Cappadocia

Written by Sebastien Simon, Javier Garcia
08/08/2025
A breathtaking view of colorful hot air balloons soaring above Cappadocia's unique landscape during sunset.
Saban Cifcibasi, Pexels

Cappadocia, located in Central Turkey, is a region renowned for its extraordinary lunar-like landscapes, characterized by unique 'fairy chimney' rock formations and ancient cave dwellings. Visitors are primarily drawn to its captivating hot air balloon rides at sunrise, offering unparalleled aerial views of the valleys, and the opportunity to explore historical sites such as rock-cut churches and vast underground cities.

Göreme serves as the primary hub within Cappadocia, offering a livelier downtown area with a greater selection of restaurants and attractions. While there isn't a prominent bar or party scene, backpackers can find accommodation in hostels, some with cave dorms, which provide opportunities to meet other travelers in a relaxed setting, such as by a pool or at shared meals.

Top 6 Things to do in Cappadocia

Activities in Cappadocia center around exploring the region's distinctive volcanic landscapes, ancient underground settlements, and historical rock-cut churches.

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the unparalleled beauty of Cappadocia from above with a sunrise hot air balloon flight. The balloons ascend before dawn, allowing you to witness the sun rise over the unique fairy chimneys and valleys, creating a truly magical spectacle. Pilots skillfully navigate between rock formations and reach impressive heights, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as demand is high and flights are weather-dependent. Consider booking for your first morning to allow for rescheduling if cancellations occur.

Cost: Standard hot air balloon flights, typically lasting around 60 minutes, range from €120 to €250. Deluxe flights, which may last 60-90 minutes and have fewer people in the basket, can cost between €275 and €350. Prices can fluctuate based on season, flight duration, and basket capacity. Many tours include hotel pick-up, light breakfast, and a post-flight celebration with non-alcoholic champagne.

Transport: Most hot air balloon tour companies provide complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off services from accommodations within Cappadocia.

2. Explore Göreme Open Air Museum

Step back in time at the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring numerous rock-cut churches, chapels, and monasteries adorned with well-preserved frescoes dating from the 10th to the 12th centuries. This outdoor museum provides a profound insight into early Christian monastic life in the region. The Dark Church (Karanlık Kilise) within the museum is particularly notable for its vibrant frescoes, which are worth the additional entrance fee.

Cost: The general admission fee for Göreme Open Air Museum is approximately €20 (as of 2024). An additional fee of around €6 (or 300 Turkish Lira as of 2025) is required to enter the Dark Church. Audio guides are available for an extra cost (around 150 Turkish Lira as of 2025). Guided tours are available, often included in 'Red Tour' packages.

Transport: The museum is located about 1.5 kilometers from Göreme town center, easily accessible by walking (around 20 minutes) or by local minibuses (dolmuş). Taxis are also readily available.

3. Visit an Underground City (e.g., Kaymaklı or Derinkuyu)

Delve into Cappadocia's fascinating history by exploring its ancient underground cities, such as Kaymaklı or Derinkuyu. These multi-level subterranean complexes were carved by early inhabitants as shelters from invasions and offer a remarkable glimpse into their ingenious engineering and way of life. Navigating the narrow tunnels and chambers reveals living quarters, kitchens, churches, and stables. It is advised to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.

Cost: Entrance fees for underground cities are typically included in organized 'Green Tour' packages. Individual entrance fees are separate if visiting independently.

Transport: Underground cities are generally not within walking distance of Göreme. They are best reached by taxi, private transfer, rental car, or as part of an organized 'Green Tour' which includes transportation.

4. Hike through Valleys (Red & Rose Valley, Love Valley, Pigeon Valley)

Immerse yourself in Cappadocia's distinctive landscapes by hiking through its captivating valleys. The Red and Rose Valleys are particularly renowned for their dramatic, ever-changing rock colors, especially during sunset. Love Valley stands out for its unique, phallic-shaped fairy chimneys, offering a truly surreal walking experience. Pigeon Valley, named for its numerous pigeon houses carved into the cliffs, provides a blend of natural beauty and historical insight. Many trails connect these valleys, allowing for self-guided exploration or guided tours.

Cost: Hiking is generally free when self-guided. Guided hiking tours are available, with prices varying by duration and group size. Tours might be included in 'Red' or 'Green' tour packages.

Transport: Many popular hiking trails, such as those in Red, Rose, and Love Valleys, are accessible directly from Göreme, allowing for walking access to the trailheads. For more distant starting points, local minibuses (dolmuş) can connect you to nearby villages like Uçhisar or Cavusin, or taxis can be used for convenience, especially for one-way hikes.

5. ATV Quad Safari

Embark on an adventurous ATV (quad bike) tour to explore the rugged, off-the-beaten-path trails of Cappadocia's valleys, including Rose, Red, Sword, White, and Love Valleys. This allows access to remote locations with spectacular vistas that might be difficult to reach otherwise. Sunset ATV tours are particularly popular for witnessing the landscape bathed in golden light. No prior experience is usually required as guides provide instruction.

Cost: ATV tours typically range from €15 to €40 per ATV per hour, with sunset tours often being slightly more expensive and usually requiring a minimum of 2 hours. Many providers offer rental by the hour or as part of guided tours, including equipment (helmet, mask) and fuel.

Transport: Most ATV tour operators offer complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off services from Göreme and surrounding towns.

6. Horseback Riding through Valleys

Discover the enchanting valleys and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia from a unique perspective on a horseback riding tour. Routes often traverse the Red and Rose Valleys, offering opportunities to admire the scenery, including historical cave dwellings, at a more leisurely pace. Sunset rides are a popular choice, culminating in stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon. Horse stables are widely available in Göreme.

Cost: Prices for horseback riding tours can vary. A 2-hour sunrise ride can be found. It is advisable to shop around different stables for options.

Transport: Many stables are located near Göreme, and some tours may include hotel transfers. Inquire with the stable when booking.

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