Tourism in Cappadocia hits record highs

Cappadocia, a region located in central Turkey, is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors to this region are treated to a feast for the senses, as they explore its stunning landscapes, ancient structures, and rich heritage.

Fairy chimneys, monasteries, and boutique hotels on offer

One of the most notable features of Cappadocia is its fairy chimneys. These towering rock formations, which resemble giant mushrooms, were formed by volcanic eruptions and shaped by wind and rain over millions of years. They are a testament to the natural forces that have shaped this region over time. Visitors can explore the fairy chimneys up close, hiking around their bases or even climbing to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Another highlight of Cappadocia is its underground settlements and rock-cut historical monasteries. These structures were carved out of the soft volcanic rock by early Christians seeking refuge from persecution. Visitors can explore these underground cities, which are connected by tunnels and staircases, and marvel at their ingenious design. The rock-cut historical monasteries are also a must-see, with their intricate frescoes and beautiful architecture.

Cappadocia is also home to a number of boutique hotels that offer a unique and luxurious experience. These hotels are typically housed in traditional cave dwellings and offer modern amenities such as spas, pools, and fine dining restaurants. Visitors can relax and unwind in these tranquil surroundings, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Emerging as a must-see tourist destination

In recent years, Cappadocia has emerged as a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. According to data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the number of visitors to the region has been steadily increasing.

In the period from January to September, museums and archaeological sites in Cappadocia hosted 3,053,827 visitors, up from 2,544,909 visitors in the same period in 2022. Industry representatives predict that this trend will continue, with a new record in the number of visitors expected to be achieved, surpassing the previous record of 4,192,070 visitors set in 2022.

Natural beauty, rich history and culture

Yakup Dinler, the general secretary of the Turkish Hoteliers Federation (TÜROFED), stated that the interest of both domestic and foreign tourists in Cappadocia has been increasing yearly. He expressed his belief that many businesses will achieve their goals by the end of the year, as tourism in the region has gained momentum following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dinler continued to explain: “We host tourists from every country in Capadoccia. There is growth in some markets despite declines in others. There have been new investments in the region, (while) domestic and regional brands work on renewing and developing themselves based on the needs of the arriving tourists.”

Approval from China means prospect of boosted tourism

While speaking, Dinler also went on to mention that the approval of China for the opening of package tours is expected to substantially boost tourism for Turkey in the final three months of 2023.

“If we can reach approximately 50,000 Chinese visitors and revise the year-end figures, we can have an even better closing of the year,” Dinler said, when discussing expectations.