Will have 5 nights in Istanbul to start and one whole day at end before flying out. Would be leaving there on April 23, so should we fly to Cappadocia first, rent a car then head through Konya to Antalya and head back uo coast to Izmir. Or fly to Izmir and end up in Cappadocia. It was suggested also to fly to Cappadocia first, then fly to Izmir and not drive southwest through mountains, Konya, Lakes etc at all. Then from Izmir head south and train or fly back from Antalya. My husband is not really a city guy, we love hiking and great scenery. Weather at this time is a factor as well. Please give me input as itinerary.
Start in Cappadocia or Izmir-have16 days outside Istanbul
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I would start in Izmir and end in Cappadocia, if only because that is what we did. You might want to take a look at my trip report; click on my name to find it.
I strongly suggest that you drive South from Cappadocia to Mersin-Erdemli-Silifke and then continue on the coast, totally bypassing Konya.
Another possibility is to go Nevsehir-Manazan-Mut-Silifke or through Ermenek to Anamur after Mut.
All three provide incredible nature, little known magnificent antiquity and possibly better weather including possible beach time at secluded private coves as you drive along.
Have a look at my recent "Denver to Virtuous" trip report. Virtuous being the translation of the Turkish name Erdemli to English.
i am a professional tour guide in Turkey first thing i suggest is avoid Cappadocia on april 23 because its a national fastival in Turkey. the busiest times of cappadocia are always the festival times. rent a car and driving between the distances will give you an advantage to see Konya and Pamukkale and in my opinion the roads are quite safe. if you want to ask any questions you may contact me and you may check the itineraries from www.excellentturkeytours.com
Does this mean Cappadocia will busy for the following days around the festival time. Would be be better to start in Izmir then. If this is a National festival then where would be a good place to be?
April 23rd is a one day national holiday for children. It is not a festival and has nothing to do with Cappadocia specifically.
There is a possibility that some schools may arrange a field trip to Cappadocia and to other historic sites on that day, but that should not concern you much. I actually enjoy seeing the look of wonder on kid's faces at exciting locations.
The above post seems to be basically self advertising.
Michael I see you stayed in Mustafapasa which is smaller and less touristy. Hard to choose between Urgup, Goreme and Mustafapasa. I see some stay in Guzelyet which is closer to Ihara valley where I would like to hike. How hard is it do do this hike from the other bases. Is a car necessary or local tours a better option.
I would use a car, although I do not know how you would do the hike in the Ihlara valley one way only. My impression is that the best chapels are near the base of the 460 stairs that start at the rim.
Mustafapasa has surely changed. Some of the ruins were being converted into hotels, as ours had been.
I would definitely suggest Uchisar. It is not tourist crowded like Goreme and Urgup, and it is not as distant as Mustafapasa to locations. Plus it is the highest town so if you choose a hotel accordingly you will have a great view of the whole region.