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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Cappadocia in Turkey is one of the most famous places in the world for a hot air balloon ride. These are group tours, and there are at least 100 hot air balloons in the air at a time, flying as high as 3,000 feet above the ground. Book the hot air balloon rides well in advance, as they can often be sold out. Also, these are weather dependent and may be cancelled. So, plan to spend a few days and keep a buffer. The take-off site changes daily depending on the wind direction.

1 km
from city center 2 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Göreme Open Air Museum, situated in Göreme, Cappadocia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional collection of rock-cut churches, monasteries, and religious frescoes dating back to the Byzantine era. It features numerous cave churches, some with multiple chambers, adorned with intricately painted frescoes. Among the notable churches, the Karanlık Church (Dark Church) is the most famous.

4 km
from city center 3 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

4 km
from city center 4 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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 Three beauties, Zelve Valley, Red Valley, Devrent Valley, and Pigeon Valley. Another way to see these mesmerising structures is while on a hot air balloon ride.

4 km
from city center 5 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Pasabag Valley, approximately 10 kilometers from Goreme, is characterized by its towering fairy chimneys, some reaching up to 40 meters in height. The valley earned its nickname "Monks Valley" from the hermit monks who lived in its caves during the early Christian era. A 14-minute drive from Goreme, the valley boasts numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is home to several natural rock-cut caves that have been preserved over the years and turned into houses, churches and hotels. This out of the box experience of living in an authentic cave, with a cozy yet luxurious environment is only possible in Cappadocia. These suites are comfortable, lavish and equipped with all amenities. The cave suites set in the natural environment of the city, look magnificent and exude luxury.

3 km
from city center 7 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Sitting at a traditional Turkish breakfast table, surrounded by the surreal beauty of Cappadocia fairy chimneys and valleys is an unforgettable activity. Options like booking a special sunrise breakfast package online or from hotels in Cappadocia, can help enhance the experience. Private breakfasts can also be arranged with the help of local guides or hotels. Many cafes in Cappadocia, such as those in Göreme, Uchisar, and Ortahisar, offer stunning views of the fairy chimneys.

32 km
from city center 8 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Derinkuyu Underground City is the deepest underground city in Cappadocia, with an impressive depth of 85 metres. It is a giant labyrinth of cave-like rooms with an elaborate ventilation system, connecting passageways, and discrete entrances. With huge well-lit passages, explore every part of the city, including churches, schools, wine cellars, livestock and food storage places, graveyards, and communal places where people could eat, meet, and worship together.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Green Tour in Cappadocia is a guided excursion that explores the southern region of Cappadocia. The main highlights included are Ihlara Valley, Derinkuyu Underground City or Kaymaklı Underground City, Selime Monastery, Pigeon Valley and Ağzıkarahan Caravanserai. It generally includes transportation in minibus or van, a tour guide, entrance fees, and lunch. It is great for those who love hiking.

10 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Red Tour in Cappadocia is a popular guided excursion that typically covers landmarks and attractions in the northern part. Main highlights included are Goreme Open Air Museum, Cavusin Village, Love Valley, Pasabag, and Urgup. Occasionally, tours might include a stop at a pottery workshop in Avanos. It typically involves transportation via minibus or tour van, guided commentary throughout the journey, entrance fees to the attractions, and occasionally lunch or refreshment stops.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Experiencing the local food in Cappadocia is more than just dining; it's an adventure. Some popular foods are Clay Pot Kebab, Kayısı Yahnisi, Zerdeli Pilav, Nevşehir Mantısı, and Kuru Kaymak. Numerous restaurants in towns like Göreme, Ürgüp, and Avanos offer traditional Cappadocian dishes. Participating in a cooking class is a fantastic way to learn about local food. Guided food tours also are an excellent way to sample a variety of local dishes and visit wineries and traditional homes.

4 km
from city center 12 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Hammams are traditional baths that were supposedly built near mosques to protect the ceremonial purity of Muslim rituals. Turkish Baths today are more of a Spa Retreatment for tourists. Two kinds of hammams are available in Cappadocia, traditional and modern hotel hammams.

3 km
from city center 14 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The most spectacular hikes in Cappadocia are considered to be the trail to Red & Rose Valley, close to Gerome. The loop trail of Rose valley connects it to the Red Valley Trail. The hike starts from Buffe, a shop marked on Google Maps. Take a bus to Cavusin and then walk, or walk straight from Göreme. The trek isn't strenuous, takes around 2-3 hours to complete, and has marvellous viewpoints all along the way! The hike is ideal for beginners.

3 km
from city center 15 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Situated in the town of Ortahisar, a 10-minute drive from Goreme, Ortahisar Castle is one of the most popular historical treasures and highest points in the region. With amazing views stretching from Uchisar to Goreme, surrounding markets, and lots of photo opportunities, this castle is one of the first multi-story settlements in the world.

3 km
from city center 16 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Menengiç coffee or terebinth coffee, is a traditional caffeine-free beverage made from roasted terebinth fruits, which are related to the pistachio. This coffee variant is particularly popular in Southeastern Anatolia and has a distinct nutty and earthy flavor, unlike regular coffee. It can be tasted in cafes in Göreme, Ürgüp, and Avanos, traditional homestays and local markets in the area. Typically, a cup of this traditional coffee ranges from €2 to €5.

66 km
from city center 17 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

3 km
from city center 18 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is home to several boutique wineries and vineyards, many nestled amid the unique rock formations and valleys. Some wineries offer wine pairing experiences, combining local wines with traditional Turkish cuisine or artisanal cheeses. Enjoying wine amidst the region's fairy chimneys, vine-covered valleys, or sun-kissed terraces adds to the overall experience.

64 km
from city center 20 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The largest religious structure in Cappadocia, Selime Cathedral, is carved into a volcanic rock and is essentially a part of Selime Monastery that has been turned into a museum because of its historical significance. Located atop the Ihlara Valley, you will have to hike up through rocky caves to reach the monastery.

11 km
from city center 21 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

3 km
from city center 22 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The streets of Cappadocia are lined with dreamy carpet shops, straight out from a Disney movie. The colorful carpet stores offer a delightful range of hand dotted carpets and patterns and are usually run by families through generations. You can find carpets as old as 200 years in the lanes of the Central Town, Goreme. Many tourists end up getting themselves these authentic Arabian carpets from Cappadocia, especially from Bazaar 54 popular for Turkish ‘hali’ work.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Horseback riding is a popular sport in the dunes of Cappadocia, with sunset horse riding tours being especially popular. Cappadocia boasts of unusual landscapes like the canyon or the moonscape which makes horseriding fun. Hourly tours are available. These rides can be booked online or via local agents on arrival.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

One of the best ways to experience Cappadocian landscapes is through an ATV tour in the middle of the desert. After a demonstration and practice, tourists are let out into the dunes of Cappadocia for their private ATV ride. The ATV tour takes visitors to marvel at Greek architecture at sunset around Rose Valley, rock formations at the love valley and the sword valley. Drivers for the ATV require a license; passengers don't.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

A Turkish Night Show in Cappadocia is a vibrant and cultural extravaganza that feature a variety of performances such as the lively and colorful "halay" dance or the mesmerizing "belly dance". Some shows include the mystical Sufi ritual of the Whirling Dervishes. It generally includes a lavish dinner buffet or set menu. These shows are typically held in various venues, including restaurants, cultural centers, or entertainment establishments.

7 km
from city center 26 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The picturesque town of Avanos is nestled in the Nevşehir province of Cappadocia and is extremely popular for its souks, pottery workshop and experiences. The cobbled pathways of Avanos are studded with stores and cafés, and tourists enjoy shopping for souvenirs here, alongside making pottery. From carpet/rug stores, pots and vessels to clothing and accessories, Avanos Souk has it all!

1 km
from city center 27 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Located in Goreme Town, at the edge of a cliff overlooking the entire city, Lover’s Hill is a gem of a spot for sunsets and sunrises in Cappadocia. Locally known as Asiklar Tepesi, it is within walking range of most of the hotels in Goreme. Sip a hot cup of tea or even a beer while cherishing the view at a small restaurant at the top, and enjoy a mesmerizing sunset with a background of pastel colours and hundreds of colourful hot air balloons dancing in the sky.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Rose Valley, named after the rosy hues that paint the landscape during sunset, offers panoramic views of the unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and vineyards. The valley's gentle slopes and cliffs provide ideal vantage points to witness the sunset. The romantic allure of watching the sunset amidst the captivating scenery of Rose Valley makes it a popular spot for couples. Access to various viewpoints in Rose Valley is relatively easy, allowing visitors to find their preferred spot to witness the sunset.

5 km
from city center 29 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

In Cappadocia, you can find pottery workshops scattered across various towns and villages, offering visitors the chance to engage in this traditional craft. Avanos is one of the primary locations. It sits along the Kızılırmak River, where red clay, ideal for pottery, is abundant. Other places include Goreme, Urgup and some other smaller villages. Many workshops and studios line the streets, offering hands-on experiences.

0 km
from city center 31 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Zemi Valley is a popular tourist attraction owing to its unique and fascinating rock formations. Many visitors hike through its unique terrains, created by volcanic activities over thousands of years. The trek brings you across many scenic views, fairy chimneys, awesome caves, and also a small chapel carved into a rock with frescoes all over the ceiling.

22 km
from city center 32 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

8 km
from city center 33 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The weirdest museum in the world, the Hair Museum is located in Avanos. With samples from 16,000 women visitors worldwide, this museum is a major attraction in Cappadocia. The walls and ceilings have been marked with hair donations from visitors with their details attached to them.

3 km
from city center 34 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Cavusin Castle, located in a small town in Cappadocia, is a beautiful castle carved into a mountain. It 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.

41 km
from city center 35 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Haji Bektash Veli Complex, an important Alevi Islamic cultural monument, is situated in the town of Hacıbektaş in Nevşehir province. This historical site, established in the 13th century, served as a teqe (dervish lodge) for Haji Bektash Veli, a prominent Sufi saint and philosopher. It is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, particularly in August.

8 km
from city center 36 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Mustafapaşa, formerly known as Sinasos, is a charming village known for its historical architecture, old greek houses, churches and chapels and picturesque streets. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the ambiance of a traditional Turkish village. It is a popular day trip from Cappadocia and can be reached within a relatively short drive from popular Cappadocian towns like Ürgüp, Göreme, or Nevşehir. It is often included as part of guided tours.

1 km
from city center 37 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Dark Church or Karanlik Kilise is the most beautiful cave church in Cappadocia and is famous for its bright and gorgeous paintings on every wall. Located inside a monastery, the church dates back to the mid-11th-century and depicts centuries-old colourful and detailed frescoes. It is located inside the Goreme Open Air Museum and is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List because of its mediaeval monastic heritage.

7 km
from city center 38 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Guray Museum in Avanos, Turkey, is the first and unique underground ceramic cave museum in the world. It displays both antique and modern collections of Turkish ceramics, pottery and artefacts. The museum is hidden inside caves and tunnels beneath the Guray Ceramic showroom and is divided into three main sections.

23 km
from city center 39 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Situated on the southern bank of the Red River (Kizilirmak), just 20 kilometers from Nevşehir, Gulsehir is a town known particularly for Gulsehir Aciksaray archaeological site or the Open Palace Museum. It features remarkable mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and a variety of caves, including multi-story underground cities from ancient times. It is free to enter.

18 km
from city center 40 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Ozkonak Underground City is a unique, ancient underground caves establishment located near the village of Özkonak, approximately 15 kilometers north of Avanos. It extends down 11 floors, but only four are currently open to the public. A unique aspect of this UNESCO site is the presence of small holes, about 5 cm wide, above passageways. Notably, one of Cappadocia's largest stone doors, nearly 2 meters tall, is located here.

20 km
from city center 41 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Located approximately 18 kilometers south of Ürgüp and 10 kilometers east of Kaymaklı Underground City is Mazı Underground City. The city, originally known as Mataza, showcases rock-carved tombs and churches. This underground refuge spans eight levels and could accommodate up to 6,000 people for prolonged periods.

34 km
from city center 42 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Tatlarin is primarily popular for Tatlarin Underground city. It is situated near the town of Nevsehir. This underground city with cave establishments is noted for its extensive and well-preserved chambers, large halls, and the presence of toilets, which are rare in such ancient subterranean structures. Near the entrance of the underground city, there is a church adorned with religious murals.

4 km
from city center 43 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Three Beauties are are iconic rock formations known for their unique 'hood' shapes, consisting of two large and one small formation, symbolizing a family. They are situated on the Ürgüp-Nevşehir highway, just 5 km from the center of Ürgüp and can be seen from the road itself. They are among the most photographed spots in Cappadocia, particularly stunning at sunset against the backdrop of Mount Erciyes.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Turkey Hot Air Balloon Festival is a three-day event that takes place every August, specifically on the 11th, 12th, and 13th. During the festival, over 160 hot air balloons take to the skies, with more than 50 of these designed in special shapes. The best places to witness the festival are in and around the towns of Göreme, Ürgüp, and Ortahisar.

77 km
from city center 45 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Aladaglar National Park in Cappadocia is known for its majestic mountain range, often known as the “Alps of Turkey,” which appear rust-coloured at sunset. It is spread out across the provinces of Kayseri, Niğde and Adana in the Mediterranean region of Turkey. The park is home to the tallest mountains of Turkey's Central Taurus Mountains and is an ideal place for hiking, trekking, mountaineering and bird watching.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

Participating in a local carpet weaving tour in Cappadocia offers an opportunity to visit places like Bazaar 54, where you can see various types of Turkish carpets and learn about their history and significance. Tours can be booked either online or carpet shops in Cappadocia. The tours typically include hotel pickup and drop-off. They are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

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Things To Do in Cappadocia

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.

83 km
from city center 48 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

Mount Hasan, south of the Ihlara Valley, is a volcanic mountain with two peaks and is a well-known hiking destination. These two peaks are the Small Hasan Dagi and the Big Hasan Dagi, which are above 3,000 metres high. It is stunning in the wintertime when the peak is covered in snow. There is also a picnic area close to the base of the mountain.

96 km
from city center 49 out of 49
Things To Do in Cappadocia

The Anti-Taurus Mountains is a mountain range running northeast from the Taurus Mountains in Cappadocia. It is covered in snow during most seasons. During spring, the melting snow forms many lakes. These lakes, as well as the Kapuzbasi Waterfall, are beautiful attractions in the mountain range with breathtaking views. It is also popular for camping.