Without a doubt, Cappadocia was one of the most stunning places I’ve visited during my Turkey trip. Most likely, you will travel to Cappadocia from Instanbul, or as I did, you can have a stop at the capital, Ankara as well. In this post, I’ll show you the best ways to reach Cappadocia.
Disclaimer: The post may contain affiliate links.
How to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia by Flight
The best way to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia is by flying. It not only saves a lot of time, but it is also quite affordable as we talk about a local flight.
Two main airlines that serve the routes from Istanbul to Cappadocia are Turkish Airlines (sometimes operated by AnadoluJet) and Pegasus Airlines. Prices vary, but they are generally not more than 50€/60$, and you can often get a ticket for half of this price too. Check out the flight tickets here.
How to get to Istanbul airport?
Istanbul now has two airports: Istanbul New (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). Most flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia depart from Sabiha Gökçen airport, which is a bit closer to the city than the other, but the travel time is still quite long. Istanbul is a huge city, don’t forget about it.
There are several ways to get to the Sabiha Gökçen from Instanbul:
- Via the Havabus from Taksim Square, which costs 18 lira ($3) and takes about 90 minutes.
- Via taxi. The price for an economy taxi from Istanbul Airport to Istanbul’s center is 250 TL (27€/$32 USD). The taxi journey takes 45 to 60 minutes.
To get to Instanbul New Airport you can choose from the followings:
- Via Havaist. (18 lira, about $3). These will depart from different locations from the city, for example Taksim, Beşiktaş, and Sultanahmet as well as other destinations. The ride takes about 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic.
How to Get From Kayseri Airport to Cappadocia?
The airports in Cappadocia are located near Kayseri and Nevsehir. There are several options for private transfers to get to one of the cities which are more convenient than negotiating with taxi drivers. It costs about 10€ per person. The services run between Kayseri Erkilet Airport, Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport, and the nearby towns and cities.
I recommend you staying in Göreme, where I also spent several nights. Here you can read about my experiences in Cappadocia.
How to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia by Night Bus
The other favorable option is traveling by night bus to Cappadocia. This way, you don’t lose your precious sightseeing time while the buy covers a little bit more than 700 km. The night buses from Instanbul to Cappadocia costs about 130 lira only, which is about 18€/$20, and the travel time varies between 10-12 hours with a lot of stops in between.
Actually, I took a night bus, but also made a stop in Ankara, to check the best parts of the city with university friends. If you have time, you can take a half-day tour in Ankara, or just travel straight by the buy to Göreme.
Instanbul to Cappadocia by Car
You can also hire a car and drive on your own to Cappadocia. It gives you a lot of choices to do sightseeing on your way, but remember, it is a rather tiring trip. It takes about 9-10 hours in total.
Travel Resources
There is nothing better than a relaxed holiday. To ensure your rest, make sure you reserve and book your accommodation and transportation in advance of your trip.
- Don’t forget to insure yourself during your travels: SafetyWing. Check out their policies HERE. It also covers several virus-related expenses.
- Look for the best prices on flight tickets, hotels, and car rentals: Expedia
- Car rental: SIXt
- Accommodation: Booking.com, Agoda or Hostelworld if you travel on a budget. Don’t forget that you can search for Apartments also on Booking.
- Activities: GetYourGuide
- Opinions on hotels and restaurants: TripAdvisor
- Was your flight canceled or delayed? Get up to 600€ back with the help of Compansair!
Cappadocia Tours & Resources
As for most countries, it is recommended to have travel insurance. SafetyWings give you great coverage for your Turkey trip. You can check prices here.
Best Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tours
- Hot air balloon flight – early sunrise tour
- Cappadocia hot air balloon – morning flight
Other Cappadocia Tours
Cappadocia Transfers
- private transfers and taxi service
About the Author
Katalin
Katalin is a Lapland-based outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking, road-tripping, and traveling with her family. She spends her free time far away from civilization in one of the national parks around the world, explores off-the-beaten-path places, or hops on a road trip with her kids in an RV.
Read more about her adventures and the blog.
