cappadocia travel guide

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Cappadocia travel guide — the fullest cappadocia tourist guide & cappadocia travel blog for first-timers.

Not only famous for its overwhelming and magnificent mosques, Turkey is also blessed with breathtaking, spectacular natural landscapes. Among the most famous tourist destinations in Turkey must mention to Cappadocia – a land with a scene like straight out from fairy tales. If you love history and love to explore, then Cappadocia in Nevsehir province in central Turkey, 290 km from the capital Ankara is one of the interesting destinations for you. This is a famous natural wonder of Turkey that has been recognized by UNESCO as a world natural heritage since 1985. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Cappadocia for the first-time? Let’s check out our Cappadocia travel blog (Cappadocia blog) with the fullest Cappadocia travel guide (Cappadocia guide, Cappadocia tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• Where to go in Cappadocia? — Explore 9 best places to visit in Cappadocia
• Where to stay in Cappadocia? — 8+ Top hotels & best cave hotels in Cappadocia, Turkey
• Cappadocia itinerary — How to spend 3 days in Cappadocia perfectly?
• When is the best time to visit Turkey? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to travel to Turkey
• Top beaches in Turkey — 17+ most beautiful & best beaches in Turkey

Under the brilliant sunset covering the sky of the Cappadocia valley, the hot air balloons with vivid and brilliant colors flying under the sky, making visitors feel like they get lost in a wonderland. Indeed!! It’s not too ostentatious when visitors fondly called Cappadocia is a fairy valley. With thousands of stone pillars (bizarre forms of stone) like chimneys in fairy tales, this place is also known as the “mushroom valley”. Relying on the favor of nature, the people of central Cappadocia have carved and sculptured rocks, caves, mountains into houses, monasteries and churches…

Cappadocia travel guide: Overview of Cappadocia

Cappadocia is located in the central region of the Anatolia peninsula (also known as Asia Minor), in the Nevsehir province in central Turkey. Cappadocia is far from 2 big cities: Istanbul 756 km and Izmir 800 km and 290 km from the capital of Ankara.

About over 50 million years ago, the whole area of ​​Cappadocia was just fissures and craters. Soft rock mountains have formed on that lava bed. After millions of years, thanks to the exogenous effects such as flood water, wind, and rain that make large erosion… have created extremely unique rocky mountains with bizarre stone columns.

Cappadocia is formed from sedimentary rocks and volcanic rocks. Under the influence of external conditions and time, the rock layer gradually eroded and produced unique shapes, sometimes mushrooms, sometimes camels. It is this that has created a fairy scene that is only possible in fairy tales in Cappadocia.

For more details, you can refer to the following Cappadocia tourist map (I have marked attractions, hotels and restaurants):

Cappadocia travel guide: The meaning of the name Cappadocia

The name of Cappadocia has absolutely nothing related with the above-mentioned geological factor, but rather means “the land of beautiful horses”. Since ancient times, when maritime trading was not yet developed, Cappadocia was an important transit point on the legendary of Silk Road.

When the merchants stopped here, they took advantage of trading and choosing horses. And only in Cappadocia there were the best horse breeds that can withstand the “storm and wind” for the long journey over thousands of kilometers to China. The name Cappadocia began to be widely used from then on.

Some interesting facts about Cappadocia:

• Cappadocia once was part of the Roman Empire in the past.
• An estimated 600 churches have been found inside the caves (and this number will increase as there are many more caves yet to be discovered).

Cappadocia travel blog: When should you visit Cappadocia?

According to my Cappadocia travel experience, you should visit here in spring (April – June) or autumn (September – November). These are the 2 best weather periods to both enjoy the beauty of Cappadocia and participate in exploration activities.

Avoid going to Cappadocia in the summer because the temperature at that time can reach 40 degrees Celsius. And because it is a valley, the real feeling will be much more suffocating.

In winter, when snow falls, the whole Cappadocia valley will be like a fairyland. However, if you come in this time, trekking and hot air ballooning activities will be limited.

Cappadocia travel guide: How to get to and getting around Cappadocia?

There are two ways to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia, one is by night bus, the other by plane. I do not recommend you to take the night bus because it takes time (10 – 12 hours) and is not much cheaper (from 60 – 120 TL / one-way). So, we decided to flying. Partly because this is a fairly safe and economical option, and partly because flying to Cappadocia takes exactly 75 minutes, so much faster than taking the bus.

NOTE: To fly to Cappadocia, you can choose to land at Nevsehir or Kayseri airport. But it is more convenient to fly to Nevsehir airport and from Kayseri airport to Goreme town (Central Cappadocia) takes more than 1 hour.

There are 2 airlines operating this Istanbul – Kayseri route: Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines. The price of the two airlines is not much different, but the better and cheaper one is still Turkish Airlines. We took the flight at a good time, so the price was a bit higher (160 TL / round trip). If you willing to fly late at night, it only costs about 98 TL.

Getting from Kayseri Airport to hotel (& vice versa)

You can take the airport shuttle bus or book the hotel transfer service where you will stay. Most tourists often directly book the transfer service of their hotel because the price is very affordable at €10/way with pick-up and drop-off service. If you work hard to deal a little, you will get a little discount, sometimes without pay money. We bought the Balloon Tour + Green Tour + Red Tour of the hotel, so we were offered a free one-way airport shuttle, which helped a lot.

Getting around Cappadocia

The capital of Cappadocia, Goreme which is quite small town, so you can walk around. As for tourist destinations that are quite far apart without public transport, you will have to rent a car with a driver.

You can book a car directly with the hotel (after booking service, the hotel will message you via email or WhatsApp).

Cappadocia travel guide: Where to stay?

Tourists often choose to stay in Goreme town because this is the main capital of Cappadocia, so it gathers many places to eat and drink, convenient for taking tours and also near the hot air balloon launch site. Most of the hotels in Cappadocia are built inside caves, but what is worth the money in each hotel is the balcony area. Because only a hotel with a balcony with a beautiful view can create photos of a lifetime.

The hotel that famous bloggers often stay at is the Sultan Cave Suites ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , which located on a high hill with a large balcony with a beautiful morning view of hot air balloons. But the hotel does not have a 4-person room and the price is a bit high, so if you have a good budget, please consider to stay. We stayed in the Goreme Palace Cave Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) which also have a virtual living balcony, and it also offer a 4-person room at affordable price that is exactly what we want.

However, not every hotel with a balcony with a nice view can take pictures of the sky filled with hot air balloons. Because wanting to take photos like bloggers did on Instagram depends on the weather and wind direction. When we went to the hotel balcony to take some photos, but because the hot air balloons kept flying to the side, we couldn’t take any pictures.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Aydinli Cave Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Millstone Cave Suites ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Mithra Cave Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Kelebek Special Cave Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Argos In Cappadocia ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels in Cappadocia on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Cappadocia travel blog: Where to go, what to do?

Kaymakli Underground City

Cappadocia’s underground cities were first created during the Hittite Bronze Age but they were most famous during the early Byzantine period (6th and 7th centuries) when Catholics chose to live underground to evaded the Arabs and Persian invaders. Kaymakli is Cappadocia’s largest underground city with a labyrinthine system and rooms connected by tunnels that can extend up to eight floors. Exploring the underground city of Kaymakli will be one of your great experiences when traveling to Turkey, when you come here you will feel the raw and mysterious beauty of this thousand-year-old city.

Pigeon Valley

In the olden days pigeons were used as tools to deliver mail, and their waste was used as fertilizer. For the convenience of livestock, people have carved rocks and built nests for thousands of pigeons.

Today, the number of pigeons is not as much as before, but their “nest” is still preserved by local people. And that is also the origin of the name of this famous tourist destination “Pigeon Valley”.

Love Valley

At first, I did not understand why this place was called the Valley of Love, it turned out that there was a reason.

If you imagine, you will see that the stones here are shaped like the “reproductive organ of men”. But anyway, when the hot air balloon flew over this area, I felt like watching a sci-fi movie.

Avanos Village

A small, ancient village where two famous traditional trades are still kept: carpet weaving and ancient ceramics. Shops selling colorful ceramics line the cobbled riverside streets or narrow streets.

Uchisar Castle

Uchisar Castle is a large rock structure that rises high above the terrain. Different from the original thought of a castle, Uchisar has a special shape like a giant anthill, with small black holes. That shape is created from hundreds of small holes that are rooms inside the light rock texture.

Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu is a city built underground, extending to a depth of 60m. The first caves were formed from the 8th – 7th centuries BC and fully developed in the Byzantine period. Form a shelter and protect the locals from Arab attacks. This underground city is large enough to house up to 20,000 people along with their necessities (such as churches, shops, livestock, and public baths).

This area reminds me of Cu Chi tunnels, but the scale is much larger. And you should take the tour to understand more about the meaning of each area in the city. The most obnoxious point in this area is that when tourists go from the outside in or go from the inside, there will be a “choir” inviting to buy souvenirs.

Goreme Open Air Museum

The Goreme Open Air Museum is an ancient monastery built inside stone caves. Inside the caves, there are still exquisite frescos dating from more than 1000 years ago in pretty good condition. Note a bit that inside the cave is not allow to film and take pictures.

The Göreme Open Air Museum is home to a number of churches that medieval Christian monks carved into rock and where you can learn about the Eastern Roman people who created those unique pictures.

Devrent Valley (​​Imagination Valley)

Unlike other areas in Cappadocia, the Dervent valley has never been inhabited. The stones here are not honed by humans but have natural unique shapes.

You can find rocks with all unique shapes, maybe a camel or maybe a dolphin. That’s why Dervent Valley is also known by another name, Imagination Valley.

Cappadocia travel guide: Overview of tours in Cappadocia

There are many places to visit in Cappadocia, but they are very far apart. So for the most convenience, you can buy a tour at the hotel (The hotels here are linked with travel agents). Tours will include shuttle bus, guide, tickets to attractions, water and lunch for guests. The tours are quite strict, the guide always accompany you and they only allow you to take pictures and wandering around within 30 minutes. Made us rush to rush, fortunately we were able to take some nice photos. If you want to be proactive, you can rent a car with a private shuttle driver. The price is also quite reasonable.

There are 4 main tour routes (each tour will be marked with its own color Red, Green, Blue, Yellow) and Hot air balloon tour. The tours prices are very cheap from only 100TL (20€) which including all services (shuttle bus, tour guide, entrance tickets to attractions, water and lunch for guests).

But in short, I still recommend you to buy a tour, because the guide will tell you a lot of useful information about the tourist attractions, feeling like going to join an extra-curricular class. The “teachers” (we call the tour guides in a funny way) joked that before the end of the tour, they would check where we went for the day, if we could not answer, we could not return.

• Taking a tour will have to go to souvenir shops which is very time consuming.
• You can buy a tour through a travel agency or through your own hotel.
• Tour price can be paid in € or TL. You should consider which one is more valuable, then choose. We bought the tour in Euro because the price was 20 TL cheaper per tour.

And below I will also review in detail about the 3 most recommended tours in Cappadocia: Green Tour, Red Tour and Hot air balloon tour.

Hot Air Balloon Tour – A must-try experience in Cappdocia

A hot air balloon tour will include hotel room pick up service (staff knocks on the door and pick you up), breakfast, champagne after landing and a certificate after the tour.

At first, we didn’t know and we thought the hot air balloon operated all day, we could go whenever we wanted, but it turned out that it was only available at dawn (I asked a hotel staff, he answered like that).

Many of you wonder whether should book a hot air balloon tour because the cost is VERY HIGH. But in my opinion, this is the most memorable experience when traveling to Cappadocia. I really have never seen such a beautiful sunrise, the whole sky is full of hot air balloons, like watching a sci-fi movie.

• Duration: 1 – 1:30 hours
• Price: 100 – 200 euros
• Operators: Royal Ballons, Rainbow Ballons, Butterfly Ballons, Turkey Ballons, Sultan Ballons, …

Green Tour – The most recommended tour

Green Tour is the most recommended tour on TripAdvisor, because of going to the best spots in Cappadocia. Among the attractions, I like Derinkuyu Underground City the most, because I understand a lot more about the history and living habits of the ancient Cappadocia residents.

The most regret is the Pigeon Valley, so beautiful but it not include in the tour, instead we must visit a gem shop opposite.

• Duration: 8 hours
• The tour will go to the following spots: Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley hike, Selime Monastery, Pigeon Valley, Göreme Panorama.
• Price: 120 TL

Red Tour – The popular tour inCappadocia

Red Tour will take you visit the main tourist attractions in Cappadocia, with a rather short tour duration, only 6 hours from 9:30AM to 3PM. So the feeling is not satisfied like Green Tour.

But one more boring thing is that the tour only allows to enter to visit the Goreme Open Air Museum while with other places you only just stand from afar to look at.

• Duration: 6 hours
• The tour will go to the following spots: Uçhisar Panorama, Goreme Open Air Museum, Love Valley, Pasabag (Monk’s Valley), Devrent (Imagination Valley), Cavusin.

Cappadocia travel blog: Before you go

• Should wear a bohemian style will be very suitable for the landscape as well as the architecture in Cappadocia. And you must choose a comfortable pair of sports shoes (you will have to “climb” when visiting some tourist attractions in Cappadocia).
• The people of Cappadocia in particular and Turkey in general are extremely friendly and hospitable.Before coming to Cappadocia, I had seen many photos on Instagram and admired the beauty of this place. And when I got there, I was even more impressed. If possible, look forward to returning to Cappadocia in the near future.
• It is recommended to stay in Cappadocia for at least 2 nights to be able to hunt for a beautiful hot air balloon scene from early in the morning (we stayed for 3 nights but it was too windy, so all 4 mornings I couldn’t take photos of the hot air balloon).
• You should book at least 1 night at a hotel with a nice view: Mithra Cave hotel or Sultan Cave Suites (book in advance). The remaining day is spent to experiencing hot air ballooning.
• It is recommended to rent a self-drive car from Kayseri airport (the rental and gas prices in Turkey are extremely cheap), so you can experience more remote spots of Cappadocia such as: the Pasabag valley; Devrent Imagination valley; Red valley (with Ali cafe to watch the beautiful sunset).
• Should experience camel riding tour (you can book a tour at your hotel).
• Don’t forget to take “virtual living” photos with the beautiful rugs (carpets) here: Galeri Ikman carpet shop. You should book an appointment in advance if you want to take pictures with a drone or pay about 10 euros for 15 minutes of self-photography.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Cappadocia you can refer to

• Hot Air Balloon Flight in Cappadocia
• Cappadocia Devrent Valley Tour
• Blue Tour Cappadocia
• Green Tour with Trekking in Ihlara Valley
• Historical Cappadocia Red Tour

Are you looking for more top things to do in Cappadocia : Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Turkey here .

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Cappadocia Travel Guide For Turkey (+Map)

Cappadocia Turkey is the most popular hot air ballooning location in the world, and for good reason — the prices are affordable, and you get to see some unique fairytale landscapes.

More than half of the world’s balloon trips happen here. And even if you’re not interested in the famous Cappadocia hot air balloon rides, it’s still worth coming here for the good food, cave hotels, history, and photogenic hiking trails.

This travel guide will explain how to get to Cappadocia Turkey, where to stay, and all the best things to do, complete with a Cappadocia map and everything else you need to know before you go!

Table of Contents show 1) What Is Cappadocia? What Is The History? 2) Where Is Cappadocia Turkey? 3) How To Get To Cappadocia Turkey 4) Where To Stay 5) Best Cappadocia Cave Hotels 6) Cappadocia Map 7) Best Things To Do In Cappadocia 8) How To Get Around Cappadocia 9) Best Cappadocia Tours 10) How Long To Stay 11) Best Time To Visit Cappadocia 12) More Turkey Travel Guides

Don’t miss the famous Cappadocia hot air balloon rides! (© GetYourGuide )

What Is Cappadocia? What Is The History?

The Cappadocia area has been settled by humans since prehistoric times, and over the centuries it’s been occupied by the Hittites, Persians, Romans, early Christians, Byzantines, Seljuk Turks and Ottomans.

Historically, Cappadocia Turkey is probably best known for being a place where Christians settled and sought refuge from the hostile Roman Empire, secretly carving thousands of houses, churches, and caves into the hills.

Most of these rock buildings and underground cities can still be seen today, and they look just like Star Wars movie sets. Supposedly George Lucas wanted to film parts of the original Star Wars movies in Cappadocia, but the Turkish government turned it down.

Cappadocia is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site , and today it’s one of the tourism hotspots of Turkey. It draws millions of tourists every year (3.8 million in 2019!) who come to enjoy the unique landscapes, cave houses, and hot air balloon rides.

Where Is Cappadocia Turkey?

Cappadocia is located in central Turkey, and the nearest major city and airport is Kayseri.

The Cappadocia tourist area includes the small towns of Goreme, Uchisar, and Urgup, but almost everyone bases themselves in Goreme since it has the best hotels and restaurant choices.

How To Get To Cappadocia Turkey

The best way to get to Cappadocia Turkey is to fly domestically from Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen airport (SAW) to the Kayseri airport (ASR).

There are a bunch of flights doing this route every day and it only takes 1.5 hours. A one way ticket can cost as little as 150 Liras ($20 USD)! You can shop for flights to Kayseri at Skyscanner.

After you arrive in Kayseri, you’ll need a van transfer since it’s a 1 hour drive to the Goreme town center in Cappadocia. You can arrange this with your hotel, or book it online.

I recommend pre-booking this top rated Cappadocia shared airport transfer for as low as $7 USD per person. They also have private airport transfers for $30 USD. We’ve used this company ourselves and had a great experience!

Where To Stay

Most Cappadocia hotels are located in the towns of Goreme, Uchisar, or Urgup.

Goreme is generally the best area of Cappadocia to stay in because it has a huge variety of restaurants, tour shops, and cave hotels for all budgets — from backpacker to luxury hotels.

The Cappadocia cave hotels below are some of our top recommendations! You can see more options here .  

Best Cappadocia Cave Hotels

Zara Cave Hotel

Taskonaklar

Panoramic Cave Hotel

Anatolian Houses Cave Hotel

Mithra Cave Hotel

Cappadocia Map

Here’s a Cappadocia map below showing the main towns and some of the top tourist sights (click to enlarge).

The 4 popular tours in Cappadocia are color coded and each one covers a different area. My personal favorites are the Red Tour and Green Tour (more on that later).

Cappadocia map (click to enlarge) showing the color coded tour areas: red, green, blue, and orange.

Best Things To Do In Cappadocia

• cappadocia hot air balloon ride.

You can’t miss the famous Cappadocia hot air balloon rides. More than half a million tourists do this every year. The balloons are fun to watch from the ground, and even more fun to fly in!

You can wait and book your balloon ride once you arrive in Cappadocia, but I would recommend pre-booking online because it’s a very popular activity that can sell out.

Here’s a top rated 1-hour Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride with free hotel pickup starting at $70 USD. We’ve used this company ourselves and had a great experience!

Book Now: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon

The famous Cappadocia Turkey balloon rides (© GetYourGuide )

• Devrent Valley

This is a neat valley with a lot of uniquely shaped natural rock formations.

Some of them look like the typical chimney rocks, while others are shaped like animals or humans. The most popular one is Camel Rock, which has a neck and humps like a camel!

Devrent Valley is part of the Cappadocia Red Tour .

Devrent Valley

The famous Camel Rock at Devrent Valley

• Monks Valley (Pasabag)

This was one of my favorite stops on the Cappadocia Red Tour .

Like the name implies, Monks Valley was inhabited by monks in ancient times who carved their own homes and windows into the steep chimney shaped rocks.

Monks Valley (Pasabag)

This is a historic town just a short distance north of Goreme, and a lot of Cappadocia visitors stop here as part of the historic Red Tour .

Avanos is known for its pottery and artistic plates and mugs, and even if you don’t plan on buying souvenirs it’s definitely worth a visit to see their wares being made. Lots of talent!

Avanos pottery

A fancy plate in Avanos

• Love Valley

This valley gets its name from the natural phallic shaped rocks. There are a bunch of short, easy trails in the valley if you want to do some easy hiking!

Love Valley is part of the Cappadocia Red Tour .

Love Valley

• Goreme Open Air Museum

This area is full of interesting cave churches from the 11th and 12th centuries. You can go inside them, and some of the frescoes on the walls are fantastic.

The Goreme Open Air Museum is part of the Cappadocia Red Tour .

Goreme Open Air Museum

Wall murals

• Uchisar Castle

Uchisar is a town just a short distance southwest of Goreme, and the central landmark is a 60-meter tall ‘castle mountain’ carved into rocks.

It’s the highest point of Cappadocia Turkey, and you can get some amazing panoramic views from the top of the tower.

Uchisar Castle is part of the Cappadocia Red Tour .

Uchisar Castle

The small town of Uchisar

• Derinkuyu Underground City

There are 36 underground cities in Cappadocia and the deepest one is Derinkuyu.

This city is 85 meters deep in the ground, and it has stables, churches, storage rooms, and thousands of ventilation ducts that gave it fresh air when people were living in it. It’s a fascinating place to explore!

Derinkuyu is part of the Cappadocia Green Tour , but some companies go to Kaymakli instead. Kaymakli is the deepest underground city, and Derinkuyu is the widest.

Cappadocia Underground City

• Ihlara Valley

This is a 100 meter deep valley formed by the Melendiz River.

At one time, this valley was home to 80,000 people, and thousands of their cave houses and churches can still be seen in the rock walls. It’s an amazing area that can be seen on a day trip with some light trekking.

The Ihlara Valley trek is part of the Cappadocia Green Tour .

Ihlara Valley

• Melendiz River

This is a peaceful clear river that runs through the Ihlara Valley, and most day tours stop by the river for lunch.

In the autumn season (mid-October), you can see bright yellow fall colors here.

• Selime Monastery

This is the biggest religious structure in the Cappadocia area, and it’s one of my favorites.

It looks just like a Star Wars set, and you can go inside most of the buildings, which date back to the 8th or 9th centuries.

Selime Monastery is part of the Cappadocia Green Tour .

Selime Monastery

Inside the Selime Monastery

• Pigeon Valley

This is a great hiking valley near Uchisar with lots of easy walking trails that wind through the chimney rocks and cave houses.

Pigeon Valley is part of the Cappadocia Green Tour .

Pigeon Valley

Fall colors at Pigeon Valley

How To Get Around Cappadocia

• Walking: If you’re staying in Goreme and want some exercise, a bunch of nice sights will be in walking distance from your hotel. Some ideas would be Rose Valley, Lovers Hill (sunrise point), and the countless cave houses and churches.
• Horseback: This is another fun way to go sightseeing in Cappadocia. You can find 2-hour horseback riding tours online starting at $50 USD.
• Car + Driver: The most comfortable and efficient way to explore Cappadocia is to hire a private driver . Prices for a 4-8 hour tour start at $60 USD. If you have a couple of friends joining you, this can be very economical. If your group is bigger than 3, you can even hire a private van for even better savings.
• Scooter: As a solo traveler, renting a scooter in Goreme can be cost effective sometimes. Prices run about $30-$40 USD for the whole day.
• ATV: Quad biking can be another fun way to see Cappadocia, and the terrain is perfect for it. You can find Cappadocia ATV tours online starting at $25 USD for 2 hours.
• Group Tour: There are lots of Cappadocia group tours that you can join if you’re a couple or solo traveler. These normally include hotel pickup, lunch, and a full day of sightseeing. Read the section below for some more info on recommended Cappadocia tours!

Best Cappadocia Tours

The 4 popular tours in Cappadocia are color coded (Red, Green, Blue, Orange) and each one covers a different area of Cappadocia. My personal favorites are the Red Tour and Green Tour .

The Red Tour covers sights like Devrent Valley, Monks Valley, Avanos, the Goreme Open Air Museum, and Uchisar Castle. The Green Tour covers Ihlara Valley, Melendiz River, Selime Monastery, Pigeon Valley, and the Derinkuyu Underground City.

The Blue and Orange tours are less popular, and they cover sights like Ortasihar and the Gulsehir Open Air Museum. I didn’t do these tours, but we plan to try them next time we visit Cappadocia.

For the Red and Green tours, you can book them with a tour agency on the street in the Cappadocia, or you can pre-book the same tours online, which is what I did.

GetYourGuide has the Cappadocia Red Tour for $35 USD, or the Green Tour for $55 USD, with free lunch and hotel pickup included. We’ve used GetYourGuide for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Cappadocia Red Tour / Green Tour

How Long To Stay

At least 2 full days in Cappadocia are needed if you want to do both Red and Green tours and see the highlights of the countryside.

I’m sure you could spend longer too if you want to hit up more of the hiking paths and leave no stone unturned. Besides, Goreme town is a great place to get stuck, with loads of good Turkish restaurants!

If you plan to do the Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon ride, I would add at least 2 extra days to your itinerary in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. The balloon rides can get canceled on windy days, so it’s good to have a little extra time as a safety buffer.

Best Time To Visit Cappadocia

The best time to visit Cappadocia Turkey just depends on what you’re looking for. It’s a nice place all year round, but the temperatures go up and down quite a bit with the seasons.

Cappadocia has hot summers, and cold winters with snow. In either season, the landscapes will be stunning and photogenic, and hotels have air conditioning and heating so you’ll still be comfortable.

I went in the autumn (October) and this seemed just about perfect. The crowds weren’t too bad, and the leaves on the trees were almost at peak color.

Spring would also be a great time to visit, because you’ll get cooler temperatures and less crowds.

Happy travels!

More Turkey Travel Guides

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this Cappadocia Turkey travel guide.

Don’t forget to check out my other Turkey travel guides for more tips, info, and photos!

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Cappadocia Itinerary: 2, 3, 4 or 5 Day Options

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Cappadocia is one of the most unique places on the planet. Its vast desert landscape has been made famous by its fairy chimneys and cave dwellings, as well as scenic hot air balloon flights, numerous hiking trails, and fascinating open-air museums.

There’s so much to see and do, that putting together your Cappadocia itinerary is not easy.

If you’re thinking of visiting Cappadocia but you’re not sure what to see and when, in what order, and how to get around, you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, I’ve listed our itinerary for 2, 3, 4, and 5 days in Cappadocia, so you can plan your visit and have a smooth trip. 

But first… 

Planning a trip to Cappadocia last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Cappadocia:

• Airport Shuttle From Nevsehir Airport (NAV) or Kayseri Airport (ASR) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Cappadocia:

• Hot Air Balloon Flight In Cappadocia At Sunrise (A must-do In Cappadocia)
• ATV Tours At Sunset
• Green Tour In Cappadocia (Perfect for those not renting a car!)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Cappadocia:

• Koza Cave Hotel (Amazing views and great photo opportunities)
• Museum Hotel (Most luxurious hotel in Cappadocia)
• Kamelya Cave Hostel (Budget hostel with cave rooms!)

How many days is Enough in Cappadocia?

The amount of time you spend in Cappadocia will vastly differ depending on how you travel and what you want to see. 

If you are desperate to fly in a hot air balloon at sunrise, which is the most iconic thing to do in Cappadocia , then you should allow 3-4 days.

Why? Because they don’t fly every day. You should allow yourself some time to avoid disappointment because if the conditions are too windy, they won’t fly and you’ll miss your opportunity.

You should also allow more time if you intend on traveling by public transport. We used only public transport when we visited and it slowed us down a lot. Buses run sporadically and we had to change a couple of times. It took us an hour and a half to get somewhere you can drive in 30 minutes.

If you hire a car and you do it yourself, 3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Cappadocia to see the highlights. However, you can easily find enough to fill your time for 4 or 5 days.

We stayed for 10 days the first time we went because we loved it so much (and no, we didn’t see it all).

📚 Read More: The Best Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale Itinerary!

Don’t Miss Out on the BEST Experience in Cappadocia!

No trip to Cappadocia is complete without taking an epic hot air balloon flight at sunrise!

Make sure you reserve your tour well in advance to avoid missing out or paying any additional fees last minute!

Where to Stay in Cappadocia?

What many people don’t realize about Cappadocia is that it’s a region and not a city. It’s made up of several small towns and villages and expands over an area of 150 square km.

If it’s your first time and you’re not sure where to stay in Cappadocia , we recommend you stay in the heart of the region in the town of Goreme.

This is where the night bus from Istanbul drops you off, it’s where you can get buses to other towns in the region, and you can easily book the best Cappadocia tours and hire cars there.

It’s well set up as a base to explore Cappadocia.

The Best 2- Day Cappadocia Itinerary

If you only have two days in Cappadocia then you are going to need to strap on your comfiest shoes and set your alarm early, because we have a lot to pack in!

For those wanting to see the highlights of Cappadocia, we recommend you follow the Red and Green Tour itineraries for these two days. 

These tours, whether you do them yourself or with a tour group, take you to the unmissable places in Cappadocia. 

Day 1: Red Tour

We recommend you start with the Red Tour since it has the least amount of hiking (save your energy for the last day). But first, no trip to Cappadocia would be complete without…

Stop 1: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

…a sunrise hot air balloon flight. This is what makes Cappadocia famous . 

Taking a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia is something that’s definitely worth doing when you’re visiting the area. 

Due to the best wind conditions, they ride at sunrise, which means it doesn’t interrupt your plans for the rest of the day since you have landed and been bought back to your hotel in time for breakfast. 

A sunrise flight is truly spectacular, and the soft warm orange light really enhanced the incredible natural scenes of Cappadocia, with its interesting rock formations, deep valleys, and ancient cave dwellings framed against a glowing orange backdrop. 

The experience of being up in the sky, drifting around all these historic sites, and taking in the majestic panoramic views is truly unforgettable. 

Just make sure to have your tour booked in advance so you don’t miss out. If the balloons are unable to fly on the day you booked, don’t worry, you can reschedule for the next day.

Stop 2: Uchisar Castle

Uchisar Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cappadocia since it sits at the highest point in the region. It is believed to have been built somewhere between the 6th and 7th century BC as a defense against oncoming Byzantine armies.

The castle was once a fortress housing over a thousand soldiers, but today it’s an open-air museum that is best known for its views from the top.

As you walk around the museum you need to use your imagination to see how caverns and crevices were used as rooms, but there is no doubt the rock formations are fascinating.

Make sure you wear sturdy shoes as the rocky ground here can be slippery in places.

Stop 3: Goreme Open Air Museum

Without a doubt, the Goreme Open Air Museum is the best museum in Cappadocia. Nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Goreme National Park, this ancient village was one of the first settlements in Cappadocia.

While the exact time in which the settlement was created is unknown, it is considered one of the oldest monastic settlements in the region.

As you wander around the museum, you are surrounded by numerous cave dwellings, fairy chimneys, and rock-cut churches, many of which contain original frescoes from the 10th to 12th centuries during the Byzantine and Roman eras.

One of the most well-preserved churches in the Goreme Open-Air Museum is the Dark Church. It was named because of the little light that enters this dark cave. Despite its darkness, you can still see vibrant frescoes depicting biblical scenes on the vaulted ceilings carved into the cave.

The best part about visiting Goreme Open-Air Museum is that it is within walking distance from the town center of Goreme!

Read More: 7 Best Hot Air Balloon Tours In Cappadocia

Stop 4: Cavusin

Cavusin is a small village located between Goreme and Avanos and is most famous for its castle and chapel. Cavusin Castle is an epic rock formation that rises above the village of Cavusin, and it’s also the home of St. John the Baptist Chapel, one of the largest cave churches in Cappadocia.

Unfortunately, most of the Cavusin Castle has been heavily eroded due to the passing of time, so it’s not safe to go climbing over the rock and into its rooms, but there is a bridge that allows visitors to get to the chapel to see it.

Fortunately, you can still get a pretty good view of it from the road.

Stop 5: Avanos Town (Pottery Workshops)

Avanos is well known for its pottery scene. The pottery here has a long history, dating all the way back to the Hittite period, around 2,000 BCE. The clay used to make the pottery comes from the Red River (Kızılırmak), which runs through Avanos.

The pottery-making tradition has been passed down from generation to generation, and today, there are many pottery shops in Avanos where you can watch the potters at work. When you walk down the street of Avanos, you might see some of the master craftsmen still practicing their pottery skills in their family-owned businesses.

Some of the pottery shops also offer free pottery-making sessions, perfect for travelers that like an interactive experience when traveling in Cappadocia. Without a doubt, pottery from Avanos is the perfect souvenir to remember your Cappadocia trip.

But beware of the tourist traps in Avanos. Much of the pottery is now mass-produced in factories that mimic the work of skilled potters. If you are not sure how to look for a good properly handcrafted piece of work, then make sure you find someone that can help you with it!

Stop 6: Pasabag Monks Valley

Just outside of Avanos is  Pasabag Valley , or Monks Valley in English. This valley is known for its unique fairy chimneys with double to triple mushroom heads.

The most interesting part of the valley is that some of the fairy chimneys have been turned into dwellings by monks and hermits, which is how the valley has gotten its name.

The caves were first inhabited by St. Simeon from Aleppo in the 5th century. Eventually, more and more monks followed in this footsteps and came to Monks Valley to escape from the world and live a simple life in nature.

Nowadays, the caves are no longer inhabited but you can still explore them! Just be careful with going in and out as some of the rooms are very high and might require a bit of climbing!

Stop 7: Devrent Imagination Valley

Devrent Valley , also known as Imagination Valley, is a place in Cappadocia filled with unique fairy chimneys. These rock formations have been carved out over time by erosion, and they look like different animals or objects.

The most notable one is the camel-shaped rock at the entrance of the valley. But as you walk around, you might find a dolphin-shaped rock, a snail-shaped rock, and more! It is one of the best places to get a photo to remember your visit to Cappadocia!

Getting to Devrent Valley can be quite challenging since it is hard to get there via public transport. The best offer is to either get a taxi or take the red tour, which has Devrent Valley as one of the stops.

Stop 8: Sunset at Lover’s Hill

Lover’s Hill is one of the best sunset viewpoints in Cappadocia and possibly the most famous. Located in the town of Goreme, it’s also called the Goreme Sunset Viewpoint, and sits about 30 meters above the city, offering visitors nearly a 360-degree view of the region.

There is a platform built on top of the rock formations where visitors can take photos with the Goreme historic town as the backdrop. There is also usually a horse at the top where you can take photos with it, for a fee of course. 

You can have a light snack or a drink at one of the restaurants on the hill, but it is quite windy so it makes eating and drinking quite difficult.

During sunset, the sun sets behind Uchisar Castle and creates a really cool silhouette of this  Turkey landmark . On the other side of the Goreme Sunset Viewpoint, you can see Zemi Valley.

Because it is situated only a 15-minute walk from Goreme, this viewpoint is one of the most crowded places to visit in Cappadocia, especially during sunset. There is a small fee to enter if you are coming from Goreme, but you can go through Zemi Valley and avoid the fee. 

Day 2: Green Tour

For the second day, you’re going to want to wear your comfiest hiking shoes as it’s time to explore the valleys.

Stop 1: Esentepe Viewpoint (Pigeon Valley Viewpoint)

The Esentepe Viewpoint isn’t a huge attraction in Cappadocia but it’s worth stopping by to check out the incredible scenery. Cappadocia is huge and its size is often largely forgotten about unless you were able to see it from above in a hot air balloon!

One of the best places to appreciate how big the region is, is at Esentepe Viewpoint, which sits between Uchisar and Goreme and overlooks Pigeon Valley .

Pigeon Valley is a special valley in Cappadocia as it is home to several pigeon dwellings. Many years ago, pigeon poop was used as a fertilizer and was incredibly expensive, so the locals cut these pigeon holes into the rock here as a way to collect the poop.

You can wander down into Pigeon Valley from here to check them out, or you can see them from above. It’s up to you!

Stop 2: Derinkuyu Underground City

One of the most fascinating pieces of Cappadocia’s history is the use of underground cities. They weren’t discovered until the early 60s when a local villager was remodeling his house and knocked a wall into the city.

From there, archeologists discovered a huge metropolis of tunnels, caverns, chambers, and vents that make up a massive underground city.

It’s believed that there are more than 200 underground cities in Cappadocia but they have not all been excavated. The largest underground city is the Derinkuyu Underground City , which goes down 8 levels to around 65 meters deep. The full scale is unknown as it’s still being fully excavated, but they think it connects all the way to Kaymakli Underground City.

The cities were believed to have been used as hiding places from Byzantine invaders, and are estimated to have housed more than 20,000 people including all their livestock and belongings.

Stop 3: Ihlara Valley

There are many valleys in Cappadocia but none as unique as Ihlara Valley – for the sole reason that it’s incredibly green . Yes, there is lush nature in the desert!

Ihlara Valley is a gorge filled with lush green vegetation and the Melendiz River passes through the center. There is a hike that passes down through the valley, into the gorge, and past several ancient monuments along the way.

You will come across many Byzantine cave churches and dwellings that were carved into the canyon walls. It’s truly a spectacular place.

This hike can be as long or short as you want it to be since many different trails branch off the main path. However, we recommend starting at Ihlara Village and finishing at Selime so you can see the Selime Monastery.

But if you don’t want to hike for that long, you can start at Ihlara Village and finish at Belisirma Village, where you can have a meal at one of its iconic floating restaurants.

Stop 4: Belisirma Village

Belisirma Village is nestled in the heart of Ihlara Valley. Like most villages in Cappadocia, the houses in Belisirma were cut into the rock face.

But today, small wooden huts have been built on the water’s edge and are used as restaurants for hikers. Some of these huts have platforms reaching out into the middle of the Melendiz River, so you can sit and have your lunch whilst listening to the waters rushing past you on all sides.

After hiking in the warm sun, it’s the perfect place to stop and rest for a while.

Stop 5: Selime Monastery

The Selime Monastery is the last monument on the Ihlara Valley hike and is an epic rock-cut church with plenty of frescos. This cathedral-sized church has been largely damaged by the weather and passing of time, but it’s still impressive to see and with clever imagination, you can see how settlers lived here in the 8th and 9th centuries BC.

It was said that the monastery was also a fortress, as the upper section has what looks like trenches and steep staircases leading to passageways. This evidence puts the creation of the monastery back to the time of the Hittites, before the 8th century – or so it is believed.

The church in the monastery has been separated into 3 sections by two well-preserved rock columns. You can also see where the monks slept and where they cooked meals in the kitchens. It’s truly a fascinating structure.

Stop 6: Onyx Jewelry Factory

Cappadocia is home to some precious gemstones used for jewelry making. The most precious stone in Cappadocia is the Black Onyx, a hard gemstone that can easily be used in the art of jewelry making.

The Onyx Jewelry Factory is a bit touristy and is obviously designed to encourage tourists to spend money, but it is still interesting to learn about the mining and craft work of this gem.

Stop 7: Watch a Whirling Dervishes Show

At nighttime, there’s no better evening entertainment than a Whirling Dervishes show. The Whirling Dervishes are part of the Sufi tradition and they are known to induce a trance-like state that leads to divine inspiration, or “ecstatic trances” for the performers.

The ceremony starts with the recitation of devotional Islamic prayer and then the dervishes start to spin. There are three sections to the dance, so they whirl around for about 10 to 15 minutes each time.

For many of them, this is a way to connect with God and achieve a state of inner peace. The experience can be quite powerful, even if you’re not religious.

There are plenty of places where you can watch the Whirling Dervishes in Cappadocia. However, if you want to see it in an atmospheric setting, then I suggest watching it at the 13th-century Saruhan Caravanserai near Avanos.

The Best Cappadocia Itinerary for 3 Days

Not tired of hiking? Good! Because today we are going to the BEST valleys in Cappadocia and our absolute favorites to hike.

Day 3: Hiking Red and Rose Valley

Depending on your fitness level, you may want to skip some of these hikes and just do the Rose Valley and Red Valley hikes. 

We recommend you get up early to see Love Valley and then rest until early afternoon before hitting the rest. This means you can avoid the strong midday sun.

Stop 1: Love Valley

Love Valley is one of the closest valleys to Goreme so if you haven’t wandered through it yet, you should make sure to check it out first thing in the morning.

It gets its name from the phallic shapes of the rock formations, which experts believe were formed by ancient  volcanic eruptions that occurred 9 to 3 million years ago .

The region was covered in thick ash, which eventually solidified into soft rock formations that eroded easily. The cap of the fairy chimneys is usually much more resilient to erosion, hence why the cap of the fairy chimney is usually bigger than the neck.

The valley is small and won’t take long to wander around. Once you’ve grabbed a few selfies, it’s time to go on some real hiking.

Stop 2: Meskendir Valley

Meskendir Valley is often overlooked as a valley because it doesn’t have those huge rock formations that everyone knows and loves. However, if you have allowed a full day to hike Rose and Red Valley, then it’s easy to add this on to your hike and there is a good reason why you would want to do this.

The Meskendir Valley starts from Kaya Camping Ground, just across from Aynali Church. From here, you will immediately see a signpost in graffiti saying ‘Rose’ and ‘Red’ indicating the route to take.

Meskendir Valley only adds another 2.7km to the hike and it’s pretty flat most of the way. You’ll pass by gorgeous rock tunnels and formations, and it’s also pretty green as well with a few trees for shading.

Stop 3: Rose Valley

Rose Valley is one of the most famous valleys in Cappadocia because of the pink hue of the rock that lies here. Its landscape is stunning, with gorges and ridge lines that are covered in dry grass, and from the top of the ridge, you have pretty epic views into Red Valley as well.

It’s also home to some ancient cave dwellings and churches. The most famous is The Crusader Church, which still has some well-preserved frescoes inside.

Inside the valley, you walk past pigeon homes (dovecotes) and more cave dwellings. The highlight is seeing the Columned Church, which is famous for its intact columns inside the church.

Stop 4: Red Valley

Rose Valley leads into Red Valley , and the exact spot in which the two valleys connect isn’t exactly clear, but you will know when you enter Red Valley and the sun goes down as the rock is illuminated in a gorgeous red color.

Red Valley also has some fairy chimneys and churches, but unlike Rose Valley, you cannot go inside them. The landscape of Red Valley is reason enough to visit, and if you plan your hike too late afternoon, you should reach Red Valley around sunset.

The Red Valley sunset viewpoint is one of the most special places. You can sit on swing benches, unroll a picnic blanket, or sit on the picnic benches next to the refreshment stands and replenish yourself as you watch the sunset.

Don’t dwindle too long as you still need to hike back. Fortunately, the hike is pretty flat all the way once you make it down from the ridge, and the sun takes a while to set, so you can reach Goreme before the sun passes behind the valleys.

Stop 5: Red Valley ATV Adventure

If you finished your hike earlier than sunset, don’t rush off back to town, stick around and do an ATV sunset tour of Red Valley. This is an activity for the adrenaline junkie, as you get to zip through the desert on a four-wheel drive ATV quad bike.

You’ll be led by an expert guide who will take you off-the-beaten-path, to the most beautiful spots where you can watch the sunset, and give you time to see how fast you can go on the flat stretch of sand used as a hot air balloon landing site.

Ever wanted to zoom around the desert on an ATV? Now is your chance.

The Best Cappadocia Itinerary for 4 Days

On the fourth day, we are going to travel a long way to Lake Tuz, which is around 126km West of Goreme.

Day 4: Avanos and Lake Tuz

The route to Lake Tuz first goes to the town of Avanos, so if you haven’t explored it yet, we recommend you stop at two very iconic landmarks in the area first. 

Then you pass through two cities in Cappadocia, Nevsehir, and Aksaray. 

You will need to hire a car or take a tour to see Lake Tuz , it’s just too complicated on public transport.

Stop 1: Zelve Open Air Museum

If you enjoyed the Goreme Open Air Museum, or maybe you skipped it, you might also like to see the Zelve Open Air Museum which is much of the same thing.

Zelve was a former settlement, and while there isn’t much hard evidence that tells its history, we can learn from the architecture and excavations that the cave dwellings were used by a small troglodyte community since the Byzantine Era.

It was only until the 9th and 13th centuries did this small village come into religious importance, with the first seminaries for priests established here. In between those times, Zelve was used as a haven against the Persian and Arab attacks. After the Byzantine era, this small village was turned into a Muslim village under the Ottoman Empire.

Nonetheless, Zelve was a place where Christians and Muslims co-existed harmoniously, as detailed by the ruins of churches and a rock-cut mosque with a dome.

What’s always fascinated me about Zelve was that people were living here right up until 1952! It was then that the Turkish government moved the settlers to nearby Yeni Zelve (Aktepe), just 2 kilometers to the northeast because the rock dwellings were deemed too unsafe to live in.

In 1967, the Zelve Valleys were turned into the museum, and you can see large portions of the village have been closed off due to erosion, but what’s left to see is pretty cool.

Stop 2: Avanos Chez Galip Hair Museum

Perhaps there is no attraction in Cappadocia more unusual than the Chez Galip Hair Museum in Avanos. This museum is exactly what it sounds like, a museum dedicated to hair, women’s hair. It is estimated that there are over 16,000 locks of hair in the museum.

The museum all started when the owner of a pottery shop, Galip Körükçü, was given a lock of his friend’s hair as a memento when she moved out. This story moved a lot of women that stopped in the area, and many of them started to give some of their hair to Galip Körükçü.

Eventually, he opened up a museum dedicating the hair of women. Nowadays, women still come to donate their hair, but that is because they have a chance to win an all-expense-paid trip to Cappadocia.

When visiting the Chez Galip Hair Museum, make sure you check out the pottery shop that accompanies it.

Stop 3: Nevşehir

At the heart of Cappadocia lies the beautiful city of Nevşehir, the capital of Cappadocia. Partly surrounded by a horseshoe-shaped mountain ridge, the city is packed full of amazing historical sites and attractions.

As you head towards Lake Tuz, be sure to stop at the Nevsehir Museum which contains ancient relics and artifacts found in the area. You can also pass by Nevşehir Castle, which has amazing views of the city.

Stop 4: Aksaray

The city of Aksaray is full of beauty and history, making it a great pit stop on the way to explore Lake Tuz. With ruins from the Seljuk Empire and various historical mosques, including Somuncu Baba Tomb, Aksaray has many places to explore if you’re still interested in Cappadocia’s history.

The Zinciriye Madrasa church, Sultanhani Caravanserai, and Aksaray Museum are three of the top attractions in the city.

But the reason to visit Aksaray is that it is one of the largest cities in the region, meaning it has plenty of great places to enjoy the delicious local cuisine as well as unique shopping experiences. 

Fuel up, both your car and your belly, and when you’re ready keep driving to Lake Tuz.

Stop 5: Lake Tuz

Lake Tuz was the second-largest lake in Turkey and one of the largest hypersaline lakes in the world. It’s famous for its pink hue, which is caused by salt-tolerant algae.

The lake is not always pink though, it’s only pink when the weather is hot and there’s no rain – so it’s best to visit in the summer if you want to catch the pinkness.

The lake may be a natural phenomenon, but it is also used for mining salt. It is believed that it supplies the country with 70% of its salt production.

Over the years, the lake has been slowly drying up due to climate change , and in October 2021, it dried up completely. Because there is no outlet, when the water is used up, it’s used up.

It was also home to 5,000 flamingoes, but since there is no longer a home for them, they have all disappeared.

While you might want to visit to see the iconic pink hues that made it famous, today you should visit for another reason – to see the catastrophic effects of climate change with your own eyes.

The Best Cappadocia Itinerary for 5 Days

If you’re planning to spend 5 days in Cappadocia, I wouldn’t add any more attractions than the ones I’ve already given you. You could do some more hikes and see more valleys , but after 5 days you are probably feeling like you’ve seen a lot of the same landscape.

Instead, I would just do the four day Cappadocia itinerary above much slower. You may want to do the Red and Green tour itinerary yourself by hiring a car and spending more time at the Ihlara Valley for example.

You may also find the Derinkuyu Underground City fascinating and want to see the nearby Kaymakli Underground City as well.

I suggest hiring a car for five days and being flexible. Use the itinerary above as a guide for which attractions to visit and in which order, but don’t feel like you need to rush through them. Use your last day as a buffer.

Or simply relax in a Turkish hamam or have an extended lunch looking over the valleys. What’s a vacation without a little relaxation as well?

Getting Around Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a bit of a pain to get around if you don’t have a car. I highly recommend renting a car and driving yourself if you are spending more than 2 days in Cappadocia.

If you’re short on time, it would be beneficial for you to book the Red and Green tours, as they take you to all the highlights.

You can get around Cappadocia by public transport (we did) but it was not an efficient use of time. The buses run every 20-30 minutes and they run on Turkish time, which means they show up when they feel like it.

The bus drivers also speak very little English and you may have to change buses (especially if you plan to go from Goreme to the underground cities ). It can take you up to an hour to reach each attraction on the bus, so you will need to allow at least 4-5 days in Cappadocia if you don’t drive.

We found we hiked to most places. You can easily hike to Uchisar from Goreme by passing through Love Valley and White Valley, and you can also hike to Cauvusin from Goreme through Red and Rose Valley. 

Tips for Visiting Cappadocia

To help you have the best trip to Cappadocia, here are a few words of advice:

• Go slow and don’t try to pack it all in. I know these itineraries are jam-packed, but you’re going to exhaust yourself trying to see every valley and do every hike . Take time to just wander the towns and soak in the atmosphere as well.
• Hire a car. It will honestly save you so much time and stress by doing everything yourself and driving.
• Download the MapsMe App. This is an offline satellite GPS and is perfect for those who are hiking as you can follow the trails offline. 
• Prepare for cold weather. Even in the summer, nights can be cold in Cappadocia. Pack warm clothing such as a jumper to wear in the evenings.
• Prepare for hot weather. Contrary to above, the daytime can be super hot because the landscape is all white and reflects the sun. Wear suncream and a sunhat. You’ll thank me later.
• Take out cash, as many places don’t accept credit cards.

Final Thoughts on Cappadocia Itinerary

So there you have it, this is how you can spend your days in Cappadocia, and as you can see, there is a LOT to see and do.

No matter how many days you plan to spend in Cappadocia, we know you will have a great trip.

Do you have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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As if plucked from a whimsical fairytale and set down upon the stark Anatolian plains, Cappadocia is a geological oddity of honeycombed hills and towering boulders of otherworldly beauty. The fantastical topography is matched by the human history here. People have long utilised the region's soft stone, seeking shelter underground and leaving the countryside scattered with fascinating cavern architecture. The fresco-adorned rock-cut churches of Göreme Open-Air Museum and the subterranean refuges of Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı are the most famous sights, while simply bedding down in one of Cappadocia's cave hotels is an experience in 21st-century cave living.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Cappadocia. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Güllüdere (Rose) Valley

The trails that loop around Güllüdere Vadısı (Rose Valley) are easily accessible to all levels of walkers and provide some of the finest fairy-chimney…

Dark Church

The highlight of Göreme Open-Air Museum is the stunning and fully restored Dark Church, famed for the vivid colours and excellent preservation of its…

Göreme Open-Air Museum

This Unesco World Heritage site is an essential stop on any Cappadocian itinerary. First thought to be a Byzantine monastic settlement that housed some 20…

Zelve Open-Air Museum

The road between Çavuşin and Avanos passes a turn-off to the Zelve Open-Air Museum, where three valleys of crumbling cave-habitations and churches…

Kaymaklı Underground City

Kaymaklı underground city features a maze of tunnels and rooms carved eight levels deep into the earth, though only four are open to the public. The…

Eski Gümüşler Monastery

Some of Cappadocia's best-preserved and most captivating frescoes are hidden within this rarely visited rock-hewn monastery that was only rediscovered in…

Kızılçukur Viewpoint

One of the best views of Kızılçukur (Red) Valley's fang-like rock cones and wavy cliff ridges is from this lookout point, signposted off the highway,…

Buckle Church

The Buckle Church is 50m back down the hill towards Göreme and across the road from the main Open-Air Museum complex, but is covered by the same entrance…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 9 best experiences in cappadocia.

Sultan Marshes

This Ramsar-listed wetland area encompasses over 24,000 hectares of marshland and is one of Turkey's most important birdwatching sites. A major resting…

Museum of Seljuk Civilisation

This excellent museum is set in the restored Çifte Medrese, a 13th-century twin hospital and seminary built at the bequest of Seljuk sultan Keyhüsrev I…

Mahperi Hunat Hatun Complex

The austere and stately Mahperi Hunat Hatun complex is one of Kayseri's finest Seljuk monuments, built in the 13th century during the reign of Sultan…

Ihlara Valley

Rimmed by high cliffs that hide rock-cut churches, the lush Ihlara Valley is one of Cappadocia's most popular hiking destinations. Most visitors arrive on…

Yılanlı Kilise

Many of the frescoes are damaged, but it's possible to make out the one outlining the punishments for sinners, especially the three-headed snake with a…

Kayseri Castle

The monumental black-basalt walls of Kayseri castle were first constructed under Roman emperor Gordian III and rebuilt by the Byzantine emperor Justinian…

Devrent Valley

Look: it's a camel rock! Nicknamed 'Imagination Valley' locally, Devrent Valley's rock formations are some of the best formed and most thickly clustered…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Cappadocia promises incredible natural sights, ancient cultures and wonderful hikes – where to begin? With our round-up of the 9 best things to do there.

Things to Know

From how long to stay to how to stay safe, here are the key things to know before you go to Cappadocia.

Transportation

Cappadocia enjoys good transport options by car, taxi and dolmus (van) – check out these tips for getting around Türkiye's dreamiest region.

Money and Costs

From off-season travel to finding cheap food, these money-saving tips can help you stretch your budget further in Cappadocia

Best Road Trips

Cappadocia’s combination of dramatic scenery and well-maintained roads makes it a pleasure to explore by car.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Turkey

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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The Ultimate Cappadocia Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to cappadocia with our comprehensive guide..

Meta-description: Embark on an unforgettable journey with The Ultimate Cappadocia Travel Guide. Explore this mystic land of fairy chimneys and mesmerizing landscapes. Learn about the best spots, traditional food, activities, and everything you need to plan your Cappadocia trip .

Introduction

Have you ever dreamed of exploring an alien-like landscape on Earth? Have you ever wished to step into a time capsule taking you back to the early days of civilization? If you’ve been nodding in agreement, let me introduce you to Cappadocia, a natural marvel tucked in the heart of Turkey . Let’s dive in and explore this unique destination with The Ultimate Cappadocia Travel Guide.

The Ultimate Cappadocia Travel Guide: An Overview

A snapshot of cappadocia.

Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its distinctive “ fairy chimneys ,” tall cone-shaped rock formations clustered in Monks Valley and elsewhere. This enchanting region appears to be plucked straight out of a fantasy novel, with its captivating landscapes, historical caves, and magical hot air balloon rides .

History and Heritage

Steeped in history and heritage, Cappadocia is the cradle of early Christian civilization. The region is dotted with ancient cave churches adorned with Byzantine-era frescoes, and underground cities like Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, serving as silent witnesses to the area’s rich past.

Cappadocia’s Unique Geology

Cappadocia’s unique geology is thanks to the erosion of the soft volcanic rock by wind and water over millions of years, resulting in the iconic landscapes we see today. A walk around the region feels like you’re on another planet, making Cappadocia a geologist’s dream come true.

Planning Your Trip to Cappadocia

Join budget-friendly Cappadocia tours provided by One Nation Travel and experience the wonders.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Cappadocia is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), as the weather during these periods is more comfortable for outdoor activities.

How to Reach

The easiest way to reach Cappadocia is by flying into either Nevşehir or Kayseri Airport. From there, a taxi or shuttle will get you to your accommodation.

Where to Stay

Cappadocia offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury cave hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Staying in a cave hotel is a unique experience not to be missed!

Unmissable Sights and Activities in Cappadocia

Hot air balloon ride.

Riding a hot air balloon is a must-do activity in Cappadocia. As you float above the fairy chimneys at sunrise, you’ll feel as if you’re in a dream. It’s an experience of a lifetime!

Explore Göreme Open-Air Museum

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to ancient cave churches and monastic settlements, offers a glimpse into Cappadocia’s rich history and religious heritage.

Visit the Underground Cities

Step into the labyrinthine tunnels of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu, and marvel at these ancient underground cities. They were once home to early Christians seeking refuge from persecution.

Hiking in the Valleys

Cappadocia’s breathtaking valleys, such as Love Valley, Rose Valley, and Ihlara Valley, are perfect for hiking enthusiasts. The hiking trails pass through beautiful landscapes and offer stunning views of fairy chimneys.

Cappadocian Cuisine: A Feast for the Senses

Traditional delights.

Cappadocia offers a range of delicious dishes. Try the local specialty, “Testi Kebab,” a succulent meat dish slow-cooked in a clay pot.

Wine Tasting

Cappadocia’s fertile lands are perfect for vineyards. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sample some local wines.

Visit a Turkish Tea House

Unwind at a traditional Turkish tea house and enjoy a hot cup of Turkish tea or coffee – a perfect end to your day of exploring.

Travel Tips for Your Cappadocia Journey

Dress appropriately.

Remember to dress modestly as Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country. Always carry a scarf, especially when visiting religious sites.

Stay Hydrated

Cappadocia can get pretty hot during summer. Ensure to stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen and a hat for protection.

Respect the Environment

Preserve the beauty of Cappadocia by not littering and respecting the natural and historical sites.

What is Cappadocia famous for?

Cappadocia is famous for its unique landscapes dotted with fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, churches, and underground cities. It is also known for its hot air balloon rides, which offer stunning aerial views of the region.

How many days do I need in Cappadocia?

A minimum of two to three days is recommended to explore Cappadocia’s main sights and attractions. However, if you’re a history buff or a hiking enthusiast, you might want to spend more time there.

Is Cappadocia safe for tourists?

Yes, Cappadocia is generally safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places.

Do people live in the caves in Cappadocia?

While most people no longer live in the caves, many caves have been converted into hotels, restaurants, and museums.

Can I visit Cappadocia in winter?

Yes, you can visit Cappadocia in winter. The fairy chimneys covered in snow make for a magical sight, and the region is less crowded.

Do I need a guide in Cappadocia?

While it’s possible to explore Cappadocia independently, hiring a local guide can enrich your experience as they can provide insights into the history and culture of the region.

The Ultimate Cappadocia Travel Guide aims to provide a comprehensive look into this magical land’s offerings. From unique landscapes to rich historical sites, tantalizing cuisine, and exciting activities, Cappadocia promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and set off on an adventure of a lifetime!

3 Unforgettable Cappadocia Tours Tailored for Your Adventures

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Have wanderlust? Here’s why you should visit Cappadocia at least once in your lifetime

Whether you’ve been to one country, or one hundred, a visit to Cappadocia is sure to be one of the most memorable travel experiences of your life.

When I first moved to Turkey in 2014, I would talk about where I’d been and almost without fail I’d get interrupted and someone would ask, “…but, have you been to Cappadocia?” Eventually, I realized that I couldn’t keep answering no to that question.

When I finally did visit, I instantly understood why everyone asked that question. The landscape itself is dramatic and otherworldly, and, in truth, it reminded me more of my childhood visions of other planets more than any other place I’d been on earth.

As a travel writer, I’ve written about and recommended many places, all with varying levels of enthusiasm and verbosity. Yet, in the case of Cappadocia, I have to muster all my strength just so my brain doesn’t short circuit with a cacophony of adjectives.

An Intrepid group exploring Cappadocia

There’s no other way to say it, Cappadocia needs to be on more travel bucket lists because there are few, if any, places like it.

What makes Cappadocia special?

Cappadocia is a notable region for a number of reasons, but, namely because of its lengthy history and breathtaking scenery. Cappadocia’s human history is estimated to have started as far back as 1800 BC, and it has always occupied this “in-between” space as empires fought battles on either side (and sometimes through it). Due to its rocky formation, Cappadocia has been a hiding place for millennia, and most notably for the Christians in the fourth century who were petrified to face the wrath of Rome.

These people weren’t just “hiding,” they were creating. When you go to the region of Cappadocia, and particularly near Göreme, you’ll find literal cave chapels replete with stunning frescoes. That’s what resonated with me when I went, that even in a time of great duress, these people managed to establish a place of incredible beauty – a sanctuary within the rocks. You can still see these frescoes today, though, sadly, at varying levels of preservation.

It’s important that you learn about the history when coming to Cappadocia, but the geographical formations in this region are without comparison.

VISIT CAPPADOCIA ON A SMALL GROUP TOUR OF TURKEY WITH INTREPID

What should I see and do in Cappadocia?

In many ways, just being in this region of Anatolia is enough, but there are certain areas and activities that are well worth investigating. The good news is that the vast majority of Intrepid’s Turkey trips  do an excellent job of covering the Cappadocia bases. I can tell you from personal experience that 2-3 days is going to give you a great feel for the area, and you might even need a new memory card for your camera when you’re finished.

Göreme Open Air Museum

To me, this is the best place to take in the feel of Cappadocia, both from a geological and historical standpoint. You can wander in and out of old frescoed churches and duck through houses carved into the rockside, but you can also stand on balconies and look across the valley at the great breadth of fairy chimneys. If you’ve brought a camera with you to Cappadocia (and you should!), make sure it’s charged before you arrive here.

Between the architecture and the rock paintings, this is the top tourist attraction in the region without question. Just think about it, some of these frescoes were painted over a thousand years ago and are still as vibrant as if they were painted yesterday.

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The underground cities

There are several major underground cities that are worth visiting in the region, but Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı that come to mind for me (in fact, they’re connected). I must admit, I always giggle when I read Kaymaklı Underground City because “kaymaklı” in Turkish literally translates to “with cream.” 

That is, however, besides the point. The underground cities of this region in general are incredibly impressive. The caves were most notably used by Christians to evade persecution, and some of these cities were built up to 10 floors underground – just let that sink in for moment.

I’m not claustrophobic, but I swear when I was on the lowest floors of kaymaklı, I could feel the weight of the ground above me. It’s interesting because you can see how there were actually tunnels that served as escape channels should the caves be entered from the front, complete with defense mechanisms and the like that wouldn’t allow the persecutors to chase after them.

READ MORE: WHAT IT’S LIKE VISITING TURKEY SOLO ON A GROUP TOUR

A hot air balloon at sunrise

Going up in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia can be expensive, but it’s worth every single penny (or lira, as it were). This was one of the defining travel experiences of my life, and I’ve been lucky to travel to nearly 80 countries. You shoot up high over the cracked earth below, then effortlessly drift down into the valleys, as you skirt past fairy chimneys. I was in literal awe the entire time, and the pictures I have from that experience are cherished possessions of mine.

The view from a balloon

The cuisine

The Turkish food you’ll try in this region will, in all likelihood, wow you. I’d personally recommend the testi kebap, which is an array of meat, vegetables, and spices cooked in a sealed clay pot. I also found the gözleme, a Turkish crepe of sorts often served with potato or spinach, to be excellent in Cappadocia. I’m not the world’s biggest fan of Turkish coffee, but the Turkish tea (known as çay) was very much to my liking there. Cuisine in Göreme is cooked slowly and with care, so whatever you order is likely to be good, even your average kebab.

READ MORE: 6 DISHES YOU ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO TRY IN TURKEY

So, why visit Cappadocia?

There isn’t anything else like it, period and, to me, that’s enough of a reason. Trust me, I’ve spent most of my life in pursuit of what makes this world unique, and this, my friends, is unique as it gets.

A photo I’m proud to have taken

It’s a history few people know about in a place that not enough people have visited. If anything, that’s more incentive to go and see it for yourself.

Your ticket to Cappadocia is a ticket to another world, and I mean that in the most literal sense. Let Cappadocia change you, as, thankfully, it changed me.

Ready to experience this incredible region for yourself? Check out Intrepid’s small group trips in Turkey.

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel x4, Christ Mitchell, Intrepid Travel, Chris Mitchell.)

Feeling inspired?

Chris Mitchell

Chris regularly thanks his unquenchable sense of curiosity for ensuring he's never in one place for too long. He's been to over 75 countries across this gorgeous planet of ours and has always felt that all that's needed for a good trip is a well-bound notebook, a well-written book, and a passport with an expiry date that offers a little wiggle room for extending your journey. As a freelance writer and blogger, Chris is only too pleased that his passion for travel, photography, and writing have ever so politely collided. You can follow his adventures at travelingmitch.com, or with the handle @travelingmitch on any of your favourite social media platforms.

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Travel Guide to Cappadocia, Turkey [with Sample Itinerary]

Read our Cappadocia travel guide to help you have an idea with your next journey to this paradise-like city in central Turkey.

• Our 3- Day Travel Itinerary to Istanbul, Turkey – Tips & Guide
• DIY Travel Guide Exploring the Historical Turkey
• My Food Trip Itinerary in the UNESCO Creative City of Gaziantep, Turkey
• List of The Best Hostels in Turkey
• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in Turkey

Table of Contents

Cappadocia Travel Guide: Places to Visit in Cappadocia, Turkey

1. goreme national park.

Suggested Tour: Göreme: Small-Group Full-Day Cappadocia Red Tour

2. Fairy Chimneys

Suggested Tour: Cappadocia Highlights Tour with Lunch

3. Cappadocia Cave Dwellings

Suggested Tour: Cappadocia: Private Full-Day Tour

Suggested Tour: Ürgüp/Göreme: Full-Day Cappadocia Red Tour

5. Güllüdere Vadisi

Suggested Tour: Best of Cappadocia Private Day-Tour

6. Goreme Open-Air Museum

Suggested Tour: Cappadocia: Full-Day Private Custom Tour

7. Zemi Valley

8. Derinkuyu Yeralti Sehri

9. Uchisar Castle

Suggested Tour: Full-Day Cappadocia Red Plus Tour

10. Pigeon Valley

Another of Cappadocia’s beautiful valleys. A unique and fantastic place. You don’t need to spend long hours to appreciate the valley. A short stop is enough to see the highlights, the beautiful sceneries, and of course, a lot of pigeons.

11. Love Valley

The Love Valley is distinguished by several pillars of characteristic shape. Above it, there is a playground with a heart-shaped swing. It also offers a great view of the stone formations.

12. Sunset Point

From this place, a panoramic view of Goreme opens. Expect that it is crowded in the evenings. However, your eyes will have a beautiful view of the village, all in the lights during the evening. There is also a cafe so staying here is absolutely worth it.

13. Kaymakli Underground City

Suggested Tour:  South Cappadocia Full-Day Green Tour with Trekking

14. Guray Museum

History of ceramics. It is an awesome museum with impressive architecture. It has a rich collection of valuable ceramics, both ancient and current. Not only that, but you can also learn about the history and manufacturing methods.

15. Ihlara Valley

Suggested Tour:  Full-Day Cappadocia Blue Tour with a Small Group

Cappadocia Travel Guide: Sample Weekend Itinerary to Cappadocia, Turkey

Day 1 – weekend guide to cappadocia, turkey.

Goreme Open-Air Museum – For a starter, learn more about the Turkish culture by visiting the Goreme Open-Air Museum. You will be mesmerized by the country’s rich history.

Derinkuyu Yeralti Sehri –  Another place for learning, your day 1 should be a “travel back in time” tour.

Day 2 – Weekend Guide to Cappadocia, Turkey

Goreme National Park – Continue exploring the past on your second day in Cappadocia. Goreme National Park is a very popular tourist destination in Cappadocia, Turkey. In this place, you’ll get to explore more rock formations like the chimneys.

Fairy Chimneys –  Be amazed by the rock formations of these chimneys that look like mushroom hills.

Pasabag –  Another site for fairy chimneys sightseeing. The different kinds of shapes in this site are just picturesque.

Day 3 – Weekend Guide to Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia Cave Dwellings –  There’s a lot of great photo opportunities in this place, so make sure to not miss this one!

Ihlara Valley –  Before you live Cappadocia, make sure to spend some time here at Ihlara Valley. Its beautiful landscapes attract a lot of tourists.

Cappadocia Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Cappadocia, Turkey

*All prices are subject to change.

Where to Stay in Cappadocia, Turkey if you’re a Backpacker

Epoch Stone House

Each accommodation at Epoch Stone House has garden views and free WiFi. The hotel features city views, a terrace, and a 24-hour front desk. All rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV. Guests at the accommodation can also enjoy a continental breakfast.

Price: Starts at $26 per night for Economy Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Ciner Hotel

Çiner Hotel is located in the town of Göreme in the historic Cappadocia region and provides rooms with free Wi-Fi. All rooms include a minibar, satellite TV, and a fridge. Each room has air conditioning and an en suite bathroom with a shower. Nevşehir Airport is 41 km away, while Kayseri Airport is 84 km away from the property.

Price: Starts at $38 per night for Standard Double or Twin Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Naturels Cave House

This cozy family-run pension offers cave rooms and stone rooms with an arched ceiling, and it also has a terrace. The authentic rooms at the pet-friendly Naturels Cave House feature underfloor heating, LCD TV with satellite channels, and an electric kettle with free tea and coffee set-up. They all have a private bathroom with free toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is also available in the rooms.

Price: Starts at $39 per night for Stone Room, includes taxes and charges, add $5 for breakfast , it offers a free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Cappadocia, Turkey if you’re on a Budget

Elysee Cave House

The friendly owners at Elysee Cave House offer a high standard of personalized service, including arranging hiking trips in the local area. Each of the rooms is fully heated in the cooler months. A unique menu of traditional Turkish and Ottoman cuisine is served in the rose garden or the cozy restaurant.

Price: Starts at $45 per night for Budget Double or Twin Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Cappadocia Cave Land Hotel

Cappadocia Cave Land Hotel offers Ottoman-style accommodation and concierge services. Free WiFi is accessible throughout the premises. Complimentary shuttle services are available in Goreme. Elegantly decorated rooms and suites at Cappadocia Cave Land Hotel include a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an electric kettle, and a safety deposit box. Equipped with a bathtub or a shower, the private bathrooms come with a hairdryer, free toiletries, and slippers.

Price: Starts at $62 per night for Deluxe Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Kirkit Hotel

Kirkit Hotel offers rooms with free WiFi and has a restaurant that serves traditional cuisine. Each room has stone walls and wooden furnishings, some of which are antique. They include a private bathroom with a shower. Some rooms have balconies with views of the Kizilirmak River. Guests can also rent a bicycle and explore the countryside.

Price: Starts at $68 per night for Standard Double Room, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast , and free cancellation.

Where to Stay in Cappadocia, Turkey if you want Luxury

DoubleTree By Hilton Avanos Cappadocia

The Doubletree Avanos Capaddocia offers indoor and outdoor pools as well as various spa facilities in the city center of Avanos. Guests can enjoy modern guest rooms with free Wi-Fi access and luxurious bath products. The Avanos Capaddocia Hilton offers 24-hour room service. Freshly prepared, local dishes are available in the restaurant for lunch and dinner.

Price: Starts at $98 per night for King Bed Guestroom, includes taxes and charges, add $11 for breakfast , it offers a free cancellation.

Taru Cave Suites

Taru Cave Suites offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a shared lounge. Each accommodation at the 5-star hotel has garden views, and guests can enjoy access to a garden and to a terrace. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. They also have a buffet or continental breakfast.

Price: Starts at $198 per night for Suite with Balcony, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and free cancellation.

Seraphim Cave Hotel

Seraphim Cave Hotel offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a garden. Among the facilities at this property are room service and concierge service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel provides an indoor pool, hammam, and a 24-hour front desk. The units at the hotel come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and a shower. Continental and à la carte breakfast options are available every morning.

Price: Starts at $203 per night for King Suite, includes taxes and charges, free breakfast, and free cancellation.

Cappadocia Travel Guide: List of restaurants that you can try while in Cappadocia, Turkey

Ocakbasi Urfa Sofrasi

Serves Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine. You’ll have one of the best kebabs in Cappadocia here!

Operating hours: 9 :00 AM – 12:00 AM (Tue-Sun) / 08:15 AM – 12:00 AM (Mon) Address:  Ataturk Cad. Carsi Meydani No: 13, Avanos 50500 Turkey

CanCan Cafe Restaurant

Offers Turkish cuisine, Cancan Cafe Restaurant not only serves excellent food but also offers great service.

Operating hours: 8 :00 AM – 10:00 PM (Wed-Mon) / 09:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Tue) Address:  Avcilar Mahallesi, No.27, Goreme 50180 Turkey

Sakli Konak Restaurant

Sakli Konak Restaurant serves Turkish cuisine and has amazing wine options. Remember to book in advance before you dine here.

Operating hours: 08:30 AM – 11:59 AM and 1:00 PM – 11:30 PM (Mon-Thu) / 08:30 AM – 11:59 AM and 1:00 PM – 11:45 PM (Fri-Sun) Address: Tekelli Mahallesi, 2 KarlIk Sk No:3, Uchisar 50240 Turkey

Lil’a Restaurant

Their menu includes European and Turkish cuisines that are made with very high quality. All tourists can have an excellent fine dining experience at Lil’a Restaurant.

Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Sun-Sat) Address:  Tekelli Mah. No. 2 Uchisar Museum Hotel, Uchisar 50240 Turkey

Kapadokya Lezzet Sofrası

A lot of people say that to have the best and tasty Turkish dish, this is the place to be. Kapadokya Lezzet Sofrası has that for you.

Operating hours: 07:00 AM – 00:00 AM (Mon-Fri) / 06:45 AM – 00:00 AM (Sat-Sun) Address:  CamiKebir Mahallesi, Vatan caddesi NO:21 Cami-i Kebir Mahallesi, Avanos 50500 Turkey

And that’s our Cappadocia travel guide for you! We hope we’re able to give you enough insights about this city. Have you been here? Or are you planning to go here? Share with us your experience!

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