Turkey

It's no trouble do get a car and drive it yourself. The question would be how much you want to study about it before you go - - just like anywhere else.

Hi Mary - My family stayed in Istanbul for 4 dyas and then flew to Izmir for $80 or so each (round trip). We then rented a car....reasonable.. and it was very easy to drive around Turkey. In fact easier than the US.......fewer roads. The signs were understandable. There were 4 of us. Take a train or plane to the area you want and then rent a car to get around. We didn't go to Cappadocia though so I can't offer more specific feedback.

I agree with Ed. Get a car and read up on the area beforehand. You'll have so much more flexability. Here are some suggestions, depending on your interests and how much time you have: For churches - Goreme Open Air Musuem (including the Buckle Church outside), Ilhara Valley (a nice hike too), Church of St. John in Gulsehir, Eski Gumusler monastery near Nigde. For underground cities - Derikyu and Kamakli (pick one). Consider hiring a guide at the entrance. There is also a nice underground village near Guzelyurt (note: you'll have to be able to use hand/footholds carved into the rock to climb up one of the tunnels between the floors) For Caravansaries – Sarihan caravanasary near Avanos. Avanos is also a nice village nearby to stop in for a meal and to shop for pottery. For Fairy Chimneys – near Uchisar, Goreme, and the Deverent Valley (Zelve). There are plenty of pull-offs along the road near these. Uchisar castle for the nice views from the top. Zelve village is a nice attraction, but not a priority. One note about renting a car in Turkey - be sure to request automatic transmission if it's important. The default is standard transmission. Good luck!

wow! thank you all for your help.