Table of Contents
Cappadocia History
Cappadocia is a settlement that emerged when the soft layers formed by lava and ashes erupted by Hasandağı, Erciyes, and Güllüdağ about 60 million years ago were eroded by wind and rain for millions of years.
Human settlement in Cappadocia dates back to Paleolithic times. The Hittites‘ lands turned into one of the most important centers of Christianity in the following periods.
Cottages and temples etched into the rock formations made this area a massive shelter for people fleeing the oppression of the Romans.
At first, it extended to Cappadocia, Aksaray in the west, the Taurus Mountains in the south, the Black Sea in the north, and Malatya in the east.
Nowadays, this region, which is approximately 250 square kilometers, is spread over Nevşehir, Niğde, Aksaray, Kırşehir, and Kayseri in terms of geographical formations.
The most visited parts of Cappadocia are Uçhisar, Avanos, Ürgüp, Göreme, Kaymaklı, Derinkuyu and Ihlara. We should also add the following about the history of Cappadocia; It is a fact that nature and history come together in Cappadocia.
While geographical events created Fairy Chimneys, people carved houses, open air museum, rock out churches, and monasteries into the inner parts of these fairy chimneys throughout this historical process. All these structures have been adorned with frescoes by people.
The written history of Cappadocia begins with the Hittites. This settlement, which hosted trade colonies and established a social and commercial bridge with countries millions of years ago, was also one of the most critical crossroads of the Silk Road.
Sixty million years ago, the Taurus Mountains rose in the third geological period, and the Anatolian Plateau in the northern part was compressed, and volcanic activities began.
Hasandagi, Erciyes, and Göllüdağ, between them, spewed lava into the region where they were located. The ashes accumulated on the plateaus formed a soft layer.
The upper part of this layer was covered with a thin layer of lava consisting of hard basalt. Then the basalt cracked and broke into pieces. Rainwater seeped through the cracks and eroded the coating over time.
The cooling and warming air and the winds were also included in this formation. In this way, hard basalt rocks with cones, or caps, were formed. These different and interesting rock formations were called fairy chimneys by the people.
Where is Cappadocia? What is Cappadocia? How to go Cappadocia?
Cappadocia BC It has a deep-rooted history going back to 7000 years. It is also known as one of the essential natural beauties of our country. It is the region most visited by domestic and foreign tourists in Turkey.
Cappadocia is located in Nevşehir, Turkey. However, some parts of it are located in the provinces of Kırşehir, Niğde, Aksaray, and Kayseri. Therefore, there are different historical artifacts from the ancient period in the region. For this reason, it contains many cultural heritages.
To go to Cappadocia, you must first go to Nevşehir. Nevşehir is a province located in the middle of the Central Anatolian region. Therefore, transportation is provided very quickly.
It is possible to go to Nevşehir by road or airway. For those who prefer a bus to go here, there are direct bus services to Nevşehir.
In addition to the highway, you can also reach the city by air. The closest airline to Nevşehir by air is in Kayseri. After arriving in Kayseri, it is possible to go to Nevşehir by taxi or service vehicle. If you go to Nevşehir in your private car, you can quickly follow specific road routes.
Places to Visit in Cappadocia – Valleys Churches Underground Cities – Tourist Attractions
Let’s say that nowhere in the world is this special, this magical. Let’s state history and atmosphere are ghostly. It will always be inadequate to clarify Cappadocia if you look for unique traces of civilization in a world where distances are decreasing.
Cappadocia is one of the first places to visit. Because wherever you go in the world, you will not find someone like you, and you will not get lost in such a mystery. Rose Valley, cave dwellings, cave hotel, open air museum, rock out churches, cave houses are the places you definetely should see.h
Traveling to Cappadocia is not just a vacation! Knowing a new place, seeing history, and enjoying nature also has a different effect that changes perceptions, arouses excitement, and collects the unforgettable.
Everything that we will suggest, “You must go, you must do it,” and that you will add on it, will end every turn with “I’m glad I went” and then “I will come again.” We will say, ‘Cappadocia is indescribable; it can be lived,’ but we will not be able to stop talking a little bit.
Eventually, we would want to remind you that there are many activities you can do in Cappadocia, without telling you about the things to do in Cappadocia.
The name of Cappadocia, which the Persians ascribed, means ‘Land of Beautiful Horses. The most beautiful horses were raised here and galloped in their valleys in the past.
The unique geography of the soft lava layer erupting from the surrounding Erciyes, Güllü Mountain, and Hasan Mountains, formed by the wind and rain erosion over a very long time.
Cappadocia is colorful, with many works leaving deep traces and saturating them with their legends when significant times are spared. So if your holiday route is Cappadocia, we say take a look at our list of ‘do not return without seeing.’
Göreme Cappadocia places to visit.
We use a phrase for Göreme, or Korama, with its first known name in history, among the ‘Unesco World Heritage Site’ in the Cappadocia region, ‘don’t die without seeing!’
Its history dates back to many civilizations, from the Chalcolithic period to the Ottoman period, perhaps even earlier than the Hittites.
Its most unique feature is that it was a favorite settlement of Christians fleeing oppression from the 6th to the 13th centuries.
Göreme Open Air Museum
Goreme Open Air Museum is the place where you will enter into a completely different world when you pass through the turnstiles. Local and foreign tourists visit Goreme Open Air Museum.
Many churches, chapels, and living spaces carved into the rock formations will welcome you to this different globe, where the pious life started and the evangelist and separateness of Christians escaping from oppression began.
Girls – Boys Monastery, Yılanlı Church, Elmalı Church, St. Barbara, Çarıklı Church, Dark Church, St. Basil Churches, cave churches and Tokalı Church will fascinate you with its unique frescoes and take you on a deep historical journey.
Do not say “I visited Cappadocia” without seeing the Göreme Open Air Museum, which has been on UNESCO World Heritage Site list since December 6, 1985.
Güvercinlik Vadisi – Pigeon Valley
From Uçhisar to Göreme and covering an area of 4 kilometers, Güvercinlik Valley got its name from the pigeon nests carved into the rock formations. Domestic and foreign tourists visiting Cappadocia visit the Güvercinlik valley with the Cappadocia Green Tour.
The region’s people fed these pigeons until the 9th century. So if you want to see both the pigeon’s nests and the unique vegetation that nature offers, do not return without walking this valley. There is also a waterfall flowing from a height of 15 meters in the valley.
Güllüdere Valley (Rose Valley)
You will watch fairy chimneys’ most beautiful and artistic stances while walking through this 4-kilometer rose valley. There are also ruins and ancient church belonging to the monastic life of ancient Christians in the valley.
The Three Crosses Church, built in the 7th century and the Ayvalı Church dated to the 9th century, which you will see among the vineyards and apricot trees, is this valley’s critical historical relics. There are also cave churches and rock cut churches.
Aşk Valley – Love Valley
If you want to experience romance at its highest level, this valley is one of the most beautiful valleys among the places to visit in Cappadocia.
Love Valley, also known as the Baglidere Valley, starts from Örencik on the Göreme – Uçhisar road and ends on the Göreme – Avanos road with a length of 4.9 km. It takes 2.5 hours to walk to the valley’s exit, where Cappadocia hot air balloon tours are also visited.
Zemi Valley
Zemi Valley starts from Göreme Open Air Museum, on the coast of Nevşehir – Ürgüp road and ends at Kermit Hill. The distance between the entrance of the valley and Goreme is 5600 meters.
Cistern Church, Görkündere Church, Saklı Church and El Nazar Church are in this valley. You will discover rich leafage in this secret valley. This is very suitable for hiking.
Göreme Panorama Scenic Viewing Point
Göreme panorama is a point where Cappadocia is laid out in front of you like a patterned handcrafted carpet, where you can have insatiable moments of peace with a cup in your hand.
Especially if you come at sunset, you will turn red and feel a little cold from the slight coolness. Don’t forget to take lots of photos.
Uchisar Cappadocia places to visit
Located at the region’s highest point, at the most panoramic point, and 7 km from Nevşehir, the town is also a favorite of travelers seeking comfort in accommodation with its hotels.
Cappadocia is one of the oldest settlements that you should check out on the list of places to visit, with its historical streets and castle where you will love its stone houses. In addition, it is the considerable frequented Persian King’s Road and the Silk Road routes.
1- Uchisar Castle
It is like the roof of Cappadocia; It lays the snowy head of Erciyes, Kızılçukur, Ürgüp, Avanos, or rather the whole region, under your feet. It is one of the distinguished places where you can watch the sunset and sing a song called “I looked at you from a hill yesterday, dear Cappadocia.”
2- Cevizli
On the north side of Uçhisar Castle, there are fairy chimneys that you will say ‘just like an apartment when you see them.
These rock-carved houses, which were shelters in ancient times, were also used as dovecotes in later times. Nowadays, it has turned into cafes, hostels, and souvenir shops.
3- Tiğraz Castle
Tığraz Castle, the second largest castle of Uçhisar, is a historical monument worth seeing with its settlement descending from the slope to the underground. Include this seven-story castle with chambers and cellars connected by tunnels.
4- Kocabağ Winery
In addition to the natural and historical attractiveness of Cappadocia, attend wine tastings at Kocabağ Winery to get to know the art transformed by the grapes grown on its soil. You will find a wine that suits your taste, and you will want to bring it to your table.
Avanos Cappadocia places to visit
Avanos, which is cut by the Kızılırmak, cascades through its middle, and splits into two, is where the land in Cappadocia turns into art. It is located on the Aksaray – Gülşehir – Kayseri caravan route.
1- Pasabag Priests Valley or Pasabag Valley
On the Goreme – Avanos road, 3.5 km from Avanos. Paşabağ Valley, which is at a distance, is one of the valleys where you can watch the exciting figures of sprite vents with caps.
The three-headed fairy chimney chapel in the valley’s center is dedicated to St. Simeon. Legend has it that St. Simeon lived in seclusion in this chapel for 15 years.
2- Devrent Valley
Devrent Valley is known as both Hayal Valley and Perili Valley. One end of the U-shaped valley is connected to Devrent and the other to Kızılçukur.
In the middle are Paşabağ and Zelve. You can get to this canyon in ten minutes from Göreme.
The famous camel-shaped fairy chimneys in different silhouettes, which can sometimes resemble animals or humans, are located here.
3- Zelve Valley
Thought one of the most prominent open-air museums in Cappadocia, Zelve Valley is 3 km from Avanos and 1 km from Paşabağ Valley. You will see fairy chimneys with pointed ends and wide bodies here.
There are 15 churches in the Zelve Valley, one of Christians’ most important spiritual centers, mainly in the 9th and 13th centuries. Üzümlü, Balıklı and Geyikli Churches, known as the most famous churches of Cappadocia, are among the fairy chimneys carved structures that we will see in the valley. There are also rock out churches, historic sites, rock sites.
4- Cavusin Village
Although it is on the Göreme – Avanos road and 2 km from Göreme (only a short drive), Çavuşin is an ancient settlement connected to Avanos. The most aging structure in the village is the Church of John the Baptist and Çavuşin, dating to the 5th century.
The borders of Kızılçukur and Rose valley also start from this village. Therefore, we say that you must see this village, which was built under a massive rock formations, its houses stretching down the slope and the ruins where Christian dervishes lived.
5- Özkonak Underground City
Özkonak Underground City is one of the best trophies in the world. B.C. Özkonak Underground City has been etched in 400 years and consists of 4 floors.
You will see long and narrow holes in it that provide ventilation and communication, and you will be surprised by its magnificent architecture, which you cannot compare with today. Özkonak Underground City is 13 km from Avanos.
6- Sarihan Caravanserai
B.C. Sarihan Caravanserai is one of the structures that date back to a long time since the dates started—built in the 13th century during Seljuk ruler Izzettin Keykavus. The caravanserai got its name from the yellow stones used in its architecture.
7- Aladdin Mosque
Another work seen from the 13th century Seljuk works is the Alaaddin Mosque. Built in 1202 by Alaaddin Keykubat. The building was first repaired in the 17th century, was added in 1964.
8- Avanos Hair Museum
We are talking about perhaps the strangest museum you have ever seen in the world. From a 500 square meter cave where more than 16 thousand women’s hair hangs! Galip Körmükçü, known as “Chez Galip”, is the founder of the Hair Museum.
Visit this exciting museum, which was included in the Guinness Book of Records in 1998 and is among the 15 most exciting museums globally and listen to its story from its founder. You will not regret it.
9- Pottery Workshops – Workshops
The most recognizable feature of Avanos is its pottery. In the center of Avanos, you can see the transformation of the soil into a thing by observing a superior at the spin and trying it yourself and trying it yourself. It would not be a lie to call the workshops to see ‘Chez,’ an art workshop in the district’s center.
One of the most significant workshops and places visited as a museum is Güray Museum. Do not leave Avanos without seeing the first and only underground museum where you can watch the historical development of pottery in the region.
Urgup Cappadocia places to visit
For those who ask, “Where is the place where the nights are most lively in Cappadocia?” we can define Ürgüp, which is 20 km away from Nevşehir, as the most crowded and brightest place. Ürgüp, which has a dense fairy chimney formation, is located on the historical Silk Road at the intersection of civilizations.
Having witnessed Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman civilizations, Ürgüp is also the most developed district of Nevşehir. You will be surprised by the craftsmanship of the stone houses as you stroll through their streets.
1- Temenni Hill
The history of Temenni Hill, where there are artifacts from the Ottoman period, dates back to 1288. The monumental tomb was built in the name of Kılıçaslan, and the tomb used as Tahsinağa Public Library to be seen on the hill. You can see Ürgüp from a bird’s eye view.
2- Mazı Underground City
The ancient name of this Cappadocia underground city, 18 km from Ürgüp, was Mazata. It has provided a long life without going out for shelter and protection.
Although not all of them have been cleaned yet, including the ventilation shafts, it is one of the places to visit in Cappadocia to imagine the underground life and breathe its atmosphere.
3- Three Beauties
The Three Beauties, consisting of two large and one small fairy chimney, stand where they have stood for centuries, just like a nuclear family. It is a place famous for the postcards of Cappadocia and where 2 million tourists take their photos in front of it every year.
You will see it while passing through the Ürgüp Highway. It is a short 5-minute distance from the center of Ürgüp.
4- Cappadocia Art and History Museum
The history, culture, art, and many more of Cappadocia are told in the museum with more than 200 staged dolls in costume. You will find it interesting.
5- Ortahisar
The churches of Tavşanlı, Sarıca, Cambazlı, Harim, Balkan Creek, and Hallaç Dere Monastery, which are heirlooms from the Christian Ascetic life is worth visiting. You can even see the Ethnography Museum, which promotes Cappadocia culture.
Ortahisar is 1 km from Ürgüp-Nevşehir road. It is also known for its castle from the Byzantine period. You can climb to Ortahisar Castle and take your panoramic photos from here.
6- Mustafapasa
Mustafapaşa, whose name was Sinasos in ancient times, is one of the places to visit in Cappadocia, which we recommend you to visit while you are in Ürgüp. Churches of St. George, St. Stefanos, St. Vasilios, Constantine and Helena, and St. Basil’s Chapel are within the borders of this town.
The old Greek house Asmalı Konak, which we know from the T.V. series, is one of the must-sees of Mustafapaşa.
7- Gomeda Valley
Walking in the ruined valley, which is less known than other Cappadocia valleys and made a name for itself with a Turkish horror movie shot in it, will seem a little scary at first. But you will find peace with its rich nature, similar to Ihlara Valley, and you will be impressed by the St. Basil’s Church and St. Nicola Monastery.
8- Ihlara Valley
Possibly the most typical answer to the query, “Which is the most secret, deepest, and most mysterious of the paradises of Cappadocia?” will be Ihlara Valley. According to estimates, the first settlement of the valley started in the 4th century.
While there are 105 historical artifacts in the valley that stretches for 14 kilometers in a canyon at a depth of 120 meters, there are only 14 left that can be visited and enjoyed with art. You can see the valley with a 6 km walk accompanied by the Melendiz Stream.
If you say ‘Is it worth it?’, don’t forget, even if you go down a ladder with 397 steps, remember that this road leads to the treasury, and our answer is ‘of course it’s worth it!’ Ihlara Valley is 7 km from Güzelyurt and 40 km from Aksaray.
9- Derinkuyu Underground City
Before you arrive, you will come across the Derinkuyu sign.
Derinkuyu Underground City, the largest underground city of Cappadocia, got its name from the deep wells inside. Many people lived above the ground in this gigantic city with eight floors of the cleared area.
How they lived, sheltered for a long time without going out, and most importantly, how this underground city of Cappadocia was built in an era without technology remains a mystery.
10- Kaymaklı Underground City
Kaymaklı Underground City is 20 km from Nevşehir. Like other underground cities, the entire area of the underground city, which is estimated to have eight floors, cannot be visited. However, its four feet up to 20 meters can be seen. B.C.
In Kaymaklı, which is thought to have been carved by the Hittites around 3000 BC, 5,000 people could live simultaneously. So in terms of the big bolt stones on the doors, the church and of course the design of the life underground, you should go and see it.
11- Gaziemir Underground City
Gaziemir Underground City, which draws attention with its different structure from other Cappadocia underground cities, is 14 km from Güzelyurt and 55 km from Nevşehir.
The difference is that it is an underground city of Cappadocia, which is both a caravanserai and living space. The entrance part of the caravanserai, made with the thrust stone technique, is exciting and was involved here first time behind Boğazkale. This caravanserai, used in the Byzantine and Seljuk periods, is your list of places to visit in Cappadocia.
What to eat in Cappadocia?
Cappadocia cuisine is a cuisine that has benefited from the rich cuisine of Anatolia. Mainly when the region produces chopped vegetables and roasted meat, they are flavored with a different flavor. Therefore, you can locate a diner that fits your taste.
If you like to taste a memorable plate of this fantastic place, the well-known dish recognized in the area is Testi Kebab. In Cappadocia, the water is drunk from the jug, and the food is eaten in the pot.
The pot kebab, also called pottery kebab, is prepared from the forearm of onions, garlic, tomatoes, and lamb and is cooked in a pot covered with potato paste and is served by smashing the bank. Its expression is as delightful as its taste.
Another well-known dish for Avanos, cooked in a pot called ‘Oskar,’ with which you can compare its taste with what you have eaten before -beans. If your state, “Let me eat a regional dessert behind the dinner, let me talk sweetly,” we recommend you eat a dessert called Aside, which looks like flour halva.
The butter is fried with flour, and then, unlike the halva we know, the egg is broken. It is combined with milk and sugar and cooked on lower warmth. If you are a sweet lover, taste the rice pudding made in pottery.
Apart from that, stuffed leaf rolls, rose pastry, frying pan, shepherd’s roast on tile, tandoori, wedding soup, and casserole are also very famous delicacies. In addition, you can choose seasonal fish from Kızılırmak and try local appetizers.
If you are a wine lover, we say you do not miss the wine flavors from the region’s vineyards.
Hot Air Balloon Pleasure in Cappadocia
When viewed from the sky, Cappadocia is a glittering land with a different story, sometimes wearing green, sometimes white, and periodically red clothing. If you are wondering around the sight of the sky, let’s proudly say that hot air balloon tourism is prevalent in the region and that hot air balloons do not suit any part of the world skies of Cappadocia in our country.
The route of the hot air balloons that take off in the first hours of the morning is entirely determined by the wind and can rise to 1500 meters. This enjoyment lasts an average of 45 – 65 minutes and takes place under the guidance of reliable audited companies. Prices start from 800-900 TL for one person.
Let’s use the phrase ‘inexplicable’ again for this experience that you will enjoy as you remember it, not only during your Cappadocia holiday. So let’s wish you a good holiday until a magical ‘come again’ call of the places to visit in Cappadocia, which you look at from the ground, from the depths, and the sky.
Activities to Do in Cappadocia
If you want to hold a memorable holiday, say ‘I can’t fit in the sky,’ ‘my eyes and my heart are full’ or ‘I can collect moments that I can’t get enough of,’
We recommend Cappadocia as a route without exception. Cappadocia has so many details; visiting and seeing that telling them all is like counting a lace loop. But while you are gone, there are ten things to do in Cappadocia. We say, take your time, try it, see it, you will not forget it.
10 Things to do in Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a miraculous appearance and nidus of cultures that you will not see anywhere else in the world. You will journey to various histories in every corner, and you will be surprised by listening to a legend in every language.
In addition to those very familiar fairy chimneys that surprise you, you will speak close to the underground cities, valleys, castles, and even the coloring of the sky.
Here are our recommendations for specialties to do in Cappadocia, and don’t leave without doing it.
1- Visit the historical places of Cappadocia Region.
If we count Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos as the corners of Cappadocia; You will encounter structures that keep the stories of different civilizations alive in every corner. Numerous of them are as aged as the Chalcolithic period, the Hittites; some are traces of recent history that formed the basis of Turkish civilizations such as Seljuk and Ottoman.
The valleys where Christians lived and spread illegally, fearing Roman oppression, churches, and madrasas that you will sometimes encounter secretly and sometimes in a tidy manner. The houses carved into the rock formations, the dovecotes that have become a seed of livelihood will inform you further tales and bring you to other times.
Among the things to do in Cappadocia, there are frescoes in complex structures that we will say ‘must see’ in Göreme Open Air Museum, the secret paradise of Ihlara, castles, mosques, rock tombs, and tombs that stand out as if to say ‘holy Cappadocia’ when viewed from above.
If you have time, we say start your tour with a map of the region with plenty of dots, and if you have little time, mark the must-have historical headstones such as Ihlara Valley, Göreme Open Air Museum, Uçhisar Castle, Rose Valley, Cave dwellings, cave hotel.
One of the best ways to visit historical places in Cappadocia is to take a day tour in Cappadocia.
Let’s include the Cappadocia museums in our list as the most authoritative history narrators. Cappadocia Art and History Museum, which tells the history of Cappadocia in an exciting way with more than 200 dolls.
Cappadocia Ethnography Museum displays the province from past to present. Avanos Hair, with thousands of women’s hair strands included in the Guinness Book of Records, is among the 15 most exciting museums in the world. The museum is worth seeing.
A rich history feast awaits you both on the grounds and in the halls.
2- Go down to the underground cities.
Among the ten things to do in Cappadocia, one of the most exciting experiences will be going deep, like a journey to the earth’s center. What’s in the deep? If we tell you that it was made using mathematics, with a mysterious and extraordinary engineering intelligence like the Egyptian Pyramids.
It is so deep that the deepest of them has not been dug yet. If we say that it is only estimated how many meters or equipped with capillary air channels, thousands of people and animals can breathe without leaving the ground for a long time.
What would you say if we say that its doors are closed with huge millstones, against whom we do not know yet, and the protection measures are astonishing? There are currently 36 underground cities in Cappadocia. The largest of these dates back to B.C.
Kaymaklı Underground City and Derinkuyu Underground City date back to 3000 BC. Among the things to do in Cappadocia, we recommend you visit the underground cities of Özlüce, Mazı, Özkonak, Tatlarin, Gaziemir as well as Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu.
You will touch the enthusiasm of the people fleeing the wars for sunlight only while seeing the underground municipalities, and you will be grateful that you did not live in those times while crouching.
3- Hike in the valleys accompanied by fairy chimneys.
If you are a traveler who likes trekking, birds chirping, and wandering among fruit-laden trees; Let’s not miss the most enjoyable walks among the things to do in Cappadocia. There are lots of hiking trails in Cappadocia Region.
The vegetation contains different colors on the canvas of each season. Leaves turning red in autumn leave their place to a lush nature in spring. We add that you will never see a character under the snow so attractive in winter.
You can find pigeons as companions in the valleys where you will encounter waterfalls and sometimes accompanied by streams.
You can pluck the apricots and plums from the branches of the trees and glide through the vineyards. The valleys are hiking trails and historical churches carved into the rocks, living spaces, and necklaces lined with fairy chimneys.
Everyone frequented Pigeon Valley and discovered; the Red Valley comes to mind when the sun goes down, the Love Valley that evokes romance, Zelve, where fairy chimneys show, and Paşabağı are valleys worth seeing.
There are also valleys such as Gomeda Valley, which shudder like a movie plateau, which has not yet been appreciated, so we say go and see it.
4- Join the hot air ballooning tour.
It will be one of the points when you feel most free to pass through the clouds, to see the valleys flowing through the fairy chimneys below, to fluctuate according to the pleasure of the wind, and to descend. Hot air balloning tour is definetely will be the memory that you cannot forget.
Maybe you can reach the organizations operating professionally in the area to join the Cappadocia hot air balloon tour.
Although the Cappadocia hot air balloon tour is expensive, it is worth it.
5- Make pottery in Avanos.
In the ateliers called ‘chez,’ which you will see in abundance in the center of Avanos, you will first see what the master and then the artist in you can do. Then, sitting at the wheel and watching the clay take shape between two palms, turn into a vase or a jug, you will feel proud of ‘I made this.
Making pottery is good for the mental health of even therapists today. Therefore, we also say ‘make pottery’ among the things to do in Cappadocia. We guarantee that you will like it.
Come on, get your hands on the mud, and start showing your artistic side!
6- Ride around with an ATV or Cappadocia Jeep Safari, ride a horse.
If you are a wanderer who thinks that ‘Adrenalin is good,’ you can pass through muddy and wet areas and get your fill of freedom with an ATV or jeep safari tour.
You don’t need a driver’s license or driver’s license to drive an ATV or attend jeep safari tours. In addition, you can rent daily or hourly.
You are informed and receive short training for your safety at horse farms.
Moreover, strolling horses are docile horses that know how to do their job. It will not be a lie if we say that the taste of full moon safaris is more satisfying than riding horses. You will have fun in the mysterious and colorful valleys of Cappadocia, accompanied by fairy chimneys.
7- Discover the flavors of Cappadocia cuisine.
In Cappadocia region, you can find a variety of dishes from world cuisine. However, the words benefit the essence of Central Anatolian cuisine and are flavored with the skills of the local people.
But if you are looking for ‘exclusivity,’ we say we must try a few special presentations. Although testi kebab is a flavor that enters the region from outside, its cooking and presentation are unique to Cappadocia.
The jug is broken on your table, and you are half-saturated with the flavor of the steam. It is more delicious because the meat is cooked for a long time. Even dried beans will taste different when you eat them in one place.
In addition to its kebabs, taste the dishes that have not infiltrated the city life, such as stuffed quince, dıvıl, kömbe, and sızgıt.
8- Participate in wine tastings.
The region is the grape heaven that comes to mind first to winemaking in Central Anatolia. However, the white wines produced with Emir grapes have gone beyond the borders and are known worldwide.
The Tuffy soil ensures that the vines produce good grapes, are protected from pests and create a cellar by carving quickly.
Therefore, we say that you should stop by these companies among the ten things to do in Cappadocia to taste and buy a variety of award-winning wines.
9- Attend Turkish nights.
Foreign tourists are particularly interested in Turkish nights in Cappadocia to promote Turkish culture and have fun, organized in Uçhisar and Avanos.
You will have fun by watching different dances from whirling dervish show to oriental, fasil to folklore in the underground restaurants carved from the huge rock.
While having fun, you will be impressed by the local cuisine’s delicious dishes and quality wines, as well as the atmosphere of the places unique to Cappadocia.
10 – Stay in Cave Hotels and cave rooms.
If your expectations are for accommodation comfort, you will wake up with a view overlooking the valleys in the regionally themed cave rooms in Uçhisar, with the most luxurious hotels in the world rankings. Cave hotel, you should definetely try.
Cappadocia Ultra-Trail
If you are a good runner, you can attend Cappadocia Ultra Trail. It has three races,
Ultra-Trail: 119 km and 3730 m
Medium Trail: 63 km and 2030 m
Short Trail: 38 km and 1120 m
Salomon sponsors the races.
Trails are organized in October, and it is one of the best tracks in the world. It is one of the best hiking trails in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ Cappadocia
Istanbul to Cappadocia – How to go?
From Istanbul, there are many ways to go to Cappadocia. Prices vary.
You can rent a car in Istanbul with a driver, and local drivers can leave you Cappadocia. However, it was a bit expensive way.
You can book a flight to Kayseri or Nevsehir, and If you talk to your hotel, they generally have shuttles to the airport.
You can go by bus; it is the cheapest way to go to Cappadocia from Istanbul. It is around 8-10 USD, and it takes 10 hours.
How many days need for Cappadocia? Are two days enough for Cappadocia?
Maybe a week or ten days is necessary to enjoy the Cappadocia region, but the critical points can be seen in a limited time, and its beauty and importance can be felt. Therefore, we recommend at least three days for Cappadocia if you have limited time.
What is the best month to visit Cappadocia?
Since the Central Anatolia Region is far from the influence of the sea, the continental climate is dominant, and the vegetation is steppe. Consequently, the precipitation is meager, and the annual rainfall varies between 300-500 mm.
Distribution of precipitation according to seasons; The summer season is generally dry, the autumn season is quite rainy, the winter and spring seasons are abundant rainy. The temperature difference between seasons is high. The coldest month is January.
The best times of Cappadocia are the beginning of the season and the end of the season. April, May, June, September, and October are the most enjoyable times for Cappadocia tours. If you choose during these months, it will be more enjoyable due to the weather.
The hottest months of Cappadocia: July, August the ideal months to go to Cappadocia: May, June, September, October.
Is it worth to go Cappadocia?
Yes, of course. If you come to Cappadocia in June, then you can connect your Cappadocia trip with a sea holiday in the south of Turkey; it would be the perfect holiday for you. Espacially, visiting open air museum and Rose Valley, rock out churches, historic sites, rock churches, cave houses, rock sites will be times to remember.
Is Cappadocia safe?
Yes, Cappadocia is a tourist place and safe. Local people love tourists because more tourist means more money for them.
Is Cappadocia close to Istanbul?
No, it is around 760 KM – 472 Mil.
Is Cappadocia a city?
No, it is a region. It is in the central Turkey. Region has more than one town center.
How long is the flying from Istanbul to Cappadocia?
On average it is 2 hours 30 minutes.
Where is the evil eye tree in Turkey, Cappadocia?
Uçhisar, which is connected to the center of Nevşehir, the wish tree on the top of the cruise, where Pigeon Valley can be watched, attracts the attention of tourists. Tourists believe that hanging evil eye beads on a tree brings good luck and believe their wishes will come true.