Kayseri Erkilet Airport
Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) Guide: Transport, Car Hire & Weather
Kayseri Erkilet Airport is one of the main gateways to Central Anatolia, serving both the historic city of Kayseri and popular destinations such as Cappadocia and Mount Erciyes. Thanks to its close proximity to the city center, it offers a fast and convenient starting point for your trip.
Kayseri Erkilet Airport Overview
Kayseri Erkilet Airport (IATA: ASR) is located in the district of Kocasinan, approximately 5–6 km north of Kayseri city center. Travel time to downtown is usually between 10 and 20 minutes depending on traffic and transport mode.
The airport is a combined military and civil facility and handles both domestic and international flights. It is particularly busy during winter due to ski tourism at Mount Erciyes and all year round thanks to Cappadocia tours.
Terminals & Services
Kayseri Erkilet Airport features separate domestic and international sections within a modern terminal complex:
- Domestic Terminal: Frequent flights to Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and other major Turkish cities.
- International Terminal: Seasonal and charter flights to several European cities, especially in Germany and the Netherlands.
- Passenger Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, cafés and restaurants, duty-free shops (international), prayer room, baby care rooms, car rental desks and comfortable waiting areas.
Transport from Kayseri Erkilet Airport to City Center
Getting from Kayseri Erkilet Airport to the city center is straightforward. You can choose between Havas shuttle buses, public buses, taxis, private transfers or rental cars.
1. Havas Shuttle Buses
Havas airport shuttles operate in line with flight arrivals and connect the airport with key points in Kayseri such as the intercity bus terminal and central squares. Journey time is usually 15–20 minutes.
- Comfortable coaches with luggage storage.
- Depart shortly after flight arrivals.
- Ideal for solo travellers and small groups.
2. Public Buses
Municipal public buses link the airport to several districts and the city center. Routes frequently used by travellers include lines like 100, 101 and 271, which pass through central stops and allow connections to other parts of the city.
Buses are the most budget-friendly option. You can pay with a local transport card or contactless payment, depending on current regulations.
3. Taxi
Taxis are readily available 24/7 outside the arrivals area. Due to the short distance, the ride to the city center usually takes 10–15 minutes. They are very convenient if you are travelling with heavy luggage, late at night or with family.
- Door-to-door service.
- Metered fares; prices increase during heavy traffic or at night.
4. Private Transfer & Hotel Shuttles
Many Cappadocia hotels and Erciyes ski resorts arrange private transfers from Kayseri Erkilet Airport. In addition, specialised transfer companies offer pre-booked cars, minivans and VIP vehicles.
Your driver meets you in the arrivals hall and takes you directly to your accommodation – a great time-saving option after a long flight.
5. Tram & City Connections
Public buses allow connections to the Kayseray tram network, which reaches districts such as Talas, the university area and the intercity bus station. This is useful if you plan to explore the city extensively with public transport.
Car Rental at Kayseri Erkilet Airport
Kayseri Airport hosts several international and local car rental companies inside the terminal building. Desks are usually located in the arrivals hall, with vehicle pick-up in nearby parking areas.
Why Rent a Car at Kayseri Airport?
- Freedom to Explore Cappadocia: Drive directly from the airport to Göreme, Ürgüp or Avanos at your own pace.
- Easy Access to Mount Erciyes: Reach the ski resort in around 30–40 minutes from the city.
- Regional Trips: Visit nearby cities like Nevşehir, Sivas or Niğde without depending on bus schedules.
Tips for Renting a Car
- Book your car online in advance, especially for winter and peak holiday periods.
- Check the insurance coverage (CDW, theft protection, extra protection packages).
- If you visit in winter, request winter tyres or snow chains for driving to Erciyes.
- Carefully read the fuel policy and mileage limits in the rental agreement.
Kayseri Weather & Best Time to Visit
Kayseri has a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, especially in summer.
- Summer (June–August): Warm to hot daytime temperatures, generally dry and sunny – ideal for city sightseeing and Cappadocia tours.
- Winter (December–March): Cold with frequent snowfall – the best time for skiing and winter sports at Mount Erciyes.
- Spring & Autumn: Mild and pleasant weather, fewer crowds – great for cultural trips and outdoor activities.
If your main goal is to explore Cappadocia and Kayseri’s historic sites, late spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable conditions. For skiing, plan your trip between December and March, depending on snow coverage.
Connections to Cappadocia & Mount Erciyes
Travelling to Cappadocia from Kayseri Erkilet Airport
Kayseri Erkilet Airport is one of the two main airports used for travel to Cappadocia. The drive to towns such as Göreme, Ürgüp or Uçhisar usually takes about 60–90 minutes.
You can choose between:
- Hotel-organized group or private transfers,
- Specialised shuttle companies,
- Self-drive with a rental car.
Reaching Mount Erciyes Ski Resort
Mount Erciyes, the symbol of Kayseri, has a modern ski resort with multiple lifts and pistes. From the airport, you can reach Erciyes by:
- Driving via the city and following the Erciyes road,
- Using hotel or tour operator transfers from Kayseri,
- Seasonal shuttle services, when available.
Winter tyres and careful driving are recommended in snowy conditions, although main roads are usually well maintained.
Practical Travel Tips for Kayseri Erkilet Airport
- Check-in Times: Arrive at least 1.5–2 hours before domestic flights and 2–2.5 hours before international flights.
- Luggage & Sports Gear: If travelling with ski equipment, confirm special baggage rules with your airline in advance.
- Online Check-in: Save time at the airport by checking in via your airline’s website or mobile app.
- Local Transport Card: If you plan to use buses and trams, consider getting a local travel card for easier payment.
- Peak Seasons: Book flights, hotels and transfers early for the winter ski season, public holidays and school vacations.
Kayseri Erkilet Airport FAQ
How far is Kayseri Erkilet Airport from the city center?
The airport is about 5–6 km from downtown Kayseri. Travel time is roughly 10–20 minutes by taxi, shuttle or public transport.
Is Kayseri Erkilet Airport good for reaching Cappadocia?
Yes. Along with Nevsehir Airport, Kayseri Erkilet Airport is widely used for Cappadocia trips. Many hotels and tour operators provide transfers from ASR.
Are there car rental desks at the airport?
Several well-known international brands and local rental companies have offices in the terminal building, making it easy to pick up your car upon arrival.
What is winter like in Kayseri?
Winters are cold and often snowy. If you visit between December and March, bring warm clothing and, if driving, ensure your car is equipped for winter conditions.
- Kayseri Erkilet Airport