15 Fun Things to Do in Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia is a destination that never fails to amaze its coming guests: from captivating bucket-list activities like hot air balloon rides to exploring moon-like rock formations and discovering secret underground cities to enjoying traditional Turkish cuisine in unique cave restaurants—this magical place has a lot more to offer than you could ever imagine in your wildest dreams.
If you’re looking to create unforgettable memories and want to experience its breathtaking beauty wherever you go—then there are plenty of the best things to do in Cappadocia before wrapping up your Turkish trip. To truly experience Cappadocia’s wonders, you can plan a stay for at least 2 days and 2 nights, as these are enough for a memorable experience!
But, before you leave with your list of the top fifteen fun things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey, try wearing a pair of comfortable shoes, layer some sunscreen on your skin, and get ready for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of Cappadocia.
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1. Take the World-famous Hot Air Balloon Flight
When you think of Cappadocia, the first thing that comes to mind is a sky filled with colorful hot air balloons gently drifting above the breathtaking fairy chimneys and ancient rock formations.
It is the ultimate bucket list experience for anyone looking for the most unforgettable things to do in Cappadocia.
Bring your best camera on the balloon ride with you to capture the spectacular scenery of Cappadocia.
A hot air balloon ride costs can range anywhere between $180 and $300 or more in Cappadocia, depending on a number of factors, including the time of year you visit, the tour distance covered by the balloon flight, additional services, breakfast, and so forth.
You can pre-book your ride to ensure that your favorite balloon ride service is not already booked. Taking weather conditions into account is also important as they can have a significant impact on both your overall balloon ride experience and the expected quality of service provided by the tours.
Best Time for a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
Hot air balloon flights are available year-round, but the most favorable times for ballooning are during late spring from May to June, and during the fall—from September to October.
Ready to fly over Cappadocia? Book your Hot Air Balloon Flight here.
Did you know: During the Cappadocia hot air balloon festival, you can have the opportunity to see more than 150 hot air balloons in the sky as well as participate in local meetings, contests, and food events.
2. Don’t Miss the Magnificent Fairy Chimneys
Also known as Hoodoo, Tent Rock, and Earth Pyramids: these tall, thin spires of incredible rock formations mark the uniqueness of the Cappadocian landscape.
The structures are double-headed, sometimes even triple-headed. Interestingly, humans have found a way to co-exist with them by carving houses in these formations.
These fairy chimneys and the houses are a sight to behold. You may find the interiors of some of these rocks decorated with beautiful carvings and cave paintings.
Many of these fairy chimneys have their own histories and significance in the Turkish past. They seem to change color with the sunrise and sunset. Its magnificence makes it a must-visit place for anyone coming to Cappadocia.
If you only have one day in Cappadocia: you can make the most of your trip by taking this full-day private custom tour. You’ll get to see one of Christianity’s oldest monasteries, explore the mysterious life beneath the earth in an underground city, hike through Devrent Valley, and see Cappadocia’s most famous fairy chimneys, among other things.
See all your hotel options near Fairy Chimneys here
3. See the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Goreme Open Air Museum
Situated in Goreme, the Goreme Open Air Museum is a collection of rock-cut monasteries. These rock-cut dwellings had been built by the locals since the 10th century. The Open Air Museum has been a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985.
The museum has roughly eleven communal halls, each attached to a church and all carved with beautiful traditional art. These structures, carved out of soft lava rock, attract a large number of tourists to the heart of Turkey. If you want to see some famous churches and ancient Byzantine art in the Goreme Open Air Museum, consider Karanlik Kilise and Tokali Kilise.
Entrance Fee: As of 2023, the entrance fee for Goreme Open Air Museum is around 150 Turkish Liras (approximately 7.55 USD), which may appear to be a bit steep but is well worth it for the cultural experience, especially if you are visiting Cappadocia for the first time.
Check hours and admission here
Blime Tip:
- For a more serene experience, consider visiting the museum during the early hours of the morning to steer clear of the tourist rush.
- Stay alert for ticket scammers in the area, and be sure to avoid purchasing counterfeit tickets.
Want to explore Cappadocia hassle-free?
Rent a private guided car for the day here.
4. Enjoy the Sunset View from Uchisar Castle
Situated at the highest point in Cappadocia is Uchisar Castle, a multi-layered castle carved out of rocks. So, technically it’s not a castle built of bricks, but a rock structure.
Being the highest point in the valley, it gives you a scenic view of the entire valley. Breathtaking sunsets from the high points of the castle are worth experiencing.
Uchisar Castle (meaning ‘Outer Citadel’) was used in the late Byzantine and early Ottoman periods as a natural fortress for protection against armies on the surrounding plains. It was used as an early warning system to guard against attacks from higher ground.
Today, the Uchisar Castle offers a panoramic view of many fairy chimneys that surround it. The views of the valley make it a perfect spot for you to click pictures, whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner and family, or with friends.
Need a budget-friendly hotel near Uchisar Castle? Book your room here.
5. Make Your Stay Memorable at Cave Hotels
Staying in cave hotels like the stunning Sultan Cave Suites and Caftan Cave Suites, and dining at cave restaurants, such as Topdeck Cave and İnci Cave Restaurant Göreme are some of the must-do activities for anyone visiting Cappadocia, Turkey!
Most cave hotels in Cappadocia offer beautiful surroundings and aesthetics where you can enjoy the balloon views around, get the vibe of Caveness, experience luxurious spas, and have satisfying breakfasts.
Cappadocia is no short of cave restaurants to wrap up your day. Along with the classic Turkish delicacies, beer, and soft drinks, you can also enjoy folk and belly dance performances at night.
Find all cave hotels in Cappadocia
6. Hike in the Valley
The best way to get up close to experience the beauty of fairy chimneys, churches, and cave dwellings built in the valleys is through hiking trails.
There are multiple options available for hiking enthusiasts in Cappadocia. Among the most popular hiking destinations in Cappadocia, the iconic Red Valley is a must-visit spot for ending your tiring day by watching the sunset.
The valley stands out for its breathtaking sunset views, rock-cut churches, and incredible cave houses that not only elevate your hiking experience to new heights but also provide a perfect spot for photos.
Hiking through the iconic fairy chimneys that change color with the shifting position of the sun is an unforgettable and mesmerizing experience as well. It culminates at Sunset Point, where you can enjoy the panoramic sunset viewpoint.
In addition to this, there are hiking trails in the Rose Valley, Love Valley, Ihlara Valley, and Cappadocia Pigeon Valley to enjoy a relaxing short trek. The majority of the valleys have semi-arid terrain.
If you’re looking for a greener experience, then you can join the Ihlara Valley hiking tour. With a beautiful river running down right from the middle of the valley, it is surrounded by green tree arches and grassy openings.
Reserve your spot for the Ihlara Hiking (+Underground City) tour here.
Did you know: Yaren Coşkun, our editor from Turkey, says Ihlara Valley is the most breathtaking and captivating location she has ever seen and experienced.
7. Have Fun Quad Biking in Cappadocia
If you prefer a more exhilarating adventure over leisurely strolls through the valleys of Cappadocia, then you’ll love ATV tours. You’ll get to see the beautiful sights of Cappadocia and have fun at the same time.
The Quad Safari tour usually starts with a pick-up from your Cappadocia hotel. It typically entails a 1- to 2-hour (or longer) ATV ride through the beautiful valleys where you get to enjoy the breathtaking views and experience an unforgettable adventure. Most quad service and ATV tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, equipment, and English-speaking guides.
Blime Tip: Before booking any ATV tour in Cappadocia, carefully read the important information on the service page as some tours may require you to have a driver’s license in order to drive.
Want to drive through the Sword, Love, and Rose valleys?
Ride your own Quad Bike here
8. Visit Kaymakli Underground City
Cappadocia has many underground cities – these are multi-story complexes carved into volcanic rock by people around the 8th–7th centuries BC.
Kaymakli Underground City, along with other underground cities in Turkey, is one of a kind in the entire world. Visiting these underground wonders is often featured as a must-do activity in Cappadocia.
You can understand the complexity of the dwelling by the fact that it had amenities such as wine and oil presses, stables, cellars, storage rooms, and chapels underground. The city has been actively used till the 20th century.
Here are some tips on exploring Kaymakli Underground City:
- Get a guide: A guide will not only help you navigate the cave passages safely but will also provide you with the history and background of the place in detail.
- Visit in the early hours: Exploring the underground city is a bucket-list activity for most tourists, so make sure to visit it in the early hours possible to help you skip the long lines.
- Don’t wander off on unmarked passages: Some of the passages might not be open to tourists at the moment you’re visiting. If by chance any are open, they could be identified by blue arrows. It would be advisable to adhere to those markings. Additionally, if you happen to be traveling with children, it would be wise to closely monitor and supervise them.
- It is a closed space: For people with asthma and claustrophobia, this experience may agitate their health issues. You don’t need to crawl, but the passages are underground, with intricate passage networks. The air in these passages tends to be dusty, too. It is recommended to bear these factors in mind before exploring the sight.
- Wear comfortable footwear: The underground city has plenty of slippery and rocky paths. Carrying or wearing footwear like hiking shoes or trainers will help you focus on enjoying the experience.
Timings: Entry from 8:00 AM till 4:15 PM
Entry fee: Around 100 Turkish Lira (around $5) per person
Kaymakli vs. Derinkuyu Underground City
Kaymakli Underground City has many tunnels; it is the oldest, the least crowded, the smallest, and the narrowest. Derinkuyu Underground City, on the other hand, has a single wide tunnel and is often busier.
Given that Kaymakli Underground City is less crowded, it gives more opportunities to click post-worthy pictures and takes more time to explore.
9. Explore the Story Behind the Hair Museum
Have you ever heard of a museum filled with hair? This might sound strange, but Chez Galip Hair Museum in Avanos is a hair museum with a unique collection of women’s hair. This is one of the most unique experiences you can have while visiting Cappadocia to learn the Galip’s story behind the museum.
The Galip’s story: A dear friend of a Turkish potter named Galip Körükçü was moving out of Avanos. So, as a memento, she chose to cut a lock of her hair and give it to the potter. Since then, a lot of women have come to donate a lock of their hair. The family of the potter Galip Körükçü lives just above the museum.
It’s been 40 years, and the museum has become filled with about 16,000 women’s hair, of all kinds. The tradition is still continued, but it has been molded into a competition where its winners are selected twice a year and they receive an all-expense-paid vacation to Cappadocia.
Did you know: Visiting this peculiar museum as a woman does not necessarily require you to donate your hair: it solely depends on your personal preference.
10. Devour the Flavors of Authentic Turkish Food
Authentic Turkish cuisine is known for bursting with flavor as it enters your mouth. It offers a wide range of options, including spicy, mild, and savory dishes.
Testi Kebab, also known as Pottery Kebab, is a popular dish in Turkish cuisine. Kebabs can be ordered in chicken, beef, vegetarian/vegan eggplant, or mushroom varieties. Make your reservations beforehand since these kebabs take about four hours to cook.
Our favorite restaurant for Pottery Kebab is the traditional Dibek Restaurant in Goreme.
- Köfte, which resembles meatballs, is a Turkish delicacy served with gravy. Warm Köfte alongside some rice or flatbread is a perfect meal. You can also find a vegetarian or vegan Köfte made with chickpeas and vegetables.
- Pide is another famous Turkish savory food that resembles a flatbread pizza.
- Yaprak Sarma is a snack made with vine leaves wrapped around a filling of rice and onion. Flavored with mint, currant, pepper, and cinnamon steamed together, these warm wraps are fresh to delve into.
Apart from these traditional cuisines, there is Dolma, İmam Bayildi, Borek, Durum, Kumpir, and Simit—the list is endless and we can go on and on about food. Sampling a variety of traditional Turkish foods in Cappadocia can be an unforgettable culinary experience. From the flavorful Testi Kebab to the mouthwatering Köfte, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Where to Eat?
- Cafe Safak: Must-try family cafe in Goreme, Cappadocia for home-like food and coffee
- Dibek Restaurant: Good for Pottery Kebab
- Pumpkin Goreme Restaurant and Art Gallery: Set menu, pottery chicken kebab, baklava & more.
- Omurca Art Cave: Ideal for relaxing evenings, pleasant vibes, and homemade menus (cash only)
- Topdeck Cave: Small restaurant, specializing in main lamb and main chicken dishes
11. Learn Pottery in Cappadocia
Avanos is a small town on the banks of the Red River, which is home to its unique handmade artwork that you can see, admire, and take home with you. Aside from carpets, Turkish ceramic clay art is one of the most excellent items. The pottery here is made from red clay sourced from the Red River’s banks.
The tradition of pottery in this region dates back to 2000 BC, during the Bronze Age. The craftsmanship of the pottery showcases centuries of heritage that should not be overlooked. However, it offers more than just the opportunity to explore or purchase these exquisite pieces.
You can also learn the craft by enrolling in a one-day pottery class, where you’ll be given clay, tools, and advice from the potters who make these pots on a daily basis. Attending a pottery class is a fun and must-do experience in Cappadocia for those interested in Turkey’s artistic heritage.
Book a pottery class in Cappadocia
12. Shop or Snap the Colorful Turkish Carpets
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Cappadocia, then admiring the remarkable beauty of Turkish carpets and making colorful Insta memories are unquestionably must-do activities at carpet shops.
Galerie Ikman, located in Goreme, is one of the most “Instagrammable” carpet stores in Cappadocia. You can not only find the perfect souvenir piece to take home with you, but you can also have a photoshoot session for your Instagram followers. The store will usually provide a photographer or allow you to take your own photos.
Sultan Carpets is another carpet shop known for its hand-woven Turkish carpets, rugs, kilims, and other items. It’s worth stopping by these one-of-a-kind Cappadocia carpet shops for a memorable shopping experience.
13. Indulge in Wine Tasting Experience
Cappadocia is home to not just authentic Turkish grapes like Emir, Kalecik Karası, Narince, and Öküzgözü, but also the Western varieties like Chardonnay, Malbec, and Tempranillo. The region produces almost 20% of the entire Turkish wine.
Among all the wineries, Turasan stands out as the largest and most ancient winery in Cappadocia, boasting a wide selection of 25 distinct wine varieties.
Established in 1943, this remarkable winery is nestled in Nevşehir, Urgup, Cappadocia region. Turasan’s fantastic factory tour and tasting experience sets it apart, allowing visitors to delve into the fascinating world of winemaking while indulging in their exquisite creations.
Aside from Turasan, other wineries to consider include Kocabağ Winery, Kapadokya Winery, and Şenol Winery. The latter two wineries specialize in and produce only four types of wine.
14. The Red, Green, and Blue Tours
The Red, Green, and Blue Tours are customized guide tour packages that focus on specific Cappadocia regions.
The Red tour: The Red tour is the most popular tour in Cappadocia that covers an exciting sightseeing journey through the northern region of Cappadocia, offering a comprehensive exploration of its magnificent valleys, charming villages, enchanting fairy chimneys, historic castles, immersive Avanos pottery workshops, remarkable Goreme Open Air Museum, and scenic viewpoints.
The Green tour: The green tour takes you to the highlights of southwestern Cappadocia and the Ihlara Canyon side. It requires a fair amount of walking and stair climbing. It includes visits to the Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, Cappadocia’s Pigeon Valley, Onyx Demonstration (Jewelry Shop), and other green locations.
The Blue tour: The Blue tour guides you through the scenic southern part of Cappadocia, through the Red, Rose, and Pigeon Valley. You’ll get to explore the fairy chimneys in Ucguzeller, stop at Cavusin Cave village, descend into the Underground City, and hike in the expanse of the valley. A guided tour will help you give insights into the history, culture, and development of the valley.
15. Unwind in a Turkish Hammam
After a long hike in the beautiful Cappadocian valley, there’s no better way to relax and rejuvenate than by visiting a Hammam or Turkish Bath.
These tranquil havens offer a soothing massage, a refreshing fragrance that welcomes you, and exceptional hospitality, making it an absolute must-do activity in Cappadocia. The dome-shaped structure of the main chamber of a lot of old and traditional hammams has enticing art on it.
The hot chamber features small holes pierced into the upper half of the room, which function as a skylight as well as to help steam escape the chamber.
Most modern-day hammams are not limited in the experience that they offer. You’ll find showers, steam rooms, saunas, shock pools, jacuzzis, pools, and massage lounges as well. Luxury hotels, in general, offer their own private and public (shared) hammam experience.
DID YOU KNOW: Upon entering the Hammam for the first time, you will be warmly greeted and kindly requested to change into their provided bathrobes, leaving your clothes behind. As you proceed, you’ll step into a captivating space filled with soothing melodies and enchanting aromas, instantly transporting you to a blissful haven.
A gentle scrub and foam bath along with a relaxing body massage leaves your body relaxed to the core and releases all the tension in your muscles.
