Places to Visit in Cappadocia

One of the most gorgeous places in Cappadocia for a hike. Rocks in various shades of rose are scattered all over, making for one of Cappadocia's most famous hikes. As you go along the valley, you will be surrounded by colourful flowers and come across many beautifully built churches, with lots of paintings and decorations, vineyards and fields cultivated by the local farmers. 

The Fairy Chimneys in the Cappadocia region of Turkey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is synonymous with thousands of unique rock formations created due to the erosion of volcanic tuff or soft rock. One of the country’s most popular attractions, they are found predominantly within the Goreme National Park. Some of the most well-known places to see Fairy Chimneys include Zelve Valley, Red Valley, Devrent Valley, and Pigeon Valley. Another way to see these mesmerising structures is while on a hot air balloon ride.

Situated at the highest point in the Cappadocia region, Uchisar Castle is well-known for its panoramic views. It is a short trek from the towns of Uchisar or Goreme and it takes about 120 steps to climb up to the castle. It overlooks the famous fairy chimneys, Pigeon Valley, Goreme, Mt. Erciyes and other tourist sites around. The castle is also an ideal spot for catching the magnificent sunset.

The Ihlara Valley is a picturesque gorge created by the Melendiz river over thousands of years. This 14km long valley is one of the most beautiful and serene locations in Cappadocia. It used to be a favourite place among the monks for recreation, seen by the many churches along the valley's length. It is famous for its hiking excursions.

Situated between Ürgüp and Avanos in Cappadocia, Zelve Valley is one of the region’s last-abandoned monastic valleys. It dates back to the Byzantine era and has been turned into an open-air museum. Belonging to the pre-iconoclastic times, it is spread out across three valleys and is visited for its unique architecture.

Also known as Guvercinlik Valley, Pigeon Valley is a very popular hiking destination in the Cappadocia region in Turkey, specifically between the towns of Goreme and Uchisar. The trek can be done from either town, although Uchisar is the preferred starting point as it is mostly downhill from there; the hike is not too arduous and is suitable for beginners as well.

Lake Tuz is one of the largest salt lakes in the world, located in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey. Tourists flock to the lake to witness its seasonal colour changes and walk on the salt beds. The lake is so bright during summers that it can be observed from space. And during other seasons, the lake turns into a beautiful pink colour due to the blooming of algae which has several beneficial health properties.

Devrent Valley is famous due to its rock formations which are in different shades of pink. It is also known as Imaginary Valley or Pink Valley and is full of numerous naturally formed pillar-like structures, rock formations and the famous fairy chimneys. Many rock formations resemble animals such as a snake, alligator, dolphin, seal, and one even looks like a praying Mary. The valley also offers stunning views of the sunset and is an ideal place for photography.

The Derinkuyu Underground City is the deepest underground city in Cappadocia, with an impressive depth of 85 metres.

Located in Goreme, the Kaymakli Underground City is the widest and one of the largest of the 36 underground cities in Cappadocia. It was built during the Hittite era to act as a safe haven during raids and attacks. There are 8 floors full of cellars, storage spaces, stables, and wineries. Only 4 floors are open to the public, and most of the things of interest are on the 3rd floor.

Cavusin Castle, located in a small town in Cappadocia, is a beautiful castle carved into a mountain. The castle along with the surrounding houses was inhabited by locals until the 1950s and is a great sightseeing location for those who are interested in Turkey's archaeological heritage. To reach the castle, you will have to walk from the Cavusin Church, through the Cavusin Valley. The top of the Cavusin Castle is an ideal spot to watch the Cappadocia hot air balloons at sunrise.

Love Valley, located outside the city of Goreme in Cappadocia, is an architectural wonder with natural and gigantic structures that have been formed due to volcanic eruptions. The unique geological site is the most visually stunning region of Turkey. It is famous for hiking, biking and hot air balloon ride. The Cappadocia Love Valley also has one of the most beautiful sunset views and is especially popular amongst couples for proposals.