the blue tour offered by one company may not be exactly the same as the blue tour offered by another travel agency.
If you buy different coloured tours from different tour agencies, you may end up repeating the same visits, and this can be frustrating. The best way to avoid this issue is to book all your trips with the same tour agency.
Another thing to look out for is to check which underground city you will visit. One tour company may take you to the bigger and better Derinkuyu underground city. However, another company may take you to the smaller and less interesting Kaymakli underground city.
Finally, there is one extra-long-day excursion that is available from some travel agencies. This tour chooses the best attractions of all three coloured tours and incorporates them into one.
The tour is more expensive, but for those who only have a couple of days in Cappadocia or for those people who visit Cappadocia on a budget, this tour is a great option.
Affordable Accommodation in Cappadocia
Hostels and Budget Hotels
Hostels are a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers who want to meet fellow adventurers and make new friends. They offer shared dormitory-style accommodation, communal kitchens, and common areas.
Goreme has several hostels that offer backpackers and budget travellers, affordable accommodation in a friendly environment.
Hostel Terra Vista is a popular choice among travellers visiting Cappadocia.
Shoestring Cave House is a well-regarded hostel that provides a unique experience by offering accommodations in traditional cave rooms.
The Dorm Cave is a hostel is known for its comfortable dormitory-style accommodations and good social atmosphere.
If you prefer more privacy and comfort, guesthouses and budget hotels are an excellent option. These are usually small, family-run places that offer cosy rooms and often include breakfast in their affordable rates.
Guesthouses provide a homely atmosphere and a chance to connect with local hosts, making your stay in Cappadocia a memorable one.
Divan Cave House is a medium budget hotel that is located in Goreme, offering comfortable cave accommodations with modern amenities.
Uçhisar is quieter and more laid-back than Goreme. It has an amazing natural / man-made castle with an incredible sunset.
Karlik Evi Hotel is budget-friendly and is set within a historic stone building.
Room & Apartment Rental
Airbnb is the best way to find an entire apartment or cave house to rent. Sometimes even budget hotels in Cappadocia advertise on the app.
There are also private rooms on offer where local hosts offer a bedroom in their homes. Prices can start at about 20 euros per night for this type of accommodation.
Staying with a local host can be an interesting experience and give you some insight into the Turkish way of life. However, it is important to check the location of the accommodation and the amenities on offer. You should always read the comments left by previous guests.
Shopping in Cappadocia
What to Buy
There are a lot of beautiful handicraft and pottery items on offer in Cappadocia.
Many excursions will take you to a pottery store where you can explore local workshops and even try your hand at creating your own pottery masterpiece.
In addition to pottery, Cappadocia is also famous for its intricate handmade carpets. These are beautiful rugs at reasonable prices. They will even arrange to send it to your home country. For those visitors who are looking for smaller souvenirs, there are many jewellery shops selling unique Turkish-style jewellery.
Cappadocia is home to a variety of locally produced food products. Don’t forget to stock up on delicious honey, aromatic spices, and traditional Turkish delights.
Where to Eat
In Goreme, the main tourist town, you’ll find a variety of budget-friendly options, including family-run restaurants and local cafes. You will also see a lot of international restaurants, including Korean, Italian, and Indian food options.
If you want to enjoy a view while you´re eating, then you should go to one of the rooftop restaurants. However, these places tend to be a little expensive, but should be a treat at least once during your stay.
There isn´t a lot of street food on offer in Cappadocia. For cheap food, you will usually have to choose a Lokanta (a traditional family-run budget restaurant) or try a good cafe that offers food.
Bakeries are another great and cheap option, for food on the go. Some bakeries, like the one on the road leading up to Uçhisar castle from the main road, which offers inexpensive cup of tea, and lots of very tasty pastries and a nice place to sit down and relax.
The best choice for cheap food are items, such as Borek (cheesy or meat-filled pastries) and Pide (Turkish pizza).
- Old Cappadocia Restaurant is a hidden gem for budget-friendly dining in Goreme. Their kebabs and wraps are made with high-quality ingredients.
- Beydilli Kebap Barbecue is another highly recommended kebab restaurant in Goreme.
- Pideci Ekrem Usta in Goreme is great for a taste of authentic Turkish pide.
Getting to Cappadocia
Flights to Cappadocia
If you are traveling to Cappadocia from abroad, the easiest way to reach the region is by flying to Istanbul and then fly to one of the nearby airports.
There are two airports serving Cappadocia, Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) and Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR).
Nevsehir is the nearest and is located just a few kilometres from Goreme. It is a small airport that offers just a few domestic flights.
- Istanbul (IST) to Nevsehir takes 1 hour and 30 minutes with Turkish Airlines.
Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) is bigger and offers more low-cost as well as international flights. However, it is located about 90km away and takes over an hour to get there.
- Istanbul (SAW) to Kayseri (1h30): Pegasus Airlines
- Berlin to Kayseri (3h.30) : Sun Express
- Amsterdam to Kayseri (4h.20): Pegasus Airlines
There are no direct flights from the UK. You need to fly to Istanbul and get a connecting flight.
Getting from the Airport to Goreme
Once you arrive at the airport, you can rent a car, take a 40-50 minute taxi ride, or arrange a private airport transfer to reach your accommodation in Cappadocia. All of these options are quite expensive, especially if you are flying to Kayseri Airport.
The cheapest way would be to get a taxi from the Kayseri airport to the bus station and then catch a cheap bus to Göreme. However, it all depends on what time your flight is arriving.
From Nevsehir Airport, it is also possible to get a taxi or private shuttle, it will be much cheaper due to the shorter distance. Alternatively you could get a taxi from Nevsehir Airport to the bus station for about 5 euros and then get a cheap bus to Goreme.
If you arrive late at night, you could always stay the first night in Kayseri or Nevsehir and go to Goreme early the next morning.
Intercity Buses to Cappadocia
Bus travel is a popular choice and the cheapest way to reach Cappadocia. There are many bus companies that offer journeys between Goereme and major cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
Some popular bus companies that offer buses that go to Cappadocia include Metro Turizm, Nevşehir Seyahat, and Kamil Koç/FlixBus. Buses can take you to the main bus station in Nevşehir, or they can even go straight to Goreme. Buses drop you off in the centre of Goreme, from where you can take a local taxi or walk to your hotel.
- Istanbul to Goreme – About 12 hours
- Ankara to Goreme – 3h.30 minutes
- Antalya to Goreme – approximately 10 hours
- Bodrum to Goreme – About 15 hours
Taking a night bus from Istanbul is a good way of reducing your hotel expenses, as Turkish buses are extremely comfortable and reasonably priced. (Check out the guıde to bus travel ın Turkey).
For example, the 23.25 p.m. night bus arrives at 11.40 a.m. the next day. This would help save on accommodation for one night. However, long-distance bus rides are not for everyone.
One way to make the trip more comfortable is to break up the long journey from Istanbul with a stopover in Ankara. You can spend at least a day there to take in some of the sights of Turkey´s capital city.
From Istanbul to Ankara by bus, it takes approximately 7-8 hours. This time could be less if you caught the high-speed train from Istanbul´s Pendik station (Asian side). After doing some sightseeing in Ankara, you could take a bus to Cappadocia, which takes about three and a half hours.
Getting around Cappadocia
Exploring Cappadocia is not so easy if you need to rely on public transportation. There are local taxis available, but they are a little expensive for longer trips. For example, from Goreme to Uçhisar costs about 5 euros for the 10-minute journey. If you want to rent a car, you should go to the nearby town of Nevsehir to get the best deals.
Public Transport
Public buses are usually an economical form of transportation for exploring an area. However, in Cappadocia, public transport ıs very limited, with just a few local minibuses that run between the towns of Goreme, Avanos and Uçhisar. There are a few local minibuses called Dolmuş that operate in the area but don´t normally have a timetable.
Renting a Car
If you prefer the freedom and flexibility of exploring at your own pace, renting a car in Cappadocia is a great option. There are several car rental services available, offering a range of vehicles to suit different budgets.
You should try to book your car in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates. You should also have an international driving licence.
Excursions
If you stay in Goreme or Uçhisar, and book organised excursions, you will not have to rent a car nor need to worry about travelling around the region by bus or taxi. That way you can make the most of your time in Cappadocia without all the stress.
In most parts of Turkey there is good public transport that can help you get around independently and go sightseeing without an excursion. However, in Cappadocia, because of the distances and lack of public transport, this is not really possible.
When to Visit Cappadocia
When planning a trip to Cappadocia, it’s important to consider both the weather and your budget. Understanding the best time to visit can help you make the most of your experience and help you save money.
The peak season in Cappadocia typically falls between June and September. During this time, the weather can be extremely hot, especially in July and August. These months are also the most expensive in terms of accommodation prices.
If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting during the shoulder season. The shoulder seasons in Cappadocia are mid-March to mid-June and mid-September to the end of October.
These periods offer the best of both worlds, with favourable weather conditions and smaller crowds. You can still enjoy the beauty of Cappadocia without breaking the bank.
From November to February, Cappadocia can experience colder temperatures and occasional snowfall. However, you can find great deals on accommodation and activities during this off-peak season. In the winter months balloon rides are often cancelled due to strong winds, so if that is one of your must-do experiences, you should avoid the winter months.
Is Cappadocia Worth Visiting?
The answer is an easy yes. In fact the region should be on you bucket list if you intend to spend time travelling around Turkey. It is a unique place that is both beautiful and historically fascinating.
There is a lot to see and most people tend to try and do it in a rush. Many organised tours spend only a couple days here before moving on to the next destination. I would recommend at least three full days, if not more.
It is a pity that the prices of balloon rides have become so expensive as this makes it is outside the budget of many travellers. However, you can still enjoy the atmosphere of the balloons taking off for free, but from ground level.
It is a place that I would like to return to in the future and spend more time getting to know.