Cappadocia, Turkey is one of the most beautiful and unique destinations in the world. Its surrealistic landscape of fairy chimneys, valleys, and canyons is a sight to behold. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or just looking for a place to relax, there’s something for everyone in Cappadocia.
From hot air balloon rides to underground cities and rock-cut churches, here are 20 awesome things to do in Cappadocia that you’ll want to add to your bucket list!
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1) Flying in a Hot Air Balloon at Sunrise
A once-in-a-lifetime experience, a hot air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia is a must-do activity. As the balloons take off, you’ll witness the magic of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons taking to the sky simultaneously, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere. As you float above the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, you’ll be in awe of the fairy chimneys, rock formations, and cave dwellings below.
Make sure you book your hot air balloon ride in advance, as this is one of the most popular activities in the region and spots fill up fast. A word of caution: if you have a fear of heights, this may not be the best activity for you. However, for thrill-seekers and adventurers, a hot air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia is an experience you’ll never forget.
2) Love Valley Trail to Uchisar Castle
Love Valley Trail to Uchisar Castle
Love Valley is a hidden gem just outside of Goreme, waiting to be explored. The Love Valley Trail to Uchisar Castle is one of the most scenic routes in Cappadocia and offers a unique hiking experience that is bound to leave you in awe. This hike will take you through the beautiful valley full of phallic-shaped rocks, which earned it the name ‘Love Valley’.
As you hike through Love Valley, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the surreal beauty of the rock formations up close and personal. The best part of this hike is that you’re unlikely to bump into too many people along the way, making it a peaceful and serene experience.
The Love Valley Trail to Uchisar Castle is a relatively flat hike that takes around 1-2 hours to complete. The walk will eventually lead you to Uchisar Castle, which stands tall on a hill overlooking the entire region. This ancient fortress was carved out of the rock and offers a stunning panoramic view of Cappadocia.
The Love Valley Trail to Uchisar Castle is perfect for nature enthusiasts who enjoy a good hike. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a stroll, this hike will impress.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of Love Valley and Uchisar Castle.
3) Red Valley Hike & Sunset Viewpoint – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
If you’re looking for an adventure that offers stunning natural scenery and a cultural experience, then Red Valley Hike & Sunset Viewpoint is an excellent choice. This hike is a must-do activity if you’re visiting Cappadocia, and it is perfect for adventurers of all levels of fitness and experience.
The Red Valley hike takes you through a unique landscape of sharp sandstone ridges that glow a deep and vibrant red, especially during the sunset. The last rays of sunlight paint the rocks with a stunning color that makes for a breathtaking view. It is the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset if you only have a couple of nights in Cappadocia.
The hike is also connected to Rose Valley, which is another must-visit place in Cappadocia. The trail leads you through an ancient church inside one of the caves, past yellow sandstone rock formations, and incredible cave dwellings.
The hike is diverse and only moderate in difficulty, making it an ideal adventure for hikers of all levels.
4) Rose Valley Hike
One of the must-do activities on your Cappadocia itinerary is the Rose Valley hike. This trail offers an unforgettable experience of walking through an area with a unique and corrugated landscape tinted in pink. The Rose Valley is known for its stunning rock formations and distinct mineral composition, which give it a rosy hue that deepens as the day progresses.
When you embark on this hike, you’ll witness a blend of rugged terrain and pink ridges that create a stunning contrast, further highlighted during sunset when the sun glows directly onto the Rose Valley. The natural beauty of the place, along with its unique formations, make it one of the most scenic places to visit in Cappadocia.
As you hike through the Rose Valley, you’ll also come across various caves and rock-cut churches that are of great historical and cultural significance. Along the way, you can take breaks to admire the stunning views, click some pictures, and soak in the peace of the area.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or not, the Rose Valley hike is an experience that should not be missed. Make sure to include it on your bucket list of things to do in Cappadocia and see for yourself why it’s considered one of the most beautiful places in Turkey.
5) Sunset ATV Tour – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure in Cappadocia, look no further than the Sunset ATV Tour. This is one of the most popular ‘short’ tours in the region and it’s not hard to see why. The tour starts with you hopping on a sturdy ATV (quad) bike and setting off to explore the spectacular rock-cut valleys of Cappadocia.
As you make your way through the dunes, valleys, trails, and hills of Cappadocia, you’ll be left in awe of the stunning scenery around you. This tour is an excellent option for sightseeing as it allows you to see the best of Cappadocia uniquely and excitingly.
But the highlight of the Sunset ATV Tour comes at the end of the trip. The tour finishes right at sunset, out in the valley of rock formations. You’ll be able to witness an amazing sunset view that will take your breath away.
The Sunset ATV Tour is perfect for adrenaline junkies who want to see the best of Cappadocia in a short amount of time.
Address : Bilal Eroğlu Cd. No:70 D:A1, 50180 Göreme/Nevşehir Merkez/Nevşehir, Turkey
6) Cappadocia Horse-Riding Tour
If you are a fan of horse riding or are looking for a unique way to explore the beauty of Cappadocia, you must experience the riding tour of Cappadocia.
As you walk through the picturesque valleys of Goreme, you will be fascinated by enchanting fairy chimneys, and amazing rock formations that look like tall, slender mushrooms. Along the way, it will take you to the rock-cut Hallacdere Monastery and past orchards and vineyards with stunning landscapes.
The quiet environment of the Valley will give you a serene and refreshing atmosphere while exploring the surroundings.
In general, the riding tour of Cappadocia is a perfect choice for a family activity, a romantic adventure, or just a way to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and admire the amazing landscapes of Cappadocia.
Experience the excitement of riding a horse through the picture-perfect valleys of Cappadocia on a guided tour:
Doğa Binicilik Merkezi, +90 530 656 68 40
7) Goreme Open-Air Museum – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
The Goreme Open-Air Museum is a must-visit site in Cappadocia. This popular attraction offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time and explore ancient paintings, churches, and cave houses that date back centuries. One of the best ways to experience the museum is with an audio tour that guides you through more than 30 stops, providing interesting facts and historical context about the region and the people who lived there.
If you plan to visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum, it’s worth noting that this site is often busy with tourists, so it’s best to plan your visit. To make the most of your visit, consider joining a guided tour, which typically includes the museum along with other popular attractions in the area.
As you explore the museum, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at ancient frescoes, walk through cave churches, and explore cave houses that were once inhabited by early Christian communities.
Overall, the Goreme Open-Air Museum is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region and a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who called this unique landscape home.
8) Watch the Sunrise at Lover’s Hill
One of the must-visit places in Cappadocia is Lover’s Hill. It’s an incredible panoramic viewpoint located in Goreme Town that provides the perfect spot to watch the sunrise. Even though it gets quite crowded in the morning, the experience of watching the sunrise over the Cappadocia region makes it all worthwhile.
This hill is where you can take some of the best Cappadocia hot air balloon photos. The viewpoint allows you to be above the balloons and capture amazing shots of Uchisar Castle, Red Valley, and Goreme Town. The view from the top is simply breathtaking.
You might have to jostle with other tourists to get a good spot, but it’s all worth it in the end. The beauty of the sunrise will make you forget about the crowd. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy epic views of the entire region while watching the sky light up in shades of red, orange, and yellow.
If you’re looking for a place to start your day on a high note, Lover’s Hill is worth a visit!
9) Pigeon Valley Hiking Trail – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
The Pigeon Valley Hiking Trail trail stretches from Goreme to Uchisar and is a must-see destination in Cappadocia. Also known as Guvercinlik Valley, Pigeon Valley is a popular trail because it is easy to hike, and it has several historical landmarks that tell the story of Cappadocia’s rich culture.
The trail offers spectacular views of the valley, cave dwellings, and earth pillars. It is a picturesque hike that takes you through thick trees and past several caves where you can see the ancient paintings on the walls of the cave dwellings. These paintings date back to the Byzantine period when people lived in these caves.
One of the main attractions of the Pigeon Valley Trail is the abundance of pigeons that call the valley home. These birds were essential to the people who lived in the area in ancient times. They used them for their eggs, meat, and even for their droppings, which they used as fertilizer for their crops. You will notice several pigeon houses carved into the rocks that dot the landscape. The trail is not too long, and you can complete it in a few hours.
However, taking your time and enjoying the breathtaking scenery along the way is essential. It is an excellent hike for families and is easy to navigate.
10) Explore Ihlara Valley
The Ihlara Valley is one of the most stunning gorges in the Cappadocia region. The valley is home to a river that runs for 16km, snaking its way through the breathtaking volcanic rock formations. This natural wonder is situated close to the province of Aksaray, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful walk in nature.
What sets the Ihlara Valley apart from other hiking spots in Cappadocia is the number of cave churches you can find along the trail. As you make your way through the valley, you will come across over a hundred churches, of which 16 are open to visitors. These churches are adorned with beautiful paintings and carvings, adding to the spiritual and historical significance of the valley.
The trail that runs through the Ihlara Valley is relatively easy, making it perfect for a leisurely walk amidst some serene surroundings. The route mostly runs from Selime to Ihlara Village, allowing visitors to explore the natural and historical attractions along the way.
If you’re planning a visit to Cappadocia, a trip to the Ihlara Valley should be on your bucket list.
11) Go To See Zelve Open-Air Museum – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
When visiting Cappadocia, one of the must-see sites is the Zelve Open-Air Museum. This incredible location was once home to one of the largest communities in the area and offers a unique opportunity to walk amongst historic dwellings, churches, and religious chambers. The town square is also an impressive feature that adds to the overall charm of this incredible cave town.
What’s even better is that the Zelve Open-Air Museum has done a great job at creating an easy path to navigate for visitors while still offering more adventurous paths and trails for those looking to explore further. You won’t feel like you’re stuck on a tourist track here and can immerse yourself in the stunning scenery.
Compared to the Goreme Open-Air Museum, which has 20 times more tourists visiting per day and is often overcrowded, Zelve Open-Air Museum offers a more authentic experience. With fewer crowds, you’ll be able to take your time and appreciate the beauty of this incredible location without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Overall, if you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, make sure to put Zelve Open-Air Museum on your list of must-visit sites.
12) See The Wonderful Sunset From The Top Of Uchisar Castle
When it comes to finding the best sunset viewpoint in Cappadocia, Uchisar Castle is hard to beat. This historic castle is perched high above the Uchisar Valley, providing you with some of the most stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. As someone who’s visited the castle before, I can attest that it’s truly an awe-inspiring experience to see the sunset from the top of the castle.
Getting to Uchisar Castle is easy, as it’s just a short drive or hike away from Goreme. Once you reach the castle, you’ll be greeted with a cave entrance that leads to the exterior staircase. While there are about 100 stairs to climb, it’s worth it for the breathtaking views.
Once you make it to the top, take some time to walk around and enjoy the 360-degree views of the valley and Goreme. You’ll have plenty of time to capture the perfect photo or simply take in the beauty of the moment. And, as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, you’ll witness the magical moment when the sky lights up with oranges, pinks, and purples.
Watching the sunset from the top of Uchisar Castle is an unforgettable experience, and it’s one of the most fun things to do in Cappadocia.
Whether you’re with friends or on your own, this is one experience that you won’t want to miss out on.
13) Don’t Miss Pasabag Valley – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, then a visit to Pasabag Valley should be on your list of must-see places. Known for its breathtaking fairy chimneys and intricate cave dwellings, this valley is one of the most popular spots in the Goreme region. And while it may attract large crowds and tour buses, Pasabag Valley is well worth a visit.
One of the most impressive features of the valley is undoubtedly the fairy chimneys. These tall, slender pillars of rock are a product of the area’s unique geology and are an incredible sight to behold. To make things even more impressive, many of the chimneys have rocks perched precariously on top, seeming to defy gravity in the face of strong winds and heavy storms.
In addition to the fairy chimneys, Pasabag Valley is also home to some cave dwellings, some of which are two or three stories high. You can even venture inside to explore the different levels, giving you a firsthand look at the remarkable ingenuity of the people who built these homes so many years ago.
While the crowds at Pasabag Valley can be overwhelming at times, don’t let that deter you from experiencing this amazing destination for yourself. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Pasabag Valley is truly a must-see attraction for anyone traveling to Cappadocia.
14) Meskendir Valley
If you’re looking for a short and shady walk to escape the midday sun in Cappadocia, the Meskendir Valley is a great option. This trail in Goreme offers a variety of historic sites and cave dwellings to explore, as well as several sandstone tunnels that are both unique and intriguing. While some of the tunnels may remind you of those on the Love Valley Trail, the Meskendir tunnels are longer and boast much higher roofs, adding to their appeal.
With every turn, you’ll discover new openings revealing more cave dwellings and historic sites. Even if you prefer a quick out-and-back hike, the Meskendir Trail is worth a visit. You won’t be disappointed by the incredible views of the surrounding landscape, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the stunning cave dwellings.
Overall, the Meskendir Valley is a fantastic destination in Cappadocia for those looking for a peaceful and scenic walk. You’ll enjoy the shade of the trees as you discover the region’s fascinating history and natural beauty. So add the Meskendir Trail to your itinerary and prepare for an unforgettable experience!
15) See The Most Beautiful Sunset Point in Cappadocia (at Lover’s Hill) – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
If you want to catch an unforgettable sunset in Cappadocia, Lover’s Hill Sunset Point is the perfect place to go. This location is the most popular sunset spot in Goreme Town, and it’s easy to see why. Lover’s Hill is within walking distance of most hotels in the area, making it accessible for most tourists.
Asiklar Tepesi, or Lover’s Hill, offers a stunning view of the Cappadocia landscape as the sun sets in the distance. It’s no wonder this location has become a hot spot for photographers. One of the things that make Lover’s Hill Sunset Point so unique is the atmosphere. The area is bustling with activity as people gather to watch the sunset. You’ll find people from all over the world sitting side-by-side, taking in the breathtaking scenery.
If you’re staying in Goreme Town, Lover’s Hill Sunset Point is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. You can take in the views, snap some pictures, and just enjoy the moment.
Just remember to arrive early, as this spot can get quite crowded during peak season.
16) Discover The Derinkuyu Underground Village
This cave system is a remarkable feat of engineering and is sure to leave you in awe.
As you walk down through the five levels of the cave system, you’ll be transported back in time to when this city once housed over 20,000 people and their livestock. It’s hard to believe that an entire city was hidden beneath the ground for so long, but the discovery of the city was a secret for a long time.
It wasn’t until a local man in the Nevsehir Province decided to do some renovations in his home that the ancient city was discovered. After knocking down a wall, he stumbled upon a strange room and continued to dig further. This eventually led to the discovery of an intricate tunnel system with a series of cave rooms.
Visiting the Derinkuyu Underground Village is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s amazing to see how these ancient people lived and how they managed to create such an impressive underground city. If you’re interested in history or just love exploring unique places, then this is a must-see destination in Cappadocia.
17) Zemi Valley – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
If you’re looking for a quiet and scenic hike away from the crowds, the Zemi Valley is worth checking out. Located just outside of Goreme, this 6km hike takes you through a stunning landscape of caves, arches, and unique earth pillars. Despite its natural beauty, Zemi Valley is often overlooked by visitors to Cappadocia, making it a hidden gem that’s well worth exploring.
As you follow the wide, sandy path, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and shaded by the trees that line the valley. Along the way, keep your eyes open for the traditional cave houses that are still inhabited by locals today. The trail also runs alongside a small stream, which provides a calming soundtrack to your hike.
Although the Zemi Valley hike is relatively easy, there are a few crossings over the stream and sections where you may need to navigate through the mud. However, the scenery more than makes up for any challenges, and the lack of crowds on this trail is a welcome change from some of the more popular sites in the area.
If you’re visiting Cappadocia and looking for a peaceful and picturesque hike, make sure to add the Zemi Valley to your itinerary. It’s one of the most underrated places to visit in the region and a great way to get off the beaten track and experience the natural beauty of Turkey.
18) Visit The Twin Fairy Chimneys
Cappadocia is renowned for its mesmerizing rock formations, but the Twin Fairy Chimneys are particularly awe-inspiring. While there are numerous fairy chimneys in the region, the Twins have become incredibly famous, attracting hordes of visitors who are amazed by their unique shape. These natural wonders have taken millions of years to form, and they look so otherworldly that some people have compared them to the work of aliens.
Despite their popularity, visiting the Twin Fairy Chimneys is an easy stop on your itinerary that requires no hiking or adventure. It’s an ideal place to pause and admire the beautiful rock formations on your way to another attraction. As you take in the stunning landscape, it’s hard not to feel amazed at the intricate details and unusual formations that nature has created over millions of years.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking to relax and soak in the stunning surroundings, the Twin Fairy Chimneys are worth adding to your itinerary.
19) Lake Tuz: The Pink Salt Lake – Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
One of the most unique and beautiful locations near Cappadocia is Lake Tuz. Located just over an hour’s drive away from Cappadocia, this incredible salt lake near Aksaray is truly remarkable because of its vibrant pink color. Despite how special this place is, it’s not very popular among tourists, and you may even find yourself enjoying the entire lake to yourself for as far as you can see.
One of the best ways to experience this hidden gem is by taking a tour that takes you to the salt lake for sunset. It’s a handy option, as you may have to rent a car and figure out how to get there on your own. This spot isn’t technically in Cappadocia, but it’s just a drive away, and you can easily visit it on the same day as Derinkuyu Underground City and Ilhara Gorge on a day trip from Cappadocia.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the crowds of Cappadocia, Lake Tuz is the perfect destination. The breathtaking pink hue of the lake will leave you mesmerized and create an unforgettable memory. So, if you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, make sure to add Lake Tuz to your list of places to visit, and don’t miss the chance to witness the beauty of this incredible pink salt lake.
20) Çavuşin Church
Cavusin Church is a unique and historic attraction that should make it onto your list of things to see while in Cappadocia. This incredible landmark is a huge rocky mountain that stands tall over Cavusin Valley, and it has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.
While the church is not a traditional building that you may be thinking of, you can still get a great look at it by walking around the base of it. However, for an even better view of the valley and the surrounding area, you can trek to the roof of the church.
The climb to the top is worth it, as the panoramic views from the roof are stunning. From up here, you can see the horizon and marvel at the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, Cavusin Church is an attraction that should not be missed.
There you have it, folks! The top 20 best things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey. We hope this list has given you some inspiration for your next trip.
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Cappadocia truly is a magical place and we’re sure you’ll have an unforgettable time experiencing all that it has to offer. Happy travels!
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