Ultimate Guide To Visiting Cappadocia In Winter (2024)
Thinking of visiting Cappadocia in winter, but not sure if it’s a good time to visit?
Then you’ve come to the right place.
After visiting Cappadocia this past winter, I’m here to tell you that winter is an excellent time to plan a trip to this popular, family-friendly destination. In this post, I break down everything you need to know to plan a fantastic winter trip to Cappadocia, Turkey!
With so many fun things to do in Cappadocia, from hot air balloon rides and hiking to exploring ancient cave dwellings, winter in Cappadocia is just as fun as any other season. You may also get the benefit of seeing the area blanketed in snow – a truly magnificent sight that will lend a magical air to your winter holiday.
So read on to find out more about planning the perfect winter trip to Cappadocia.
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Why You Should Visit Cappadocia in Winter
Cappadocia is best known for hot air balloon rides over otherworldly landscapes. We’ve all seen the photos: colorful balloons sailing over fairy chimneys and multi-colored hills. Experiencing Cappadocia’s natural beauty is a major tourist draw, but if you come in winter, can you still enjoy all of Cappadocia’s outdoor adventures?
The answer is yes!
Cappadocia does not shut down in winter. Towns are open, tours are operating, and, best of all, hot air balloons are still soaring above the landscape.
The are also many reasons to plan to visit Cappadocia in winter instead of the summer months:
First, while the region is fully open to tourists, winter is the low season in Cappadocia. This means that crowds are smaller and you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. With smaller crowds, you’ll also find it easier to book tours and last-minute day trips.
Second, fewer crowds also mean cheaper hotels. If you visit in winter, you are likely to find yourself a bargain on a luxury cave hotel.
Finally, in case you’re still not convinced, Cappadocia’s landscapes are as beautiful in the winter as they are in the summer, if not more so!
There’s nothing quite like seeing the magical fairy chimneys covered in snow. The chance to see this in person is reason enough to plan a winter holiday in Cappadocia.
So now that I’ve convinced you to go ahead and plan a winter trip to Cappadocia, let’s discuss Cappadocia’s winter weather.
What is The Weather in Cappadocia in Winter?
Winter in Cappadocia starts in December and lasts through February. Winter months are cold and often snowy, but daily temperatures have large fluctuations. Below I’ve broken down what you can expect weatherwise for each winter month.
Cappadocia in December
On average, temperatures in December are in the mid-30s (F) but can drop into the low 20s. December is often when snow starts to accumulate on the ground and rock formations. However, in the December we visited, there was no snow accumulation. Locals we spoke to said this was unusual for December, and that normally in December they would have snow on the ground.
Cappadocia in January
January is the coldest month in Cappadocia, with temperatures dropping into the low-20s (F). January is also the month when Cappadocia gets the most snow. It’s not uncommon for January temperatures to drop below freezing.
Cappadocia in February
February in Cappadocia has similar weather to January, with average temperatures in the mid-30s (F) and lows in the mid-20s (F). There is still snow on the ground in February, and temperatures can drop below freezing.
Cappadocia in March
During March in Cappadocia the weather can be quite cold with average temperatures around 0°C (31°F) and highs of 12°C (54°F). March is the transitional time between winter and spring. You may still see some snow on the ground, but temperatures will rise toward the end of the month.
How Long to Spend in Cappadocia
Plan to spend at least two days visiting Cappadocia. You’ll need at least this amount of time to see the highlights.
I also recommend at least two days if you plan to take a hot air balloon ride. Be aware that hot air balloon rides sometimes get canceled due to poor weather conditions. The likelihood of this happening is higher in winter, so best to remain flexible and build in an extra day or two.
If your ride gets canceled the first morning of your trip, you can always reschedule for the next day.
For the three mornings I spent in Cappadocia, the balloons flew one morning, were canceled the next, and departed late the third day. Giving yourself an extra day or two could make the difference for getting up in the hot air balloon!
If you plan to hike in any of Cappadocia’s many valleys, add a third day to your itinerary to explore and take in more of the region’s beautiful scenery.
5 Tips For Visiting Cappadocia in Winter
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good tread. Trails can get icy, and hiking on these icy, sometimes steep trails can get treacherous. I had a close call and slipped on an icy segment of trail while hiking in Rose Valley. It was quite frightening, and I wouldn’t want that to happen to you!
- Pack layers. Make sure to bring a warm hat, gloves, scarves, sweaters, and a warm coat. Morning and evening are the coldest times of day, but in the sun around midday Cappadocia warms up. Opt for layers that can be easily adapted to the changing temperatures and your comfort level.
- Rent a car and explore the region on your own. While Cappadocia can be hard to navigate (minimal road signage and lack of good maps), the main valleys and top sights are not far from each other. If you have a general sense of where you’re going, it’s hard to get too lost. Cappadocia also has a few tour companies that will rent you a car for the day. This is a great option if you’re otherwise traveling through Turkey on public transportation. With the single-day rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore valleys and go hiking on your own schedule, and you won’t have to worry about finding parking near your hotel.
- Stay in a cave hotel. If this is your first trip to Cappadocia, you may think a cave hotel is kitsch. It’s a cool experience sleeping in a cave that’s been dug out of the rock. You’ll find the experience especially exciting after visiting the Goreme and Zelve Open Air Museums and seeing original cave dwellings dating back hundreds of years. It’s sure to be a memorable and worthwhile experience.
- Get up early to watch the balloons. Even if you don’t plan to take a hot air balloon ride (they are pricey, and kids under 6 aren’t allowed), getting up early to watch the balloons take off is totally worth it. If you stay in Goreme you can easily hike to an overlook point for balloon watching. Otherwise, staying in a hotel with a view of the balloons is another option. Take in the sunrise as hundreds of balloons ascend into the sky. It’s really quite a magical sight, so try not to miss it!
Top 20 Things to Do in Cappadocia in Winter
1. Goreme Open-Air Museum
One of the most important sights to see in Cappadocia, the Goreme Open-Air Museum is a series of churches and monastic quarters carved into rock outcroppings. These cave-cut churches date back to the Byzantine era, and the painted frescoes inside are remarkably well-preserved.
Today the Goreme Open-Air Museum is a Unesco World Heritage Site and a must-visit when in Cappadocia. Luckily, the sight is open year-round, even during the winter months.
2. Zelve Open-Air Museum
Much like the Goreme Open-Air Museum, the Zelve Open-Air Museum contains rock-carved dwellings and churches. Unlike its Goreme counterpart, however, the Zelve Open-Air Museum was a village and not a monastic settlement.
Visit Zelve to see how villagers lived until the 1950s when inhabitants were moved to a nearby settlement due to erosion and unsafe living conditions.
The Zelver Open-Air Museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about local life in Cappadocia when inhabitants lived in these rock caves.
3. Pasabag (Monk’s Valley)
Head to Pasabag to see some of Cappadocia’s best examples of fairy chimneys. These basalt-topped rock formations are some of the unique landscape features that put Cappadocia on the map.
This small valley takes less than an hour to explore and is easily combined with the aforementioned Zelve Open-Air Museum.
4. Visit Love Valley
The rock formations in Cappadocia’s Love Valley are some of the most well-known in the region. Once you see them, you’ll have no trouble understanding why they call this place “Love Valley.” These phallic rock formations are quite unique.
Similar to the hoodoos found in Bryce Canyon National Park (USA), this unique type of rock formation can only be seen in a handful of places worldwide. Love Valley is definitely worth a visit during your trip to Cappadocia. Thankfully, this beautiful valley is open year-round, even in winter.
5. Take a hot air balloon ride
Who doesn’t come to Cappadocia dreaming of taking a hot air balloon ride over the valley? Yes, you’ll have to get up early, and yes, it will be cold during your winter hot air balloon ride, but it will be unforgettable.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience is one of the most memorable things you’ll do during your visit to Cappadocia. Don’t miss out on this experience!
6. Watch the hot air balloons at sunrise
If for any reason going up in a hot air balloon doesn’t appeal to you (hey, no shame here!), then the next best thing is to get up early and watch the balloons take off at sunrise.
I truly felt that seeing the balloons rise into the air was a magical experience. At first, while the sky is still dark, you won’t see a thing. Slowly, you’ll start to notice flashes of light as the balloons get fired up. Then their bulbous shapes will emerge in the valley’s shadows.
Finally, the first balloons will start to rise, and before you know it the sky will be filled with hundreds of colorful balloons floating gracefully through the air.
It really is magical, and I can’t recommend the experience enough.
While there are viewpoints you can walk to, I enjoyed watching them from the comfort of my cave hotel with a view of the hot air balloons while sipping coffee and eating breakfast.
7. Uchisar Castle
The highest fairy chimney in Cappadocia and one of the most famous Turkish landmarks, Uchisar Castle sits high above the region. During the late Byzantine and early Ottoman periods, Uchisar Castle was used as a fortress. Later, locals inhabited the structure until erosion forced them out.
Head to the top for some of the best views of Cappadocia. If you don’t end up taking a hot air balloon ride, this is the second-best view to see Cappadocia from above.
From Uchisar Castle you’ll also have a great view down into Pigeon Valley, so named because the small holes carved high into the rocks were once used to house villagers’ homing pigeons.
8. Tour the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu
While some historians believe the cities were constructed a millennium ago, no one really knows the origins of these mysterious underground cities of Cappadocia.
These multi-story complexes had facilities for grain storage, cooking, winemaking, and latrines. There were even places to hold livestock. These vast cities could house thousands of people at a time.
It’s unclear whether people lived in these cities full-time, but the current belief is they were used to hide from invading armies. Either way, visiting the underground cities Kaymakli or Derinkuyu will be an experience unique to Cappadocia.
9. Hike in Rose Valley
If you feel like escaping the crowds in the main tourist areas, then head into Rose Valley. With trails to fit all levels of hikers, this valley is a must for anyone looking to stretch their legs and get out in nature.
Not only does the Rose Valley hike take you past many beautiful fairy chimneys, but it also contains many lesser-visited rock churches. The highlight for us was the Columned Church with its open space and light pouring through small slits in the walls.
If you only have time for one hike during your winter trip to Cappadocia, let it be in the Rose Valley.
10. Go skiing on Mount Erciyes
In winter, Mount Erciyes, an ancient volcano, dominates the skyline of central Anatolia with its snow-capped peak. Whether you’re an avid skier or simply interested in giving skiing a shot, head up the mountain for some of the best skiing in all of Turkey.
This popular ski destination attracts visitors from all over the world looking to ski down one of the over 33 runs on the mountain. With pristine snow conditions and incredible panoramic views of the valley from its summit, skiing on Mount Erciyes is a great Cappadocia winter activity.
11. Ihlara Valley
For something completely different, head to the Ihlara Valley. This verdant oasis, nestled within a canyon, contains river-side hiking trails and a few rock churches. While the valley is not as green in the winter as it is during the summer months, it’s still a great place to add to a Cappadocia winter itinerary.
Walking the entire stretch of the Ihlara Valley takes a full day, but a shorter portion of the trail can be accessed by entering at the Ihlara Valley Tourist Facility and exiting at Belisirma.
Another option for seeing the Ihlara Valley is through a tour, which will drop you off at one end and pick you up at the other.
12. Let your imagination run wild in Devrent Valley
Devrent Valley, known in English as “Imagination Valley,” is best known for its interesting rock formations. Looking at them, you may see a camel, a rabbit, or is it a heart? The limit is your imagination.
This photogenic valley is also a great place for some hiking, an opportunity to get up close and personal with that bird-looking rock out in the distance.
13. Eat traditional Anatolian food
One of my favorite parts of our winter visit to Cappadocia was getting to try some traditional Anatolian food.
We ate some of our best Turkish meals in Cappadocia – manti (Turkish dumplings) and testi kebabi (meat stewed and cooked in a clay pot) were memorable highlights. Wash it all down with a Turkish beverage of choice, and you have yourself a perfect meal!
Pro tip: Wondering how much to tip your waiter? Check out my handy Turkish Tip Calculator!
14. Take a cooking class
After eating the delicious Anatolian cuisine, you may be inspired to learn to make some yourself. I personally love taking cooking classes when I travel and have learned to make some amazing foods this way. In Cappadocia, there are a couple of cooking class options. This cooking class, led by a local guide in their home, is one I’m particularly keen to try on my next trip.
15. Go horseback riding
If you want to see more of Cappadocia’s dreamy valleys but are short on time, consider going horseback riding.
Many tour operators offer guided tours on horseback of Love Valley, Red Valley, or Rose Valley. This is a great option for those who want a unique Cappadocia experience and to see the unique rock formations up close.
Click here to check out horseback riding tours in Cappadocia.
16. Relax in a hammam
A Turkish hammam experience is a must when visiting the country, and Cappadocia is the perfect place to do it. After a day out hiking in the valley, what could be better than relaxing in a steam room and treating yourself to a rejuvenating massage?
Some hotels even have onsite hammams available to their guests, such as this hotel.
Click here to check out hammam experiences in Cappadocia.
17. Go ATVing
Real thrill seekers will love taking an ATV ride around Cappadocia. While you won’t be able to access the pedestrian-only hiking trails through the valleys, there are many fun dirt roads to explore via ATV.
A Cappadocia ATV ride is the perfect activity for adventure lovers looking to try something different in Cappadocia.
Click here to check out ATV tours in Cappadocia.
18. Shop for Turkish souvenirs
While I’m not normally a souvenir person, Turkey is one place I went a little overboard looking for things to bring home. From evil eye amulets to Turkish rugs, there are many great souvenirs to purchase in Turkey.
The town of Goreme, the tourist hub of Cappadocia, is the perfect place to do some souvenir shopping. There are many shops to explore, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to shop during your visit.
19. See a pottery demonstration
The town of Avanos is famous for its pottery, and a great place to see live pottery-making demonstrations.
You can visit the workshops on your own, or consider taking this tour, which includes transport to and from your hotel, as well as the chance to create your own clay masterpieces!
Click here to check out pottery-making experiences in Cappadocia.
20. Take a bike tour
Yet another great way to explore Cappadocia’s backcountry is via mountain bike. On this mountain biking tour, you’ll explore caves, ride between fairy chimneys, and discover the area by bike.
Tours are open to all levels of cyclists, with family options available as well.
Click here to check out bike tours in Cappadocia.
1-, 2-, and 3-Day Cappadocia winter itineraries
Whether you’re coming to Cappadocia for one, two, or three days, here are some Cappadocia itineraries that will help you see the best of the region during your winter trip.
How to spend one day in Cappadocia
If you only have one day for your Cappadocia winter trip, begin early with a hot air balloon ride. There are countless balloon operators throughout Cappadocia, but it’s often easiest to book directly through your hotel. Your hotel will also help you find a reputable operator with the necessary training who follows safety protocols.
Pro Tip: Hot air ballooning can be a risky endeavor, so it’s important to book with a reputable company. Speak with your hotel about the best companies offering the experience. And remember, cheaper may be a red flag in regard to safety.
The hot air balloon ride starts before sunrise. You’ll be picked up at your hotel and transported to the launch spot. Remember to wear warm clothes and lots of layers as temperatures will be especially cold in the air.
After your balloon ride, you’ll be transited back to your hotel where you can enjoy a late breakfast though some hot air balloon packages even include breakfast.
After breakfast, rent a car for the day and head to the Goreme Open Air Museum.
Tour the Goreme Open Air Museum, popping in to see the rock-hewn churches and well-preserved Byzantine fresco murals. A visit to the site takes approximately two hours, so after your visit plan on grabbing lunch at either the onsite cafe or one of the food trucks parked outside the entrance.
After lunch, it’s time to explore Cappadocia’s famous valleys on foot. Drive on to the Rose Valley and follow signs. This loop hike takes you past hidden rock churches which you can explore at your leisure. The highlight for us was the columned church, with slanting shafts of lights entering through slit windows near the ceiling.
While hiking in Cappadocia in winter, note that trails may be ice-covered and slippery. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes with good tread. Sticking to the trails is also important as there are steep drop-offs in parts.
The Rose Valley hike will introduce you to some of the most scenic natural beauty in Cappadocia. While you can extend this hike for as long as you’d like, I recommend taking no longer than two hours.
After the hike, drive on to some other scenic must-see points in Cappadocia: Love Valley, Pasabage, and Zelve Valley.
All these sights are within a 10-minute drive of each other and easy to navigate between. I suggest heading to Love Valley first to check out the scenic overlook. This is a nice spot to grab a cup of Turkish tea and relax after your hike.
From Love Valley, drive on to Pasabaga for more beguiling fairy chimneys. Pasabage takes at most 45 minutes to see, although you can spend longer if you’d like to explore and climb into the many cave dwellings.
Finally, end your day at the Zelve Open Air Museum. These rock homes were occupied by locals until the late 1950s when everyone was relocated due to erosion. This atmospheric valley will give you a sense of what life was like living in a cave.
Once you’ve finished at Zelve, it’s time to return to Goreme for a filling dinner after a whirlwind day of sightseeing.
2 Days in Cappadocia itinerary
Spending two days in Cappadocia is the perfect way to see the region’s top highlights. For your first day in Cappadocia, follow my above itinerary for how to spend one day in Cappadocia.
On your second day consider another early morning start, this time to watch the balloons take off at sunrise. You can choose to watch from your hotel balcony (assuming you’re staying at one of the many Cappadocia hotels with views of hot air balloons) or hike up to sunset point (note: there is a small fee to do this hike).
For day 2 in Cappadocia, I recommend going further afield via a guided tour. We took the Green Tour, which we booked through our hotel.
The Green tour picks you up at your hotel and begins in Pigeon Valley, thus named for the homing pigeons that were once housed in small holes carved into the rocks. Next, the tour heads to the underground city of Kaymakli.
These underground cities are really cool sites that are unique to Cappadocia. Going with a guide is the best way to see these cities as there’s little interpretive information. The guide walks you through the city, describing what each room was used for and the archaeological significance of the site.
The next stop on the tour is the Ilhara Valley. While this verdant valley is a nice place to escape the summer heat, it’s not at its most beautiful during the winter months. Nonetheless, the hike through the valley was still quite scenic and I’m glad we were able to visit and see it for ourselves.
At the end of the hike through the valley, the tour stops for an al fresco lunch along the Ilhara River.
The final stop of the Green Tour is the Salemi Katedrali, a monastery and series of churches built into a tall rock. This site is really cool to explore, and a highlight of the day. Our kids especially loved climbing around the rock structure and exploring the hidden nooks and crannies inside the dug-out caves.
The Green Tour will drive you back to your hotel, a nice perk considering the trip back to Goreme takes nearly an hour. Taking a guided group tour, such as the Green Tour, takes you to many top sights further away from Goreme and is a great way to spend your second of two days in Cappadocia.
3 Days in Cappadocia itinerary
If you’re fortunate enough to have a third day visiting Cappadocia in winter, then spend it skiing up on Mount Erciyes.
Turkey’s largest ski resort is a great place to spend your final day in Cappadocia. What better way to top off a winter trip to Cappadocia than zooming down the region’s tallest peak?
Mount Erciyes is about a 1.5-hour drive from Goreme, and as you ascend the mountain you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the valley.
If you’re not interested in renting a car and driving yourself, you can also visit the mountain via a guided tour that will arrange everything for you.
How to get to Cappadocia, Turkey
Now that I’ve convinced you to plan that winter trip to Cappadocia, you’re probably wondering how you’ll get there. Luckily, Cappadocia is well-serviced by planes and buses, and driving there isn’t so hard either.
Travel to Cappadocia by air
Flying is by far the easiest way to get to Cappadocia. The region is serviced by two airports: Kayseri Airport (ASR) and Nevsehir Airport (NAV). Both airports have several flights a day from Istanbul serviced by Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines.
Flights from Istanbul take approximately one hour. Costs can vary, especially given the recent volatility of the Turkish Lira, but are cheaper if booked in advance.
Getting from Kayseri Airport to Goreme takes just over an hour. The easiest way to get between the two is via an airport transfer. Click here to check rates and availability.
Getting from Nevsehir Airport to Goreme takes approximately 40 minutes. Again, a direct transfer is your best option to get from the airport to your hotel. Click here to check rates and availability.
Travel to Cappadocia by bus
The bus is the cheapest way to get to Cappadocia, but what you make up for in the price you lose in time.
Buses to Cappadocia run regularly from Istanbul and take about 11 hours, and most buses to Cappadocia travel overnight.
The main bus terminal is Nevsehir Otogar (Nevsehir Bus Station), but some bus companies offer direct service to Goreme and Avanos.
Travel to Cappadocia by car
The drive from Istanbul to Goreme takes around 8-10 hours, depending on traffic.
If you have the time, driving is a great option for seeing more of the beautiful Turkish countryside. I also recommend having a car in Cappadocia. This will allow you to explore the region at your own pace and get to some of the best hiking destinations, such as Rose Valley.
Where to stay in winter in Cappadocia
For our winter trip to Cappadocia, we stayed in the town of Goreme. Goreme is centrally located and a great place to base yourself for exploring the region. The town is one of the large tourist centers in the region and thus has the most options for eating, shopping, tours, and accommodations.
If you want a slightly less touristy experience, consider staying in Uchisar. Not far from Goreme, this less frequented village empties of tourists at night while still offering luxurious cave hotels and dining experiences.
Luxury hotels in Cappadocia
Argos
For top Cappadocia lodging, look no further than Argos. This former monastery turned luxury hotel is a splurge, but well worth it if you’re looking for that once-in-a-lifetime hotel experience.
Argos has multi-story suites with their own private terraces and views of the valley. Some suites are also equipped with private hot tubs, perfect for soaking in to watch the hot air balloons at sunrise.
Museum Hotel
Located in Uchisar, the Museum Hotel is the perfect place to stay for ultimate relaxation. Not only do they have large suites with private indoor pools, but the hotel also has an outdoor rooftop pool where you can swim while watching hot air balloons take flight.
Budget Hotels in Cappadocia
Kismet Cave House
If you’re looking for a unique and cozy place to stay in Cappadocia that also fits your budget, then the Kismet Cave House is a great choice.
This daily-run cave hotel, located in Goreme, will make you feel like you’re staying in someone’s home as opposed to a hotel. The mother of the family makes breakfast every morning, which adds a personal touch to your stay.
The Kismet Cave House has family rooms available, making it perfect for those traveling with children or in a group. To make your stay even more convenient, the hotel can also organize transport to and from the airport, free of charge. Overall, this hotel provides a unique and personalized experience that sets it apart from other hotels in the area, making it a great budget choice for your stay in Cappadocia.
Cappadocia Cave Hotel
Located right in the heart of Goreme, this hotel is in the perfect location to base yourself during your winter trip to Cappadocia. One of the standout features of this hotel is that they will book tours for guests at a cheaper rate than you would find in town, making it a great value for budget-conscious travelers who still want to see it all.
The hotel’s unique cave rooms and terrace provide a one-of-a-kind experience, with stunning views of the hot air balloons that fill the sky each morning. The extensive breakfast buffet is another highlight, with plenty of vegetarian options available to cater to all dietary needs.
Overall, the Cappadocia Cave Hotel is a great value for your stay in Cappadocia, with its prime location, unique rooms, and personalized services that will make your trip unforgettable.
Cave hotels in Cappadocia
Anatolian Houses
For a truly unique cave hotel experience in Cappadocia, the Anatolian Houses is a perfect choice. This hotel is built into eight original fairy chimneys, and the cave dwellings have been transformed into luxurious accommodations.
One of the standout features of the Anatolian Houses is that guests can reach the city center through a tunnel from the property, an especially nice feature in winter as you can avoid trudging outside to dinner on those cold Cappadocia winter nights.
The hotel also boasts both an outdoor and indoor pool, with the latter built as a Roman-style bath, as well as an onsite gym and hammam for ultimate relaxation. In the winter, the hotel offers ski trips to Mount Erciyes. What really sets the Anatolian Houses apart is their top-notch customer service, ensuring that every guest has a comfortable and memorable stay.
Aydinli Cave Hotel
My personal favorite hotel in Cappadocia is the Aydinli Cave Hotel. The hotel’s welcoming staff really made us feel at home, and the bowl of raisins regularly on offer in the lobby was a big hit with my young children.
The hotel’s standout feature is the incredible breakfasts served in a room overlooking the valley, with many food options available and the added bonus of being able to watch the hot air balloons soar through the sky.
The Aydinli Cave Hotel exemplifies Turkish hospitality in how they go above and beyond for their guests. They even offered to drive us to the Goreme Open Air Museum so we wouldn’t have to book a taxi. The hotel’s comfortable rooms can accommodate families, making it a great choice for those traveling with children. This stellar hotel is one of the best cave hotels in Goreme and the perfect place to stay during your winter trip to Cappadocia.
Where to eat in Cappadocia
There are many restaurants throughout Cappadocia offering tasty Anatolian fare, but these three restaurants were my personal favorites. All three are especially great for dining on a cold winter evening. Their cozy dining rooms and hearty Anatolian fare will definitely warm you up on those cold Cappadocia winter nights!
Topdeck Cave Restaurant (Goreme)
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Cappadocia, look no further than Topdeck Cave Restaurant. This family-run restaurant is built inside a rock cave, providing a truly one-of-a-kind ambiance that sets it apart from other dining options in the area. The small, homey dining room offers a relaxed atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home. The restaurant’s delicious mezze platters are a standout feature, with options suitable for vegetarians.
The seasonal menu changes regularly, ensuring that guests can always enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For those visiting in the winter months, the restaurant offers comfortable floor seating by the fireside, providing a cozy and intimate setting to warm up on a chilly evening.
Dibek (Goreme)
For an authentic Turkish dining experience in Cappadocia, look no further than Dibek Restaurant. Diners have the option to sit on cushions around low rectangular tables, providing a comfortable and intimate atmosphere that transports you to the Turkey of yesteryear. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its testi kebab, a famed Anatolian dish of stewed beef cooked inside a clay pot.
While prices are on the high side for the area, guests are paying for the ambiance and experience, which in addition to the delicious food is well worth it. The restaurant also offers a delicious selection of mezze and sides, with the tasting menu being a particular standout. The tasting menu includes a variety of dishes, such as manti (Turkish dumplings), stewed okra, Turkish meatballs, and more, providing guests with a delicious sampling of some of the best dishes on offer.
Make sure to add Dibek Restaurant to your list of places to eat in Cappadocia this winter – you won’t be disappointed!
Pumpkin (Goreme)
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Cappadocia, then Pumpkin in Goreme is a must-visit. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant is especially perfect for those cold Cappadocia winters.
The standout dish at Pumpkin Restaurant is their delicious lamb pots – slow-cooked for hours to tender perfection. This savory dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
End your meal on a sweet note with homemade baklava. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, Pumpkin Restaurant is definitely worth a visit during your stay in Cappadocia.
What to pack for a Cappadocia winter
For winter in Cappadocia, expect nights and mornings to be cold and midday temperatures to be slightly warmer. When packing for a winter trip to Cappadocia, warm weather gear and layers are a must!
To keep warm while exploring Cappadocia, a good coat is a must. This is especially important if you’ll be taking a sunrise hot air balloon ride as temperatures in the air will be freezing. I love this jacket because it blocks out the wind and keeps me warm despite cold temperatures.
If you plan to do any hiking on your winter trip to Cappadocia, be sure to pack sturdy hiking shoes with good tread. I’m partial to Keen hiking shoes. I’ve been using the same pair for nearly a decade now and love them.
A pair of long underwear could be handy, especially if you’re planning to take a Cappadocia balloon ride in winter. These long underwear have lasted me several years, and have kept me warm even in sub-zero temperatures.
A warm hat is another item you’ll be glad you packed. Any beanie or trapper hat will work, as long as it covers your head and blocks out the cold winter wind.
Finally, other travel essentials such as a good day pack and portable charger are handy to bring with you to Cappadocia. I also recommend a water bottle with a built-in filter as you shouldn’t drink tap water in Turkey.
FAQ: Winter in Cappadocia
Winter in Cappadocia starts in December and ends in March. The coldest winter months in Cappadocia, and when you are most likely to see snow, are January and February.
Yes, you can hike in Cappadocia in winter. Snow and ice may cause trails to be slippery, so hiking shoes with good tread as necessary for hiking during winter in Cappadocia.
Yes, Cappadocia is worth visiting in winter. With fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and all major sights open to tourists, Cappadocia is a great winter travel destination!
Yes, hot air balloons fly in Cappadocia in winter. Balloon rides may be canceled due to poor weather and visibility, but you can still take a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia during the winter.
Yes, Cappadocia is worth visiting in January. Temperatures are cold, and there may be snow on the ground, but Cappadocia is a beautiful and worthwhile destination year-round.
Yes, December is a good time to visit Cappadocia Turkey because there are fewer crowds and everything is open. December in Cappadocia also means cheaper hotel prices, an added incentive to visit Cappadocia in December.
It does sometimes snow in Cappadocia in December. However, most snowfall in Cappadocia occurs in January or February.
Yes, Cappadocia is colder than Istanbul. While it can also snow in Istanbul, temperatures are on average colder in Cappadocia. This is because the temperatures in Istanbul are moderated by the sea of Marmara.
It could snow in Cappadocia anytime during the winter. However, most snow happens during the months of January and February.
When visiting Cappadocia in winter, be sure to pack layers. Bring a warm winter coat, scarf, hat, and gloves. Temperatures are coldest in the morning and evening but usually warm slightly during the day.
Cappadocia is beautiful in December, albeit a bit cold. December is a wonderful time to visit Cappadocia.
Yes, you should visit Turkey in the winter. A trip to Turkey can be planned in any season.
Cappadocia cannot be done as a day trip from Istanbul. The two locations are quite far apart, and the travel time between the two is much too long for a day trip. While you can easily get from Istanbul to Cappadocia, you will need more than one day for the trip.
Final Thoughts: Cappadocia in winter
The fairy tale land of Cappadocia is a magical destination that should be on every traveler’s list. Winter in Cappadocia brings a special charm to this region. The snow-covered valleys are a captivating sight, best appreciated from a hot air balloon or by hiking. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from above or explore the historic region on foot, with plenty of options for outdoor adventure. Cappadocia in winter is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with travel memories that will last a lifetime.