What is the safest and most convenient driving route from Batumi, Georgia, to Göreme in Cappadocia, Turkey?
Based on 2 discussions with 4 participants · Last activity: 4 days ago
TL;DR
For a drive from Batumi to Göreme, take the Sarpi border crossing via Rize, Trabzon, Sivas and Kayseri; the roads are reported to be in good condition, with convenient overnight stops in Trabzon and Sivas. The Vale–Erzurum alternative is more mountainous, winding and isolated.
What the community said
A practical route to Cappadocia is Batumi — Sarpi border crossing — Rize — Trabzon — Sivas — Kayseri — Göreme. Roads along this route were reported to be in good condition, and Trabzon and Sivas work well as two overnight stops.
6 days ago Sarpi — Rize — Trabzon — Sivas — Kayseri — Göreme
If you are passing through Trabzon, consider a detour to Sumela Monastery (Panagia Sumela), south of the city in the mountains, before continuing toward Sivas.
6 days ago Sumela Monastery, Trabzon
The Sarpi crossing is the standard, commonly used option, with more towns and services along the way. The Vale–Erzurum alternative goes through the mountains, with winding roads and long remote stretches, so it can feel slower; roadworks had previously affected the approach to Vale.
7 days ago Sarpi border crossing / Vale border crossing — Erzurum