Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey, feels like another world. Its landscape, culture, and history stand apart from Istanbul and the Turkish coast. The area is known for its unusual rock formations, natural caves, fairy chimney hotels, and deep ancient history—there is plenty to explore.
But Cappadocia is huge, covering more than 5,000 square kilometres, so deciding where to stay can be difficult. Many top sites and attractions are reachable by public transport, which helps. If your time is short, you'll want a neighbourhood close to the sights you plan to see.
This guide details the best neighbourhoods and the main things to do in each, along with recommendations for places to stay in both budget-friendly and high-end ranges. There is something for everyone.
It’s like being a fairy with all the chimneys and balloons
Top Picks for Accommodation in Cappadocia
If you want the best places to stay regardless of area, here are a few standout options.
Sultan Cave Suites | Top Hotel Overall
Most rooms at Sultan Cave Suites are built into Aydinli Hill, creating a cool and peaceful stay. Each room has an en-suite with a large Turkish-style bath and French windows overlooking Cappadocia.
Enjoy breakfast on the rooftop terrace while watching hot air balloons and fairy chimneys. The staff can also arrange hot air balloon flights for you.
Mithra Cave Hotel | Another Excellent Choice
With so many wonderful cave hotel experiences in Cappadocia, a second one deserves mention. Mithra Cave Hotel has a welcoming vibe; the staff and buffet breakfast are highlights. Watching the sun rise as hot air balloons fill the sky is magical.
The rooms are lush, decorated with Ottoman and Roman ruin artefacts. The best part: it's just a five-minute walk into Göreme town—close enough to explore the fairy chimneys and return to your suite when the day heats up.
Kamelya Cave Hostel | Best Hostel
Yes, there's a cave hostel in Göreme, and it's epic. This small hostel offers two cave dorm rooms (one mixed, one female-only) and reasonably priced en-suite privates.
You even get a traditional Turkish breakfast on the terrace overlooking town, where you can spot hot air balloons at sunrise. World's best hostel or what?
Anitya Duplex Stone House | Best Airbnb
This stunning traditional stone house is ideal for families and guests. A rooftop stone terrace offers views and a place to relax in the sun. The house includes a full kitchen and bathroom and sleeps up to four. The village centre is a 5-minute walk away, where you'll find the ancient Ortahisar Castle.
Neighbourhood Guide – Where to Stay in Cappadocia
First Time in Cappadocia: Göreme
Formerly known by other names, Göreme changed its name when the nearby Göreme Valley became a thriving tourist destination.
Coolest Place to Stay: Ortahisar
Ancient cobbled streets, ruins of stone houses, and charming town squares: Ortahisar feels like the beating heart of a Cappadocia lost to history.
For Families: Uçhisar
South of Göreme, Uçhisar is a quieter base for exploring the region. The town's houses sweep up to and into the iconic hill at its centre.
For Luxury: Ürgüp
Home to some of Cappadocia's most luxurious boutique hotels, Ürgüp also has a modern downtown for when you tire of the old town's small lanes and quiet atmosphere.
Off the Beaten Path: Avanos
Riverside Avanos is a relatively chilled-out town. The tourist trail doesn't really extend here as a destination itself, but visitors come to admire the pottery for which the town is famous.
Cappadocia is known for its rock formations, luxury cave hotels, sunrise hot air balloons, and staggering ancient history. Because the region is massive, think about what activities you want to do when choosing a place to stay.
I am the princess in Uçhisar Castle, can you see me?
Usually, people stay in Göreme, home to many 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 12th centuries AD and is the best place to get to know the region.
If you want somewhere more boujee, Uçhisar is colourful and family-friendly, full of luxury cave hotels and hiking paths through Göreme National Park. Atop the hill is Uçhisar Castle, a massive rock with a castle's worth of rooms carved into it. It's also on the bus route to Göreme and other popular towns.
Ürgüp, one of the largest towns, provides luxury accommodation for an unforgettable stay. There's an upmarket downtown area and plenty of opportunities for excursions.
If you're looking for more western amenities—think Starbucks—Avanos is a slow-paced provincial town on the banks of the 'Red River'. There isn't much of a tourist scene, and accommodation is cheaper, making it great for backpackers looking to get off the beaten path.
Finally, Ortahisar is the coolest place to stay, blending historic and contemporary sites for the best of both worlds.
The Five Best Neighbourhoods in Cappadocia
Now let's look at these top areas in more detail, plus recommendations for things to do—like my personal favourite: hiding a geocache.
1. Göreme – Best for First-Timers
If it's your first time visiting Cappadocia's fairytale landscape, Göreme is the perfect base. It's ideal for experiencing the best of this region.
The town at the heart of Cappadocia offers the best transport connections to other areas and the rest of the country. It's also the ideal place to book tours, including visits to remote spots and hot air balloon trips.
Closer to Göreme, there are heaps of awesome hiking trails right from your hotel door. It's also the top spot to witness the hot air balloons at sunrise from just above town.
Where could it be?!
The town is small and easily 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 smaller cafes and supermarkets for those on a tight budget.
The town is pretty touristy, with most establishments aimed at visitors rather than locals. Still, it retains unique charm due to the fairy chimneys dotted in and around town.
One of the most fun things to do is stay inside a cave hotel. These are luxury hotels inside many of the ancient homes—not dusty dwellings. Can't afford a luxury hotel? You won't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience because there's even a cave hostel.
Cappadocia Cave Suites | Best Hotel in Göreme
Spend peaceful nights in a room carved into a cave. The luxurious surroundings of Cappadocia Cave Suites are a short walk from the city centre and the fairy chimneys.
The hotel boasts a beautiful terrace where guests enjoy sunset meals with views of the hot air balloons. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, some with a private terrace overlooking Cappadocia—perfect for peaceful balloon watching.
Artemis Cave Suites | Best Bed and Breakfast in Göreme
This adults-only charming hotel features cave suites and is an epic place to stay and see the magical sunrise. The rooms, carved by various settlers over centuries, have been recently renovated with modern amenities.
Eat breakfast on the rooftop terrace and watch hot air balloons take off over Cappadocia. There's an on-site restaurant and bar, plus a spa, so indulge in the Turkish Bath and relax.
Kamelya Cave Hostel | Best Hostel in Göreme
Yes, there's a cave hostel in Göreme, and it's epic. This small hostel offers two cave dorm rooms (one mixed, one female-only) and reasonably priced en-suite privates.
You even get a traditional Turkish breakfast on the terrace overlooking town, where you can spot hot air balloons at sunrise. World's best hostel or what?
Top Things to Do in Göreme
Stay up.
- Mountain bike through Göreme's rugged valleys.
- Get lost in the Göreme Open Air Museum—a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the region's rock architecture.
- 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 combining captivating movements with spiritual significance.
- Try valley hiking (take a good drink bottle 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.
- Get your adrenaline pumping on a guided ATV tour off the beaten paths around Göreme.
- Admire the famous rugs and carpets Göreme is known for—and try your hand at haggling.
- Catch a magnificent sunset and watch the town change colour.
- Finish with a relaxing trip to the local hammam (Turkish bath).
2. Ortahisar – Coolest Place to Stay
Ancient cobbled streets, ruins of stone houses, and charming town squares: Ortahisar feels like the beating heart of a Cappadocia lost to history. Donkeys pulling carts regularly trot through town, and old men linger over çay at street-side cafes.
Ortahisar is famous for its citrus fruits and stunning surroundings.
Ortahisar is home to a growing number of luxury hotels as the world wakes up 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. It's 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 will enchant you into relaxing against a rugged, rocky backdrop.
St Nino's Garden | Best Airbnb in Ortahisar
Stay at this charming hotel for an authentic cave-dwelling experience. Run by a kind couple happy to help you find anything you need, you'll have a room tucked away in this cave hotel and breakfast under the trees looking across the valley to classic Cappadocia architecture.
Things to See and Do in Ortahisar
My #1 thing to do is lounging, always.
- 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 hot air balloon flight. Discover the stunning views of the valleys of Cappadocia.
- Learn more about the area via the Ethnographic and Culture Museum.
- Descend into the depths of Cappadocia as you explore the expansive labyrinth of the Underground City.
3. Uçhisar – Best for Families
Uçhisar is a quieter base for exploring Cappadocia. The town is home to Uçhisar Castle, a warren of tunnels with a stunning vista over the surrounding area from its top.
Uçhisar is the perfect base for a quieter stay.
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, 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 with modern amenities that will take your breath away. Stay in restored historical caves and eat on the rooftop terrace watching hot air balloon flights take off. You'll eat fruits and vegetables from the garden for breakfast and relax 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, this guest house is ideal for families travelling to Cappadocia. It's 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 has an en-suite 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. You can enjoy a barbecue 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
The tourist trap got me at Uçhisar Castle and it feels good!
- 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 watch hot air balloons take off.
- Check out one of the local stores specializing in onyx ornaments.
- Wow your taste buds with Anatolian cuisine cooked by locals at the cosy Sakl.
4. Ürgüp – Best for Luxury
Ürgüp also has a modern downtown area, home to some of Cappadocia's most luxurious boutique hotels. 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 offers.
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 with every aspect of your stay.
The cave hotel sits just 5 miles 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—perfect for unwinding 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 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 staying at a hotel. Enjoy a traditional home with stunning multi-coloured natural stone walls and all modern amenities. You'll have a full kitchen 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. It's 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
Look up, mosque ceilings are phenomenal
- 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.
5. Avanos – Best Off-the-Beaten-Path
Riverside Avanos is a relatively chilled-out town in Cappadocia. The tourist trail doesn't extend here as a destination itself, but some tourists come to admire the pottery this town is famous for.
Avanos is the best place to stay away from tourist crowds.
You'll feel like you almost have the town to yourself, especially wandering the narrow lanes that snake up into the Anatolian hills.
Greek-Ottoman architecture still has a place here, and a few grand houses in town 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 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 private double, triple, or family rooms, all 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 to Do in Avanos
Pack a jumper, even in summer, trust me!
- 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 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 fairy chimneys in Cappadocia.
- Get back to nature on a hike through the Ihlara Valley and marvel at the fairy chimney rock formations. Visit the Derinkuyu Underground City and learn about local traditions.
- 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 while sipping çay—Turkish tea.
FAQ About Where to Stay in Cappadocia
What are the best places to stay in Cappadocia?
I'd pick Artemis Cave Suites in Göreme—it's central, you can see the hot air balloons, and live your best fairy-in-a-cave life.
Where to stay for hot air balloons?
Imperial Cave Hotel will give you the chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast while witnessing the magnificent sight of balloons flying over town.
Where to stay with a family?
Bringing the family to Cappadocia? Stay at Anitya Duplex Stone House—a stunning historical house with its original stone terrace to relax in the sun!
Where to stay for couples?
Travelling as a couple? You'll love it at the Imperial Cave Hotel.
What to Pack for Cappadocia
Should I go to a Turkish night in Cappadocia?
Turkish nights in Cappadocia are fun! See the dancing, drink the drinks, let your hair down. I recommend this belly dancing show in Ortahisar.
Where do I stay for luxury hotels?
I can't narrow this one down—you've got to choose. My top two are The Museum Hotel and The Artemis Cave Suites. Both are stunning, and 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 want to go. I'd recommend getting your accommodation to arrange a car to pick you up—stay safe in the airport hustle. This airport is the heart of transportation for the Cappadocia region and has a gorgeous new modern terminal.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Cappadocia
Visiting Cappadocia is undeniably one of the coolest things to do in Turkey. From its ancient historical roots to its stunning natural landscape, it's a destination every backpacker in Turkey must see.
Whatever you're after, there's a neighbourhood in Cappadocia that suits you. Most people choose Göreme, but each town offers its own unique views, activities, and atmospheres.
If you're still unsure, 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!
Adventure awaits, amigo!
