Located in the heart of Turkey, Cappadocia is one of the most magical places on earth. A premier hot air balloon destination, tourists have been flocking to this hot spot for decades.
I visited back in 2014 and was mesmerized by the place’s power. And I didn’t even go up in a balloon because I’m scared of heights.
Cappadocia boasts an almost perfect melting pot of tourist attractions and facilities. A combination of stunning rock formations, brilliant sunsets, ancient history, and world-class accommodations draw record visitor numbers each year.
The infrastructure is excellent, the food is delicious, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. Taking an iconic hot air balloon ride over this ethereal landscape is one of those essential bucket list trips everyone should do in their lifetime. But where should you stay?
In this article, we look at the best hotels in Cappadocia, including those in the original cave dwellings the region is famous for. After all, if you visit one of the finest honeymoon destinations in the world, you’ll need accommodation that lives up to it.
TL;DR
| Category | Hotel |
|---|---|
| Best Luxury Hotel in Cappadocia | The Museum Hotel |
| Best Mid-Range Hotel in Cappadocia | Carus Cappadocia |
| Best Budget Hotel in Cappadocia | Kismet Cave House |
| Best Family Hotel in Cappadocia | Kelebek Hotel |
| Best Couples Hotel in Cappadocia | Taskonaklar |
| Best Solo Hotel in Cappadocia | Local Cave House |
The Best Cappadocia Hotels
1. The Museum Hotel
Address: ekeli mah. Eski, Göreme Cd. No.1, 50240 Nevşehir, Türkiye
The Museum Hotel is one of the best hotels in Cappadocia with a view. It’s also one of the most breathtaking places you will ever stay. Built from ruins, caves, and ancient houses, the hotel justifies its name.
Luxurious rooms are decorated with priceless artifacts and antiques, enhancing the museum vibe. You’ll feel you’ve stepped back in time and live like royalty in old-world Turkey. The heated outdoor pool and the views of the hot air balloons from the rooftop terrace are spectacular.
The hotel has a wide range of spacious rooms depending on your needs. They all feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries, and a safety deposit box for valuables. The Superior suites are jaw-dropping.
The menu is impressive, too. Have you ever had a traditional Turkish buffet breakfast? Be prepared to enjoy mouthfuls of fruit and vegetables fresh from the hotel’s garden. Museum Hotel is easily one of the best cave hotels in Cappadocia.
Pros
- Stunning rooms
- Gorgeous views
- Delicious breakfast
- Beautiful terrace and swimming pool area
Cons
- Outrageously expensive
2. Local Cave House Hotel
Address: Gaferli Mah. Cevizler Sok. No 11, 50180 Göreme, Turkey
The Local Cave House Hotel has a special place in my heart. This is where I stayed when I visited Cappadocia. It’s in a perfect central location, just a short walk from the main street, and surrounded by several famous fairy chimneys the region is known for.
One of the most popular cave hotels for travelers, the Local Cave House staff will arrange local excursions, including hot air balloon flights. If you’d prefer to organize something, try this popular full-day private Cappadocia tour. Or go here if you want to go up in a balloon at sunrise.
The main courtyard has a heated outdoor pool, and the terrace is great for watching hot air balloons fly over your head. This charming cave hotel offers a traditional Turkish breakfast buffet, which always sets me up for the day.
Rooms carved from stone walls are spacious without being overbearing, and modern amenities ensure you will want for nothing.
Pros
- Outstanding location
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great for solo travelers
Cons
- Can attract too many influencers
- No bar or restaurant on site
3. Argos In Cappadocia
Address: Kayabasi Sokak, 50240 Uçhisar, Turkey
The Argos Hotel is housed in a former monastery and boasts a vineyard and winery. Many rooms face the famous Pigeon Valley and feature outstanding views of the fairytale landscape. Some come with a private terrace, while others are only accessed through underground tunnels.
The Argos offers a blend of antique and modern traditional Turkish decor throughout. All the rooms are set in carved stone buildings and offer essential standard provisions like Wi-Fi, a minibar, and a kettle. Fireplaces ensure this is a cozy hotel option if you’re arriving in winter.
The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves local and international cuisine, with views of Mount Erciyes in the distance. Uchisar Castle is only a stone’s throw away, and I highly recommend a visit to this stunning rock formation.
The hotel can arrange hot-air balloon rides and tours on horseback or quads for anyone seeking adventure. Airport shuttles are also available on request.
Pros
- Beautiful views
- Centrally located
- Garden terrace
- Quiet
Cons
- Small swimming pool
4. Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge
Address: Tekelli Kümesi No 8, 50240 Uçhisar, Turkey
Quite the opposite of feeling like you’re staying underground in a cave hotel, the Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge is perched on top of the Uchisar Valley. However, cave rooms are still available if you so choose.
Named after an ancient goddess of the sun, there are 11 suites at the hotel, each named after a deity. And you’ll feel like one here, as the suites are decorated with precious stones, antique mosaics, and handcrafted details. They are also equipped with designer furniture and private marble bathrooms.
For added convenience, room service is available around the clock. An American-style restaurant on site prepares meals using fresh vegetables and local ingredients.
The grounds feature a perfectly manicured garden that offers guests the ideal background for photos and relaxation. If you’re looking for incredible accommodation for you and your significant other, this lodge is a home away from home.
Pros
- Stunning terrace
- Private and secluded feel
- Excellent views
Cons
- Could do with a spa, swimming pool, and wellness center
5. Taskonaklar
Address: Gedik Sokak No:8 Nevsehir, 50240 Uçhisar, Turkey
With its rooms offering a marriage of comfort and simplicity, the Taskonaklar is a delightful cave hotel in Cappadocia. The hotel overlooks one of the most beautiful valleys in the region, with stunning views from some suites.
Taskonaklar has charming traditional rooms that evoke a mix of history and romance. Each spacious room has free Wi-Fi, Turkish rugs, a fireplace, and other essentials. The hotel also offers complimentary local wine to all guests.
Deluxe suites feature private balconies with outdoor hot tubs, making Taskonaklar one of the best cave hotels in Cappadocia for couples. The hotel has a restaurant and bar and free private parking on site. The outdoor terrace offers views of the hot air balloons.
Staff can help you organize treks on foot or horseback in the valley. And if you want more adventure, you can participate in private-guided hot air balloon tours. This is a top-rated cave hotel that is perfect for a romantic getaway.
Pros
- Perfect for couples
- Cozy rooms
- Beautiful outdoor courtyard
- Friendly staff
Cons
- There are a lot of stairs in the hotel – you might be in for a climb
6. Goreme Inn Hotel
Address: Orta Mah. Efendi Sok. No:5-6 Goreme Kasabasi, 50180 Göreme, Turkey
This boutique hotel is conveniently located in Göreme, the main hub for hot-air balloon rides. Although not strictly considered a cave hotel, its more contemporary design distinguishes it from other options on our list.
The Goreme Inn Hotel features rooms constructed using the same light-colored stone found in the caves. They are large and modern, with wood paneling and Persian rugs adorning them. Glass lanterns and large pottery have been strategically placed around the hotel to complement the design.
A daily Turkish-style breakfast is included, which ensures plenty of pastries, cheese, fresh fruit, vegetables, and cereal. You can enjoy your meals while relaxing on the large stone terraces facing the valley.
The staff here are friendly and available around the clock. They can arrange regional tours for you if you want to go sightseeing.
Alternatively, you can make these arrangements yourself. Try this sunset horseback ride for romance, or this ATV tour if you’d prefer the thrill of four wheels.
Pros
- Excellent breakfast selection
- Stunning terrace views
- Great location
- Very clean and well-maintained
Cons
- Some people won’t like the “fake cave” aesthetic.
7. Sultan Cave Suites
Address: Aydinli Mah. Aydinli Sok. No:40, 50180 Göreme, Turkey
Sultan Cave Suites is one of the best cave hotels in Cappadocia and boasts an impressive amount of rave reviews. The rooftop balcony is a particular highlight, where guests can enjoy a stunning panorama punctuated with hot air balloons.
Your cave room will be set in the stone walls of Aydinli Hill and decorated with traditional Turkish antiques and furnishings. Most suites have private terraces, balconies, or patios. Modern bathrooms ensure comfort, and there are sitting areas in each room.
Hotel staff are on hand 24 hours a day for all your needs, and they can arrange excursions, including hiking trips and hot air balloon flights. Or you could try this popular full-day private Cappadocia tour if you want to book an interesting experience yourself.
One of the major plus points of this Cappadocia cave hotel is its location. The beautiful Goreme Tarihi Park is less than a mile away. Airport transfers are available on request for a small fee, as is a shuttle to the local bus station.
Pros
- Great location
- Delicious food
- Stunning terrace with beautiful views
- Helpful staff
Cons
- This cave hotel might be a little too popular for some
- Pricey
8. Carus Cappadocia Hotel
Address: Gaferli Mahallesi Manav Çıkmazı sokak No:2 50180 Göreme
Carus Cappadocia Hotel is also among the hotels in Cappadocia. Although it is located in Goreme, it is not a cave hotel. It offers a modern experience for guests who do not want to sleep in cave rooms.
Amenities available at this hotel include a restaurant, a bar, and a garden. There is a terrace where you can sit and view the surrounding landscape. The restaurant has an expansive menu, with various meals from a continental breakfast to an à la carte lunch.
Every room at Carus Cappadocia has a desk, a TV, a fridge, and a private bathroom. Room service is also available on demand. WiFi is available throughout, and there is an indoor pool and a sauna.
The area around the hotel is popular for activities like cycling and hiking, and the staff can help you arrange bicycle rentals. Guests can also visit nearby attractions like Göreme National Park, Göreme Roman Castle, Rose Valley, and Sunset Point.
Pros
- Eclectic food options on-site
- Great location
- Very highly rated
- Gorgeous indoor pool
Cons
- The pool is on the small side
9. Kismet Cave House
Address: Kagni Yolu No. 9, 50180 Göreme, Turkey
Kismet Cave House is a family-run establishment and one of the oldest cave hotels in Cappadocia. The hotel has a loyal following because of its wonderful hospitality and unforgettable ambiance. It’s also one of the best cave hotels for budget travelers.
With only eight cave rooms, guests here receive privacy and attention, which might be rare in other cave hotels. Although small, it compensates for this with its unforgettable charm and character.
Rooms have been cut into one of the fairy chimneys and are furnished with tasteful Turkish carpets and linens. The terrace on the roof offers beautiful town views, and a delicious breakfast is included in the rates.
Kismet Cave House is centrally located, with convenient access to most attractions around the Goreme area. For those staying at least three days, there is even free airport pick-up.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Personal, tailor-made experience
- Cozy feel
- Beautiful rooftop view
Cons
- A little light on other facilities
10. Cappadocia Cave Suites
Address: Gafferli Mah. Ünlü Sok. No: 19, 50180 Göreme, Turkey
For a unique experience, it’s hard to top the Cappadocia Cave Suites. With its cozy design and location close to the Goreme town center, guests rave about this unique accommodation option set into the rock formations. The hotel offers a romantic and private vibe that is popular with couples.
The Historia Restaurant serves local fare in a relaxed atmosphere, while the terrace provides stunning views of the surrounding valley. Sightseeing tours and hot air balloon rides are available. While you’re in the region, I encourage you to see a traditional whirling dervish show, a unique meditation dance in Turkey.
Pros
- Excellent food options
- Cozy rooms
- Terrace views
Cons
- No outdoor swimming pool
11. Kelebek Special Cave Hotel
Address: Aydinli Mah. Yavuz Sok. No:1 Goreme, 50180 Göreme, Turkey
The Kelebek Special Cave Hotel is one of Cappadocia’s most highly-rated cave hotels. Its rooms are decorated with Turkish fabrics for a traditional experience.
Amenities provided in the room include satellite TV and air conditioning. Suites are equipped with marble bathrooms. The hotel boasts a sauna and spa where guests can enjoy a traditional Turkish bath and relaxing massage. Alternatively, you can book your own private bath experience if you prefer.
If you love Turkish food, you’re in for a treat. The hotel’s on-site restaurant offers the best of the local Cappadocia cuisine.
Hotel pick-ups are available from the bus station in Goreme town to the hotel. And with most of the main attractions no more than two miles away, this is the perfect base camp (base cave?) for touring Cappadocia.
Pros
- Great for families
- Stunning pool
- Well-stocked hotel bar
- Beautiful views
Cons
- Some rooms are a little on the small side
FAQs
What area is best for staying in Cappadocia?
The town of Goreme is the central hub, where most of the cave hotels are located, and where the hot air balloons take off from.
How many days should I stay in Cappadocia?
Cappadocia can reel you in and keep you for months if you’re not careful. But I would say that you should aim to spend no less than three days, at the very least.
What is the best month to visit Cappadocia?
You can’t go wrong in either late spring or early autumn.
