Exploring Goreme Valley: Your ultimate guide to getting around

Turkey has a well-developed intercity bus network that connects Goreme with major cities:

• From Istanbul: Overnight buses take about 9-10 hours to reach Goreme.
  
• From Ankara: Buses from Ankara take around 4-5 hours.
  
• From Izmir: Expect a journey of about 10-11 hours by bus.

Buses are comfortable and often provide amenities like Wi-Fi and refreshments. Upon arrival at the Goreme bus station, you can get a taxi to reach your hotel.

When you rent a car, you have the flexibility to discover places on your own schedule. The route to Goreme offers breathtaking scenery and smooth, well-kept roads.

• From Istanbul: The car drive takes around 8-10 hours via the E90 and D200 highways.
  
• From Ankara: It's about a 4-5 hour drive along the E90 and D300 highways.
  
• From Izmir: The drive takes around 9-10 hours, following the E96 and D300 highways.

The distance from Goreme to Ihlara Valley is around 80 km. Here's how to get there from Goreme:

• By car: The easiest way to get to Ihlara Valley is by renting a car or hiring a private driver. It usually takes around 1.5 hours to drive there using the D300 highway.
  
• By tour: Several tours offer day trips from Goreme to Ihlara Valley, often including stops at other attractions like Derinkuyu Underground City and Selime Monastery.

Devrent Valley, often called Imagination Valley, is located 11 km away from Goreme. The valley offers a unique landscape and fascinates you with rock formations that seem to look like different animals.

• By car: If you're driving, it's only a quick 15-minute ride from Goreme to Devrent Valley. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
  
• By tour: You can join a local tour to explore the valley with a guide. These tours offer half-day or full-day trips that include Devrent Valley along with other nearby sights. It's a convenient way to see everything without worrying about logistics.
  
• By public transport: Take a bus to Avanos from Goreme, and then either a taxi or a short bus ride to reach Devrent Valley. It's a bit more adventurous and gives you a chance to experience local transportation.

Red Valley, known for its stunning red-colored rock formations and sunsets, is a favorite among hikers. It is located just 6 km from Goreme.

• By foot: If you're up for some adventure, exploring Red Valley on foot from Goreme is a fantastic choice. The hike is moderately challenging and typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on which trail you choose to follow. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the area!
  
• By car or taxi: If hiking isn't your preference, you can reach Red Valley by car or taxi in about 10 minutes from Göreme. There are parking areas at the entrance to the valley.
  
• By tour: Many guided tours include Red Valley in their itineraries, offering convenient transportation and insightful commentary on the area's history and geology.