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Cappadocia Travel Guide

Cave Dwellings and Fairy Chimneys: Your Cappadocia Adventure Guide

By Fred Edward on September 21, 2023

Cappadocia's combination of natural wonders, historic richness, and adventure opportunities make it an extraordinary travel destination that captures the hearts of those who explore it. Here is our list of the top 10 things to do in Cappadocia:

1. Take a hot air balloon ride: Rise above the surreal landscape and witness Cappadocia's magic from the skies. A hot air balloon ride at sunrise is a bucket-list experience, offering panoramic views of the region's breathtaking vistas, all bathed in the soft hues of the morning sun.

2. Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum: Delve into Cappadocia's rich history by exploring its underground cities and ancient cave dwellings. Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire centuries-old rock-cut churches adorned with intricate frescoes. The museum is a testament to the rich history of the region, particularly its role in the development of early Christianity. It showcases the unique architectural and artistic achievements of the Byzantine era.

3. Hike Rose Valley: The main attraction of Rose Valley is undoubtedly its hiking trails. Visitors can embark on scenic hikes that wind through the valley's narrow canyons, hidden caves, and towering rock spires. The trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for both casual strollers and avid hikers. The best time to explore Rose Valley is during the early morning or late afternoon when the soft sunlight enhances the rose colored hues of the rocks.

4. Explore Love Valley: Cappadocia's unique landscape is defined by its surreal rock formations, sculpted over millions of years by wind and water. Visit Love Valley to see the “fairy chimneys,” distinctive phallic-shaped rock formations, and enjoy a leisurely hike amid the surreal landscape. Remember to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking.

5. Climb Uchisar Castle: Climb to the top of Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, for panoramic views of Göreme and the surrounding area. Uchisar Castle is not a traditional castle in the sense of a medieval fortress but rather a naturally occurring rock formation that has been adapted and used over centuries. It stands prominently as a large volcanic tuff cone, formed by the solidification of volcanic ash and lava. Inside the castle, you can explore the interconnected tunnels and rooms carved into the rock. These tunnels served various purposes over time, as dwellings, storage spaces, and places of refuge.

6. Stay in a cave hotel: Experience a truly one-of-a-kind stay by booking a cave hotel. These boutique accommodations are built into the rock formations, providing a cozy and unique experience. We recommend booking a cave hotel in Göreme that offers fantastic views of the hot air balloons, like the Ottoman Cave Suites, the Kelebek Special Cave Hotel, and the Sultan Cave Suites.

7. Attend a pottery workshop: Participate in a pottery workshop in Göreme or nearby Avanos to learn the art of pottery-making from local artisans. The workshops often emphasize traditional pottery-making techniques that have been passed down through generations in Cappadocia. You'll learn about the region's distinctive clay, glazing methods, and firing processes that give the pottery its unique character.

8. Search out a sunset viewpoint: Watch the sunset from one of the many scenic viewpoints around Göreme, such as Sunset Point, for a mesmerizing view of the landscape bathed in warm hues. The dramatic lighting during sunset creates a picturesque setting, making it a favorite spot for photographers and travelers looking to capture the stunning scenery. The changing colors of the rocks and the sky during sunset make for fantastic photo opportunities.

9. Unwind at a Turkish Bath: In Göreme, you can experience a traditional Turkish bath, also known as a "hamam," at some of the local hotels or spa centers. We recommend the hamam located at the Kelebek Special Cave Hotel, which is one of the only cave Turkish Baths in the world.

10. Sip drinks with a view: Head to the rooftop bar at the Sultan Cave Suites and take in the valley and city views. Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at the restaurant, try local wine and specialty cocktails, and take in the magical scenery of Cappadocia.

Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or a relaxing getaway, Cappadocia has it all. Plan your trip today and get ready to be transported to a world like no other.

Getting there

The best way to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul depends on your preferences and budget. Here are some common transportation options:

By Air:

Fastest Option: The quickest way to reach Cappadocia from Istanbul is by taking a domestic flight. The nearest airport to Cappadocia is Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV). Turkish Airlines operates regular flights from Istanbul's main airports, Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW).

By Bus:

Scenic Option: If you have more time and want to enjoy the scenic beauty of Turkey, you can take a long-distance bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia. The journey takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and the bus route.

Bus Companies: Several bus companies offer this route, including Metro Turizm and Nevşehir Seyahat.

By Car:

Flexibility: If you prefer flexibility and want to explore other areas along the way, you can rent a car in Istanbul and drive to Cappadocia. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, depending on your route and stops.

By Tour Package:

Convenience: Many travel agencies offer tour packages that include transportation from Istanbul to Cappadocia, along with guided tours and accommodations. This option can be convenient if you want a hassle-free experience.

Keep in mind that travel times and options may vary depending on the season and availability. It's a good idea to check the latest schedules and prices when planning your trip.