Central Turkey Holidays

With vast underground cities, lunar-like landscapes and surreal rock formations, Cappadocia and the central Anatolian plateau is one of Turkey’s most celebrated, and instantly recognisable, regions. Quite literally beneath the surface of this otherworldly backdrop the region’s greatest treasures can be found. Over the centuries tombs, ancient churches, villages, towns and even cities were hollowed out of the soft stone – sanctuaries constructed during the Roman and Byzantine periods to shelter the entire population, livestock and provisions. Today some of these ancient dwellings are hotels which offer the singular opportunity to experience this unique environment at first hand. Kayseri is the main entry point to the region. Discover an 800 year old fortress complete with covered markets, then head west to the stunning Devrent Valley. Here the highlight is the open-air museum at Göreme, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where rock-cut churches are adorned with early medieval frescoes of astonishing skill, complexity and precision. Visits can also be made to the rock-cut citadel in Uchisar, the Hittite underground settlements at Kaymakli and Derinkuyu and the Ihlara Valley. To the west, explore the historic Seljuk capital of Konya which today remains an important pilgrimage site, home to the whirling dervish sect and location of the stunning Mevlana Museum. With our knowledge, experience and expertise Pettitts Travel can help to create a unique tailor-made holiday to Cappadocia or cultural tour of central Turkey that exactly meets your requirements.