Please sign in to post.

Getting around Cappadocia

We want to plan our own itinerary to visit sites in Cappadocia, but don't want to take a tour. Does anyone have information as to how to get a reputable driver, or is it easy to navigate ourselves with rental car?

Posted by
3 posts

Navigating in Cappadocia is pretty easy since there are only 2 main roads and all are well signed. When we stayed at Taskonaklar hotel in Uchisar they were very helpful in providing maps, directions and planning our itinerary. (they also have a blog with lots of information taskonaklar.com/blog)
You can also think of hiring a private guide as you already have a car. I think it will cost around 120euro for the day and it is worthwhile as there is a lot to learn and listen about Cappadocia. Especially the underground city must be done with a guide to really understand the genius behind it.

Posted by
338 posts

It's pretty easy to navigate with a rental car as long as you have a basic map. I highly recommend this approach since it will give you the greatest flexability and the ability to access high quality, but seldom touristed locations (e.g. Church of St. John in Gulsehir, Eski Gumusler monastery in Nigde) after you've checked out the marquee sites. I've been to the area several times over the past 10 years and have always used a rental car. Two things to keep in mind -1). Since you'll be out in the country, pay attention to where the gas stations are and 2). Most rental cars are manual transmission. Make sure you request an automatic transmission when you make your reservation if you need one.

I suggest that you pick up a guidebook that has the basics such as the Lonely Planet Turkey guide and maybe an English language book on the area with good pictures to help you figure out what you want to see and do.

Have fun!

Posted by
16893 posts

Driving is easy enough in this area. Take your time. Avoid driving after dark, for easier navigation and better visibility of slow-moving vehicles and donkeys. When traveling by bus, I enjoyed staying in both Uchisar and Guzelyurt.