Hotels in Ihlara

Ihlara: Nature's Hidden Canvas of Adventure and Serenity

Discover Ihlara, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Turkey's Cappadocia region. Known for its breathtaking Ihlara Valley, this enchanting destination features dramatic cliffs of soft sandstone that cradle a lush river gorge, perfect for hiking and exploring. Wander through ancient rock-cut churches adorned with stunning frescoes, and don’t miss the Selime Monastery, a marvel of Byzantine architecture. With its serene landscapes and rich history, Ihlara offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers and culture seekers alike. Experience the magic of this off-the-beaten-path wonder! For the best hotel rates in Ihlara and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Ihlara

Some of the best places to stay in Ihlara are Guzelyurt, Nigde and Derinkuyu. Guzelyurt, Nigde, and Derinkuyu offer unique experiences for travelers. Guzelyurt is known for its picturesque landscapes and historical sites, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Nigde boasts rich cultural heritage, while Derinkuyu features fascinating underground cities. Hotel accommodations range from cozy guesthouses to boutique hotels, often blending traditional charm with modern amenities. In Guzelyurt, you’ll find a variety of lodgings, including options close to Ihlara Valley, ensuring a comfortable stay for exploring this captivating region. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Ihlara:

1. GuzelyurtOpens in a new window: Guzelyurt is an enchanting destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. With attractions like the stunning Ihlara Valley, known for its hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes, and the historic Selime Monastery, visitors can immerse themselves in both adventure and history. For accommodation, Ahsaray OtelOpens in a new window offers a luxurious experience with a full spa and business amenities, making it suitable for both relaxation and work. Another option is Agacli HotelOpens in a new window, which focuses on spa treatments for a rejuvenating stay. For families or pet owners, Karamanli KonagiOpens in a new window provides a comfortable atmosphere with necessary amenities, including conference space and pet-friendly policies.
2. NigdeOpens in a new window: Nigde is a city that blends modern education with rich cultural heritage. Points of interest include Nigde University and the fascinating Gumusler Monastery. Visitors can explore local museums while enjoying a vibrant city life. In terms of lodging, Honour HotelOpens in a new window caters to business travelers with accessible meeting rooms, while Nahita HotelOpens in a new window offers a more casual experience with complimentary breakfast and entertainment options, making it ideal for families and leisure travelers.
3. DerinkuyuOpens in a new window: Derinkuyu is famous for its underground cities and captivating historical sites, offering a unique glimpse into ancient civilizations. Visitors can delve into the mysteries of Derinkuyu Underground City and Kaymakli Underground City. For accommodation, Crowne Plaza Cappadocia - Nevsehir, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window provides a luxurious stay with adventure activities and business amenities, perfect for those combining leisure and work. Ramada by Wyndham CappadociaOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, featuring family-friendly services and a variety of meeting spaces, while Kapadokya Hill Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window focuses on luxury and wellness with its extensive spa offerings.

Things to do in Ihlara for first time

Three days in Ihlara Valley offers travelers a chance to explore stunning landscapes, ancient rock-cut churches, and the charming village of Guzelyurt. Don't miss a visit to the Selime Monastery, and enjoy guided tours to fully appreciate the beauty of this captivating part of the Cappadocia region. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Ihlara:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the stunning Selime Monastery, a remarkable rock-cut structure that offers insights into the region's historical religious significance. From there, make your way to Ihlara Valley, a breathtaking gorge perfect for a scenic hike along the Melendiz River. As you wander through the lush landscape, keep an eye out for ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes that dot the valley walls. Finally, conclude your day at Yüksek Kilise & Manastır, an impressive high church and monastery that showcases fascinating Byzantine architecture and stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Day 2: Start your explorations at Yılanlı Kilise, known for its striking serpent-themed frescoes. After soaking in the beauty, continue to the Red Church, a site rich in history and adorned with beautiful artwork. Next, journey to Monastery Valley, where you'll find a collection of monasteries nestled in the cliffs, providing a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into monastic life in ancient times.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Direkli Kilise, a unique church that features distinctive columns and captivating frescoes. Then, venture into Guzelyurt Valley Monastery, where you can explore the tranquil surroundings and learn about the area's rich monastic traditions. Finally, take a hike up Mount Hasan for panoramic views of the stunning landscape, making it a perfect spot to reflect on your adventures and capture beautiful photographs of the region.

5 tips to find a great Ihlara hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Ihlara is during February, November, and December when hotel prices are significantly lower. For those looking to explore the area's main attractions, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended. Key highlights in Ihlara include its stunning valley, picturesque mountains, and historic sites, making it a great value for money destination. This budget-friendly getaway offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in nature and history without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Ihlara, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find enticing discounts on hotels near your desired travel date. To stay in the loop about flash sales and exclusive promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to catch any opportunities for savings on your Ihlara getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Ihlara.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Ihlara and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Ihlara

Ihlara experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 34.2°F (1.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.5°F (24.7°C). March is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Ihlara, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, February, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.