tour guide in cappadocia

THE 10 BEST Cappadocia Private Tours

Private tours in cappadocia.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full Day Private Cappadocia Tour (Car & Guide )

2. Full Day Private Tour with Local Guide and Vehicle in Goreme

3. Cappadocia Private Tour with Car & Guide

4. Full Day Private Cappadocia Tour( Car & Guide)

5. Cappadocia Photo Shoot

6. Ancient Cappadocia's Wine Tasting - Private Tour

7. Photoshoot with Balloons in Cappadocia

8. Under Ground City Tour - Half Day

9. Jeep Safari Private Tour in Cappadocia

10. Fascinating Cappadocia Photoshoot by Private Minivan

11. Cappadocia Sunset and Night tour with dinner

12. Private Jeep Safari Tour Cappadocia

13. Classic Car Tour in Cappadocia

14. All In One Cappadocia Private Tour

15. Full Day Cappadocia Private Green Tour (Guide & Driver)

16. 2 Days Private Guided Cappadocia Tour With Airport Transfers

17. Full-Day Private Cappadocia Salt Lake Tour with Driver

18. 1, 2 or 3 Days Private Cappadocia Tour Best Seller

19. Private Tour From Cappadocia to Salt Lake

20. Best Of Private Cappadocia Tour ( Car & Guide )

21. Daily Cappadocia From Konya

22. Biblical Mysteries of Cappadocia Tour

23. Private Guided Underground City Tour

24. Half-Day Lake Tuz (Pink Lake) Sunset Tour

25. Romantic Cappadocia Sunset Dinner and Wine

26. 3 Day's Tour to Nemrut Mountain and Gobeklitepe

27. Professional PhotoShoot with Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia

28. Highlights of Cappadocia All in One Tour

29. Cappadocia PRIVATE TOUR, All in One Day ,with guide( ENG-Portguse

30. Private Red Cappadocia Tour (half day)

What travelers are saying.

Deals of the Week   Unforgettable Asia   Up to 50% OFF

Cappadocia Tours & Trips

Discover adventures through Cappadocia. Encounter with some of the most fascinating rock formations of Turkey and experience the best of hiking and trekking . Enjoy the panoramic views of the Mendes Mountains, stay in a cave hotel, and cycle through fairy chimneys and eroded rocks in White Valley.

74 Cappadocia tour packages with 174 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

The Istanbul Cappadocia Trail 4 Days of Wonder

• In-depth Cultural

7 Days Best of Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Package

There was no glitch in the whole trip, including flights, hotel, pick ups, etc. Excellent service.

Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia | 6 Days with 1 flight

The tour was great, and it would have been a better experience to stay at an updated hotel.

Istanbul and Cappadocia 6 Days with 2 flights

We had wonderful guides, couldn't recommend them more highly, and the driver in Cappadocia was also wonderful.

3 Days-Cappadocia Tour from/to Istanbul

The historic places visited, museums, under ground city, charming restaurants in town were magical.

7 Days Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Tour

We enjoyed every part of toury. Booking this tour helped us avoid organising transport and accomodation myself.

Istanbul&Cappadocia-4 Days

It was worth every penny. The best part of the hotels we stayed in was that they had a central location.

3 Days Best of Cappadocia Tour from/to Istanbul

Loved this experience . Very professional guides great tour company .

• Sightseeing

5 Days - Istanbul Cappadocia Tour

Such good service and prompt feedback from them. I would definitely use them again.

3 Days - Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

Drivers were punctual and tourist guides knowledgeable, pleasant and polite and no wasted downtime.

3 Days Cappadocia & Pamukkale

Excellent tour in every which way. The entire program was flawless and pleasant.

A Tale of Two Marvels: Istanbul & Cappadocia 7 Day Tour

Unforgettable Adventure in Cappadocia! I can't express how incredible this journey was!

• Hiking & Trekking

3 Day Highlights of Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

The cave hotel that we stayed at was unique, artistic and so beautiful! Waking up in the morning with the skies overhead filled with colorful hot air balloons was a sight to remember forever!

3 DAYS CAPPADOCIA TOUR FROM ISTANBUL

The tour was very comprehensive and excellent value for money. 10/10 tour.

Customized Private Turkey Trip of Istanbul & Cappadocia, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

What people love about Cappadocia Tours

The best part of the tour was the organization, and Cappadocia did not disappoint! Each driver and tour guide was on time, even early in most cases. They were very polite and made me feel safer as a lone traveling woman.

Tour was great. Two things to note: tour stated that the maximum amount of people was 18. Actual amount of people was 31. The hotel in Istanbul was outdated. It would have been a better experience to stay at an updated hotel

We had wonderful guides, couldn't recommend them more highly, and the driver in Cappadocia was also wonderful. Most of the other drivers were quite rude and ignorant though they drive well. Even with a language barrier, it is good manners to smile and boys a greeting rather than just ignore

Cappadocia Tours starting in:

• Istanbul (49)
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• Private (12)
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• Small Group (29)
• 3 Day Tours (20)
• 7 Day Tours (36)
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• Summer 2024 (63)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (65)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (56)
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Other Regions in Turkey

• Western Turkey (249)
• Aegean (123)
• Anatolia (102)
• Marmara (47)
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• Eastern Turkey (31)
• Turquoise Coast (29)

Travel Styles

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Top Tours in Cappadocia, Türkiye

Cappadocia tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cappadocia Balloon Flight (Official) by Discovery Balloons

2. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride / Turquaz Balloons

3. Full Day Private Cappadocia Tour (Car & Guide )

4. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour Over Fairychimneys

5. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon 1 of 4 Valleys

6. Cappadocia Balloon Ride and Champagne Breakfast

7. Green (South) Tour Cappadocia (small group) with lunch and ticket

8. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Fairy Chimneys And Goreme

9. 2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Flight

10. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cat Valleys with Drinks

11. Cappadocia Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Watching Tour

12. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight over Goreme

13. Red (North) Tour Cappadocia (small group) with lunch and tickets

14. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons / Kelebek Flight

15. Hot Air Balloon Tour in Cappadocia

16. Cappadocia Sunset Tour with ATV Quad - Beginners Welcome

17. Cappadocia Green Tour

18. Full Day Private Tour with Local Guide and Vehicle in Goreme

19. Cappadocia Balloon Ride with Breakfast, Champagne and Transfers

20. Cappadocia Dream - 2 Days Cappadocia Travel with Balloon Ride from/to Istanbul

21. Cappadocia ATV (1 Quad Bike) Tour - 2 Hours

22. Exclusive Hot air balloon Flight in Cappadocia

23. Affordable Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cat Valley with Hotel Pick-up & Drop-Off

24. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne and Breakfast

25. Cappadocia Green Tour (inc: Pro Guide, Transfers, Tickets, Lunch)

26. Cappadocia Private Tour with Car & Guide

27. One Hour Deluxe Hot Air Balloon Tour(Goreme Valley)

28. Best of Cappadocia Small Group Guided Tour

29. Full Day Private Cappadocia Tour( Car & Guide)

30. Cappadocia Photo Shoot

What travellers are saying.

The 12 Best Tours in Cappadocia, Turkey

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Categories TURKEY , TOURS

Cappadocia is a well-known tourist destination for hot air ballooning and breathtaking landscapes such as fairy chimneys and rock formations in particular. However, before the hot air balloon industry was even around, Cappadocia was popular for small hikes and historical tours. This region in Turkey is so stunning to explore for so many reasons whether it’s cultural, historical, or geological. In this article, I will share with you the 12 best tours in Cappadocia so you can explore this beautiful region.

My personal favorites are Hot Air Balloon Ride for its fairytale sunrise and The Red Tour for its top attractions and amazing viewpoints.

Table of Contents

QUICK PICKS: TOP 3 TOURS IN CAPPADOCIA

Don’t have time to read my entire article about the best tours in Cappadocia? No worries! I’ve shortlisted my three favorite Cappadocia tours here to make things easy for you.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

• During sunrise

The Red Tour

• Top attractions
• Very knowledgeable tour guide
• Amazing viewpoints

Sunset ATV Tour

• Dunes, valleys, trails
• Rock-cut valleys
• Easy-to-use bikes

BEST TOURS IN CAPPADOCIA COMPARISON TABLE

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY IN CAPPADOCIA

• Ultimate Luxury: Mithra Cave Hotel – Amazing Balloon View & Pool
• My Favorite: Sultan Cave Suites – Insta-worthy & Amazing Terrace
• Value Hotel: Traveller’s Cave Hotel is easily the best value (luxury) hotel in Cappadocia

12 BEST TOURS IN CAPPADOCIA

In this article, you will first find a comparison table, which shows you the price, duration, and average review score for each activity. Below the comparison table, you will find a detailed description with photos for each individual activity as well as the link to the booking site so that you can easily navigate to book the tour that you find most exciting! Hope you enjoy the article.

HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE

Tour: Hot Air Balloon Ride (book in advance)

I did this tour and it was beyond epic. It’s truly a fairy tale and it definitely lives up to the hype. The sunrise hot air balloon ride is the most expensive tour in Cappadocia but you simply have to do it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience. You can view my full blog post about my hot air balloon tour in Cappadocia.

Before the flight, there’s a complimentary breakfast with tea or coffee. You’ll be flying over Cappadocia’s wonderful landscapes and unique rock formations. Have a 360-degree panorama of the entire region and get a satisfying view of its valleys and mountains. After landing, get a toast of free champagne as you enjoy watching hot air balloons flying over you.

It’s important to book this one in advance as often the entire town is sold out of bookings during peak season and there is a 2-3 day waitlist.

Book your tour: Hot Air Balloon Ride

BEST RENTAL CAR COMPANY IN TURKEY

When you book your Turkey Rental Car online, I personally recommend and always use  Discover Cars . They search for both local and international companies, so you get the best deal!

THE RED TOUR

Tour: The Red Tour

This is the most popular day tour in Cappadocia. A tour that will bring you to the most known attractions around Cappadocia.

• Explore Çavusin, one of the area’s oldest settlements.
• Walk among the Devrent Valley’s fairy chimneys
• Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum and see centuries-old rock-cut churches and monasteries.
• In the Pasabag Valley, marvel at the best collection of fairy chimneys in Cappadocia .
• Reaching the top of Uchisar Rock Castle is the area’s highest point.
• Stop in Ürgup to visit a winery for a tasting.

The tour will last for a whole day so you will be provided with convenient transportation and a very knowledgeable tour guide. This is undoubtedly one of the best tours in Cappadocia!

Book your tour: The Red Tour

• Open-air views

Tour: Blue Tour

After the Red Tour, this is the second-most popular day tour in Cappadocia. After a pickup from your hotel at 10 AM you will see the following sights on this all-inclusive tour.

• Hike along the Red and Rose Valley
• Conclude your hike at the Cavusin Cave Village
• Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant
• Descend towards the center of the earth with a trip to the Underground City
• Visit the Pigeon Valley
• Marvel at the old Greek houses of Uchisar
• Visit Ortshisar Castle, the biggest mass of fairy chimneys in Cappadocia.

Book your tour: The Blue Tour

The Blue Tour

• Mysteriously beautiful valleys
• Spectacular view
• Underground city

GREEN TOUR WITH TREKKING IN IHLARA VALLEY

Tour: Green Tour with Trekking in Ihlara Valley

This tour is a little bit cheaper than the Red Tour and it lasts for approximately 8 hours. Green Tour is among the tourists’ favorites as there are more places to see. After the pick-up at your hotel, you’ll be headed directly to Goreme’s Underground City, the highlight of this tour.

You’ll be amazed at how people lived their lives during this time. I hope you won’t forget to bring your cameras as you’ll be taking shots of their amazing landscapes along the way. It also includes pit stops at the place’s famous sites, including the Ihlara Valley. The trip is kind of hassle-free with pick-up and drop-off in a luxury van! It is guaranteed to give you comfort and relaxation. If you love to hike and trek, this tour is perfect for you!

Book your tour: Green Tour with Ihlara Valley

Green Tour with Ihlara Valley

• Bit cheaper
• Amazing landscapes

SUNSET ATV TOUR

Tour: Sunset ATV Tour

The most popular ‘short’ tour in Cappadocia. As you travel on a sturdy ATV (quad) bike, you will be greeted with spectacular rock-cut valleys that will leave you in awe. This activity is a good option for sightseeing as this will give the opportunity to wander the dunes, valleys, trails, and hills of Cappadocia. The tour finishes right at sunset out in the valley of rock formations for an amazing sunset view.

Book your tour: Sunset ATV Tour

• Dunes, valley, trails, and hills
• Easy to use bikes

HORSE-RIDING TOUR

Tour: Horse-riding Tour

This 2-hour horse ride includes pick-up and drop-off at Cappadocia area hotels. You’ll ride through the valleys of Goreme with their beautiful horses and witness the enchanting fairy chimneys. Explore the peaceful environment with a professional guide.

Among the highlights of this ride are the rock-cut Hallacdere Monastery, the orchards and vineyards with their picturesque landscapes you’ll pass by. The best thing is that you can choose your own schedule and I highly recommend you’ll tour at least 2 hours before sunset.

Book your tour: Horse-riding Tour

Horse-riding Tour

• Pick-up and drop-off
• Beautiful horses
• Peaceful environment

TURKISH NIGHT AT CAVE RESTAURANT

Tour: Turkish Night at Cave Restaurant

Looking for an authentic Turkish-style experience with a combination of night-filled music, dancing, and drinks? You will definitely love what the Cave restaurant in Cappadocia offers. I must say I enjoyed the night of pure relaxation with a touch of Turkish culture.

The onstage performers will keep you entertained the whole evening, so you won’t notice the passing of time.  The location of the restaurant is uniquely situated in a rock-cut cave which makes it more appealing. When it comes to culture, this is the best tour in Cappadocia to really soak it in. You don’t have to worry you might lose your way of getting there, the restaurant also provides free transportation to and from your hotel.

Book your tour: Turkish Night Tour

Turkish Night Tour

• Authentic Turkish style experience
• Night-filled music, dancing
• Night of pure relaxation

RED VALLEY AND UNDERGROUND CITY TOUR

Tour: Red Valley and Underground City Tour

This full-day tour in Cappadocia will give you everything there is to offer. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation and headed right away to the first stop, Red Valley as you witnessed its stunning rock formations and iconic landscapes. You can also hike through the colorful fairy chimneys of the place. Among the highlights are the stops at Pigeon Valley and Ortahisar Rock Castle, both are popular spots.

Book your tour: Red Valley & Underground City Tour

Red Valley & Underground City Tour

• Stunning rock
• Iconic landscapes
• Underground City

BEST OF CAPPADOCIA DAY PRIVATE TOUR WITH LUNCH

Tour: Best of Cappadocia Day Tour with Lunch

The best way to see all of the sights is on this all-day guided, private tour of Cappadocia’s best spots. You can customize the itinerary or go with the popular spots the guide recommends.

• The panoramic viewpoint of Göreme
• Visit the Underground City 
• Visit Pigeon Valley
• Tour Goreme Open Air Museum
• Çavuşin, which is the Old Greek Village
• Visit Paşabağı to see mushroom-shaped rock formations
• Devrent Valley, which is also known as İmagination Valley.

Book your tour: Best of Cappadocia Tour

Best of Cappadocia Tour

• Unforgettable experience
• Worth paying

FULL-DAY DISCOVERY HIKING TOUR

Tour: Full-day Discovery Hiking Tour

When it comes to hiking in Cappadocia, it’s hard not to pick this tour. Get ready for some trail adventures as you descend and find yourself in the underground cities in the region, hike in one of the most attractive valleys, and visit one of the biggest monastic settlements and the largest cathedral.

Book your tour: Full-day Discovery Hiking Tour

Full-day Discovery Hiking Tour

• Attractive valleys
• Unique beauty

GOREME OPEN AIR MUSEUM AND FAIRY CHIMNEYS

Tour: Goreme Open Air Museum and Fairy Chimneys

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Imagination Valley wherein you’ll get to witness animal-shaped natural rock formations. You’ll then be headed to Monk’s Valley with its amazing mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. It also includes a stop at Avanos town, famous for its pottery works.

Of course, lunch is included at a famous local restaurant before you head to Goreme Open Air Museum, the main attraction. You’ll be in awe of its stunning panoramic views all over and churches dating from the Byzantine Empire. The last stop is at Rock Castle and it’s worth a visit. You’ll be dropped off to your hotel comfortably. Personally, I think this Cappadocia tour is value for money! 

Book your tour: Goreme Open Air Museum & Fairy Chimneys

Goreme Open Air Museum & Fairy Chimneys

• Enjoyable and memorable
• Imagination Valley
• Animal-shaped natural rock

UNDERGROUND CITY AND IHLARA TOUR

Tour : Underground City and Ihlara Tour

On this tour, you’ll get a chance to discover the unique rock formations of Cappadocia. Personally, I like to explore ancient tunnels like the famous Derinkuyu Underground City in Cappadocia and learn the traditions of the locals on how they lived during those times.

If you join this tour, you’ll feel close to nature as you go on your journey to Ihlara Canyon which was formed by volcanic activity, with its scenic views. As you visit the Ihlara Valley, you’ll know how the early Christians made their churches from rocks. This Cappadocia tour also includes quick stops at the Selime Monastery, Pigeon Valley, and the famous Onyx factory to watch how a volcanic stone is formed.

Book your tour: Underground City & Ihlara Tour

Underground City & Ihlara Tour

• Unique rock formations
• Stunning views of the chimneys

HOW TO GET TO CAPPADOCIA

Cappadocia isn’t actually a town as many people think but it is an entire region. Within this region are towns such as Goreme (the most popular tourist spot), Uchisar, Urgup, and Ortahisar among others. There are two airports that serve Cappadocia.

• Kayseri Airport (70km/60 minutes) is the main airport and takes just over an hour by van/bus to reach Goreme Town
• Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (/40km/40 minutes is the secondary airport, which is closer to Goreme but only by about 20 minutes.

The big difference here is that Kayseri is a bigger airport, with more flight options, and often has cheaper flights. It is very convenient and quick to fly into Kayseri and I did it twice.

To get from Kayseri (or Nevsehir) you need to pre-book your shuttle or be prepared for an expensive taxi. The cheapest and easiest way to do that is to book online here .  For under $15 you can ride in a shared, air-conditioned airport transfer or a private transfer from $50.

WHERE TO STAY IN GOREME, CAPPADOCIA

Where I stayed: Design Cave Suites Cappadocia – I was lucky enough to stay at the Design Cave Suites in Goreme. The location was great and I walked to all attractions. The rooftop garden was awesome for sunrise balloon watching. The buffet breakfast spread was amazing as were the cave-style room designs.

Best Cave Hotel with Pool:   Local Cave House Hotel – This cave hotel rose to fame because of its incredible pool. Make sure you click the link and check out how epic the pool backdrop is, with those classic Cappadocia rock formations in the background and traditional cave rooms it is a top pick.

Cave Hotel with Best Roof View (and dogs): Sultan Cave Suites – This cave hotel became famous because of its epic rooftop area for sunrise viewing. Guests can lay out on traditional pillows and carpets while watching the hot-air balloons flying above. The hotel dog might also join you for a photoshoot on the roof!

HAVE YOU CHECKED OUT THE REST OF MY CAPPADOCIA BLOG POSTS?

Click on one of the articles below to check out all of the places you should visit while in Cappadocia!

The big guide! This post has all of my favorite activities, which I personally did while in Cappadocia for ten days:  24 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN CAPPADOCIA

The hiking guide!  Find out about all of the best hikes in Cappadocia with details, directions and lots of photos:  8 AWESOME HIKES IN CAPPADOCIA

Thinking about flying in a hot air balloon in Cappadocia? Read this first:  CAPPADOCIA HOT AIR BALLOONS: THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU FLY

Have you heard about the castles in Cappadocia? Check these out:

THE UCHISAR CASTLE VIEWPOINT

ORTAHISAR CASTLE VIEWPOINT

CAVUSIN CHURCH, VALLEY & CASTLE

Not sure where is the best region to stay? Wondering which hotel provides the best value? Check out this guide that will help you decide:  WHERE TO STAY IN CAPPADOCIA: THE BEST HOTELS & HOSTELS

OR… I write a post about the 12 BEST CAVE HOTELS IN CAPPADOCIA that you might find interesting.

I’ve written a blog post for almost all of the places I’ve visited while in Cappadocia. You can find every single one of these articles right here: CAPPADOCIA ARCHIVES

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best Cappadocia tours. Enjoy your trip!

Sunday 10th of May 2020

Incredible. Can't wait to be there! I bookmarked your blog and I'm going to use this as my guide when I got there. Thank you so much!

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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!

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

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Private Green Tour Cappadocia

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Cappadocia Tours, Hot Air Balloon, and All Things to Do in Cappadocia. Prices are updated for 2023 . There is no middleman ,  No extra charge , and  guaranteed reservations under a Licensed, Registered, and Local Tour Operator in Turkey with offices in Cappadocia, Ephesus, Antalya, Istanbul, and Pamukkale, since 2009…

Private Cappadocia Tours

Cappadocia Tours are listed with the best-designed itineraries

Per Person From 

Private Green Tour Cappadocia includes guided Goreme Town, Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Canyon, rock-cut Byzantine churches, and Selime Monastery visits.

Private Red Tour Cappadocia: Explore the guided Goreme Open Air Museum, Pasabag Fairy Chimneys, and Devrent Valley tours with your professional guide and van.

Private Cappadocia Silver Tour: Book it with us and visit Derinkuyu, Soganli, Mustafapasa, and Greek-Byzantine ancient sites in Cappadocia with a guided tour.

Per Person From

Private Cappadocia Tour offers you to visit Kaymakli Underground City, Pigeon Valley, Pasabag, Rose and Red Valleys, Goreme, Avanos, and Uchisar Villages.

Private Guided Cappadocia Tour: Visit Cappadocia’s most stunning valleys, Uchisar Castle, Goreme Open Air Museum, and Sinasos Village with your private guide.

Private Cappadocia Self-Schedule Tour: Book your private guide and van and then start to explore the highlights of Cappadocia, from fairy chimneys to valleys.

Private Guide and Vehicle in Cappadocia

Private Guide and Vehicle in Cappadocia: with your private guide and a van, start to explore Cappadocia with Goreme Open Air Museum, Pasabag Fairy Chimneys…

Private Highlights of Cappadocia Tour: Guided Goreme Open Air Museum, Pasabag Fairy Chimneys, Avanos, Kaymakli Underground City, and Uchisar Castle tours.

Cappadocia Cooking Class and Local Life Tour: make the most delicious foods in Cappadocia, learn the recipes from the local cooks, and see the local region.

Cappadocia Tour Packages

Every traveler’s dream comes true in Cappadocia . Its natural rock formations, landscapes, rock churches, underground cities, local traditional towns, cuisines, and, of course, the hot-air balloon are breathtaking. Cappadocia offers a stunning environment in which modernism, contemporary art, and antiquity coexist.

Romos Travel offers Cappadocia Multi-Day Tours that feature underground towns, valleys, rock cathedrals, wonderful meals, air-conditioned, non-smoking cars, and experienced tour guides . Other trips available include hiking, quad biking, jeep safari, hot-air ballooning , and horseback riding. Please contact Romos Travel Agency for any Cappadocia Tour Packages , if you have any questions.

Cappadocia Tour From Istanbul: Let us book your seats for an unforgettable trip to Cappadocia, including round airport transfers and a guided private day tour.

The Private 2 Days Cappadocia Tour is a combination of the two most popular tours in Cappadocia, which are the Red and the Green tours, with a guide and a van.

The Cappadocia 2 Day Tour From Istanbul offers you the best private Cappadocia tours with the combination of the guided Red and the Green Tours in the region.

The Private 3 Days Cappadocia Tour includes the most amazing Red, Green, and Cooking Class with Local Life Tours, with a professional guide and a private van.

Cappadocia Balloon Tours

Cappadocia has a wide range of hot air ballooning choices to suit all budgets. Flights cost between 150 and 280 euros per person, and the number of passengers in one basket may vary from 8 to 36. Standard balloon rides run 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, while premium balloon rides go much longer. There will be fewer people on luxury Cappadocia balloon tours , which means more time for photographs. 

When the cost of a balloon ride decreases, the number of people in the basket increases. Even though the size of the basket is important for a comfortable flight, it is not the only thing that affects the price of a balloon ride. The pilot in charge also has an effect on the price, since better and more experienced pilots are paid more than new and less experienced pilots. 

The equipment used in the activity may also impact the cost of a balloon trip. Because organizations that update and use the most up-to-date ballooning equipment may incur greater overhead expenses, and because the overall flight experience is impacted by a lot of variables, we suggest working with companies that treat these components seriously and professionally.

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour: Once you are in Cappadocia, this activity is a must-do in your life. Enjoy the sunset & breezing air above the fairy chimneys.

Comfort Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon offers you a semi-private balloon experience with fewer people in the basket. You should book it to view the fairy chimneys.

Cappadocia Private Hot Air Balloon-Book your seats for an unforgettable activity. See the whole region from the sky in your private basket with the best view.

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Cappadocia Tours

Cappadocia is a stunning location in Central Anatolia distinguished by a number of names. It’s a geological wonder, with borders stretching from Urgup to Avanos and Uchisar , including the smaller triangle of land. Goreme, Ihlara, and Soganli are the three major valleys of Cappadocia, where villages have grown. 

The most major accord occurred in the Goreme area. Many churches may be seen at the current open-air museum, many of which were built from enormous boulders. The number of rock-cut churches in Cappadocia is estimated to be above 600. People who needed to hide from Roman troops and, subsequently, Arab raids, cut out these rough stones and created underground towns to protect themselves.

Despite cooling, the lava was crushed by its own weight as it solidified. The hard rocks formed by the three volcanoes’ lava that spouted throughout geological time have assumed different shapes throughout history and continue to do so now, giving us features like capstones, pyramids, and conical structures with dark-colored crowns known as fairy chimneys.

The tours we provide are designed to take you to the most important attractions in Cappadocia while also providing the best service in the area. We can create a customized itinerary that incorporates all of your must-see attractions and activities. We try to help you make your trip to Cappadocia fit your tastes, personality, and budget.

Cappadocia hot-air ballooning options are affordable for all budgets. Flights vary in price from 150 to 280 euros per person, and the number of passengers in one basket goes from 8 to 36. Standard balloon rides average 45 minutes to an hour, while luxury balloon rides may last up to 1.5 hours. On premium balloon tours, there will be fewer clients and more time for photography. 

We collected all of the potential Cappadocia daily tours , Cappadocia private tours , hot air balloon flight alternatives, Cappadocia things to do & activities, and Cappadocia locations to visit for you, and you can view the whole list above:

Best Hikes in Cappadocia

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Epic Adventures Await! Explore the Best Hikes in Cappadocia - Uncover Mesmerizing Landscapes and Hidden Trails. Plan Your Journey Today!

Airports Near Cappadocia

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Discover Hidden Gems! Airports Near Cappadocia - Your Gateway to Adventure Awaits! Unearth the Best Travel Deals. Explore Now! ✈️

Snake Church Yilanli Church Cappadocia

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Snake Church Yilanli Church Cappadocia - One of the significant churches in Cappadocia is the Yilanli Church. Within the boundaries of Turkey - Cappadocia.

Uzumlu Church Saint Theodoros Trion

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Uzumlu Church Saint Theodoros Trion is one of the most important churches among the fairy chimneys in the red valley and rose valley inside Cappadocia's borders

Uzengi Valley

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Uzengi Valley Cappadocia is where you can find beautiful fairy chimneys. They were made by the lava of Güllü Mountain, Erciyes Mountain millions of years ago.

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Urgup - Many tourists travel to Urgup each year because of its stunning natural surroundings, history, making it one of Cappadocia's most picturesque districts.

Uchisar Cappadocia

Uchisar Cappadocia - One of the oldest places in Cappadocia is Uchisar, which is also one of the tourist-heavy areas. You can visit many things to visit there.

Three Beauties Fairy Chimneys

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Three Beauties Fairy Chimneys are one of the must-see locations in Cappadocia which are made up of two huge and one small fairy chimney in Urgup

Temenni Hill and Kilicaslan Gazi Tomb

Temenni Hill and Kilicaslan Gazi Tomb are situated inside Urgup's boundaries. Urgup is a significant tourist destination with wonderful historical nuances.

Tavsanli Church Cappadocia

Tavsanli Church Cappadocia - In the town of Urgup, there is a church called the Tavsanli Church, one of the significant churches in Cappadocia.

Tatlarin Underground City

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Tatlarin Underground City - One of the places that stand out for its captivating ambiance is Cappadocia, which is spectacular not only for its fairy chimneys.

Swords Valley and Churches

Swords Valley and Churches in Cappadocia are even more beautiful and mysterious than the valleys shown in Western movies. It must be on your bucket list.

St Vasilios Church Cappadocia

St Vasilios Church Cappadocia is one of the must-see churches. It is located in Cappadocia, which is also called the region of wonders.

St Nicholas Church Cappadocia

St Nicholas Church Cappadocia - One of the places where people with varied tastes can come together in Cappadocia. You can go to historical locations.

St John Church Cappadocia

St John Church Cappadocia - one of the countries where Christians ruled for hundreds of years, there are a lot of churches.

St Basil Church Cappadocia

St Basil Church Cappadocia a region that has been home to numerous civilizations for thousands of years, makes you feel as though you are in another time.

Selime Monastery and Guzelyurt

Selime Monastery and Guzelyurt are one of the areas in Cappadocia with distinctive beauty. Many people visit these historical and natural beauties.

Salt Lake Cappadocia

Salt Lake Cappadocia - One of the saltiest lakes in the world, Salt Lake captivates visitors with its scenery during their first visit to Cappadocia.

Red Valley and Rose Valley

Red Valley and Rose Valley - One of Cappadocia's most gorgeous locations in Red Valley, where anyone who is sick of the city's clamor and bustle

Places to Visit in Goreme

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Places to Visit in Goreme - Many fairy chimneys may be seen in Goreme, one of the must-visit locations in Cappadocia. Goreme, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pigeon Valley

Pigeon Valley is one of Cappadocia's must-see spots. Pigeon Valley is a great place to visit because of its natural beauty and unique nature and rock carvings.

Pasabag Monks Valley

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Pasabag Monks Valley The unique beauty of nature which is one of the most popular tourist spots is hard to believe. It is situated in the Cappadocia region.

Pancarlik Valley

Pancarlik Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. Both in the summer and winter, Cappadocia is overrun with tourists.

Ozluce Underground City

Ozluce Underground City - Cappadocia is home to underground cities. Ozluce is one of the most beautiful underground cities. Cappadocia has 200 underground city

Ortahisar Castle

Ortahisar Castle is a very old Cappadocia village and is home to Ortahisar Castle. The area is well known for its castle, which houses the biggest fairy chimney

Ortahisar - Even though Ortahisar is an important part of Cappadocia, it has not been as popular as Avanos, Ürgüp, or Goreme in recent years.

Ortahisar Cappadocia

Ortahisar Cappadocia - Where can one go in Ortahisar? The question that people who want to plan a Nevsehir trip. At Ortahisar, several locations must be visited

Nar Town Cappadocia

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Nar Town Cappadocia is one of the Nevşehir's neighborhoods and is rich in historical significance. Despite being behind places like Ürgüp, Göreme, and Avanos.

Melendiz River Cappadocia

Melendiz River Cappadocia - A visit to the Melendiz River is a must-do for anyone planning a vacation to one of Turkey's most popular tourist destinations.

Love Valley Cappadocia

Love Valley Cappadocia holds a significant place among the attractions of Cappadocia. Follow the Bagildere sign to get to the Love Valley if you're interested.

Kaymakli Underground City

Kaymakli Underground City is one of the attractions in Cappadocia. It should not be overlooked that culture and history are entwined with the underground city.

Ihlara Valley

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Ihlara Valley is a secret paradise for the Cappadocia region, with features that are incredibly startling to people who are seeing them for the first time.

Hidden Church Cappadocia

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Cappadocia Hidden Church - During the long history of the area, which goes back thousands of years, many different states have been in charge.

Gulludere Valley

Gulludere Valley, there are valleys all around the distinctive fairy chimneys of the Gulludere Valley. In this area, you can visit the ancient cave churches.

Goreme Panorama Hill

Goreme Panorama - Millions of people visit Goreme Panorama every year because it has so much to look at. Watch the Beautiful natural scenery of Cappadocia.

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Goreme - one of the Nevsehir towns with the greatest number of fairy chimneys, attracts interest for both its history and its scenic surroundings.

Goreme Zemi Valley

Goreme Zemi Valley - One of the longest hiking routes may be found in the Goreme Zemi Valley, a great route fusing history and environment.

Where is Cappadocia?

Where is Cappadocia? - in Anatolia, Turkey, best known for the three popular towns of Goreme, Urgup, and Uchisar, as well as Nevsehir, Aksaray, and Nigde.

Goreme Open Air Museum

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Goreme Open Air Museum - There are a lot of things to see at the Goreme Valley National Park Open Air Museum, which should be part of a trip to Cappadocia.

Goreme National Park

Goreme National Park which lies within Cappadocia's boundaries and spans a territory of around 40 km, is a popular tourist destination.

Gomeda Valley

Gomeda Valley - One of Cappadocia's "wonderland" locations is Gomeda Valley. Visitors are greeted by a breathtaking view of nature, known as Kücük Ihlara.

Gaziemir Underground City

Gaziemir Underground City - One of the best-known underground cities in the Cappadocia region is Gaziemir Underground City and caravansarai.

Fairy Chimneys

Fairy Chimneys are one of the most famous places in Cappadocia and one of the most mysterious things about the area, both in Turkey and around the world.

El Nazar Church Cappadocia

El Nazar Church Cappadocia is well-known because of how beautiful it looks and how well it fits into its natural surroundings.

Durmus Kadir Church

Durmus Kadir Church - One of Cappadocia's most significant landmarks is its churches. Its 400 or so churches serve as a snapshot of the several civilizations

Devrent Valley

Devrent Valley is one of Cappadocia's intriguing regions which is rife with myths. "Imagination Valley" is also a moniker for the valley under a different name.

Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City - There have been a lot of studies done on the Derinkuyu underground city, which is a must-see in Cappadocia during the tours.

Dark Church Cappadocia

Dark Church Cappadocia origins can be traced to the latter half of the 11th and 12th centuries. A tiny window in the narthex provides very little illumination.

Church of St. Eustathios Cappadocia

Church of St. Eustathios Cappadocia - Christians were present in Cappadocia under the rule of the Roman and Byzantine empires.

Cavusin and Cavusin Church

Cavusin and Cavusin Church - One of the attractions in Cappadocia that must be viewed and visited is the village of Cavusin and its church's village.

Carikli Church

Carikli Church - Christians had resided in these regions for a very long period before the Seljuk Kingdom took control of Cappadocia.

Belisirma Village

Belisirma Village is a village in the Aksaray Cappadocia region and has many ancient churches. A sizable number of tourists frequently visit it.

Avanos - One of the most popular tourist destinations in Cappadocia is Avanos which also is where they make traditional pottery and ceramics.

Avanos Swinging Bridge in Cappadocia

Avanos swinging bridge in Cappadocia - The bridge was constructed in 1973 by the local municipality that the bridge attracts too many tourists to the town.

Avanos Pottery in Cappadocia

Avanos Pottery in Cappadocia - An ancient craft with a long history in Cappadocia is Avanos ceramics. These pots may be seen everywhere in Cappadocia.

Attractions in Urgup

Attractions in Urgup: Those who plan a trip to Urgüp must go to certain places. One of the biggest towns in Cappadocia is Urgüp.

Best Balloon Tours in Cappadocia

Best Balloon Tours in Cappadocia. Almost everyone who visits Cappadocia, Turkey, wants to take a hot-air balloon ride

Best Cappadocia Tours

Cappadocia is one of the most unique places to visit in the world. It has valleys and amazing rock formations. It is also one of Turkey's major tourism hub

What to Buy in Cappadocia?

What to Buy in Cappadocia? There are numerous items to purchase in Cappadocia if you want to buy anything as a present for your family or loved ones.

What to Do in Cappadocia

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What to do in Cappadocia? Best travel tips and suggestions for your Cappadocia Travel. Where to go in Cappadocia, When to visit Cappadocia and all answers...

2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

Experience the magic of Cappadocia on this thrilling 2-day tour from Istanbul. Leave the bustling city behind and embark on a journey to the mesmerizing landscapes of Cappadocia. Discover ancient rock formations, hidden cave churches, and breathtaking valleys as you explore this unique region. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and guided tours to the region’s most iconic sites, making the most of your time in Cappadocia.

Best Tours in Cappadocia

Uncover the wonders of Cappadocia with our handpicked selection of the best tours in the region. Whether you’re interested in a hot air balloon adventure, exploring ancient underground cities, or hiking through picturesque valleys, our tours offer an unforgettable experience. These tours ensure that you don’t miss any of the highlights that make Cappadocia a must-visit location.

Cappadocia Tour Package from Istanbul

Embark on a comprehensive Cappadocia adventure with our all-inclusive tour package from Istanbul. Enjoy a seamless journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia with comfortable transportation and accommodation arrangements taken care of. From visiting the striking fairy chimneys to witnessing the stunning sunset over the valleys, our package offers an enriching experience that captures the essence of this enchanting region.

Cappadocia Half Day Tour

Short on time? Join our captivating half-day tour of Cappadocia and still discover the area’s most remarkable sights. Ideal for travelers with limited schedules, this tour covers the essential attractions, allowing you to witness the natural wonders and historical treasures that Cappadocia has to offer. Be prepared for an enriching experience that will leave you awe-inspired.

3-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Cappadocia with our immersive 3-day tour from Istanbul. Experience the region’s unique geological formations, ancient cave dwellings, and fascinating history as you venture through the otherworldly landscapes. With ample time to explore and relax, this tour guarantees a comprehensive Cappadocia experience that will stay with you forever.

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour

Soar above the dreamlike landscapes of Cappadocia with our captivating hot air balloon tour. Watch the sunrise paint the sky with vibrant hues as you drift gently over the fairy chimneys and valleys below. A truly unforgettable adventure, this tour promises breathtaking aerial views and unforgettable memories that will be etched in your heart forever.

Cappadocia Tours from Istanbul

Embark on a seamless journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia with our range of exclusive tours. Delve into the mystical world of Cappadocia, explore ancient cave dwellings, and learn about the region’s rich history and culture. With a variety of tour options to suit different preferences and schedules, we ensure an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Multi-Day Tours

Experience the enchanting wonders of Cappadocia on our captivating multi-day tours. Immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes, ancient cave dwellings, and fairy chimneys that make Cappadocia a unique destination. With carefully crafted itineraries, you’ll have the chance to explore the region’s historical sites, taste local delicacies, and engage in cultural experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.

Things to Do in Cappadocia

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Cappadocia, where an array of exciting activities awaits you. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Göreme Open-Air Museum, hike through the picturesque valleys, and discover hidden underground cities that date back centuries. From hot-air ballooning at sunrise to exploring ancient rock-cut churches, Cappadocia offers an abundance of experiences for every traveler.

Cappadocia Hot-Air Ballooning

Soar high above the magical landscapes of Cappadocia on an exhilarating hot-air ballooning adventure. Witness the breathtaking sunrise as you float amidst the captivating fairy chimneys and otherworldly rock formations. As the gentle winds carry you across the sky, the panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site will leave you in awe.

Luxury Balloon Rides Cappadocia

Embark on an opulent hot-air balloon journey over Cappadocia’s captivating terrain with our exclusive luxury balloon rides. Bask in the comfort of spacious baskets and indulge in top-notch amenities as you glide gracefully over the region’s iconic landmarks. Our luxury balloon rides offer a one-of-a-kind experience, combining adventure and sophistication for an unforgettable memory.

Cappadocia Daily Tours

For those seeking a taste of Cappadocia’s splendor in a limited timeframe, our daily tours are the perfect choice. Discover the region’s most renowned highlights, including the mesmerizing Derinkuyu Underground City, the stunning Love Valley, and the intriguing rock-cut churches of Göreme. Our expert guides will ensure you make the most of your time in Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Private Tours

Tailor your Cappadocia adventure with our exclusive private tours, designed to cater to your specific interests and preferences. Enjoy the flexibility of customizing your itinerary and exploring Cappadocia at your own pace. Whether you wish to focus on historical sites, embark on unique photography opportunities, or savor the local cuisine, our private tours offer a personalized and intimate experience.

Cappadocia Things to Do

Discover a myriad of captivating things to do in Cappadocia that cater to every traveler’s desires. Wander through the magnificent underground cities, partake in traditional pottery workshops, and savor the panoramic views from ancient castle ruins. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures, cultural immersions, or tranquil moments amidst nature, Cappadocia promises an unforgettable journey.

Luxury Cappadocia Tours

Indulge in an unforgettable experience with our Luxury Cappadocia Tours. Immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia while enjoying premium accommodations, exclusive activities, and personalized services. From opulent cave hotels to private hot-air balloon rides, every moment of your journey will be filled with unparalleled luxury and comfort. Let us cater to your every need as you explore the wonders of this enchanting region in style.

Istanbul to Cappadocia Tour

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey from the vibrant city of Istanbul to the magical landscapes of Cappadocia. Our Istanbul to Cappadocia Tour offers a seamless blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Traverse ancient sites, picturesque valleys, and unique rock formations as you make your way to Cappadocia. Expert guides will accompany you, providing insightful commentary throughout the trip and ensuring an unforgettable experience from the very start of your adventure.

Istanbul to Cappadocia Tours

Experience the ultimate trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia with our diverse selection of Istanbul to Cappadocia Tours. Whether you prefer leisurely-paced exploration or an action-packed adventure, our range of tours caters to all preferences. From multi-day excursions to day trips, each journey is carefully crafted to showcase the best of Cappadocia’s breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and unique cultural heritage. Discover the enchantment that awaits you on this remarkable voyage.

Tours in Cappadocia

Discover the hidden gems of Cappadocia with our carefully curated Tours in Cappadocia. Uncover the region’s rich history and geological wonders as you explore ancient cave dwellings, mysterious underground cities, and awe-inspiring fairy chimneys. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through picturesque valleys and charming villages, providing a deeper understanding of Cappadocia’s fascinating past and vibrant present. Immerse yourself in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where every corner has a story to tell.

2 Days Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

Short on time but eager to experience the magic of Cappadocia? Our 2 Days Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul is the perfect solution. This compact yet immersive journey will take you from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the tranquil landscapes of Cappadocia in just two days. Explore ancient churches, hike through unique rock formations, and witness the breathtaking sunrise from a hot air balloon. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure that fits perfectly into your travel schedule.

Cappadocia Private Tour

Tailor your Cappadocia experience to your preferences with our exclusive Cappadocia Private Tour. Enjoy the flexibility of a personalized itinerary that caters to your interests and pace. Our expert guides will craft an unforgettable journey just for you, whether you wish to delve into Cappadocia’s history, sample local delicacies, or take in the mesmerizing landscapes at your leisure. Let us create a private tour that fulfills your travel dreams and leaves you with lasting memories.

Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia

Take your Cappadocia adventure to new heights with our Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia experience. Drift gently above the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia as the rising sun paints the sky in stunning hues. Marvel at the surreal rock formations, fairy chimneys, and sprawling valleys from a unique vantage point. Our hot air balloon rides offer a truly magical and unforgettable perspective of this remarkable region, leaving you with an experience that will stay with you forever.

Cappadocia Private Green Tour

Embark on an exclusive and enchanting journey through the heart of Cappadocia with our Cappadocia Private Green Tour. This extraordinary tour takes you off the beaten path to explore the region’s hidden gems, verdant valleys, and lush landscapes. This personalized tour ensures an intimate experience away from the crowds as you learn about Cappadocia’s distinctive natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Cappadocia Turkey

Welcome to the captivating land of Cappadocia Turkey, where ancient history and surreal landscapes blend seamlessly. From the strange fairy chimneys to the dramatic rock formations that nature and time have sculpted, this renowned area is a veritable treasure trove of natural wonders. Embark on a journey through history as you explore the underground cities, ancient churches, and breathtaking panoramas that have made Cappadocia a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.

Cappadocia Tour Guide

Discover Cappadocia’s most fascinating tales and hidden secrets with our knowledgeable and passionate Cappadocia tour guides. These local experts will accompany you on your exploration of the area, providing historical anecdotes, cultural insights, and insider information. Whether you choose a private or group tour, our Cappadocia tour guides will ensure a memorable and enriching experience, sharing their deep love and understanding of this mesmerizing destination.

Private Tour of Cappadocia

Indulge in a tailor-made adventure with our Private Tour of Cappadocia. Unravel the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region at your own pace, with a personalized itinerary crafted to suit your preferences. From exploring ancient cave dwellings to witnessing the mesmerizing hot air balloons at sunrise, this private tour grants you the flexibility to immerse yourself in the wonders of Cappadocia with undivided attention from your expert guide.

Private Tours of Cappadocia

Embark on an exclusive journey through Cappadocia’s enchanting landscapes and rich history with our selection of Private Tours of Cappadocia. Each private tour is thoughtfully designed to cater to your interests, offering a luxurious and intimate experience of this unique destination. Traverse the captivating valleys, visit ancient rock-cut churches, and savor the local delicacies as you create cherished memories on a private adventure of a lifetime.

Cappadocia Day Tour Packages

Make the most of your time in Cappadocia with our meticulously curated Cappadocia Day Tour Packages. Ideal for travelers with limited time, these packages offer a whirlwind exploration of the region’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. From the majestic Göreme Open-Air Museum to the picturesque valleys, each day tour is a carefully crafted experience that ensures you won’t miss any of Cappadocia’s highlights.

Cappadocia Tourism

Immerse yourself in the allure of Cappadocia Tourism, where every moment is filled with wonder and discovery. With its otherworldly landscapes, ancient cave dwellings, and rich cultural heritage, Cappadocia has become a magnet for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring the impressive rock formations or enjoying a hot air balloon ride over the ethereal landscapes, Cappadocia promises an unparalleled adventure that will leave you captivated and inspired.

Best Cappadocia Tours from Istanbul

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia with our handpicked selection of the best Cappadocia tours. Discover the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, characterized by its otherworldly rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and captivating valleys. Our expert guides will lead you through the region’s rich history, taking you to iconic sites like the Goreme Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and the fairy chimneys of Pasabag. Experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality and indulge in local delicacies during our carefully curated tour itineraries. Whether you choose a day trip or a multi-day adventure, these Cappadocia tours promise to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Cappadocia and Ephesus Tours from Istanbul

Combine the allure of Cappadocia with the historical wonders of Ephesus during our captivating tours departing from Istanbul. Delve into the fascinating world of ancient civilizations as you explore the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, once a thriving Greco-Roman city. Roam through its grand theater, the impressive Celsus Library, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Afterward, immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where you can witness the breathtaking sunrise from a hot air balloon, visit the underground cities, and wander through picturesque valleys. These tours offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical heritage, promising an enriching and diverse experience.

All Cappadocia Balloon Tours

For the ultimate Cappadocia experience, soar high above the unique terrain on one of our all-inclusive Cappadocia balloon tours. Marvel at the sunrise as it bathes the lunar-like landscape in warm hues, providing a magical backdrop for your balloon adventure. Drift peacefully over the fairy chimneys, valleys, and ancient rock formations, capturing postcard-perfect moments at every turn. Our experienced and licensed pilots ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, while our luxurious baskets offer unobstructed views. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking romance, or a family in search of unforgettable moments, these Cappadocia balloon tours will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip.

Cappadocia Luxury Things to Do

Indulge in the opulent side of Cappadocia with our curated selection of luxury experiences. From upscale cave hotels nestled into the rocky hills to exclusive dining in ancient cave restaurants, we offer a range of sophisticated options for discerning travelers. Private, customized tours with knowledgeable guides who cater to your every need will help you discover the region’s cultural treasures. Savor exquisite local wines during private vineyard visits, and unwind in a traditional Turkish spa for an authentic pampering session. Our luxury Cappadocia experiences ensure that you experience the utmost comfort, style, and exclusivity while immersing yourself in the captivating beauty and history of this remarkable region.

TOURS TO CAPPADOCIA

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• Things to Do
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• Top 10 Attractions
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• Eating Out Guide
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• for Families & Kids
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• Goreme Open Air Museum
• Zelve Valley Open Air Museum
• Pasabag Monks Valley
• Uchisar Castle
• Pigeon Valley
• Derinkuyu Underground City
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• Top 15 Best Places To Visit
• Fairy Chimneys
• Panoramic Viewpoints
• Churches & Monasteries
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• Underground Cities
• Mustafapasa
• Where to Stay Guide
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• Best Cave Hotels
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• About Cappadocia
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• Kayseri Airpot (ASR)
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• What to Bring, Wear?
• Nevsehir Hospitals

Cappadocia Blue Tour: Best Tours, Prices + Insider Advice

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Cappadocia Blue Tour is a popular sightseeing tour covering the popular attractions and sights of the southern part of Cappadocia such as valleys, fairy chimneys, villages and Kaymaklı Underground City. Majority of the tours are made via professional tour guide and driver.

Table of Contents

• Cappadocia Blue Tour is a full-day guided tour that takes visitors to some of the lesser-known sights of Cappadocia .
• It is a full-day tour , usually starting at 9 am and ending at 5 pm.
• Top sights mostly include ; the central and southern parts of Cappadocia, including the towns of Soganli , Sahinefendi , and Mustafapasa , Kaymakli Underground City and Red Valley .
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included on most tours.

Top Blue Tour Tickets

If you are looking for the best Cappadocia Blue tours, trust our recommendations, save time and money, we have you covered . Below are some of best experiences you can find! Feel free to  book online in advance, and make an eco-friendly option of online tickets .

• Cappadocia Blue Tour with optional Balloon Flight
• Best of Cappadocia Private Blue ( South ) tour
• Cappadocia Blue Tour (Red Valley)
• Cappadocia Daily Blue Tour
• Cappadocia: Balloon Flight and Private Cappadocia Blue Tour
• Cappadocia: Blue Tour (Lunch, Museums, all extra included)
• Private Cappadocia Blue Tour
• Cappadocia: Blue Tour with Entry Fees and Lunch
• Cappadocia: Blue Tour with Lunch and Hotel Transfer

What to Expect?

While the Red and Green tours are the most popular ways to explore the area, the Blue tour is an excellent choice for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience . This tour takes you to some of the lesser-known but equally fascinating sights of Cappadocia .

Typical tours mostly start early in the morning upon you’re being picked-up from your hotel around 9 am in the company of a professional tour guide, and goes for about 8,9 hours. At the end of the tour, you’re being dropped-off to your hotel.

Differences from the Red & Green Tour

One of the unique features of the Blue Tour is that it takes visitors to the heart of the local culture. Unlike the Red and Green Tours, which focus on the more popular tourist sites, the Blue Tour takes visitors to small, charming villages that are home to local artisans and craftsmen . Visitors can witness the ancient art of carpet weaving and pottery making and learn about traditional handicrafts and trades that have been passed down through generations.

The tour also takes visitors to some of the most beautiful and less crowded valleys of the area. The Gomeda Valley is a highlight, known for its stunning rock formations and tranquil atmosphere. The Soysallar Valley is another impressive stop on the tour, with its unique rock-cut churches and monasteries that date back to the 7th century.

The Cappadocia Blue Tour is an excellent choice for those looking for a relaxed and off-the-beaten-path experience . With visits to small villages, less crowded valleys, and local craftsmen, the tour is a perfect way to experience the heart and soul of Cappadocia.

No Regrets Booking Advice

Attractions & sights to explore.

The schedule of the sights and attractions of Cappadocia Blue Tour  may change but you’ll finish your day out by exploring the top Cappadocia sights including;

• The old Greek town of Mustafapasa
• Keslik Monastery
• Soganli Valley
• Sahinefendi

Kaymakli Underground City

Typical cappadocia blue tour itinerary.

Cappadocia Blue Tour is a full-day guided tour that takes visitors to some of the lesser-known sights of Cappadocia. Typical tours mostly start early in the morning upon you’re being picked-up from your hotel around 9 am in the company of a professional tour guide, and goes for about 8-9 hours, lasts until 5 pm. At the end of the tour, you’re being dropped-off to your hotel.

The tour covers the central and southern parts of Cappadocia, including the towns of Soganli , Sahinefendi , and Mustafapasa . The tour also includes stops at some of the area’s most impressive valleys, including the Gomeda Valley and the Soysallar Valley .

Mustafapasa Village

Mustafapasa is a charming village located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, about 5 km southeast of Ürgüp. The village is also known as Sinasos, its former Greek name, and has a rich history dating back to the Byzantine period.

Mustafapaşa was once a major center of Greek culture in the area, and its historic houses, churches, and other buildings reflect its Greek heritage. The village is home to many beautiful examples of Greek Ottoman architecture, including several large mansions and churches with frescoes and intricate stonework.

One of the most famous buildings in Mustafapaşa is the Medrese, a former theological school dating back to the 19th century. The building features a beautiful courtyard and many well-preserved rooms, including a mosque and a library.

Mustafapaşa is also known for its underground tunnels, which were once used by locals as a means of protection from invaders. Today, visitors can explore some of these tunnels and gain a glimpse into the village’s past.

In addition to its historical attractions, Mustafapaşa is also known for its natural beauty. The village is surrounded by scenic valleys and rock formations, making it an ideal place for hiking, trekking, and outdoor activities.

Gomeda Valley

Gomeda Valley is located in the west of Mustafapasa village along Urgup . The valley is known as “Small Ihlara” . Just like in Ihlara Valley, you will experience and enjoy variety of rock-cut houses and churches, shelters and a river running through the valley. Gomeda Valley is also called the “Devil’s Creek” , due to its pleasant trails with hollows, tunnels and dovecotes.

The 1,5 km hiking trail of the Gomeda Valley offers a different atmosphere for its guests. One of the caves has been used as a reservoir for rain water since ancient times, and it continues to be used to irrigate poplar trees, which can be seen frequently while walking.

Kaymakli Underground City has  8 levels underground  (only 4 are open) carved from the soft volcanic stone that are connected with each other by narrow tunnels.

Visitors may visit stalls, stables, stores, refectories, churches, wineries, kitchens and the other sections.

Red Valley (Kizilcukur) is one of the best places to watch the sunrise and sunset in Cappadocia . The valley is located in the middle of Goreme National Park named after the red colored tuff rocks and fairy chimneys spread through the valley.

Red Valley has such a beautiful landscape in a dreamy crimson color that attracts its visitors. We can say that it is the most beautiful valley of Cappadocia.

The 5 km. hiking track makes Red Valley a popular hiking area in Cappadocia. It is an ideal area and activity for hiking lovers. For walking out the whole valley, you’ll need about 1-2 hours. The walking trail will lead you to the famous Cavusin Village .

You’ll experience Cappadocia from a different perspective by viewing its lovely hills and fairy chimneys from the ground level. There is also a lovely observation terrace .

Rose Valley

Rose Valley (Gulludere) is located near Goreme . and the valley is one of the best places to see the fairy chimney formations in Cappadocia . And that makes Rose Valley a popular hiking route in Cappadocia for nature lovers.

As in other valleys of Cappadocia, here you’ll find many churches, monasteries and shelter areas carved into the rocks. Travelers may see variety of lovely churches and chapels along the valley.

Rose Valley is also home to the best trekking and hiking trails in the Cappadocia region. Rose Valley has about 4 km. hiking track and the valley is only accessible by foot. You will see many pigeons while walking in the valley.

How to Book Cappadocia Blue Tour?

You can determine your day tour schedule by specifying the popular places you prefer. If you don’t know much about Cappadocia, you can check the popular places and activities below to get to know these places and choose the places you want to see.

Typical blue tour includes; southern part of Cappadocia such as valleys, fairy chimneys, villages and Kaymaklı Underground City .

Your typical adventure will start with a fascinating 10:00 AM hotel pickup, laying the groundwork for an unforgettable experience. Travel through Red and Rose Valleys, two enchanted places where the artistic hand of nature shows itself in enigmatic splendor.

In Cavusin Cave Village, where the past seems to live on and the present seems to be frozen in time, you can lose yourself in the enduring charm. Be amazed by the troglodyte homes and rock castles that served as refuges for people up until the turn of the twentieth century. Enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant serving regional specialties.

Explore the vast maze of the Underground City as you descend into Cappadocia’s depths. Navigate its complex system of stables, cellars, storage rooms, refectories, churches, and wineries to uncover the secrets hiding beneath.

Dovecotes and deserted cave dwellings dot the scenery at Pigeon Valley , where your adventure might continue. Take in the quaint Greek homes of Uchisar and marvel at Ortshisar Castle , a massive complex of fairy chimneys that exemplifies Cappadocia’s otherworldly splendor.

Top Rated Cappadocia Blue Tour Options

We believe that booking your Cappadocia day tour with one of the below companies and online not only guarantees a world-class experience but also provides the convenience of flexible booking, free hotel transfers, and the assurance of thousands of satisfied travelers who have shared their positive experiences through online reviews. It’s the smart choice for a hassle-free and memorable adventure in Cappadocia.

Here we only suggest the proven ways and top rated ones with travelers’ comments. You can feel free to book one of the below top selling Cappadocia Blue Tour.

1. Cappadocia Blue Tour with optional Balloon Flight

This is one of best Cappadocia blue tours made. You’ll see several top sites in Cappadocia on a small-group full-day tour with hotel pickup and drop-off. You’ll explore fairy chimneys in Ucguzeller , stop at Cavusin village , descend into Kaymakli Underground City , and take a walk in Red Valley with a guide who shares the history and landmarks at each stop. Upgrade to include the optional pre-sunrise hot air balloon flight .

You can cancel cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Read more and book this Blue Tour online

2. Best of Cappadocia Private Blue ( South ) tour

This is a great private tour that you’ll discover the hidden gems of Cappadocia with this captivating Blue Tour, a full-day guided adventure that takes you off the beaten path. You’ll see and explore Mustafapasa Village : Greek heritage charm, Gomeda Valley : Enchanting rock-cut houses, and Kaymakli Underground City : Subterranean marvel.

3. Cappadocia Blue Tour (Red Valley)

This is a great Blue Tour that you’ll see the highlights of Cappadocia on a full-day tour to Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery. Your guide shares the history of each site as you see fairy chimneys, ancient churches carved into the rock, underground living quarters, and more. Includes a riverside lunch, transportation, entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

4. Cappadocia Daily Blue Tour

This is also one of the best and private blue tour that will allow you to spend a wonderful day by allowing you to visit and see the hidden areas in the region. The route usually includes the southern part of Cappadocia. You can visit places further from the center compared to the green and red tour. The tour has many stopovers that you can visit and explore. Their professional and experienced guides who dominate the region accompany you on this tour.

5. Cappadocia: Balloon Flight and Private Cappadocia Blue Tour

This is one of the best tours with balloon flight. You’ll fly over the Cappadocia landscape early in the morning in a hot air balloon, a truly surreal experience you’ll never forget. Follow this up with a 6.5-hour tour full of incredible natural formations, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and ancient art.

6. Cappadocia: Blue Tour (Lunch, Museums, all extra included)

You’ll be picked you up from your hotel and visit the Red and Rose Valley and Çavuşin Cave Village . Descend to Kaymaklı or Özkonak Underground City . Explore Pigeon Valley , Uçhisar’s Greek houses and Ortahisar Castle . You’ll also Enjoy a delicious lunch and get dropped off back to your hotel.

7. Private Cappadocia Blue Tour

This is a superb private tour that you’ll visit both historical and natural attractions. You’ll explore ancient rock-carved monasteries near the village of Soganli , discover the Roman history of the Sobesos Ancient City , visit the old Greek village of Sinassos , and take an easy hike through the Red Valley . You’ll travel in comfort by a luxury minivan with your own private guide to ensure a stress-free experience.

8. Cappadocia: Blue Tour with Entry Fees and Lunch

This is one of the best private tours that you’ll be accompanied by a tour guide and driver, visit historic sites in Cappadocia such as the Underground City , Red , and Rose Valley , the Greek houses of Uchisar , and Ortshisar Castle on a full-day tour. It includes local art historian guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by luxury vehicle, lunch, national park fees, all museum entrances and all taxes, duties, and handling fees.

9. Cappadocia: Blue Tour with Lunch and Hotel Transfer

This is a great tour that you’ll explore the hidden gems of Cappadocia on a guided tour with lunch included. Visit the Mustafapasa Village , Keslik Monastery , Sobesos ancient city , Soganlı valley , the Mazi Underground City , and the Ortahisar Castle and viewpoint.

All Above Recommended Alternative Tours

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

by Getyourguide

Book Your Balloon Ride

Below you can find our recommendations. Each company directly operates the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia with their team of experts. So you will book your flight directly from the company. No men in the middle.

• ATTRACTIONS
• GUIDED TOUR
• POINTS OF INTEREST
• SIGHTSEEING

Take a Look At

14 must-knows when visiting cappadocia for the first time, top 10 things to do in cappadocia + detailed attractions guide, where to stay in cappadocia: cappadocia by regions + local tips, best daily tours & excursions in cappadocia for 2024, best cappadocia tours from istanbul (2024 prices with advice), trending now, hot air balloon ride in cappadocia | cost ▷ top 10+ flights 2024, goreme open air museum (2024 guide with tickets advice), where to watch the best sunrise and sunset in cappadocia, fairy chimneys in cappadocia (where best locations advice), general information about cappadocia – getting to know cappadocia, cappadocia red tour: best tours, prices + insider advice, best panoramic viewpoints in cappadocia (observation terraces), must see underground cities in cappadocia + tips & tickets, shopping in cappadocia (what to buy top areas insider advice), goreme cappadocia: 2024 holidays, top things to do & see, related reading, fairy chimneys to hot air balloons: magical landscape of cappadocia, zelve valley open air museum cappadocia (what to see tickets), honeymoon in cappadocia guide: plan + tips to get you started, local recommendations from cappadocia4u team.

If youʻre visiting Cappadocia for the first time, we have you covered. Below are some of the top recommendations, tours and experiences!

Some useful info

• Cappadocia is the name of the region situated in the middle of Turkey . It is mostly known by the three popular towns of Goreme, Urgup  and  Uchisar  but actually  it is the name of the very big region  spread through the  cities of Nevsehir, Kirsehir, Nigde, Aksaray and Kayseri .
• If you are first-time visitor , want to get familiar, please read our Cappadocia for first timers guide.
• If you are not sure how to travel , please read our Traveling to Cappadocia guide.
• If you don't know where to stay , please read our Where to Stay in Cappadocia guide for regions, and Accommodation guide for hotels.
• If it is hard to plan your days , please read our Ideal 3-Days Cappadocia itinerary .

Top Attractions & Sights

There are 6 must do and see in Cappadocia that you won't want to miss!

• Hot Air Balloon Rides (the most exciting attractions in the world)
• Goreme Open Air Museum (some best-preserved examples of Byzantine rock-cut architecture and frescoes in the world)
• Pasabag Monks Valley (one of the most popular  fairy chimneys  areas)
• Uchisar Castle ( highest point, the biggest fairy chimney )
• Derinkuyu Underground City (one of the largest underground cities in the world, 8 th  century BC)
• Ihlara Valley (fantastic  canyon with a depth of about 100 mt. and 14 km. length)

Tip-1: One of the best ways to explore Cappadocia is by taking a sightseeing tour, so that you can cover all the top sights. Three main sightseeing tours available:  Red Tour  (covers the highlights of the region), Green Tour (best of natural  and  historical sites ), and Blue Tour  (lesser-known sights, off-the-beaten-path experience )

Tip-2: Private Tours are also good choice within a well-planned and custom itinerary along with a private vehicle, driver and professional guide. Great for those who don't have a car or don't know the region well.

For leisure activities we'd recommend 2 must-take attractions ! Don't miss! Wine Tasting and Photo Shooting

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Top Tours in Cappadocia, Türkiye

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cappadocia Balloon Flight (Official) by Discovery Balloons

2. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride / Turquaz Balloons

3. Full Day Private Cappadocia Tour (Car & Guide )

4. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour Over Fairychimneys

5. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon 1 of 4 Valleys

6. Cappadocia Balloon Ride and Champagne Breakfast

7. Green (South) Tour Cappadocia (small group) with lunch and ticket

8. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Fairy Chimneys And Goreme

9. Quad Safari Tour in Cappadocia / 2 Hour

10. 2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Flight

11. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cat Valleys with Drinks

12. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight over Goreme

13. Red (North) Tour Cappadocia (small group) with lunch and tickets

14. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons / Kelebek Flight

15. Cappadocia Sunset Tour with ATV Quad - Beginners Welcome

16. Cappadocia Green Tour

17. Full Day Private Tour with Local Guide and Vehicle in Goreme

18. Cappadocia Balloon Ride with Breakfast, Champagne and Transfers

19. Cappadocia Daily Skii Tour Erciyes Mountain

20. Cappadocia Dream - 2 Days Cappadocia Travel with Balloon Ride from/to Istanbul

21. Cappadocia ATV (1 Quad Bike) Tour - 2 Hours

22. Exclusive Hot air balloon Flight in Cappadocia

23. Affordable Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cat Valley with Hotel Pick-up & Drop-Off

24. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne and Breakfast

25. Cappadocia Green Tour (inc: Pro Guide, Transfers, Tickets, Lunch)

26. Cappadocia Private Tour with Car & Guide

27. One Hour Deluxe Hot Air Balloon Tour(Goreme Valley)

28. Best of Cappadocia Small Group Guided Tour

29. Full Day Private Cappadocia Tour( Car & Guide)

30. Cappadocia Photo Shoot

What travellers are saying.

Pashaco/Shutterstock

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, 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.

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Mar 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Cappadocia is incredibly popular with visitors to Turkey but where to start with so many attractions? These are 8 of our favorite places to visit.

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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?
• What to buy in Turkey? — Top 26+ must-buy & best things to buy in Turkey
• When is the best time to visit Turkey? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to travel to 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 Itinerary: 2, 3, 4 or 5 Day Options

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

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

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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Cappadocia Travel Guide: Where to Stay + What to Do for First Timers

You’ve seen the magical destination of Cappadocia Turkey all over your social media, and thought “ I need to book tickets right now !” But, where do you start? This Cappadocia travel guide has you covered.

From breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon rides over the otherworldly landscape, to unique cave hotels in Cappadocia, to picturesque valleys with unusual rock formations , Cappadocia has so much to discover.

I stayed in this special place for a whopping 10 days and explored so many of the Cappadocia attractions. I can say without hesitation, that it lives up to the hype, times 100.

WHERE TO NEXT? Read more Turkey Destination Guides: Bustling City of Istanbul Pamukkale Thermal Pools Ancient City of Ephesus

* This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

Visiting Cappadocia should be on everyone’s bucket list and this Cappadocia guide will help you book that dream trip and make the most of it!

I’ve outlined everything you need to know on your Cappadocia trip from how to get to Cappadocia , the best time to visit Cappadocia , things to do in Cappadocia , Cappadocia restaurants and so much more . 

Whether you are planning for your upcoming Cappadocia holidays or just daydreaming, this Cappadocia travel guide will give you plenty of information and inspiration, too!

Visit Cappadocia on this fabulous 10 Day Turkey Itinerary

Cappadocia Quick Guide

Planning a last-minute trip to Cappadocia? Here are the best resources for Cappadocia. Turkey, plus top Cappadocia tours and the best places to stay in Cappadocia.

TURKEY TRAVEL INSURANCE Check Prices of HeyMondo Insurance

CAPPADOCIA AIRPORT TRANSFERS Nevsehir Airport Shuttle Kayseri Airport Shuttle

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPPADOCIA Luxury Cave Hotel | Sultan Cave Suites Luxury Cave Hotel | Koza Cave Hotel Mid-range Hotel | Argos in Cappadocia Economy Hotel | Village Cave House

CAPPADOCIA TURKEY FLIGHTS Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

CAPPADOCIA CAR RENTAL Check Prices on Cappadocia Car Rentals

BEST CAPPADOCIA GUIDED TOURS Cappadocia Highlights Tour Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride North Cappadocia Red Tour Central Cappadocia Blue Tour Cappadocia Sunset ATV Tour

Cappadocia Pronunciation

For most of my life growing up in Canada, I always pronounced Cappadocia a certain way. But, after a good chat with my tour guide in Cappadocia, he said there are two different pronunciations that are acceptable and used regularly.

The word Cappadocia in Persian means ‘ Land of Beautiful Horses ’, which leads to me daydreaming of wild horses running through the beautiful Cappadocia landscape at sunset. But, frivolity aside, here they are: 

‘Ka·puh-dow-shuh’ (most English speaking countries go by this)

‘Ka·puh-dow-kee-ya’ (this is how my Turkish tour guide pronounced it)

What Cappadocia Really Means

I learned so much from my tour guide while visiting all of the Cappadocia attractions (which should always be the case, really). He told me that the word Cappadocia wasn’t used in Turkey until the boom of Cappadocia tourism in the last few decades. 

The Turkish geographical naming system usually names regions after the largest city in that region. In this case, Nevsehir is the largest city in the region. But, once tourism picked up, it was confusing for visitors because they thought locals were talking about the city and not the region.

Therefore Cappadocia was adopted to describe the collection of the four cities of Nevsehir, Kayseri, Aksaray and Niğde at each corner of the region.

Amongst this region are smaller towns such as Goreme (the main tourist town in Cappadocia), Urgup, Avanos, Derinkuyu, Kaymakli, Aksaray and Uchisar.

Where is Cappadocia Turkey

The area of Cappadocia is located in the centre of Turkey on the eastern edge of the region of Central Anatolia. Cappadocia is diverse with many mountainous areas and plains. Cappadocia is located approximately 725 km from Istanbul . 

Click on the map of Cappadocia Turkey below to interact with Google Maps .

Cappadocia History

The landscape.

The tourist region of Cappadocia is surrounded by three volcanoes , Mt Erciyes, Mt Hasan and Mt Gullu. Don’t worry, they are either dormant or haven’t erupted in millennia. But, what these three volcanoes did about 60 million years ago was cover this region in lava and ash for centuries. My tour guide described it as ‘ hell on earth ‘.

What this eventually did was blanket the region in soft layers of rock, called ‘tuff’ , composed of cooled lava, ash and minerals. Over millions of years, this material was eroded by wind and rain creating what we now know as the unusual and otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia . This includes the popular fairy chimneys that can stretch to 130 feet in the air.

This soft rock layer or ‘tuff’ was taken advantage of by humans due to its malleability. Houses, storage rooms, churches and many other structures, including the famous underground cities, were carved into this rock by persecuted Christians in the Roman period.

Where to Stay in Cappadocia

Due to Cappadocia’s unique history both geographically and humanly, the landscape here has become popular for Cappadocia cave hotels . These rooms carved into the soft rock material of the region were built to maintain temperature during the extreme height of summer and chilling weather of winter. 

Today, the cave hotels are a sought-after novel attraction and a quintessential Cappadocia experience. These cave hotels are some of the best places to stay in Cappadocia.

Of course, in Cappadocia, you can find any type of hotel from luxury boutique hotels to backpacker hostels. So finding where to stay Cappadocia shouldn’t be hard. Plus, you’ll likely want a hotel where you can watch the hot air balloons take flight at sunrise from the patio.

Where the difficulty lies for most travellers is what town to stay in Cappadocia . If it’s your first time, the definitive answer is Goreme .

Koza Cave Hotel

Argos in Cappadocia

The famous cappadocia cave hotels.

If you only have a couple of days in Cappadocia, you can still experience the best part of this region by staying in one of the novel cave hotels in Cappadocia . What staying in a Cappadocia cave hotel grants you is an authentic experience without even leaving your room! 

Due to the influence of social media, sitting on the outdoor patio of any cave hotel in Cappadocia at sunrise watching the hot air balloons has become synonymous with this magical destination. 

It’s important to note that most Instagrammable hotels in Goreme do not allow non-guests to enter at sunrise , so you will need to book a stay at a cave hotel in Cappadocia that comes with a stellar view if you want to incorporate this experience. 

Note, most hotels in this region come with a large traditional breakfast included in the price.

The town of Goreme (the main tourist spot) is situated on a hill with tiers of homes and hotels lining the slope. 

At the top of the slope, you will have famous luxury cave hotels such as Koza Cave Hotel , Mithra Cave Hotel and Sultan Cave Suites Cappadocia. These hotels in Cappadocia with a view will have the most epic views of the hot air balloons . Do note, that because these hotels are heavily involved in influencer marketing, you will have many influencers around you trying to get the shot at sunrise.

Sultan Cave Suites

Angel Cave Suite

More economical Cappadocia caves hotel options can be found a bit lower down the hill at places like Angel Cave Suite . All of these cave hotel Cappadocia options come with a view of the hot air balloons, albeit a bit less fancy.

Best Hotel in Cappadocia with Balloon View

I do have to admit, watching the hot air balloons fly at sunrise from the top of my hotel was my most memorable experience in Cappadocia . It will stick with you for years I’m sure. I would highly encourage you to prioritize this experience even over the luxurious cave hotels.

Goreme Hotels in Cappadocia

Many hotels that don’t have cave rooms have ‘cave-like’ rooms still on offer . Made with stone walls, these hotels still give you a feeling of authenticity but with a much more affordable nightly price tag. But what really counts is access to a grand view of the hot air balloons at sunrise . I’d recommend Antique Terrace Suites and Village Cave House hotel for this experience.

If you do feel like Cappadocia is the perfect place to splurge (which I would tend to agree!), then staying at the famous cave hotels like Koza Cave Hotel , Mithra Cave Hotel and Sultan Cave Suites are the best options for this.

These three hotels are some of my favourite hotels in Cappadocia to see balloons .

Antique Terrace Suites

Village Cave House Hotel

Uchisar hotels in cappadocia.

If you decide to stay near the Uchisar Castle, my recommendations for a Cappadocia hotel with hot air balloon view would be the mid-range Rox Cappadocia or the ultra-luxe Museum Hotel . or Argos in Cappadocia . Do note, because Uchisar Castle is a bit further away, the balloons wouldn’t be as close.

Rox Cappadocia

Museum Hotel

Best time to visit cappadocia.

The best time to visit Cappadocia is in the shoulder months of April to May and September to October . The weather in Cappadocia Turkey during this time is bright and sunny with a temperature of 22 degrees during the day. This is also the best time to go to Cappadocia for a successful hot air balloon ride at sunrise . 

Nights can get a bit chillier so bring a warm layer.

I visited Cappadocia in November and unfortunately experienced a cloudy hot air balloon ride with no view of sunrise. It was still a great time, but if you want to have a better chance of a colourful awe-inspiring balloon ride, visit in the shoulder months.

Temperatures during November were warm during the day though so adventuring through the Cappadocia valleys and open-air museums was super pleasant. Nighttime gets chilly.

NOTE | There were multiple days of cancelled sunrise balloon rides during my time in Cappadocia in November, so Cappadocia weather can be a major factor in the enjoyment of your trip.

Cappadocia Summer

Travelling to Cappadocia in the summer months of July and August will offer scorching temperatures (averaging 32° celsius) and far more crowds. 

Cappadocia Winter

Cappadocia in winter can be a magical experience and one everyone should consider. While temperatures dip below 0°, with a maximum daily high of 4°, a hot air balloon ride overlooking the otherworldly landscape blanketed in snow can be an amazing experience. 

Pack your parka and snow boots and enjoy a romantic and/or fun-packed trip in Cappadocia winter. 

How Many Days in Cappadocia Turkey

After spending 10 days in Cappadocia and never running out of things to do, I’d highly recommend staying for at least 4 days . No matter what month you decide to visit Cappadocia, there is always the possibility of cancelled hot air balloon rides due to weather. 

Staying for 4 days in Cappadocia will give you the best chance to complete this quintessential Cappadocia experience while still having time to explore everything else this region has to offer.

If you only have 2 days in Cappadocia or 3 days in Cappadocia don’t fret! Take a look at the things to do in Cappadocia below to prioritize the best sights that suit your travel style for the perfect Cappadocia itinerary. Or, alternatively, choose an organised day tour to hit all your favourite Cappadocia highlights.

How to Get to Cappadocia

There are multiple ways how to get to Cappadoccia that suit any timeframe and budget . Due to the popularity of Cappadocia Turkey, you can find flights, car rentals and bus lines heading toward this magical destination. 

First, I will outline general ways how to get to Cappadocia, then I will talk about how to go to Cappadocia from Istanbul specifically.

You can fly directly to Cappadocia from any major city in Turkey and even some major cities outside of Turkey. Since the region of Cappadocia has two airports (Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport and Kayseri Erkilet Airport) it’s very easy to find a flight for any time or budget. The main airlines that fly to Cappadocia are Turkish Airlines , Pegasus Airlines and SunExpress .

I personally use Skyscanner to book short-haul flights within Turkey (and globally).

Book Cheap Flight to Cappadocia

Nearest Airport in Cappadocia

There are two airports in Cappadocia Turkey, the Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport and the Kayseri Erkilet Airport located in their respective cities. The nearest airport to Cappadocia is the Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport .

The Nevsehir Airport is located about 40 minutes by airport shuttle or Cappadocia rental car to the west of Goreme (the central tourist town in Cappadocia). 

If you do decide to fly into Kayseri Erkilet Airport, no worries, there are frequent airport shuttles and rental cars from there too, taking approximately 1.25 hours from the east of Goreme.

Whichever you choose to land, rest assured they are both highly serviced Cappadocia airports with plenty of options on how to quickly and best get to the centre of the region.

Renting a car and driving in Turkey is one of the best ways to see the country. Road conditions in Turkey are great, with smooth wide roads with clear markings. 

Read this Complete Guide on Renting a Car in Turkey

The Perfect Turkey Road Trip

One of the best ways to do this is to pick up your rental car at the Istanbul airport , drive towards Cappadocia , then down to the emerald coastline of Turkey (especially the drive between Antalya and Fethiye). After driving north to the famous Pamukkale thermal pools, make your way to Ephesus and then drive back to the Istanbul Airport to drop off your car. A perfect 10 days in Turkey . 

Exploring Turkey this way allows you to save money since you will be picking up and dropping off your car in the same place avoiding those pesky fees, and you can make stops in smaller more economical towns along the road for accommodation purposes.

Check out this 10 Day Turkey Itinerary by car, plane or bus

Renting a Car in Cappadocia

Since the entire region of Cappadocia has plenty to offer and all attractions are spread out, if you opt-out of an organized day tour, travelling around by rental car in Cappadocia is your second best option. 

Pop onto Discover Cars and throw Nevsehir Airport (NAV) into the search bar to check rates and availability. Having a car waiting for you at the Nevsehir Airport when you get there makes a world of difference for the enjoyment of your trip. Easy peasy.

>>> Check Pricing and availability of rental cars for Cappadocia

If driving on unknown roads is just not your cup of tea and you’d like to explore a more economical option, the bus system in Turkey is pretty great. It runs to all major and minor cities, directly or indirectly and is quite simple to navigate. 

I used 12Go for my entire six weeks in Turkey to book my bus tickets . This website is awesome at gathering all the information you need from all the different carriers, plus you get to purchase online with a credit card and show your digital copies at the bus station (in most cases).

Search for Bus Tickets to Cappadocia

How to Get to Cappadocia from Istanbul

Cappadocia to Istanbul is a very popular route for most Turkey holidays. There are three main options on how to go to Cappadocia from Istanbul including flights, rental cars and buses. 

How to Get from Istanbul to Cappadocia: A Complete Guide

How far is Cappadocia from Istanbul? 

BY ROAD | ~725km (7-9 hours driving by rental car) BY AIR | 1h 15m (direct flight)

Flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia (best way)

Cappadocia flights from Istanbul are easy to come by. Airlines like Turkish Airlines , Pegasus Airlines and SunExpress will be your main carriers. It is common to get from Istanbul to Cappadocia through the Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) in Istanbul which offers most of Turkey’s domestic flight itineraries. 

Istanbul to Cappadocia flight options will be direct with approximately 1.25-hour flight times and fly multiple times a day.

>>> Check Flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia on Skyscanner

Car Rental Istanbul Cappadocia

If you have a bit of time in your Turkey itinerary, make sure to rent a car when entering Istanbul at the Istanbul International Airport (IST). This is truly the best way to see the country and a trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia will take approximately 9 hours if you don’t make stops along the way (which you will). 

I find using Discover Cars a great way to check prices and availability of car rentals in Istanbul and have a car waiting for you at the airport when you get there. Whether you are looking for a luxury car rental Istanbul or a cheap car rental Istanbul, this site has you covered.

>>> Check Car Rental Istanbul to Cappadocia

Buses from Istanbul to Cappadocia

Boarding a bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia is the most economic way of transport. The bus has routes daily from three different bus stations in Istanbul (Dudullu, Esenler, and Alibeykoy) heading to Goreme, the tourist centre of Cappadocia.

Do note that the word ‘ otogari ’ means bus station in Turkish . Each bus station is located about a 25-minute drive (likely longer with traffic) from the centre of Istanbul, so remember to factor that into your travel time.

Buses from Istanbul to Cappadocia cost roughly 10 euros and take anywhere from 11-14 hours . Buses Istanbul to Cappadocia also come with night bus options . If you are good at falling asleep in vehicles, this could be a great option for you to make the most of your trip to Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul 

If you plan to make Istanbul and Cappadocia your only two stops on your Turkish holiday, an organized tour to Cappadocia from Istanbul could be a great idea. Take all the fuss out of planning and book a 2 day Cappadocia tour from Istanbul where everything is taken care of for you. 

All-Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

A all-inclusive 2 day Cappadocia tour from Istanbul will provide hotel pickup, return flights, accommodation with a cave hotel, a hot air balloon ride, and a visit to all the Cappadocia highlights.

This tour is well-reviewed and includes everything you could possibly want in a Cappadocia trip from Istanbul!

One-Way Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

If you decide to move onward to another Turkish destination after Istanbul and Cappadocia, (like the famous Pamukkale travertine pools) then this one-way 2 day Cappadocia tour includes one-way hotel pick up and flights to Cappadocia from Istanbul only. This is great so you won’t have to return to Istanbul to continue your Turkish adventure.

Please note that this tour has an optional hot air balloon ride.

How to Get to Cappadocia from Other Cities

Visiting Cappadocia from somewhere else in Turkey besides Istanbul?

Antalya to Cappadocia 

The best and fastest way to get to Cappadocia from Antalya is by air . You can fly direct from the Kayseri Erkilet Airport about a one-hour airport shuttle from Goreme. The flight takes 1.25 hours directly.

If you are looking for a more economical Antalya Cappadocia commute, you can take the bus. The route departs from the Goreme bus station and arrives in Antalya approximately 9-10 hours later. The cost of the bus ticket starts at 8 euros.

>>> Check Flights from Antalya to Cappadocia on Skyscanner

Pamukkale to Cappadocia

Pamukkale is a popular stop along a Turkey itinerary due to its famous travertine pools . In most instances, Cappadocia makes an ideal next stop. Pamukkale to Cappadocia is best done by rental car, or bus (there are no direct flights or trains). 

A drive from Pamukkale to Cappadocia by rental car will take approximately 7-8 hours . Another option is the night bus which will have you arriving at the Goreme bus station in approximately 10 hours. 

How to Get from Cappadocia to Pamukkale (and vice versa)

Do note, that the town of Pamukkale is located a 20-minute drive outside of the main bus station in Denizli . So remember to factor that into your travel plans. Ask your hotel reception where you can catch the shuttle bus that runs from Pamukkale centre to the Denizli bus station or simply find a taxi on the street as I did.

Where to Go Next After Cappadocia

Since the region of Cappadocia is located in the centre of Turkey, you can go in any direction and find some pretty great adventures. But, for the sake of time, I would recommend either heading from Cappadocia to Pamukkale thermal pools or to Antalya on the coastline (depending on your preferences). 

Since I spent 6 weeks exploring Turkey I had plenty of time to take a flight from Cappadocia down to Antalya and hop along from quaint seaside town to quaint seaside town. If you are looking to fit in as many Turkish highlights as possible, the Pamukkale thermal pools should be your next stop.

Read this Epic Turkey Itinerary for some great Turkey destination ideas

How to Get Around Cappadocia

Cappadocia car rental.

Since Cappadocia is technically a region and all of its attractions are spread out, I’d recommend renting a car for your time spent in Cappadocia. Pick up a rental car at either the Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport or Kayseri Erkilet Airport, explore Cappadocia and then return it at the airport on your way out. Super easy.

Check out my detailed guide to renting a car in Cappadocia

Organized Day Tour of Cappadocia

The region of Cappadocia has many day tours available which are broken down into the red tour , green tour and blue tour to identify different areas within Cappadocia. Take a look at the section below about organized day tours in Cappadocia for an in-depth breakdown.

Cappadocia Minibus

There is a local minibus service that runs every 2 hours between the main towns of Avanos, Goreme, Uchisar, Nevsehir and Cavusin. The cost of the bus is 0.40 euros and 1.10 euros depending on where you get on and off. 

You can technically get off anywhere along the route if you ask your driver, but for most attractions, you will still need to walk from your drop-off point. 

In my humble opinion, taking the minibus is time-consuming , so if you only have 2-4 days in Cappadocia, I’d opt to rent a car or take an organized tour.

Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia

Best Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons Tour

Floating above the unusual landscapes while the golden sun parts from the horizon, ahhhhh, what an iconic and quintessential Cappadocia experience. Booking a sunrise hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is a must, you absolutely can’t leave Cappadocia without doing it. 

Be ready for an early wake-up call on the day of your flight, between 4:30AM and 7:30AM depending on the time of year and weather forecast. You will get picked up in a luxury transport van, enjoy a light breakfast and be taken to the Cappadocia balloon launching site. Here you will witness the crew blowing up your hot air balloon and readying it for your epic flight. 

Most flights last from 60-90 minutes and take off just before sunrise. Where the balloons fly really depends on the weather and wind patterns, so you will likely experience different Cappadocia highlights on any given day. Upon landing, you will be given champagne, cake and a flight certificate . A great way to end a memorable experience like this.

NOTE | If you are visiting Cappadocia and a hot air balloon ride is at the top of your list of priorities, make sure to stay at least 3 nights just in case your ride gets cancelled unexpectedly due to weather. This can happen more than you think, so be prepared. I would hate for you to leave Cappadocia disappointed.

BOOK | Cappadocia: Hot Air Balloon Ride Sunrise Flight

If you are looking to combine a sunrise hot air balloon in Cappadocia with other highlights, this tour is for you:

BOOK | Hot Air Balloon Ride + Best of Cappadocia Day Tour

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Price

Cappadocia hot air balloon price options really vary, since you can book anything from 36 people in a basket to a private flight, and every company is different. But, if you are looking for rough estimates for budgeting purposes, expect to pay at least $75 USD to $150 USD per person depending on the service level. 

Best Tours of Cappadocia

Booking an organized day tour is the best way to see the region in my opinion. This is what I did and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. The knowledge from the tour guide makes it worth the price and you learn so many interesting facts about Cappadocia to supplement and enhance the attractions. 

Most tour operators offer 3 different tours depending on what region of Cappadocia you’d like to explore. Tours of Cappadocia are broken down into red tour Cappadocia, green tour Cappadocia and blue tour Cappadocia. 

Each tour recommended below offers an all-inclusive experience with hotel pick up, lunch and attraction entrance fees provided. Drinks are excluded and groups are limited to 15 people.

Red Tour Cappadocia

The red tour in Cappadocia focuses on the north end of the Cappadocia region and includes the following attractions:

• Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
• Pasabagi Valley (Fairy Chimneys)
• Avanos to make pottery
• Göreme Open Air Museum
• Uchisar Castle

BOOK | Red Tour Cappadocia Day Tour

Green Tour Cappadocia

The Cappadocia green tour is the most active day tour and includes hiking through valleys and up to panoramic views. Expect to hike over 4km in the day (likely more). The green tour is fittingly named since it explores the surprisingly lush areas that Cappadocia offers. 

Green tour highlights include:

• Goreme Panorama
• Kaymaklı Underground City
• Ihlara Canyon (3.8 km hike)
• Yaprakhisar Panorama (Star Wars filming set)
• Selime Monastery
• Pigeon Valley

BOOK | Green Tour Cappadocia Day Tour

Blue Tour Cappadocia 

The Cappadocia blue tour explores central and southern parts of the region and includes highlights like the underground city (a must see!) and a casual hike along the Red and Rose Valleys.

• Hike along the Red and Rose Valley
• Cavusin Cave Village
• Underground City
• Greek houses of Uchisar
• Ortahisar Castle

BOOK | Blue Tour Cappadocia Day Tour

ATV Tour Cappadocia

ATV tours are another common way to explore the rugged terrain of Cappadocia. You can take a 2 hour ATV Cappadocia tour either during the day or at sunset . Common valleys that will be explored on these tours are Sword, Love, Red and Rose. The staff will make sure you are comfortable driving the ATV before taking off on the safari, no worries.

BOOK | Check prices and availability of Sunset: Cappadocia ATV Tour

BOOK | Check prices and availability of Daytime: Cappadocia ATV Tour

Private Tours of Cappadocia

If touring around Cappadocia with a small group is not your jam, I’d recommend taking a private tour of the region. This tour includes the main Cappadocia highlights , plus hotel pick up and drop off, a professional historian, a luxury vehicle with driver and attraction entrance fees. 

This is what I did, and I was super happy with the experience. 

BOOK I Cappadocia Private Day Trip

Map Cappadocia Turkey Attractions

Since attractions in Cappadocia are further apart, I’ve created a map to help you plan out your adventures around the region and make the most of this dream trip. 

I’d recommend starting in one area and exploring the nearby attractions before moving onto another area. This way you will save time that would otherwise be wasted going back and forth across the region.

>>> Click on the Google Maps below to be taken to an interactive guide

Things to do in Cappadocia

Wondering what to do in Cappadocia besides a hot air balloon ride? This region in Turkey has so much to offer, from unique rock formations, ancient cave churches, underground cities, picturesque valleys and more.

1. Watch Sunrise from your Cappadocia Hotel 

Watching the sunrise from my hotel terrace in Goreme with the hot air balloons flying above is one of my best memories from my time in Cappadocia. My #1 recommendation is to make sure you can watch the Cappadocia balloons from your hotel rooftop or terrace. 

If you are booking your hotel and are unsure if they offer this, reach out through email to the hotel staff before booking. This is something you cannot miss when in Cappadocia , and is sometimes even more enjoyable than a balloon ride (although I’d highly recommend doing both). 

Yes, you will have to wake up awfully early to watch the balloons, make sure to check your weather app (I use AlpenGlow specifically to find out when the sunrise will be) to find out when to be on the terrace.

Because some balloons fly just before sunrise and some launch just after sunset, I’d suggest waiting around for a bit, sipping on some Turkish coffee and just enjoying the experience. 

TIP | Bring a jacket! Due to Cappadocia’s landscape being desolate, mornings can be quite chilly here. Be prepared and bring a warm layer and even a beanie. I visited in November and mornings were between 2-5 degrees Celsius before rising to 20 degrees during the peak of the day.

2. Visit the Famous Valleys in Cappadocia

Due to the volcanic landscape of the region, Cappadocia valleys are plentiful. Each Cappadocia valley offers something a little different. 

Pigeon Valley is the home to thousands of pigeon homes carved into the rock faces, Love Valley is renowned for the famous phallic rock structures, and Rose and Red Valley has the perfect panoramic viewpoint for sunset. 

Pigeon Valley Cappadocia 

Pigeon Valley (or Guvercinlik Valley) is a central Cappadocia attraction and one of the most famous valleys of Cappadocia . With thousands of tiny pigeon homes carved into the rock face, it’s an interesting place to explore. 

After reaching the entrance, first, take a look from the panoramic viewpoint. Here you can see the entire valley leading to the towering Uchisar Castle at the opposite end.

Stop at the evil eye tree and make your way down the stairs to the hiking trail . This casual trail will take you all the way into Uchisar if you are up for a walk through the valley.

READ MORE | Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to Pigeon Valley

Love Valley Cappadocia

Love Valley Turkey is an iconic Cappadocia attraction due to the natural phallic rock structures present here. But, this is not all Love Valley has to offer. One of my favourite morning experiences was watching the sunrise and the hot air balloons from the Love Valley panoramic viewpoint . 

Like most Cappadocia valleys, the valley of love offers a great hiking trail if that’s your cup of tea.

READ MORE | Complete Guide on Love Valley: The Best Sunrise Viewpoint

Rose + Red Valley Cappadocia

Rose Valley and Red Valley are interconnected just a 10-minute drive outside of Goreme. Both valleys take their names from the pink colour of the stone featured here. This stone changes colour at different times of the day. 

Rose Valley and Red Valley both turn red at sunset which makes it an optimal time to visit. A common way to experience these valleys is through a sunset ATV Tour or horseback riding adventure .

I opted to watch the sunset from the panoramic viewpoint with a glass of wine that I got from Gulor Wine Cave on the way there. It was a perfect experience.

READ MORE | Ultimate Guide on Red Valley: Epic Sunset Viewpoint

Devrent Valley Cappadocia

Otherwise known as Imagination Valley Cappadocia, Devrent is full of interesting shaped rock formations . 

Similar to looking at clouds and seeing bunnies, Devrent offers you the opportunity to see different human and animalistic shapes. We are talkin’ elephants, penguins and twirling women in skirts.

A great stop combined with the fairy chimneys of Pasabag Valley and Zelve Open Air Museum.

3. Explore the Open Air Museums

The region of Cappadocia is steeped in history and the open-air museums are a great place to learn about it. Large churches, storerooms, kitchens and living spaces have been carved into the soft rock hills over the centuries and have been well preserved by the Turkish people. 

Goreme Open Air Museum is the most famous of the two popular locales due to its well-preserved religious paintings covering the rock-walled Cappadocia churches. 

I’d also recommend visiting the Zelve Open Air Museum if you get a chance since it’s a much different experience with cave rooms littered through a small valley oasis.

4. Underground Cities in Cappadocia

Derinkuyu Underground City and Kaymalki Underground City are famous Cappadocia attractions. Over the centuries, Cappadocia didn’t have a military presence so instead of experiencing attack after attack, the people of the region took advantage of the soft rock and built cities underneath the surface . 

These underground cities are up to 10 stories deep and can fit up to 10,000 people . And these two popular destinations aren’t the only underground cities, there were over a 100 littered all over the landscape. A great hiding place against constant attack from neighbouring regions.

If you are afraid of confined spaces , this might be a triggering experience. Just know that these underground cities are well-maintained and often patrolled for damage.

Interested in Ancient Sites in Turkey? Read this Guide on Visiting Ephesus

5. Visit Cappadocia Castles

Uchisar Castle was formed into a large and prominent rock formation in the centre of the town of Uchisar. As the highest viewpoint in Cappadocia, it enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. 

If you’d like to experience the views, head up the well-built stairs, or explore the surrounding rock formations and homes. 

Uchisar is not the only Cappadocia castle though. Another statuesque rock castle in the region is in the town of Ortahisar. Ortahisar Castle can be viewed from the panoramic viewpoint located just across the small valley from the castle itself.

6. Fairy Chimneys in Cappadocia Pasabag Valley

These dwellings located inside interesting rock formations became a UNESCO world heritage site in recent years to protect and preserve history. These ‘fairy chimneys’ served as homes to the persecuted Christians in the region. 

The fairy chimneys are located in Pasabag Cappadocia valley ( Monk’s Valley ) and can get very busy during the day with large tour groups. Visit early.

7. Cavusin Cappadocia (Old Greek Village)

The town of Cavusin is home to a small group of Greek rock houses and the beautiful Church of St John carved into the landscape. The church features well-preserved religious frescoes if that’s of interest to you. You can climb up the hill and explore the village. The trip should take you less than an hour.

Cavusin is located a 10-minute drive from Goreme.

8. Go Carpet Shopping in Cappadocia

When you think of Turkey you can’t help but have images of Turkish carpets pop into your head. Cappadocia, especially Goreme has a couple of great carpet shops for perusal. 

Other the years one particular carpet shop called Galerie Ikman Cappadocia has turned into an Instagram hotspot with constant photo shoots happening in the space. If this interests you, make sure to contact the owner early and reserve a time. There will be a fee for using the shop for photos.

If carpet shopping is your goal, venture over to the lesser-known Sultan Carpets to purchase your Turkish keepsake.

9. Day Trip to the Pink Salt Lake Turkey

About a 2 hour drive west of Goreme, you will find a beautiful pink salt lake called Lake Tuz (or Tuz Golu). This is one of Turkey’s main salt lakes and is a treat to visit, especially during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-November.

Due to evaporation in the summer months , the pink waters can be a bit of a walk through a dry salted landscape which can be tough on the feet. 

I’d only recommend adding this to your Cappadocia itinerary if you have at least 4 full days in the region and have a rental car available to you. While there is a designated ‘entrance’ to the lake, I’d suggest stopping on the side of the road where the lake looks inviting to you and walking in from there.

10. Turkish Bath Cappadocia

A visit to the local hammam is a quintessential Turkish experience , and something you should do at least once on your visit to Turkey. Book yourself a spa treatment and Turkish scrub for after your sunrise hot air balloon ride. It’s a perfect way to warm up and relax.

Kelebek Special Cave Hotel has a great spa.

Best Cappadocia Restaurants

Cappadocia, especially Goreme, is full of restaurants catering to tourists. But, if you know where to look you can have a really pleasant local experience with quality food and service.

Here were my favourites:

PUMPKIN | This restaurant in the heart of Goreme offers set menus of local specialties including clay pot Kebab. The soup, salad and dessert were also extraordinary. Grab yourself a bottle of local wine and you have an amazing evening out. My top recommendation!

OMURCA ART CAVE | The perfect little eclectic lunch place . This second-floor family-run restaurant is home to many cats , so expect to be visited during your meal. The food here is homemade and absolutely delicious. I had the local bean salad and soup and was stuffed full. Cash only.

TURKISH RAVIOLI RESTAURANT | You guessed it, they specialize in the Turkish ravioli dish called Manti . You can’t leave Cappadocia without a plate of this scrumptious stuff. I wouldn’t be surprised if you visited twice.

Cappadocia Guide: Is Cappadocia Safe?

How safe is Cappadocia? After 2 months of travels through Turkey, I can say without hesitation, that Cappadocia is very safe. Centred around tourism, the majority of locals speak English and are more than happy to help you out in a crunch.

As one of Turkey’s tourism hot spots, you will also find a very high calibre of hotel staff and tour guides to make you feel comfortable and at ease. You can rest assured that you won’t have pushy salespeople in your face 24/7, either.

Cappadocia Travel Guide Conclusion

So, there you have it, the ultimate Cappadocia travel guide complete with my recommended things to do in Cappadocia. From epic Cappadocia cave hotels, ATV tours, and scenic valley hikes, to awe-inspiring sunrise Cappadocia hot air balloon rides, there’s something for everyone.

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Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel. She has travelled to 40+ countries across 5 continents over the last 15 years and is considered an expert in her field.

She loves to share honest first hand experience from her travels. Her goal is to help readers planning their next trip by providing in-depth travel guides and recommendations for her favourite boutique hotels, things to do and travel itineraries.

Haley focuses her expertise on countries such as Greece, Turkey, Italy, Costa Rica, Australia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

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A Local’s Guide to Cappadocia, Turkey: Discover Hidden Gems

Exploring the hidden treasures of cappadocia: a local’s perspective on the roads less travelled.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the lesser-known paths of Cappadocia beckon to those daring enough to explore beyond the usual Cappadocia tours , revealing secrets only the locals know.

Cappadocia, a region sculpted by volcanic eruptions and erosion, holds an enchanting landscape of fairy chimneys and cave dwellings that has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. But beyond the hot air balloons and the tourist-laden trails, there lies a Cappadocia that few are privy to. From hidden caves to secluded vineyards, the real magic of this place unfolds only to those who wander off the beaten path.

Adventurer’s FAQ:

Q1: What are the best hidden gems in Cappadocia that are not covered by typical tours?

• A1: Explore the valleys of Love and Red at dusk when the crowds have dispersed, or venture into the ancient city of Mustafapaşa, where old Greek houses tell tales of times gone by.

Q2: Are there any special accommodations that offer an authentic local experience?

• A2: Yes! Stay in one of Cappadocia’s cave hotels, uniquely integrated into the rock formations, offering not just a place to sleep but a step back into history.

Q3: Where can I find the best local cuisine in Cappadocia?

• A3: Visit the small town of Avanos for pottery and traditional cooking. Try dishes cooked in clay pots and sample the local wine from vineyards that are almost as old as the landscapes themselves.

Q4: What are some tips for interacting respectfully with locals in Cappadocia?

• A4: Always greet locals with a smile and ‘Merhaba’ (hello). Showing interest in their culture and a little Turkish goes a long way in making meaningful connections.

Top Experiences in Cappadocia:

Secret Sunrise Balloon Ride : Start your day in a hot air balloon, away from the usual flight paths, where the quiet splendor of Cappadocia unfolds beneath you.

Göreme Historical National Park – Off-path Exploration: Discover hidden frescoes in remote rock churches seldom visited by the typical tourist.

Underground City Adventure: Explore deeper into the earth with a local guide who reveals the secrets of these ancient subterranean cities.

Cappadocian Culinary Tour: A tour designed to introduce you to authentic local dishes, including pottery kebabs and the sweet taste of pumpkin desserts, in the less frequented villages.

Cappadocia ATV Tour : Experience the rugged landscapes of Cappadocia up close on an exhilarating ATV ride through the valleys and trails that make this region unique.

Cappadocia Horseback Riding : Traverse the picturesque trails on horseback, visiting remote areas that are inaccessible by road and soaking in the serene beauty of the countryside.

Turkish Night Show with Dinner and Drinks : Immerse yourself in Cappadocian culture with an evening of traditional Turkish dance performances, local cuisine, and unlimited drinks in a cave restaurant setting.

Top Cappadocia Tours from Istanbul

1 Day and 1 Night Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul : Experience the magic of Cappadocia with a quick yet comprehensive overnight trip. This tour covers major highlights like the Göreme Open-Air Museum and fairy chimneys, with an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride.

2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul : Dive deeper into the heart of Cappadocia with a two-day excursion. Explore underground cities, ancient rock churches, and beautiful valleys. This tour includes one night in a traditional cave hotel.

3-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul : Immerse yourself fully in the wonders of Cappadocia over three days. Visit historical sites, engage in pottery making in Avanos, and enjoy stunning panoramic views. The tour includes two nights of accommodation, providing a relaxed pace to savor the region.

4-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul : The ultimate Cappadocia adventure, this four-day tour offers an in-depth exploration of Cappadocia’s historical, cultural, and natural beauties. In addition to visiting the classic sights, enjoy more time to discover remote locations and hidden gems. This extended stay allows for a deeper connection with the landscape and its history.

Into the Heart of Cappadocia:

In wrapping up our journey, the true essence of Cappadocia lies not in the well-trodden paths lit by the early morning sun, but in the shadowed nooks and secluded corners where history whispers to those who listen closely. Venturing into these less visible gems offers a glimpse into the soul of Cappadocia, where every stone and cave has a story waiting to be discovered. Embark on your adventure, not just to see but to connect with the spirit of this ancient landscape.

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Discover: Unveiling the Magic of Cappadocia with Cappadocia Tours Guide

Welcome to the mystical realm of Cappadocia! At Cappadocia Tours Guide, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting region. We are the guides who will unlock the secrets of this ancient land, ensuring you experience the magic of Cappadocia in the best way possible.

Are You Ready to Explore Cappadocia?

Cappadocia holds a unique position in the world with its natural beauty, historical riches, and mystical ambiance. At Cappadocia Tours Guide, we invite you to set out on an exploration of every corner of this exceptional region. Now is the perfect time to unravel the mystery of the fairy chimneys, travel back in time through its history, and bear witness to the wonders of nature.

A Tailored Guiding Experience Just for You

At Cappadocia Tours Guide, we prioritize the unique interests and requests of every customer. Our trained guides are here to offer you the most personalized guiding experience. We provide not only a tour but also an adventure and a journey of discovery.

Witness the Enchantment of Fairy Chimneys

Fairy chimneys are the symbol of Cappadocia and one of the extraordinary natural formations of this region. With Cappadocia Tours Guide, you can witness these magical rock formations up close, embark on a journey into the depths of history, and listen to the story of this ancient geography.

Witness the Grandeur of Cappadocia from Above

The magic of Cappadocia is experienced not only on land but also in the air. Watch the magnificent landscapes of Cappadocia from above with hot air balloon tours. Witness this unique spectacle adorned with colorful balloons, an unforgettable memory etched in your heart.

A Culinary Journey through Flavorful Cappadocia

Discover local flavors and embark on a delightful journey through the rich cuisine of Cappadocia. With Cappadocia Tours Guide, you'll have the opportunity to taste local delights, pampering your taste buds with an unforgettable gastronomic feast.

Tailored Planning Just for You

We offer you the most suitable tour options. With our tours, you can experience the magic of Cappadocia to the fullest, whether with your family, friends, or as a solo traveler. Our knowledgeable guides are here to provide you with the best guidance and experience.

Discover Cappadocia with Cappadocia Tours Guide and surrender yourself to the magic of this unique region. We invite you to an unforgettable journey into the mysterious world of Cappadocia.