Top Things to Do in Cappadocia: Explore Turkey’s Most Magical Region

Cappadocia is a stunning region located in Central Anatolia, the heart of Turkey. This is a place where natural beauty, history, and fairytale-like scenery coexist. Imagine honeycombed hills, magical fairy chimneys, and enchanting valleys carved by centuries of water and wind. Well, that’s precisely what you can expect. With so many amazing things to do in Cappadocia, it’s no surprise that the region attracts travellers from all around the world.

What do you think about hiking through valleys like Rose and Ihlara or watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon? Or perhaps you are into history and would prefer wandering through ancient rock-carved churches and caves inhabited by early Christians? Whatever your preferences, Cappadocia will provide you with an unforgettable experience.

In this article, we will detail some of the top things to do in Cappadocia. Read on to find out what makes this destination so unique and unforgettable!

Soar Over Cappadocia in a Hot Air Balloon

A hot-air balloon ride is a must-do for every traveller. As you will discover in our Cappadocia travel guide. Floating up to 800–1,000 metres offers breathtaking panoramic views of fairy chimneys, golden valleys, and carved cave houses. The smooth, calm flight with a small group is ideal for capturing stunning photos or enjoying a romantic moment. Peak season runs from April to October, so book your ride from Göreme or Urgup at least 2–3 weeks in advance. Flights depend on weather and are operated by licensed professionals for safety. Prices range from €150 to €250 as per balloon scanner information provided. Visiting during the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival adds extra excitement. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the incredible

Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum

The Göreme Open-Air Museum is a top Cappadocia attraction for art and history lovers. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, it features rock-hewn chapels, churches, and monasteries dating from the 10th to 12th centuries. Highlights include vibrant Byzantine frescoes depicting biblical scenes, especially in the Dark Church, renowned for its rich artwork, and the Tokalı Church, the oldest and largest in the complex. History enthusiasts interested in early Christian heritage will find this site fascinating. To avoid crowds and get the best light for photos, visit early morning or late afternoon. The museum is compact and well-signposted, but sturdy shoes are recommended due to uneven paths. Some areas, like the Dark Church, require an extra fee and may restrict photography to protect the frescoes. Located near central Göreme, it’s easily accessible, and hiring a local guide can greatly enrich your understanding of the museum’s historical significance.

• Opening hours: 08:00-19:00 (Summer) / 08:00-17:00 (Winter)
• Ticket price: €20
• Location: Göreme, Nevşehir
• How to get there: Mainly accessible by car or tours

Discover the Region’s Fairy Chimneys

If there is something that will instantly catch your eye when you arrive in Cappadocia, it’s the fairy chimneys. It took millions of years of volcanic eruptions and erosion to shape these tall, whimsical rock formations. They are scattered across multiple valleys, with walking trails for casual strollers and dedicated hikers, and the view is pure magic.

• Pasabag (Monks Valley): Is famous for its unique mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys, some with multiple caps stacked like toadstools. The flat valley is easy to explore, ideal for quick visits, photos, and families. Don’t miss the small cave chapels and souvenir kiosks.
• Love Valley: Is known for its tall fairy chimneys reaching 40 meters, set against white cliffs and greenery. It’s a romantic, Instagram-worthy spot with a panoramic viewpoint reachable by a short hike or car. Cafes with heart-shaped swings add to the charm—arrive early for quiet moments.
• Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley): Lacks historic sites but fascinates with rock formations resembling animals like dolphins and camels. It’s family-friendly, close to the road, and great for imaginative fun without long hikes.
• Zelve Valley: Once a monastic retreat, it feels like exploring an abandoned village with homes, tunnels, and chapels among fairy chimneys. It’s peaceful, less crowded, and perfect for slow, authentic exploration.

To get a full picture of the surreal landscape of Cappadocia, plan your visits carefully and try to explore at least two or three valleys. Whether you are trekking, hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the view and taking photos, the fairy chimneys are a must-see highlight that defines the region’s charm.

Visit the Underground Cities

A fascinating complex of underground cities lies beneath the surface, offering you one of the most unique things to do in Cappadocia, regardless of the weather. These subterranean settlements were carved centuries ago into the soft volcanic rock. Early Christians used them for shelter and defence from invasions, as they offered everything needed for long-term survival. There were storage rooms, kitchens, stables, chapels, and ventilation shafts. The narrow tunnels were specifically designed for defence, as intruders could hardly navigate them. Walking through these eerie, labyrinthine spaces showcases the resourcefulness of the ancient communities and feels like stepping into another world.

Derinkuyu: Deepest and Most Impressive

Derinkuyu is a massive complex that reaches a depth of around 60 metres and has eight levels. This is one of the deepest excavated underground cities in Cappadocia, which was built to shelter up to 20,000 people at once. The site includes communal kitchens, living quarters, wells, a church, and even a school, which only demonstrates the ingenuity of the architects. But what makes it stand out the most is its defensive design, confusing layouts, and the rolling stone doors that could seal off passages in an instant. During your visit to Derinkuyu, you will clearly see how determined the past civilisations were to survive underground.

• Opening hours: 08:00-17:00
• Ticket price: €13
• Location: Göreme, Nevşehir
• How to get there: Mainly accessible by car or tours

Kaymakli: Largest and Most Accessible

Kaymakli dates back to 3000 BC and is the largest city in terms of surface area. It has a more open layout compared to Derinkuyu and is definitely less claustrophobic. The most notable features of the site are its wide tunnels and lower ceilings. While visiting, you can see remnants of daily life and functional spaces like storage areas, wine cellars, water reservoirs, and stone-carved chapels. The design includes ventilation shafts and doors with huge bolt stones that may be fastened from the inside. Kaymakli feels more like an organised village than a bunker, and it’s a perfect choice for families visiting with kids and travellers who are hesitant about tight spaces.

• Opening hours: 08:00-17:00
• Ticket price: €13
• Location: Göreme, Nevşehir
• How to get there: Mainly accessible by car or tours

Tips for Visiting

Although touring the underground cities is a must for history buffs, it’s not for everyone. Down there, the tunnels can be quite narrow, dimly lit, and steep in places. Thus, if you have any mobility issues or are claustrophobic, you should proceed with caution. Sturdy shoes with good grip and a light jacket are essential, as it’s chilly underground even on the hottest summer days. For a quieter experience and fewer tourists, arrive as early as possible in the morning. Finally, you might want to consider joining a guided tour—a knowledgeable guide can bring the cities to life by explaining the stories and layout behind what you are seeing.

Hike Through Cappadocia’s Valleys

With its stunning landscapes, sculpted fairy chimneys, hidden chapels, and ancient cave dwellings, Cappadocia is a dream destination for hikers. The trails guide you through valleys carved by centuries of water and wind. Each of them has a unique character and level of challenge. You can explore them with or without a guide, regardless if you are a casual walker or an avid trekker. There is no better way to experience Cappadocia’s natural and cultural wonders than by hiking.

Rose Valley

Rose Valley is known for its soft pink cliffs that glow stunningly at sunrise and sunset, creating a magical atmosphere for hikers and photographers. The trail takes you through charming rock formations, tunnels, and cave churches, like the Columned Church and the Church of the Cross, making the whole journey feel like a hidden adventure. The routes are well-marked, with several short and steep slopes. Overall, the hike is moderate and rewards you with natural beauty and a glimpse into Cappadocia’s spiritual past. If you are visiting from Cavusin, entry is free. However, if you are entering from Red Valley, a ticket is required. Rose Valley is ideal for travellers who enjoy the quiet charm of less-crowded trails and variety in terrain.

Red Valley

What makes Red Valley so popular is the fiery red rock formations that come to life at golden hour, offering a remarkable sunset view. The trails in this valley combine narrow passages and open ridges – the panoramic viewpoints are perfect for short breaks and photos. The hike usually takes about two hours, and along the way, you will see small rock-carved chapels and cave dwellings. Several cafes are available, providing great views towards Uchisar Castle, and many of the tourists also like to picnic among the surrounding hills. The hike is moderate in difficulty and makes for a great workout combined with jaw-dropping vistas, especially during sunset, which is the best time for photography.

Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley is a lovely green canyon with a river running beneath tree-lined walkways and towering rocks. The valley is about an hour’s drive from Göreme and offers a completely different experience. The terrain is gentler, with shaded walkways and plenty of rest stops and cafes. Stone staircases will help you go down into the canyon, where you can explore the churches or enjoy the peaceful riverside ambiance. Joining a guided group from Göreme is a great idea, but you can also go by yourself. It’s far from Göreme and other valleys, and it’s not one of the things to do in Cappadocia at night, so make sure to plan it well.

Pigeon Valley

Connecting Goreme with Uchisar, Pigeon Valley is a lush and green paradise with a great view of Uchisar Castle. Its name comes from the ancient pigeon nests carved into the soft volcanic rock; people used their guano as fertiliser. The trail offers a little bit of everything — rocky pathways, forested sections, and stunning views. You will notice stone bridges and unique formations along the way, which makes the valley a popular choice for morning walks when the temperatures are cooler. It’s among the free things to do in Cappadocia, so if you are planning to visit Pigeon Valley, grab a pair of comfortable shoes and get prepared for a mid-level hike with some narrow stretches and uneven terrain.

Safety Tips and What to Bring

Before you step outside, make sure to check the weather and prepare for the rugged terrain in Cappadocia. Prioritise safety and comfort over style. Wear good hiking shoes with a good grip, a hat, sunblock, and lots of water. Phone signals can be patchy, and signage varies from trail to trail in different valleys. So, you will need a map or maybe download an offline GPS app for navigation. Some of the routes involve slippery gravel or light climbing, so don’t rush and stay safe. You can explore independently or participate in a guided hike to uncover hidden gems and stories. Whatever you pick, start early in the morning to escape the heat and the throng.

Explore Cave Hotels and Cappadocia’s Unique Stays

Staying in a cave hotel in Cappadocia is highly recommended since it provides an unforgettable experience of the region. These one-of-a-kind rooms are cut into the soft volcanic rock, providing a totally immersive experience that combines historic architecture with comfort and luxury.

Reasons to Stay in a Cave Hotel

Cappadocia’s cave hotels are more than just a place to stay – they’re an important part of the trip. The caves have been carved by hand, and many of them are set within furry chimneys and ancient stone dwellings. Thanks to the natural properties of the walls, insulation is excellent and keeps the rooms cold in summer and warm in winter. Each room has a unique layout — some have exposed rock walls, and others may involve arch-shaped ceilings. Cave suites with multiple rooms are also available, and the interior is usually decorated with traditional Turkish furnishings for an authentic atmosphere. Imagine waking up in a carved-out room with a big terrace and the view of hot air balloons floating across the morning sky. Sounds magical, doesn’t it?

Where to Stay and What to Expect

Dozens of cave accommodations are available in Cappadocia. You can choose from simple family-run pensions to luxurious boutique hotels with lush amenities. Many of them offer private terraces, panoramic rooftop breakfasts, stone bathtubs, and even spas tucked into the rocks. You decide if you want a rustic or refined experience.

• Göreme: Ideal for first-time tourists because it offers easy access to tours, trails, and restaurants.
• Uçhisar: A tranquil location with breathtaking views of the valleys below and expensive homes.
• Ürgüp: Typically offers large cave suites and wine cellars for an elegant and less touristy experience.

Keep in mind that demand peaks in spring and autumn, and the best spots can fill up weeks in advance, so it’s best to book early.

Visit Uçhisar Castle and Panorama Viewpoints

Pasabag (Monks Valley) is one of the most beautiful places in Cappadocia, famous for its unique mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys with stacked caps. It’s easy to explore and great for families, with charming cave chapels and souvenir kiosks. Love Valley, known for its towering fairy chimneys and lush greenery, offers romantic and Instagram-worthy views from a nearby panoramic viewpoint accessible by hike or car. Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) stands out with rock formations resembling animals, providing a fun, family-friendly experience without long hikes. Lastly, Zelve Valley, once a monastic retreat, offers peaceful exploration of abandoned homes, tunnels, and chapels amid fairy chimneys. Less crowded than other sites, it’s ideal for those seeking a quiet and authentic visit.

• Opening hours: 08:00-20:00
• Ticket price: €2.32
• Location: Göreme, Nevşehir
• How to get there: Mainly accessible by car or tours

Taste of Cappadocia: Local Food and Wine

The magic of Cappadocia isn’t limited to its ancient history and enchanting landscapes; it’s also a feast for the senses. The region offers traditional Anatolian cuisine and a flourishing wine culture that dates back thousands of years. Of course, this is one of the things to do in Cappadocia during winter, summer, and all year round. Whether you plan on dining in a cave restaurant or sipping wine while enjoying the landscape, the culinary experience is just as memorable as the views.

Must-Try Dishes

Testi Kebab is one of Cappadocia’s most renowned foods. This is a hearty meat and vegetable stew prepared in a sealed clay pot and cut open just before serving. Another regional favourite is manti – small packets of homemade pasta filled with cheese or meat and topped with garlicky yoghurt and spicy butter. The most commonly found snacks in the markets include dried fruits like apricots and plums, pistachios, and walnuts. These are hearty dishes that reflect the deep Anatolian roots of the region and offer a comforting taste of Turkish tradition.

Best Places to Eat

Göreme and Uçhisar are packed with remarkable dining spots, from candlelit cave restaurants to terrace-top eateries with stunning valley views. Traditional local diners known as lokantas serve homestyle cooking at great value. On the other hand, you have fine dining options that combine Turkish flavours with elegant service. Local markets are great for sampling street food, freshly baked bread, and dried fruits. Whether you want a quick bite or a fancy romantic dinner, you will find an option that suits your style and budget.

Wine in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s best wine districts, thanks to its volcanic soil and unique environment. Wine production in the region dates back to ancient times and continues in boutique wineries like Kocabag in Uchisar and Turasan in Urgup. You can enjoy local wines, particularly fruity reds and crisp dry whites, in most restaurants. For oenophiles, vineyard tours and tastings add a flavourful twist to the trip, while casual sippers can enjoy their glass of wine with sunset views over the valleys.

Cultural Experiences and Workshops

Cappadocia is way more than just stunning views – it’s a place where cultural traditions and centuries-old crafts are still alive. You have the opportunity to dive deeper into its heritage by joining studio visits and workshops that showcase local artistry. These immersive experiences will not only enrich your trip but also offer handmade souvenirs that carry real meaning.

Pottery in Avanos

Avanos is a riverside town and the heart of Cappadocia’s pottery scene since Hittite times. Artisans here source red clay from the Kızılırmak River and shape it into beautiful, functional pieces using traditional kick wheels and techniques. Tourists can watch skilled potters at work or try their hand at spinning a pot. Most of the studios will let you take home a personalised souvenir to remind you of your time in Cappadocia.

Carpet Weaving and Handicrafts

Traditional Turkish carpets weave stories about culture and workmanship. Visitors can tour local weaving cooperatives and family-run ateliers to see how natural dyes, silk, and wool come together in intricate patterns. Most of the artisans are women, offering a unique window into this timeless tradition at their looms. With these visits, tourists support local communities and can purchase authentic handmade crafts and carpets that reflect the region’s soul.

Balloons, Caves and Beyond: What Should be Next

Cappadocia is a unique destination where surreal landscapes meet vibrant local culture and ancient history. Whether you are enjoying a meal at a cave restaurant, exploring underground cities, or watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon, every moment is unforgettable. Take this guide as your starting point to plan a trip that combines adventure and relaxation.

The best time to visit Cappadocia is in the spring and autumn, when the weather is nice and there are fewer visitors. You can travel via car rentals, bus, or flights via Kayseri and Nevsehir airports. To stay connected while exploring the region, consider using an Esimatic eSIM – the perfect choice for smooth navigation, sharing photos, and staying in touch with friends and family during your tours, hikes, and travels.