Cappadocia is a place that has been on my bucket list for many years!
The hype surrounding Cappadocia has been impossible to miss, as it has been a constant presence on social media. For many travellers, including myself, just a few pictures of this captivating destination are enough to convince them that this is their next escape.
Meaning “The Land of Beautiful Horses”, Cappadocia, Turkey is an essential addition to any traveller’s bucket list.
This region in central Anatolia is renowned for its iconic fairy chimneys, captivating sunrise hot air balloon rides, and fascinating underground cities.
If you’re looking for a magical destination that seems like it’s straight out of a fairy tale book, then Cappadocia, Turkey, should be on your radar. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouth-watering clay-pot kebabs, this enchanting region has something for everyone.
History of Cappadocia
Nestled to the north of Mount Taurus, Cappadocia’s history of human settlement dates back to the Paleolithic era, particularly during the time of the Hittites. The region is renowned for its stunning rock formations, shaped by a combination of hard basalt and softer tufa (a type of volcanic rock).
This unique geological composition led to the creation of the iconic fairy chimney rock formations. The softer tufa rock made it easier for ancient inhabitants to carve out their homes, resulting in the distinctive cave dwellings that Cappadocia is famous for today.
Getting There
Cappadocia is easily accessible via two main airports. Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) and Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR). Flying into Kayseri Erkilet means more flights and easier booking, while Nevsehir Kapadokya is closer to attractions but offers fewer and pricier flights.
If you’re coming from Istanbul, which I did, you can catch a short domestic flight that will have you landing in less than an hour. Once you touch down, you can grab a shuttle or taxi to your accommodation. I pre-booked this through my hotel and it cost 10 euros. I recommend staying in one of the unique cave hotels for an authentic experience—you won’t regret it!
Where To Stay
Cappadocia offers a variety of unique accommodations, catering to different preferences and budgets. Here are some popular areas and types of places to stay. Cappadocia’s unique landscape and rich history make for an unforgettable stay, regardless of where you choose to lay your head.
Göreme
Göreme is famous for its distinctive geological formations and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a highly sought-after destination in Cappadocia due to its breathtaking landscape, characterized by tall, thin spires of rock known as Fairy Chimneys.
These unique formations have been created through volcanic ash and stone erosion over thousands of years.
The region boasts numerous hiking trails that wind through valleys, rock formations, and ancient sites, such as the Rose Valley and Love Valley, providing breathtaking views.
Göreme has been shaped by a diverse history, influenced by the Hittites, Persians, and Romans, and has played a significant role in early Christian history by providing refuge for Christians during times of persecution.
I chose this location after considering the attractions I wanted to experience, such as hot air balloon rides, hiking trails, and historical sites. It stood out as I could easily walk to nearby bars, restaurants, and attractions.
Recommended Tour in Göreme
The Göreme Open-Air Museum is one of the most popular attractions and historic sites in Cappadocia. You will receive an audio tour that expertly guides you through the ancient churches and cave houses from centuries ago. The comprehensive tour includes a visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum with a highly recommended guide and other popular spots in Cappadocia.
Sunset Point / Lover’s Hill
As the day comes to an end, Sunset Point becomes a lively hangout spot. There’s a small cafe where you can grab a beer. nothing says “I’m on holiday ” quite like sipping a cold one while watching the sunset on surreal rock formations.
Of course, you’ll have to share the view with other fellow sunset enthusiasts. Because what’s more romantic than a throng of people vying for the best selfie angle? It’s a glorious explosion of fiery oranges and reds lighting up the sky while you navigate through a sea of people trying to find the perfect filter for their sunset shot.
Stay in a Cave Hotel
Staying in a cave hotel offers a unique experience in Cappadocia that is hard to find elsewhere in the world. Below are some recommended areas and cave hotels to book and stay at while in Cappadocia.
Note: Cave hotels can be amazing, but they may be difficult to access due to lots of stairs. The rooms are essentially caves, so don’t expect first-class accommodations, even if you think you paid for it. The Wi-Fi in my room was hit-and-miss, even with three receivers in there.
Located in the centre of Cappadocia, and tucked under Sunset Point Artemis Cave Suites reflects a simplistic yet sophisticated design. The cave rooms were carved by various settlements over the centuries and later renovated keeping their rich heritage intact. The stone rooms were built with local stones in the Old Cappadocian style to mimic the cave experience.
From the terraces, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the balloons at sunrise and a picturesque view at sunset.
Sultan Cave Suites offers luxurious rooms carved into the rock, uniquely blending modern comfort and ancient charm. The hotel is renowned for its panoramic terrace, which is the perfect spot to watch the hot air balloons rise at dawn.
Uchisar
Located 5K or 3.1 miles from Göreme which you can easily walk. Uchisar is surrounded by such stunning natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for leisurely hikes and peaceful nature walks.
You’ll absolutely love exploring the nearby Pigeon Valley or Love Valley, where you can take in the unique rock formations and serene landscapes. Uchisar, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, is definitely a place you won’t want to miss when visiting Cappadocia.
This area is known for their upscale options, such as Argos in Cappadocia or Kaya Prestige, both of which offer stunning views of the Uchisar Castle. For those looking for a more cosy and charming experience, boutique hotels like the Museum Hotel provide a blend of luxury and history.
Once a monastery, the award-winning Argos offers individually appointed rooms spread over several natural stone buildings. Each room offers free Wi-Fi. Some have breathtaking views of Pigeon Valley or private outdoor areas.
The only Relais & Chateaux member of Turkey, Museum Hotel is set in a unique area of Uchisar with the restorations of historic ruins. This award-winning hotel provides a real museum experience with its authentic accommodation furnished with priceless antiques. It also features a terrace with panoramic valley views. The heated outdoor pool offered by the hotel is available throughout the year. Certain rooms also include free wine taps which can be enjoyed during your stay.
Tip: The towns of Gorëme and Uçhisar are hilly, so people with disabilities will have difficulty navigating the area.
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When is the best time to visit Cappadocia?
The best time to visit Cappadocia is the shoulder seasons from April to June, and September to October. July and August are the peak season, so expect large crowds at all the places you want to go at this time.
Best Tours to Experience Cappadocia
Cappadocia is known for its surreal landscapes—think whimsical rock formations and historical sites. To make the most of your trip, consider joining one of these popular tours.
The tours follow a set format and are labelled with different colours to help people easily compare them. Most tours start around 9 AM and continue for most of the day.
The Red Tour
Perfect for first-time visitors, the Red Tour covers the northern part of Cappadocia. Highlights include the Göreme Open-Air Museum, where you can see stunning frescoes, and Uçhisar Castle, which offers spectacular panoramic views. You’ll also visit the charming town of Avanos, which is famous for its pottery. Don’t miss the Pasabag (Monk’s Valley) with its unique fairy chimneys.
The Green Tour
If you want to explore the southern part of Cappadocia, the Green Tour is your ticket. This tour takes you to the Derinkuyu Underground City, where early Christians sought refuge, and the breathtaking Ihlara Valley, perfect for a scenic hike. Don’t forget to snap some photos at the stunning Selime Monastery. The tour also includes a visit to the Pigeon Valley, known for its dovecotes carved into the cliffs.
The Blue Tour
For those who crave adventure, the Blue Tour is a gem. This tour features the lesser-known attractions of Cappadocia, including the Soganli Valley and the Cavusin Village. It’s a fantastic way to escape the crowds and discover the region’s hidden beauty. You’ll also visit the ancient city of Sobesos, with its Roman mosaics, and the Keslik Monastery, nestled in a tranquil setting.
Love Valley
Love Valley, situated close to Goreme, provides a unique opportunity to marvel at (mushroom-shaped) rock formations from up close. The majority of these structures bear a striking resemblance to phallus, which is how the valley earned its name. What adds to the allure of this trail is the picturesque photo spots dotted along the path. For anyone with a passion for photography or those seeking to capture lasting memories, these specific locations are a must-visit.
Pro Tip. The trail from Love Valley to Uchisar Castle should not be missed.
Additional Activities
- Hiking and Trekking. Explore the numerous trails that wind through Cappadocia’s valleys and hills. Popular routes include the Rose Valley and the Red Valley, each offering stunning views and unique rock formations.
- Horseback Riding: Known as the “Land of Beautiful Horses,” Cappadocia offers several horseback riding tours that take you through its scenic landscapes. Tours are 1, 2 or 4 hours and no riding experience is necessary. Most will include transportation to and from Göreme.
- Turkish Night Shows: Experience traditional Turkish culture with a night of folk dances, music, and delicious cuisine. These shows are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Pottery Workshops: In Avanos, you can try your hand at pottery-making, a craft that has been practiced in the region for centuries. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about local traditions, as well as create your own unique piece to take home as a souvenir.
- Explore Kaymakli Underground City with it’s extensive network of caves originally constructed by early Indo-European people around the 7th or 8th centuries BCE. Over time, it became home to Greeks and later, Christians. This remarkable complex descends eight levels into the earth, featuring around 100 tunnels that connect various subterranean rooms. However, be prepared for a bit of claustrophobia and the possibility of getting lost in its labyrinthine passages.
ATV (Quad Bike) Tour in Sword Valley
If you’re up for an exhilarating few hours in Cappadocia, look no further than an ATV (Quad Bike) tour. These tours offer the perfect opportunity to explore the breathtaking hills, valleys, and dunes of Cappadocia, granting access to areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Starting in Sword Valley, renowned for its distinctive rock formations and expansive trails, these tours are designed to provide an unforgettable experience. The user-friendly bikes make them suitable for all, and with passionate guides leading the way, you’ll discover some of the most picturesque spots in the region.
The Sunrise Balloon Ride. A Must-Do Experience!
Now, this is the main event. It’s what everyone I met was here for. No trip to Cappadocia is complete without a hot air balloon ride. At sunrise, up to 150 hot air balloons rise to create one of the most spectacular scenes you’ll ever see. Looking up at them is great, being in one is better 🙂 Floating above the unique rock formations and valleys, you’ll witness the landscape bathed in the golden light of dawn.
After extensive research, I narrowed it down to Royal Balloon long established and one of the biggest names in the business.
I was picked up from my hotel at 4:30 AM and taken to Royals HQ, where I enjoyed a light breakfast. After witnessing a beautiful sunrise from the hot air balloon, we landed and celebrated with champagne, strawberries, and a special ‘gold’ medal souvenir.
Unfortunately, the original plan to land the balloon on a trailer did not go as expected, highlighting the importance of the safety briefing and brace position. Despite this, the flight itself provided breathtaking views and amazing photo opportunities. This experience (flight) 🙂 has left a lasting impression on me and will be treasured forever.
Book your ride in advance, as this popular activity fills up quickly. Hot air balloon flight prices start at around £190. To have a more comfortable and less crowded flight with fewer people (some baskets hold up to 28) expect to pay more. I’d recommend skipping the cheapest package and going for at least the mid-tier option with fewer passengers.
Flights in Cappadocia are often cancelled due to weather, especially wind. It’s advisable to book in advance for your first morning so that you can reschedule if necessary.
What to Eat
Cappadocia boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional Turkish cuisine to international dishes. Some must-try local specialities.
- Testi Kebab: A flavorful meat and vegetable stew cooked in a clay pot, which is then broken open at your table.
- Manti: Turkish dumplings served with yoghurt and garlic sauce.
- Gözleme: A savoury Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients like cheese, spinach, or minced meat.
- For a unique dining experience, consider visiting one of the cave restaurants, where you can enjoy your meal in a cosy, atmospheric setting.
It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere
Best Bars: My Top 5
Goreme is where you can find Cappadocia’s liveliest bars and restaurants. Some are carved into the rock, while others offer stunning views of the landscape and fairy chimneys
- Rooftop at Sultan Cave Suites: rooftop bar and one of the top restaurants in Göreme.
- Lil’a at the Museum Hotel: Terrace Bar & Lounge offers a variety of cocktails, beers, and Cappadocia wines, all accompanied by stunning views. It is recommended to make a reservation in advance.
- Dusk by Koza: a beautiful sunset bar on the top of the Koza Cave Hotel
- Organic Wine House: A hidden gem built into the original rocks of Cappadocia, offering a truly local feel and experience.
- Kaira Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: Perfect for sunset drinks with a nice atmosphere, live music, and an amazing view. However, don’t come if you are hungry the food is not recommended as I didn’t rate it.
How long should you spend in Cappadocia?
Keep aside at least 3 days to experience the best things to do in Cappadocia. The region of Cappadocia spans 1930 square miles, offering a wide array of attractions and activities. I spent 3 nights there, but I easily could have stayed longer.
Is it safe in Cappadocia?
I believe the answer is YES. I never felt uneasy or threatened, but I always took the same precautions I would take anywhere I travel.
Is a day trip to Cappadocia from Istanbul worth it?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to Cappadocia from Istanbul, but I would not recommend it. You’ll only scratch the surface, and see a few of Cappadocia’s attractions. The day trips include either flights or minibuses.
Should I go to Cappadocia?
YES. Cappadocia is a destination that definitely lives up to its hype and offers an unforgettable travel experience. The warmth and hospitality of the local people add to the charm of the region, making everyone feel welcome. Checking this off my bucket list was worth every penny.
A Perfect Match with Cappadocia
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