Top 10 Attractions in Cappadocia 

Located in the central Anatolian part of Turkey, Cappadocia has a long history that dates to the Paleolithic ages. It was a notable region for several civilizations like the Ottomans, Romans, Hittites, and Byzantines. In the modern world, each year Cappadocia bewitches tourists with its otherworldly landscapes. The centuries-old unique formations, combined with various attractions make this place one of the top destinations, whether it’s summer, spring, fall, or winter. But spring and fall are generally the best time to visit this place, as it is less crowded, and the weather is warm enough. From worldly-renowned hot air balloon tours to ATVs and horse rides in vast valleys, Cappadocia offers numerous activities to its visitors. History, culture, cuisine, adventure, sightseeing, shopping, tours, and more, Cappadocia has everything you want! Here we compiled a list of must-visit places, hence you can maximize your experience and plan your itinerary accordingly. Staying at luxurious cave hotels and taking hot air balloon tours with the breathtaking panoramic view will make you feel as if you are in a dream world!

Göreme Open Air Museum

Perhaps this is the most famous attraction in Cappadocia. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its history dates back to the 11-12th centuries. Göreme Open Air Museum is well-known for its series of churches and monasteries. These beautiful rock-carved architectural complexes have traces of early Christian and Byzantine values. All churches and monasteries are worth visiting, as each of them is unique in a sense. But some of them stand out from the rest, as they are well-preserved, depicting the faith of early Christians, and advancements in art and architecture. Some of these churches, that you must see while you are at Cappadocia, are Karanlık (Dark) Kilise, Elmalı (Apple) Kilise, and Çarıklı (Sandal) Kilise. Especially the ceiling of the Karanlık Kilise (Dark Church) mesmerizes its visitors with multicolored frescoes. 

Avanos

Located on the banks of the Kızılırmak (Red River), this quaint town is notorious for its craftsmanship and pottery, but many options are available for tourists. When you visit Cappadocia, do not forget to attend pottery workshops, as the art of pottery dates to the Hittites in the region. Besides, you can visit Fairy Chimneys nearby, Avanos Castle, and the Özkonak Underground City. Hiking along the Red River, taking boat tours, or going fishing are also great activities if you want to chill in nature. If you like shopping, head to the local bazaars to find the most luxurious options for uniquely handmade ceramics, which are ideal for authentic souvenirs.

Paşabağ (Monks Valley)

Monk Valley, or Paşabağ in Turkish, is a unique place with its history and mushroom-like formed fairy chimneys, so you must include it in your Cappadocia itinerary. Overall Cappadocia is famous worldwide for fairy chimneys, but Monk Valley stands out with the most unusual formations, creating an otherworldly atmosphere for its visitors. While visiting Monk Valley, you can observe the over-millions-year-long erosion of volcanic ash in the most visible way possible. This place is prominent with St. Simeon, that was a monk who lived in the 5th century, and while you are there, do not forget to St. Simeon's Chapel in the Monk Valley.

Ihlara Valley

Ihlara Valley is a must-see natural wonder in Cappadocia, about 80 kilometers from Göreme. What makes this place unique is the 150 meters deep stunning canyons, with a river running through, and lush greenery. This picturesque beauty is ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, as with the unique flora and fauna, Ihlara Valley is home to many species. Besides its nature, historically it was a notorious place for Orthodox Christians, as the ancient churches and monasteries in the valley served for pilgrimage hundreds of years ago. Perhaps Yılanlı Kilise (Snake Church) is the most famous church as it was dedicated to the mother of Constantine I, Helena Augusta.

Uçhisar Castle

Uçhisar Castle, located in Uçhisar village which is 12 kilometers from Ürgüp, is another must-visit place in Cappadocia. This is one of the most-photographed landmarks of Cappadocia and has great significance in terms of history, culture, and architecture. The strategic location made Uçhisar a remarkable fortification for the Romans, Byzantines, and later the Ottomans. The network of tunnels carved out of rocks, and several rooms of the castle, combined with the breathtaking view, make this a must-visit place for every visitor.

Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City fascinates its visitors with 18 levels of tunnels and 85 meters of depth. This unique place is believed to build about 3000 years ago, as a shelter for the community in times of hardship like wars. It is an important example of ancient craftsmanship and engineering since this city could accommodate almost 20,000 people, with many facilities like a ventilation system, cellars, chapels, and even a school. Until the 20th century, people used Derinkuyu to protect themselves from wars and persecution. If you want to have an awe-inspiring experience and do not have claustrophobia, you must visit Derinkuyu Underground City.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

The most famous activity in Cappadocia is hot air balloon rides. If you are interested in visiting Cappadocia, you must have this experience. Cappadocia is one of the most suitable places for hot air balloon rides, as the magnificent view of fairy chimneys and stunning natural landscapes makes it a must-do. There are numerous options for rides, but you must follow some tips to make the best of your experience. From April to October, hundreds of balloon rides are available every day starting in the early hours of the morning. Tours generally start from 150 USD per person, and it is advised to book in advance. Do not forget to wear comfortable shoes and take lots of photographs!

Zelve Valley Open Air Museum

Zelve Open Air Museum is a historic site, standing out as one of the earliest habited villages in Cappadocia and the latest abandoned by people. The cave dwellings were homes and religious places for different cultures for many years. It is believed that people lived there from the 9th century to as late as the 20th century. Zelve Open Air Museum has some notable examples of pre-Iconoclastic era churches, such as Balıklı Kilise (Fish Church) and Üzümlü Kilise (Grapes Church).

Three Beauties

Fairy Chimneys are the main reason why many tourists visit Cappadocia. Each of them is unique and beautiful in a sense, but the Three Sisters are distinctive enough to have their own names. These three fairy chimneys have a folkloric legend behind them and it is the most famous among others, becoming a symbol of Cappadocia. According to legend, an evil and powerful sultan wanted to marry three beautiful sisters, and when they refused, he cursed them and turned them into stone. Later a brave young man lifted the curse and freed the sisters. Today the Three Sisters have become a symbol for many things like love, courage, the balance between good and evil, and more.

Red and Green Tours 

To conclude, you can take tours to explore Cappadocia to the fullest. The most popular tours among tourists are Green Tour and Red Tour. The Red Tour specifies the southern part of Cappadocia, including the Göreme Open Air Museum, Monk and Devrent Valleys, and Avanos. The Green Tour, on the other hand, offers the opportunity to visit Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara and Pigeon Valleys, Selimiye Monastery, and Göreme. If you do not want to freely roam around Cappadocia on your own, and visit some of the most beautiful places in a time frame, you should check out these tours.