Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Turkey. The region's unique geological formations, historical and cultural riches and breathtaking views make it an unforgettable experience.
The historical and cultural heritage of Cappadocia is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Göreme Open Air Museum, Zelve Open Air Museum and Kaymaklı Underground City in the region are important structures that shed light on the past of Cappadocia.
Cappadocia attracts tourists not only with its historical and natural beauties, but also with the activities it offers. Taking a balloon tour, participating in an ATV safari, exploring underground cities, horseback riding, walking in the valleys and tasting the flavors of Cappadocia cuisine are just a few of the activities that can be done in the region.
Before making your Cappadocia travel plans, do not forget to make sure that you examine the flight ticket or
bus ticket opportunities on the dates and budget that suit you for the trip. Thanks to Bilet.com, you can easily buy the appropriate tickets from our Nevşehir bus and
flight ticket website.
In this blog post, we will share with you what Cappadocia activities you can do during your trip. Get ready to enjoy unique landscapes, historical and cultural riches and unforgettable experiences!
1. A Journey in the Sky with Cappadocia Balloon Tours
Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Turkey. The region's unique geological formations, historical and cultural riches and breathtaking views make it an unforgettable experience. One of the favorite activities of those who visit Cappadocia is balloon tours.
Cappadocia balloon tours are one of the best ways to see the magnificent views of Cappadocia from a bird's eye view. Balloons that take off in the early morning hours at sunrise offer you the opportunity to explore the fairy chimneys, valleys and underground cities of the region. As your balloon rises, the panoramic view of Cappadocia opens before your eyes. Get ready to be fascinated by this unique view and experience unforgettable moments.
Things to Consider When Booking a Balloon Tour
There are many different balloon tour companies in Cappadocia. When booking a balloon tour, it is necessary to be careful when choosing a company and take some important points into consideration.
- Price: Balloon tour prices may vary depending on the companies and the duration of the tours. When comparing prices, it is important to consider the services included in the tour.
- Security: Balloon tours are carried out safely. However, it will still be useful to do research and read reviews to make sure that the company is reliable.
- Flight Duration: Balloon tours usually last 1 hour or 1.5 hours. Longer flights are also available. You can consider your budget and time when choosing a flight duration.
- Departure Time: Balloon tours are generally held early in the morning at sunrise. If you do not like getting up early, you can also choose tours that depart later.
2. Explore the Underground Cities of Cappadocia
The underground cities in Cappadocia are incredible structures that people have built for centuries to survive in harsh conditions. It is thought that these cities were built to protect Christians from enemies such as the Romans and Persians. The most famous underground cities of Cappadocia are known as Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı.
- Derinkuyu underground city : It is the largest and deepest underground city in Cappadocia. It is estimated that this city, which has approximately 8 floors, can accommodate up to 20,000 people. There are many different rooms in the city, such as churches, kitchens, food warehouses, stables and water wells.
- Kaymaklı underground city: Although smaller than Derinkuyu, it is better preserved. This city, which has 4 floors, has many different rooms such as churches, kitchens, food warehouses and water wells. There is also a school and a bathhouse in Kaymaklı.
Tourist Significance and Visitor Tips
The underground cities of Cappadocia attract thousands of tourists every year. These cities offer a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Cappadocia and discover the mysteries of the past.
Before visiting underground cities:
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Have water and snacks with you.
- Carry a jacket with you as the weather can be cool in the underground cities.
- Stairs in underground cities can be narrow and steep, be careful.
- Do not use flash to take photos.
- Join guides on tours and learn about the history of the city.
Important Buildings That Can Be Seen in Underground Cities
- Churches: There are many churches in the underground cities where Christians worship. You can see religious symbols such as frescoes and crosses in these churches.
- Kitchens: There are also kitchens in underground cities where people cook. You can see cooking stoves and water tanks in these kitchens.
- Food Warehouses: There are also food warehouses in underground cities where people keep their food and drinks.
- Water Wells: There are also water wells used by people in underground cities. These wells are usually quite deep.
- School: There is also a school in Kaymaklı underground city. It is estimated that children were educated in this school.
- Bath: There is also a bath in Kaymaklı underground city. It is thought that people used this bath to wash.
3. Trekking Routes in Cappadocia Valleys
The valleys of Cappadocia offer a unique paradise for trekking lovers. There is a route suitable for trekkers of all levels in Cappadocia. There are many different options available, from easy and short routes to challenging and long routes.
Trekking in Cappadocia is one of the best ways to discover the unique geological formations, historical and cultural riches of the region. There are also many photo points offering breathtaking views along the Cappadocia trekking routes.
Popular Trekking Routes:
- Ihlara Valley: Ihlara Valley, one of the longest and most popular valleys of Cappadocia, hosts an 18-kilometer track stretching along the Melendiz Stream. This route, whose difficulty level is considered medium, offers a fascinating experience with its historical churches, rock houses and lush nature.
- Göreme Valley: Home to the most iconic views of Cappadocia, Göreme Valley is like an open-air museum with its fairy chimneys and rock formations. While walking in Göreme Valley, which has different routes of easy and medium difficulty, you can enjoy getting lost among the fairy chimneys and take photos of the magnificent view of the valley.
- Pasabag Valley: Also known as the "Valley of the Priests", Pasabag Valley hosts the most interesting and fantastic shapes of fairy chimneys. These formations, known as capped fairy chimneys, contribute to the mystical atmosphere of the valley. This route, with an easy difficulty level, is suitable for visitors of all ages.
- Zemi Valley: Zemi Valley, one of the calmest and most peaceful valleys of Cappadocia, is an ideal trekking route for nature lovers with its lush green nature and clean air. While hiking in the Zemi Valley, which has different routes of easy and medium difficulty, you can enjoy the silence of the valley and listen to the sounds of birds.
- Güvercinlik Valley: Güvercinlik Valley, one of the most popular valleys of Cappadocia, is home to historical dovecotes as well as fairy chimneys. While walking in Güvercinlik Valley, which has different routes of easy and medium difficulty, you can enjoy getting lost among the fairy chimneys and learn about the history of the dovecotes.
Things to Consider While Trekking:
- Appropriate Clothing and Shoes: Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy trekking shoes.
- Water and Snacks: Have plenty of water and snacks with you.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Use sunscreen and a hat.
- Map and Compass: Have a map and compass with you or use a GPS device.
- Let Them Know: Let someone know where you're going and when you'll be back.
- Protect the Environment: Don't leave your garbage behind and don't harm nature.
4.Historical and Cultural Heritage of Cappadocia: Museums and Churches
Museums and churches are one of the most important stopping points to discover the historical and cultural heritage of Cappadocia. In this section, we will examine the most important museums and churches of Cappadocia.
Göreme Open Air Museum is one of the most important tourist attractions in Cappadocia. This museum, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is like an open-air museum with its rock-carved churches, monasteries and dining halls. Covering a period from the 4th century to the 13th century, the museum shows that it was an important religious center from the early periods of Christianity.
Zelve Valley is a valley located close to Göreme Open Air Museum and famous for its fairy chimneys. The valley has the atmosphere of an open-air museum with its houses, churches and monasteries carved into the rocks. Zelve Valley has a calmer and more peaceful atmosphere than Göreme.
Important Churches and Frescoes of Cappadocia
Beyond being a region famous for its fairy chimneys, Cappadocia is an important religious center from the early periods of Christianity. There are hundreds of churches and monasteries carved into rocks in the region. The walls of these churches, Hz. It is decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Jesus and the Bible.
The churches and frescoes of Cappadocia are of great importance not only from a religious point of view, but also from a historical and artistic point of view. Here are some important historical churches in Cappadocia:
- Selime Cathedral: It is the largest rock-carved church in Cappadocia. It was built in the 6th century and is decorated with Byzantine frescoes.
- Ahi Saranda Church: It is a rock church located in Göreme. It was built in the 11th century and was dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
- Yılanlı Church: It is a rock church located in Göreme. It was built in the 11th century and takes its name from a snake figure on the apse of the church.
- Tokalı Church: It is a rock church located in Göreme. It was built in the 10th century and took its name from the clasp on the entrance door to the church.
- Dark Church: It is a rock church located in Göreme. It was built in the 11th century and got this name because the interior of the church was dark.
Tips for Museum and Church Visitors
Visiting a museum is perfect for learning the history of a city or nation. We can both learn and have a good time while visiting museums that present the ruins of time like a story. In these Cappadocia museums, which are also ancient living and worship areas, there will definitely be some things you need to pay attention to that will make your trip more enjoyable and safe. We have prepared some tips for you:
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: You will need to walk a lot while visiting museums and churches. Therefore, it is important to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Use sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses: It can be quite hot in Cappadocia. Therefore, do not forget to use sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
- Carry water and snacks: You may get thirsty and hungry while visiting museums and churches. Therefore, it is important to have water and snacks with you.
- Buy a museum card: There are many museums and churches in Cappadocia. By purchasing a museum card, you can visit these museums and churches at discounted prices.
- Take guided tours: You can take guided tours to learn about the history and importance of museums and churches.
- Take photos: You can take many beautiful photos in museums and churches. Remember, in some museums photography may not be allowed or using flash is prohibited.
- Be respectful: When visiting museums and churches, be quiet and respectful of other visitors.
5. Taste the Local Flavors of Cappadocia: Wine Tasting and Local Food
Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, attracts its visitors with its delicious cuisine as well as its unique geological formations. The local food and wines of the region are an opportunity not to be missed to experience a unique Cappadocia experience.
Famous Wines of Cappadocia and Vineyard Tours
It also stands out with its winemaking industry, which has developed in recent years, and its delicious cuisine. The unique geological structure and climate of the region offer ideal conditions for grape growing, making Cappadocia one of the most important wine production centers in Turkey.
During your trip to Cappadocia, you can visit the wineries of the region, participate in vineyard tours, tour the vineyards and learn about the wine production process. Additionally, on these tours you can try and buy wines produced from different grapes.
Local foods
Cappadocia cuisine consists of dishes prepared with local products such as fresh vegetables and fruits, meat, dairy products and grains grown in the region. Local delicacies of the region include testi kebab, pot beans, casserole and zerde. We have listed some of the local delicacies that you should definitely try during your visit to Cappadocia. Get ready to have a nice feast!
- Testi Kebab: Testi kebab is one of the most iconic and delicious dishes of Cappadocia cuisine. This traditional kebab, made by cooking meat, onion, tomato and spices in a clay pot, has a unique aroma and presentation style.
- Çömlek Beans: Çömlek beans is a delicious local dish made by cooking dried beans in a pot with meat, onions and tomatoes. This traditional dish has a unique aroma and satisfying taste.
- Pumpkin Seed Noodles: Pumpkin seed noodles add richness to your tables and the list of famous dishes of Cappadocia with its unique texture and taste. This unique noodle type attracts attention with pumpkin seeds carefully sprinkled into a thin dough.
- Dügü Soup: Düsü is known as a thin type of bulgur around Cappadocia. The name of the wedding soup prepared with this exact bulgur is; It takes its name from the dance of the vegetables and bulgur in it and the melody of local spices. It is usually obtained by combining broth, homemade spices and tomato paste.
- Ürgüp Meatballs: Ürgüp meatballs are one of the most famous and delicious dishes of Cappadocia cuisine. Prepared with potatoes, minced meat, onion and spices, this meatball stands out with its soft texture and unique aroma.
- Kuru Kaymak: Kuru Kaymak is a unique dairy product that stands out among the local flavors of Cappadocia. Dry cream, which leaves a mark on the palate with its dense consistency, delicious aroma and nutritious content, is an indispensable part of breakfast tables and can also be used in desserts and snacks.
- Dolaz: Dolaz is a dessert specific to Nevşehir. It is obtained by turning eggs, flour and water into a slurry. It is consumed by pouring molasses over it. It can also be said that the flour halva with egg and walnuts is unique to the Kpadokya region.
- Koftür: Also known as Anatolian jellybean or grape delight, köftür is one of the most important flavors of the grape season in Cappadocia. This dessert, which basically consists of grape juice, flour and starch, is both a healthy and delicious snack.
- Gendirme: Keşkek, whose unique versions are made in many regions, is also called Gendirme in Cappadocia. But here Gendirme, unlike other keskeks, the wheat is not crushed during the making process, but is left grain by grain.
Wine Tasting Spots and Local Restaurant Recommendations
Cappadocia has an ideal climate and soil for growing grapes. Many new wineries have opened in the region in recent years. These distilleries offer a variety of wines produced from local and international grape varieties.
One of the best places to taste Cappadocia wine is to visit one of the wineries in the region. Most wineries offer guided tours and wine tastings. These tours are a great way to learn about Cappadocia wine history and culture.
Apart from wine tasting in Cappadocia, you can also try the delicious cuisine of the region. Cappadocia cuisine is a mixture of traditional flavors of Turkish cuisine and local ingredients. Here are some popular places to try local dishes in the area:
- Sakli Mansion
- House Of Memories
- Çiko's Place
- Knock Knock Women's Labor
- Ziggy Cafe
- Old Greek House Restaurant
- Aravan House
6. Famous Fairy Chimneys and Natural Wonders of Cappadocia
The fairy chimneys of Cappadocia were formed as a result of the erosion of tuff layers formed by the volcanic eruptions of the Erciyes, Hasan and Güllü Mountains millions of years ago. Over time, these tuff layers were eroded by natural factors such as rain, flood and wind, and their soft parts melted and fairy chimneys consisting of hard rocks emerged. The shape of fairy chimneys changes depending on the direction and severity of erosion.
Fairy chimneys have hosted human civilizations since the first humans settled in the region. Early humans used the soft rocks of fairy chimneys to carve houses, churches and monasteries. There are many rock settlements and churches in the region, which can be seen in the Göreme Open Air Museum.
The Most Beautiful Fairy Chimney Views and Photo Spots
Of course, you cannot go to Cappadocia without taking a photo with these famous fairy chimneys. So where can these fairy chimneys be best seen and photographed? Here are the spots with the most beautiful fairy chimney views:
- Göreme National Park: It is the most popular fairy chimney area of Cappadocia. Göreme Open Air Museum is home to many important fairy chimney formations such as Paşabağları and Uçhisar Castle.
- Zelve Open Air Museum: Similar to Göreme, Zelve Open Air Museum is also famous for its rock-carved churches and monasteries.
- Devrent Valley: Devrent Valley is known for its fairy chimneys as well as rock formations with interesting shapes such as camels and mushrooms.
- Paşabağları: Paşabağları is one of the regions with the highest concentration of fairy chimneys. The fairy chimneys in this region are famous for their cone-shaped rock formations, also known as "fairy chimney hats".
- Uçhisar Castle: Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, offers a magnificent view of the region.
Protection of Natural Formations and Environmental Awareness:
Fairy chimneys are one of the most important natural treasures of Cappadocia. We all have a responsibility to protect these natural beauties and pass them on to future generations. Therefore, it is important to protect these natural beauties and pass them on to future generations. Visitors should be careful not to damage the fairy chimneys, not to throw away their garbage, and to respect the natural vegetation in the area.
To be environmentally aware and contribute to protecting the region while visiting Cappadocia, you can:
- Walk or bike: The best way to explore the area is to avoid motor vehicles and walk or bike.
- Save water: Cappadocia is an arid region. To protect water resources, be careful not to waste water while showering and brushing your teeth.
- Support local people: You can contribute to the economy in the area by buying local products and eating at local restaurants and businesses.
- Keep the environment clean: Always throw your garbage in garbage bins and do not throw it into nature.
7.Horse Tours in Cappadocia: An Adventure in Nature
Cappadocia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world with its unique fairy chimneys and historical valleys. One of the most enjoyable and unforgettable ways to explore the region is a horse tour. Horse tours are a great way to experience the natural beauty and historical significance of Cappadocia.
Cappadocia horse tours are generally organized for periods ranging from 1 hour to several days. Tours are designed to suit all skill levels, from inexperienced riders to experienced riders. Most tours are guided and provide information about the area.
Especially since the famous valleys of Cappadocia are flat areas, you can see all the valleys within the scope of these tours. Among these valleys, there are places such as Love Valley, Red Valley, Kızılçukur, Zemi and Güvercinlik Valley, Ihlara Valley.
8.A Unique Accommodation Experience in Cappadocia Cave Hotels
One of the most interesting
Nevşehir accommodation options in the region is cave hotels. These hotels offer the opportunity to experience the historical and natural beauty of the region in a unique way.
The caves in Cappadocia were used as homes and places of worship by the first people living in the region. During the Christian period, these caves were turned into underground cities and monasteries. In the 20th century, these caves began to be used for touristic purposes and the first cave hotels in the region were opened.
Cappadocia cave hotels were built by carving into the soft tuff rocks of the region. These hotels have many advantages, such as having a natural ventilation system and providing a cool environment. The architecture of cave hotels combines traditional Cappadocia stonemasonry and modern design elements.
Accommodation Options and Services Offered
There are cave hotel options in Cappadocia to suit every budget and taste. Luxurious cave hotels offer suites with jacuzzis and terraces, while more affordable cave hotels offer simple and comfortable rooms. Many cave hotels also offer family rooms and honeymoon packages.
Cappadocia cave hotels offer many different services to their guests. These services include breakfast, Wi-Fi, pool, spa, sauna, Turkish bath, restaurant, bar and tour organization.
Features that Make the Cave Hotel Experience Unforgettable:
- Unique Atmosphere: Cave hotels offer a unique and unforgettable atmosphere to their guests. Staying in these hotels is like taking a journey through history.
- Natural Beauty: Most of the cave hotels are located in locations with magnificent views of Cappadocia. While staying in these hotels, you can see the beauty of fairy chimneys and underground cities at any time.
- Calm and Peaceful Environment: Cave hotels offer a calm and peaceful environment away from the noise of the city. While staying in these hotels, you can get away from stress and relax.
- A Romantic Environment: Cave hotels offer an ideal environment for a romantic holiday. The atmosphere of these hotels is very suitable for honeymoon couples and those celebrating special occasions.
9.Photography in Cappadocia: Best Viewpoints
Cappadocia, with its unique nature and fairy chimneys, is one of the most popular travel routes for professional photographers and all photography lovers. If you want to see and paint these unique landscapes in the world, we have a few tips for you. If you have your cameras and phones, let's get started!
Best Times to Take Photos in Cappadocia:
- Early morning or late afternoon: Sunlight is softer at these times and provides better contrast for photos.
- Sunrise and sunset: The magnificent views of Cappadocia look even more beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
- After the rain: After the rain, the fairy chimneys look more moist and lively.
Best Places to Take Photos in Cappadocia:
Some points where you can best reflect the spirit and atmosphere of Cappadocia in your photographs:
- sunset point
- Göreme National Park
- Love Valley
- Pigeon Valley
- Valley of the Priests
- Gullu Dere Valley
- Kızılçukur Valley
- Ihlara Valley
- Three Beauties
If you're ready to take photos but wondering what to pay attention to, here are some tips for professional and amateur photographers:
- Choose the Right Time: Cappadocia's landscapes look most beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is soft, and even more beautiful during sunrise and sunset. After the rain, fairy chimneys look more moist and lively.
- Shoot from Different Angles: Every corner of Cappadocia is worth photographing. Shooting from different angles will add variety to your composition and reveal different aspects of the landscape.
- Be Patient: Take your time to capture the perfect photo. Wait for the lighting and composition to be ideal.
- Use the Triangle Rule: Try arranging objects in a triangle shape to create a more interesting composition in your photos.
- Use a Polarizing Filter: Use a polarizing filter to make the sky bluer and clouds more prominent.
- Try Long Exposure: Use long exposure to blur moving objects like water and capture light trails.
- Be Respectful of Local Culture: Be respectful of local people and private property when taking photos.
10. Adrenaline-Full Moments with Jeep Safari Tours in Cappadocia
Cappadocia, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey with its unique fairy chimneys and underground cities, also offers a paradise for adrenaline lovers. Jeep safari tours are one of the most exciting ways to explore the rugged terrain of this region and have an unforgettable experience.
Cappadocia jeep safari tours offer different routes and concepts. These tours usually last 2-3 hours and are accompanied by a guide. During the tour, you can explore fairy chimney valleys, rocky hills and hidden underground cities. You can also take a break during the tour to enjoy the magnificent views and take photos.
Also Thanks to Jeep Safari Tours;
- An adrenaline-filled experience: Jeep safari tours offer an adrenaline-filled experience with driving on rugged terrain and exciting maneuvers.
- Unique views: Jeep safari tours allow you to see the most beautiful views of Cappadocia.
- Discover hidden places: With Jeep safari tours, you can discover the secret places of Cappadocia that are difficult to reach by normal means.
- A fun activity: Jeep safari tours are an activity that you can enjoy with your family and friends.
Before Joining the Jeep Safari Tour:
- Do your research: There are many different jeep safari tour options in Cappadocia. It is important to do your research before choosing a tour and choose the one that suits you best.
- Wear appropriate clothing: When participating in Jeep safari tours, it is recommended that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes that may get muddy and dusty.
- Use sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be quite scorching in Cappadocia. Therefore, it is important to use sunscreen and a hat.
- Drink plenty of water: It is important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration during Jeep safari tours.
Booking Tips:
- The best time to take a jeep safari tour in Cappadocia is spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these months, temperatures are ideal and the chance of rain is low.
- Jeep safari tour prices in Cappadocia may vary depending on the tour and the operator you choose.
- You do not need to have a driver's license to participate in jeep safari tours in Cappadocia.
- Jeep safari tours generally use vehicles for 4-6 people.
- Food and beverages are not included in Jeep safari tours.
- It is important to check the insurance policy of the tour operator before participating in Jeep safari tours. Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Turkey. The region's unique geological formations, historical and cultural riches and breathtaking views make it an unforgettable experience.
