Located at the foothills of Mount Erciyes and considered one of the most distinguished cities of Central Anatolia, Kayseri welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Guests who travel to Kayseri for either tourism or business purposes have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the city while also tasting its region specific culinary specialties. Having hosted dozens of civilizations throughout history, this remarkable city offers a true historical celebration with its madrasas, caravanserais, museums, and inns. So where should you begin discovering this rich heritage? Here is the Kayseri travel guide that is prepared especially for you.
The symbol of Kayseri, Mount Erciyes, is the first destination on our list. With an impressive height of 3917 meters, this majestic mountain is home to caves at its summit where Byzantine monks once withdrew for spiritual seclusion. During harsh weather conditions, mountaineers take shelter in these caves. If you are interested in mountaineering or outdoor adventure, Mount Erciyes can be an excellent destination.
If you are visiting the city for leisure, you can enjoy a wonderful time at the ski center. The resort offers equipment and clothing rentals for skiing and snowboarding, as well as slopes that are suitable for different skill levels where you can also choose to take lessons from professional instructors. Mount Erciyes is located approximately 25 kilometers away from the city center.
After Mount Erciyes, let us move closer to the city center. Another iconic landmark of the city, Kayseri Castle, is located in Cumhuriyet Meydanı. Dating back to the Roman Empire and remarkably preserved to this day, it is considered one of the best protected city castles in the country.
Although the outer walls of Kayseri Castle have suffered damage over time, the inner walls remain largely intact. You can walk through the inner courtyard of the castle or visit the Archaeology Museum that is located inside. Afterwards, you may enjoy exploring the shops that are surrounding the castle.
Situated within Kayseri Castle, the Archaeology Museum is one of the most important cultural institutions illuminating the past of the city. Serving visitors since 1969, the museum displays artifacts that are excavated from the Kültepe Ören Yeri in chronological order. The collection includes ceramic and marble works from the Early Bronze Age, metal objects, and cuneiform tablets. One of the most significant artifacts is the Kayseri Heracles Sarcophagus. While visiting the Kayseri Archaeology Museum, you can encounter works from Roman, Byzantine, and Phrygian periods, as well as artifacts dating back to the Hellenistic era.
Located within Aladağlar National Park, the Kapuzbaşı Waterfalls consist of seven separate waterfalls. Even taller than Niagara Falls, these waterfalls are especially captivating during the summer months. When you visit, you can take peaceful walks that are accompanied by the powerful sound of flowing water. The surrounding area also offers picnic spots and camping areas for nature enthusiasts.
The Kayseri Atatürk Museum is housed in a Late Ottoman period residence built in the 19th century. This historic house is known as the Raşit Ağa Mansion and holds special significance as the place where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk stayed during his first visit to Kayseri. He spent two nights here, and the mansion was later converted into a museum in 1986. Entrance is free of charge. Inside, visitors can view the declaration that Atatürk has published in Kayseri, photographs taken during his visit, and the room where he carried out his work, all of which offer an emotionally moving experience.
If you are unsure where to stay while exploring every corner of Kayseri, Elite World Hotels & Resorts offers an ideal solution. The rapidly growing hotel chain is preparing to open Elite World Kayseri toward the end of 2026. Set to become one of the most impressive hotels in Central Anatolia, Elite World Kayseri will allow you to fully enjoy this exceptional city.
At the hotel, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Erciyes, you will greet each morning surrounded by magnificent natural scenery and benefit from the privileges of a five star establishment. With 160 modern and comfortable rooms, a restaurant that is offering exquisite flavors, fully equipped meeting and ballroom halls, and spacious spa areas, Elite World Kayseri is preparing to welcome guests throughout all four seasons.
Whether you are traveling for business, planning a winter holiday, or visiting for cultural exploration, you can confidently choose Elite World Kayseri.