The layers of lava, patiently processed by rain and wind over many years, have revealed today's mystical underground cities. Anyone who says this is undoubtedly referring to Cappadocia, the "Land of Beautiful Horses." The lava erupted by Mount Erciyes, Mount Hasan, and Mount Güllü have been the most significant factors in the region's construction. A 60-million-year process of formation has taken place… and this transformation is still ongoing.
Rock-carved houses, underground cities, and even places of worship reveal the region's past vitality. Now, the underground cities are brimming with enthusiasts. Colorful hot air balloons complement this mystical atmosphere, adding a fairytale-like atmosphere. When you arrive in this seemingly boundless land, you feel as if time has stood still. It's as if you're accompanying forgotten lives in an unknown time, a mysterious geography…
The region we call Cappadocia spans a vast area. A vast region stretching all the way to the borders of Nevşehir, Aksaray, Kırşehir, Niğde, and Kayseri... Cappadocia, with its unique beauty in every season, can be explored with either short tours or longer, more enjoyable excursions. You can create a travel plan that suits your time, budget, and tastes, and enjoy new experiences here. But first and foremost, you need to know the world-famous Cappadocia destinations you should visit. This list of places to visit in Cappadocia has been prepared to illuminate your path on this trip. Afterward, don't forget to learn about transportation, food, and other information to make your journey easier. Let's get started!
Cappadocia Places to Visit List
The Heart of Cappadocia: Göreme
Göreme, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Turkey
Göreme, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Turkey
Besides its historical and natural beauty, its recent development in tourist attractions has made it a popular destination. A wealth of options await you in Göreme. Göreme Historical National Park and Open Air Museum are at the focal point of this region. Because it's not a region that can be quickly explored in one day, we recommend dedicating the most time of your trip to Göreme. Here, you can see the Elmalı Church, St. Basil's Chapel, St. Catherine's Chapel, Karanlık Church, Yılanlı Church, and Tokatlı Church, among other important structures related to Christian history.
Aşk Valley, on the other hand, is a dazzling natural wonder stretching 4,900 meters long. Viewing it from a hot air balloon is a breathtaking experience. Of course, the weather is favorable that day. Alternatively, hiking in the valley is also possible. In good weather, it's a delightful excursion. You should listen to the stories that give the valley its name and truly experience it.
Göllüdere Valley is another natural wonder worth seeing. It's a wonderful trekking route steeped in history. The church, monastery, living spaces, and fairy chimneys are the valley's most important treasures. At 4 km long, it's a remarkably large and rich excursion.
Avanos: What Gives the Kızılırmak Its Color
Avanos, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Turkey
These clayey soils, rich in iron oxide, color the Kızılırmak River, which flows through the region red, especially during periods of abundant rainfall. This is where the river takes its name. The city, adorned with fairy chimneys, valleys, and underground cities, is enriched with cultural treasures such as pottery, carpet weaving, and winemaking. Therefore, there are many treasures to try and see here.
Paşabağları Museum and Archaeological Site should definitely be the first place to visit in this region. The characteristic capped appearance of the fairy chimneys makes this region unique. Once a goat retreat, the region still retains its mystical atmosphere today. Devrent Valley is another must-see destination. Natural formations resembling human silhouettes here make it seem like a land of giants.
If you'd like to see the world's first and only underground ceramics museum, Güray Museum should be your next stop. You can see the works of world-renowned Turkish ceramic artists here.
The highest point in the region: Uçhisar
Uçhisar, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Turkey
Uçhisar, Nevşehir, Cappadocia, Turkey
A city situated on the highest point in Cappadocia… Offering panoramic views, Uçhisar boasts a magnificent castle. Moreover, there are numerous accommodation options here. You can find luxury cave hotels in this area, and you can stay in Uçhisar, which is practically a bird's nest. Here, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the region.
Another popular activity in the region is trekking in the Güllü Valley, which stretches from Uçhisar to Göreme. The 4,100-meter valley takes its name from the carved pigeon nests. Pigeons, which have a place in the region's history, are a legacy from the past. The diverse grape varieties grown in the soil enriched by pigeon dung give rise to a large number of wine producers. So, you can try different wines here and even buy them as gifts for loved ones.
A History in Its Own: Ürgüp
Ürgüp