To Do in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is not only one of the important points of cultural tourism but also has a wide range of activities. If you are coming for a vacation in Cappadocia, be prepared for an active holiday.  This is not a destination where you would want to spend all day in a hotel or a resort with an all-inclusive concept. Cappadocia is one of the centers of experiential tourism. Let’s take a look at what should be done in Cappadocia.

Activities to Enjoy in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a miraculous formation and cradle of civilizations that you won’t see anywhere else in the world. You will journey through different histories at every corner, surprised by a legend in every language you hear. Alongside the well-known fairy chimneys that astonish you, you will also talk about the underground cities, castles, valleys, and even the sky that were ‘different’ due to their still unexplained secrets. Here are our recommendations for things to do in Cappadocia that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Explore Cappadocia’s Historical Sites. If we consider Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, and Uçhisar as the corners of Cappadocia, you will encounter structures that tell the stories of different civilizations at each point. Many of these date back to the Chalcolithic period and the Hittites, while some bear traces of Turkish civilizations such as the Seljuks and Ottomans. The valleys where Christians fled from Roman oppression and spread secretly, the churches and madrasas that you will encounter sometimes hidden and sometimes neatly arranged, the cave houses carved into the rocks, and the dovecotes that have become a source of livelihood will narrate different tales and take you back to different times. The must-see spots in Cappadocia include the frescoes in the Göreme Open-Air Museum, the hidden paradise of Ihlara, and the prominent castles, mosques, rock tombs, and mausoleums. Here are the essential sites to visit:

    1. Göreme Open-Air Museum
    2. Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı Underground City
    3. Ihlara Valley
    4. Love Valley, Red Valley
    5. Ortahisar Castle, Çavuşin Castle, and Uçhisar Castle
    6. Mustafapaşa Greek Village
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How to Explore? If you are not well-versed in the history of Cappadocia, we do not recommend wandering around alone. Why? There are several reasons. The most important reason is that this is a cultural geography; you need the right information to understand and interpret the sites you visit. Cappadocia is a destination where highly professional guides provide services, so we strongly recommend that you take guided tours. The second reason is that there are many places to visit, and planning them with the correct timing is a different skill and experience altogether. Therefore, we suggest joining the tours that are already organized for exploring Cappadocia. These tours are conducted in groups daily or can be customized for you. You will need one day for the North Cappadocia (Red Tour) and another day for the South Cappadocia (Green Tour). The tours start around 9:30 AM and finish around 4:00–5:00 PM, including lunch, so you can focus on exploring and enjoying the experience.

Let’s also include the Cappadocia museums in our list of activities to do. The Cappadocia Art and History Museum, which tells the story of Cappadocia in an interesting way with over 200 babies, the Ortahisar Ethnography Museum that depicts the region from past to present, and the Avanos Hair Museum, which is one of the 15 most interesting museums in the world and is included in the Guinness World Records for housing thousands of locks of women’s hair, are worth visiting. A rich feast of history awaits you in both the field and the galleries.

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  1. Descend into the Underground Cities. One of the most interesting experiences among the things to do in Cappadocia is descending into the depths as if embarking on a journey to the center of the Earth. What is down there? If we say they were built with incredible engineering intelligence and mathematics, similar to the Egyptian pyramids, it’s so deep that no one knows exactly how deep it goes; it’s just estimated. Or, if we mention that the underground is equipped with tiny air channels that allow thousands of people and animals to breathe without coming out for long periods, and that it is sealed with enormous millstones whose purpose is still unknown, would that surprise you? There are currently 36 known underground cities in Cappadocia. The largest of these, Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu, date back to around 3000 BC. Alongside recommending Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu, we also suggest visiting Özkonak, Tatlarin, Mazı, Özlüce, and Gaziemir underground cities. You will feel the longing for sunlight that the people fleeing from wars must have felt while exploring the underground cities and will be thankful that you are not living in those times as you walk bent over. You can join the Ihlara Valley tour to experience Derinkuyu Underground City and also visit the unique Ihlara Valley.
  2. Hike Through Valleys Accompanied by Fairy Chimneys. If you are a traveler who loves trekking and enjoys wandering among the chirping birds and fruit-laden trees, let’s not skip the enjoyable walks among the things to do in Cappadocia. The flora showcases different colors in each season. In autumn, the leaves turn red, while in spring, they give way to lush greenery. In winter, you won’t find a more attractive sight than nature blanketed in snow. You may have doves as your companions in the valleys, where you will encounter streams and occasionally waterfalls. You can pluck apricots and plums from the branches of trees and glide between the vineyards. Valleys are not just walking paths; they are also adorned with historical churches carved into the rocks, living spaces, and fairy chimneys. The Pigeon Valley, which has become a favorite spot for everyone, the Red Valley known for its sunsets, the romantic Love Valley, and the impressive fairy chimney displays in Zelve and Paşabağı are valleys worth seeing. And then there are the valleys like Gomeda Valley, which are still underappreciated, resembling a film set—go and see them, we say. To explore the fairy chimneys and gain detailed information about them, participating in the Red Tour, which is a regional tour, would be the best choice.
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Of course, the valleys of Göreme, Çavuşin, and Ürgüp should also be mentioned in the list of things to do in Cappadocia. You can only truly appreciate the grandeur of the old stone houses by walking through their streets, and you can take long breaks for photo opportunities. In short, walk in Cappadocia—both in its valleys and its streets! You won’t get tired, believe me.

3. Join a Hot Air Balloon Tour. Experiencing the valleys gliding below through the fairy chimneys while passing through the clouds will be one of the moments you feel most free, soaring with the wind where it wishes to take you. It might even be special enough for a marriage proposal or a honeymoon gift, creating a lasting memory in your life. You can get in touch with professionally operating companies in the region for a hot air balloon tour in Cappadocia, which we strongly recommend as the most unique activity among the things to do. Don’t miss the chance to witness nature waking up, the fairy chimneys standing in gratitude, and the sun opening its eyes before dawn. Although the balloon tour is a pricey activity, it is undoubtedly worth it. For balloon tour reservations, please visit the hot air balloon tour page 

4. Make Pottery in Avanos. In the center of Avanos, you will see many workshops called ‘chez’ where you can watch the master first, and then see what your inner artist can create. You will sit at the wheel and witness the clay shaping between your hands, transforming into a vase or a jug, experiencing the pride of ‘I made this.’ Pottery-making is one of those therapeutic activities that even therapists recommend for mental well-being nowadays. Among the things to do in Cappadocia, we say ‘make pottery,’ and we guarantee that you will enjoy it. Moreover, you will see many artworks made of both clay and stone in the potteries of Avanos and witness how the soil accumulated by the Kızılırmak has created an artistic community through these works. So come, get your hands muddy and unleash your inner artist!

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5. Explore by ATV or Horseback Riding. If you are a traveler who believes ‘adrenaline is good for the soul,’ you can enjoy the freedom of an ATV tour, tearing through muddy and wet areas. You can rent them for one or two hours. Horseback riding doesn’t require much experience either; you will receive safety briefings and short training at the riding farms. Plus, the riding horses are gentle and know how to do their job well. Riding at full moon safaris adds even more joy to your adventure. You will have so much fun among the mysterious and colorful valleys of Cappadocia, accompanied by the fairy chimneys that will make you say, ‘don’t ruin my fun.’ For the ATV experience, you can visit our ATV tour page to make a reservation..

6. Discover the Flavors of Cappadocia’s Cuisine. In Cappadocia, you can find dishes rich in the essence of Central Anatolian cuisine, seasoned by the skills of local people, alongside a variety of international cuisine. However, if you are looking for something ‘unique,’ there are many traditional dishes that are popular. Among these, the best-known ones are:

  • Testi Kebab: Cooked with meats and vegetables in a clay pot, served hot.
  • Manti: Small dumplings filled with minced meat, served with yogurt and tomato sauce.
  • Pottery Kebab: Similar to testi kebab but served in a clay bowl.
  • Simit: A type of bread covered in sesame seeds, traditionally eaten in Turkey.

In short, Cappadocia is a region that offers a variety of different flavors, and you can choose from small cafes to upscale restaurants to enjoy these delicious dishes. For a unique experience, we also recommend having your dinner in a cave restaurant while enjoying local music, providing an ambiance that reflects the region’s culture.

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7. Stay at Cave Hotels. While in Cappadocia, don’t forget to stay in a cave hotel! There are many luxury cave hotels in the region that offer stunning views of the fairy chimneys and valleys. Staying in a cave hotel will allow you to experience the local culture and history firsthand. You can enjoy your stay while soaking in the unique atmosphere and remarkable scenery, especially if you opt for a hotel with a view of hot air balloons in the morning.

8. Classic Car Tour. Experience the charm of Cappadocia from a different perspective by taking a classic car tour. You can drive or be driven in beautifully restored vintage cars through the region’s stunning landscapes. This nostalgic journey allows you to visit famous landmarks while enjoying the scenic views in style. It’s a great way to explore the fairy chimneys and unique geological formations at a leisurely pace, creating memorable moments with loved ones.

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9.Camel Tour at Sunset and Sunrise. One of the most magical experiences in Cappadocia is taking a camel tour during sunset or sunrise. Riding camels through the valleys while the sky transforms into vibrant hues of orange and pink creates a breathtaking atmosphere. This unique adventure allows you to connect with the ancient traditions of the region, as camels have been used for centuries as a means of transport. Witnessing the fairy chimneys and unique landscapes while riding a camel adds an unforgettable touch to your trip.

10. Traditional Turkish Bath Experience (Hamam). Indulge in a traditional Turkish bath experience, known as “hamam,” which is a must-do when visiting Cappadocia. The hamam provides a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in a steam-filled room, followed by an invigorating scrub and massage. This centuries-old practice not only cleanses the body but also promotes relaxation and well-being. Enjoy the cultural significance of the hamam while pampering yourself with soothing treatments that leave you feeling refreshed.

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11. Turkish Night Experience the rich culture of Tur key by attending a Turkish Night, where you can enjoy traditional music, dance, and cuisine. These lively performances showcase folk dances, including the famous whirling dervishes and belly dancing, creating an entertaining and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll have the chance to savor authentic Turkish dishes while enjoying the local hospitality. A Turkish Night is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and have a memorable evening.

12. Cappadocia Jeep Safari Tour. For adventure seeker s, a Jeep Safari Tour in Cappadocia is a thrilling way to explore the rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes. This off-road adventure takes you through remote valleys, fairy chimneys, and hidden gems that are often inaccessible by regular vehicles. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the region’s history and geology while experiencing the adrenaline rush of navigating the trails. The Jeep Safari is perfect for those looking to combine exploration with excitement.

13.Join Wine Tastings. This region, often considered the grape paradise of Central Anatolia, is renowned for its winemaking heritage. Its white wines made from Emir grapes have gained international acclaim. Vineyards planted since the Hittite era owe their quality to the area’s tuff-rich soil. This unique soil not only allows the vines to produce high-quality grapes and resist pests but also facilitates the formation of natural cellars carved into the rock. These rock cellars maintain a constant temperature year-round, adding a mature quality to the wines. Around Nevşehir, there are many small and large wine producers. To taste and purchase award-winning wines, we recommend stopping by these producers as one of the top things to do in Cappadocia.

Conclusion
In summary, Cappadocia is one of the most attractive destinations in the world for nature tourism, cultural tourism, and adventure tourism. You can find out what to do in Cappadocia on this page. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or an adrenaline junkie, there’s something for everyone in this magical region. From exploring underground cities to soaring in a hot air balloon, your holiday will be filled with unforgettable experiences.