What Are the Places You Must See in Cappadocia?

Cappadocia is a magnificent travel destination famous for its unique valleys, magnificent nature, underground cities and fairy chimneys. When it comes to Cappadocia, Göreme, Ürgüp and Avanos districts come to mind first. However, Cappadocia is the name of the region covering the provinces of Nevşehir, Niğde, Aksaray, Kırşehir and Kayseri. The region has been home to many civilizations in the past and has managed to carry the traces of all of them until today. This makes the region stand out not only for its natural beauties but also for its historical texture.

Cappadocia Ürgüp is protected as a world heritage site by UNESCO. There are many historical sites in the region, from fairy chimneys to open-air museums. To embark on an unforgettable holiday adventure full of cultural discoveries, all you need to do is read our travel tips and hit the road!

Devrent Valley

You can start preparing your list of places to visit in Cappadocia with Devrent Valley. Devrent, located in the Avanos region, is also known as the "Valley of Dreams". It gets this name from its beauty that pushes the limits of reality. The valley is located on the ridges of Cappadocia, which was an inland sea about 50 million years ago. The high temperatures emitted by volcanic eruptions allowed the sea to dry up and form soft rocks shaped by the cooling lava. These landforms, also known as fairy chimneys, are likened to the stone images of once living beings. This is also the origin of the region being called the Valley of Dreams. Another name given to Devrent by those who visit the town is Pink Valley. This name comes from the magnificent color of the rocks at sunset.

There are countless rocks in Devrent Valley that evoke both human and animal figures. One of the first places visitors visit is the camel-shaped fairy chimney, which is identified with the valley. The valley is like a naturally formed stone zoo. Fairy chimneys reminiscent of seals, horses, birds and rabbits fascinate visitors. What you see in this valley, a unique natural wonder, is entirely up to you and your imagination. The Devrent Valley looks like a fairy tale plateau, and watching the moon and the sky at night is truly mesmerizing.

Hair Museum

Cappadocia is a distinguished region with an endless number of places to visit. The Saç Museum, one of the most popular destinations for travelers in the region, has broken new ground not only in Turkey but also in the world. Located in a cave carved out of the rocks in accordance with the texture of Cappadocia, this place has also taken its place in the Guinness Book of Records as one of the most interesting museums in the world. The cave is adorned with tufts of hair that thousands of women have cut off and left as souvenirs. This tradition has been going on since the museum was founded in 1979. The women leave their phone numbers, addresses and even their photographs to the museum in the hope of one day returning to the same place. In order to protect the personal information of the hair owners, photography is forbidden in the museum.

There is almost nothing in the Hair Museum. You can find many souvenirs here that will remind you of the pleasant memories you spent in Cappadocia every time you look. There is even a wishing tree in the cave, decorated with napkins and handkerchiefs with intentions written on the branches. The Saç Museum is one of the stops that fascinate travelers with its architecture reflecting the spirit of the region and its unique atmosphere that takes those who see it to completely different lands.

Zelve Open Air Museum

Zelve Open Air Museum, which offers the opportunity to get to know the unique natural beauty of Cappadocia and its impressive atmosphere reflecting the traces of the past, is actually a valley. Zelve Valley, which is one of the must-see spots not only in Nevşehir but also in Turkey, can be described as a wonderland. Zelve, known as the longest-used ancient settlement in the region, is known to have hosted many civilizations. According to some sources, Christianity first started to spread in this region. Accordingly, there are many monasteries, churches and settlements in Zelve. Zelve, where you can enjoy the unique views, especially Güvercinlik Valley, is a region that deserves to be at the top of the list of places to visit in Cappadocia with its unique texture.

Valley of the Monks

The Priests Valley, which hosts tens of thousands of travelers every year, finds its place among the places to visit in Cappadocia with its unique view. It is possible to come across the fairy chimneys that make the region famous all over the world in this valley. Moreover, the most prominent fairy chimneys of the region are located here. The region, also known as Paşabağı Valley, greets visitors with its magnificent rocks that have managed to preserve their shape for centuries. The valley is home to huge rock blocks with conical bodies. The diameters of these fairy chimneys vary between 1 and 15 meters.

Kizilcukur Valley

Kizilcukur Valley is one of the favorites of Cappadocia. Many visitors who want to get away from the chaos of the city and take a journey in the heart of nature flock to the Red Valley. The valley stands out as one of the most favorable spots to watch the sunset in all of Cappadocia with its unique natural landscape and clean air. Located very close to Ürgüp, this area is within the borders of Ortahisar district. Since it has a bumpy and rugged structure, it is useful to start touring the valley from the upper parts. Vineyards accompany your trip in this region, which is a magnificent trekking route. The Crusader Church is a hidden historical value deep in the valley. The upper part of the church is an ideal place to watch the sunset. Here you can relieve the tiredness of the day and admire the red landscape that gives the valley its name.

Cavusin Church

Çavuşin is one of the most charming and oldest villages in Cappadocia. Located on the Göreme - Avanos road, this village is a center of attraction for visitors. Visitors who want to participate in different activities or stay in the heart of the unique beauties of the region will definitely stop by Çavuşin. When you come to this village, which has preserved its value since the Roman Period until today, you should definitely see the Çavuşin Church, which comes to mind first when it comes to places to visit in Cappadocia. The history of this church, where many events from the birth to the death of Jesus Christ are depicted in the old paintings on the walls, dates back thousands of years. Moreover, there are ancient tombs in the church. We can say that a list of places to visit in Cappadocia without the addition of Cavusin Church would be incomplete.

Valley of Love

Love Valley, also known as Bağlıdere, is a unique natural wonder. If you want to enjoy the magnificent view of the city, you should definitely visit Love Valley. The length of the valley is approximately 5 kilometers. The world-famous fairy chimneys of Cappadocia can also be seen in this valley. These landforms, which fascinate those who see them with their different colors and sizes, make you feel like you are in a fairy tale land. Love Valley, which is an ideal place for those who want to take a pleasant nature walk accompanied by an unforgettable view, is adorned with vineyards and fruit trees. This route, which will make you feel like you are on a movie set, is among the favorite choices of travelers. You can take a breather on Lovers Hill and enjoy the view of the magical city and take spectacular photos.

Uchisar Castle

Uchisar, located 5 kilometers from the center of Nevşehir, is home to huge fairy chimneys that can be seen from all over Cappadocia. In the region, which dates back to 60 million years ago, Uçhisar has achieved its unique appearance thanks to the lava and ashes spewed by volcanoes. Although some parts of Uchisar Castle have been destroyed over the years, the structure still preserves its splendor. To reach the stairs of the castle, you have to pass through various caves and tunnels. Uchisar has a breathtaking view as it is located 1350 meters high.

What are the Must-Do Activities in Cappadocia?

Cappadocia is an extremely rich travel destination in terms of diversity of activities. In addition to being one of the most qualified regions of Turkey in terms of cultural tourism, it is also home to some of the world's most beautiful natural attractions. As such, it can be easily said that the activities that are recommended to be done in Cappadocia promise experiences as enjoyable as the places to visit and see. You should definitely try the activities listed below for a dreamy vacation experience that you can remember with a smile even years later, not spending the whole day in a hotel but crowning it with adventurous activities.

Participate in Pottery Making Workshops

One of the first images that comes to mind when it comes to Cappadocia is of course pottery. Especially in Avanos, authentic pottery making workshops reflecting the spirit of the region are places where guests can express their creativity and relieve stress. If you want to listen to your inner artist and let the integration with the earth soothe your soul, you should definitely try making pottery. Sitting at the harmoniously spinning wheel and watching the clay being shaped between your palms turn into a vase or pottery will allow you to add pleasant memories to your holiday.

Take a Gondola Tour in Kızılırmak

Kızılırmak, one of the indispensable stops on the list of places to visit in Cappadocia, is a long and vast river that originates in Sivas and flows into the Black Sea. The gondolas gliding one after the other on the river make the view unique. Offering unforgettable memories to visitors who want to feel the magnificent harmony of blue and green up close, Kızılırmak is a natural wonder where you can make nature discoveries every month of the year. During the tour, you can also visit the cute island where geese visit in the area where the suspension bridge is located. You can make your Cappadocia trip unforgettable by riding nostalgic gondolas and watching the heavenly landscapes.

Take a Balloon Ride

Cappadocia, one of Turkey's leading regions for sustainable tourism, is also famous all over the world for its balloon tours. Thanks to this activity, you can deeply feel the infinite freedom of flying in hot air balloons and collect precious memories that you will remember with good feelings throughout your life. Flying 800 to 1400 meters high, you will have the opportunity to watch the fairy chimneys from the sky. Taking off at the first light of the day, the balloons offer you the opportunity to see the unique colors of the sky up close and watch the city through the clouds. We recommend you to crown your Cappadocia vacation with a balloon tour and experience an unforgettable day in the land of fairy tales.

Cappadocia is one of the regions where the question of how to ride a balloon is asked the most. Participating in this activity is much easier than you think. To participate in a balloon tour, you need to make a reservation from hotels or companies that provide services in this field. It is useful to make a reservation by considering the conditions of the period you go to the region. During the off-season when the density is relatively less, you can book your place on the tour at the latest one day in advance. When this activity is in high demand, this time may be extended. Except for strong winds, no weather conditions are an obstacle for balloon flights. In this way, it is possible to participate in a balloon tour in all seasons.

Safari with ATV

Cappadocia is a place that ensures that every visitor leaves happy with the variety of places to visit and activities to do. Moreover, there are activities to meet the expectations of adventurous travelers. If you want to turn the region upside down without saying mountains and hills by doing safari with ATV, you can realize this desire in Cappadocia. It is possible to go on an adrenaline-filled trip accompanied by unique landscapes where history and nature are intertwined. ATV safari tour, the most adventurous way to make cultural and natural discoveries, is one of the most enjoyable activities to do in Cappadocia.

Take a Ride on Horses

Cappadocia, known as the "Land of Beautiful Horses" in the dusty pages of history, is one of the regions of Turkey that hosts the most advanced equestrian activities. Therefore, it is impossible not to take a horse ride while in Cappadocia. There are many horse farms in the region. Horse riding training is also provided at the farms contracted with tour companies. Tour horses are specially trained and their communication with humans is strengthened. In this way, it is possible to say that this activity is safe. The most popular horse tours are those that take place at the first light of the morning or at sunset. At these times, the enchanting natural landscape is accompanied by the dreamy color of the sky. The hours of horse tours may vary according to the season.

How can you get to Cappadocia?

Cappadocia is a central holiday destination with easy access. Those who want to experience the historical, nostalgic and natural spirit of the region visit Cappadocia every year from different parts of Turkey. Moreover, the number of guests coming from abroad to see the region closely is quite high. This situation has enabled the city to develop considerably in terms of transportation facilities. Cappadocia can be reached by air and land. There are intercity bus terminals in Urgup and Nevsehir. In this way, you can travel to Cappadocia by bus from all over Turkey.

If you have prepared your list of places to visit in Cappadocia and cannot wait to set off, air transportation may be the ideal option for you. The closest airports to the region are located in Nevşehir and Kayseri. Since it takes less time to reach Cappadocia from Nevşehir, the airport in the city is more preferred. Cappadocia can be reached easily and quickly by using the shuttles at the airport.

If you wish, you can also consider the option of going to Cappadocia by train. It is possible to reach Niğde Train Station by Erciyes Express, which runs between Kayseri and Adana. Afterwards, you can go to Cappadocia by bus or rental car from Niğde. If you want to collect pleasant memories during your journey by watching the natural beauties of the region, going to Cappadocia by train is a great option.

What to Eat in Cappadocia?

 

Avanos, one of the places at the top of the list of places to visit in Cappadocia, is a place famous for its earthen jugs. As such, one of the first dishes that comes to mind when it comes to Cappadocia is jug kebab. The tender meat cooked over a slow fire and the aroma of the vegetables permeating the dish make it one of the most popular dishes in the region. Noodles with pumpkin seeds, one of the delicious flavors of Nevşehir, is also one of the most popular flavors among guests. Served as an aperitif with meals, this flavor is especially indispensable in winter.

Cappadocia is also known for its vineyards. Local wraps are prepared with the fresh and delicious leaves of the vineyards of the region. Guests visiting Cappadocia are strongly recommended to try the delicious leaf wraps. Another food unique to the region is dried clotted cream. Made from milk, this food is not soft like the clotted cream you know, but hard enough to cut with a knife. This unique breakfast food, which stands out with its flavor, is produced only in Kaymaklı Village of Nevşehir and takes at least 5 days to make.

Turkey's most delicious potatoes are grown in Nevşehir region. Ürgüp meatballs, prepared by adding potatoes to the mixture, are among the dishes that remain on the palate. When it comes to manti, Kayseri region may come to mind first. Nevsehir manti is a little different from the one made in Kayseri. This ravioli, prepared with bread dough and baked in the oven, has a magnificent flavor. In every corner of the region, you can come across restaurants serving Cappadocia dishes that will appeal to your taste buds, and you can enrich your holiday with great flavors during your breaks in these restaurants. If you want to add a gastro-tourism identity to your trip, you should definitely take a look at the locations of these restaurants while making your list of places to visit in Cappadocia.