Cappadocia, a location in central Turkey, appears to have emerged from the pages of a fable. Cappadocia is a must-see destination for tourists from all over the world, because to its exotic scenery, rich history, and captivating culture. Whether you’re an explorer, a history lover, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Cappadocia has something for everyone. In this post, we will look at the best activities to do in Cappadocia.
1. ROSA VALLEY ROAD AND THE SUNSET
The hiking trail in Cappadocia Rose Valley meanders through an incredibly unique area, with sharp rocks painted pink, especially at sunset. Over thousands of years, the ridges have formed to create a unique undulating landscape. Most of the time, one side of a rock is in the sun and the other in the shade, which accentuates the starkness and scale of these sandstone formations.
What makes the Rose Valley one of the most unique places to visit in Cappadocia is that not only do you have these amazing rock formations, but especially in this region, the sandstone minerals have a pinkish hue. This pink becomes more pronounced throughout the day, reaching sunset when the sun shines directly on the Rose Valley, giving it that subtle pink shade that many people come to see.
2. FLY IN A HOT AIR BALLOON AT SUNRISE
Cappadocia hot air balloons are quickly becoming one of the most common items on travel lists. It’s not hard to see why as you float above the historic cave dwellings of Goreme City with over 100 other balloons at sunrise, which can only be compared to a fairytale scene.
Each year, over half a million people enjoy hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, which is an incredible number and makes this region the number one hot air balloon destination in the world. Half the show is seeing all the other balloons in the air at the same time, not just the epic landscape you’re flying over.
3. TRAIL FROM VALLEY OF LOVE TO UCHISAR CASTLE
Love Valley is situated on the outskirts of Goreme and you can walk through Love Valley to Uchisar Castle, passing rock formations up close on a trail with probably no one else. It’s a relatively flat and peaceful hike to Uchisar, taking 1-2 hours. The rock formations are phallic shapes, which is why the valley full of penis-shaped rocks was named ‘Love Valley’. It is truly one of the most unique places to visit in Cappadocia.
At the end of the valley, you can continue walking to Uchisar Castle, which is one of the best viewpoints in Cappadocia.
4. VISIT THE PASABAG VALLEY – VALE DOS MONGES
Also known as Pasabag, it is famous for its mushroom chimneys perfectly carved from basalt, lava, and ash.
In Pasabag you will find several passages for a walk between the rocks and up to the hills that surround the area, all while enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Valley of the Monks.
If you want to relax, along the road, there are shops selling art and textiles. You can also find a village that serves winter-ripened wine, the famous quentão. Nevertheless, along the road, there are several cafes where you can have a snack.
The Pasabag Valley is one of the most popular spots in Göreme, Cappadocia, with its epic fairy chimneys and cave dwellings.
In addition to the large crowds and tour buses, the Pasabag Valley is worth a visit. Fairy chimneys are really amazing. Often, a boulder sits atop the chimney, menacingly balancing its path through storms and high winds. Amidst the valley, you will find many cave dwellings, which are usually double and triple stories. You are able to venture inside to explore the different levels.
5. SUNRISE ON LOVER’S HILL
This panoramic sunset vantage point in Goreme is the perfect place to watch the sunrise, which is why it gets crowded in the mornings. Despite the crowds, this is where I took all my best Cappadocia hot air balloon photos. You are often above the balloons and can shoot towards Castle Uchisar, Red Valley, or over the town of Goreme. There will be crowds, but also epic views across the region.
6. EXPLORE THE IHLARA VALLEY
The Ihlara Valley is an incredible gorge, with a stunning river flowing down the heart of the valley for 16 km inside the volcanic rock. It is close to Aksaray Province but is still considered part of the southern region of Cappadocia. It’s a great place for a relatively easy hike amidst leafy, peaceful nature. As well as a center for cave churches, among which you will find many trails.
For a few hours, you might forget you’re in a dry desert. You can feel the sounds of the forest as you walk under tree arches, climb rocks, and stroll through grassy clearings. Wildflowers of every color line the trail and look up at the high mountains away from the trail and on either side of the gorge.
7. GOREME OUTDOOR MUSEUM
The Goreme Open Air Museum is one of Cappadocia’s most popular attractions and historic sites. With an audio tour that guides you through ancient paintings, churches, and caves from centuries ago.
The Goreme Open Air Museum is very close to the center of Goreme. which is the most popular city in Cappadocia. It is possible to walk to the open-air museum of Goreme from the city center. It takes about 15 minutes and is a bit difficult.
With over 30 stops along the tour, The audio guide explains a lot of history and facts about the region. And the people who lived in Cappadocia in the caves. This is one of the main reasons why it is one of the most popular things to do in Cappadocia.
8. WALK IN POMBO VALLEY
Pigeon Valley is among Cappadocia’s most popular hiking trails, especially as it stretches between Goreme and Uchisar. Along the way, you’ll find cave dwellings, ancient paintings, earth pillars, and, of course… pigeons.
The trail starts with a steep descent along a dusty white path. Within a few minutes, you are in the heart of the valley and barely notice the city above you. In fact, you only get small glimpses of the city or Uchisar Castle above the tree line at certain times.
The trail takes you through thick trees and several caves. If you keep your eyes open, you will see a number of ancient paintings on the walls of cave dwellings, Where people lived during the Byzantine period. The Pigeon Valley Trail is definitely one of the top things to do in Goreme, Cappadocia.