The top things to do in Cappadocia are a hot-air balloon ride, horseback riding through Red and Rose Valleys, and drinking local wines as the sun melts behind volcanic ridges. These experiences, along with the cultural and religious tours, comprise the main tourist activities in the Göreme-Cappadocia region in Central Anatolia.
According to the Nevşehir Governorship, nearly 4 million tourists visited Cappadocia in the first 10 months of 2024. But the moonlike landscape is more than a place to see – it’s a place to live, even if just for a few days. In Göreme, locals still inhabit caved homes that now function as private dwellings, boutique shops, and restaurants. Visitors can even become temporary cave dwellers in a restored cave hotel.
Whether uncovering Byzantine sanctuaries, following trails to take photos, or merely savouring the surreal stillness of twilight, the best Cappadocia attractions invite you into a world of past and present.
Best Places to Visit in Cappadocia
The best places to visit in Cappadocia are moulded by volcanic tuff and wind and carved with centuries of devotion, culture, and artistry. These are valleys glowing at sunset, remote monasteries, symbolic landmarks, and overlooked gems, representing the full spectrum of the top things to do in Cappadocia.
Göreme Open-Air Museum
Worship at Medieval Churches
When it comes to the most notable Cappadocia landmarks, this UNESCO World Heritage site tops the list. Across the many Göreme Open-Air Museum (Göreme Açık Hava Müzesi) cave churches, don’t miss the Sandal Church (Çarıklı Kilise), the vivid Biblical images of the Buckle Church (Tokalı Kilise), and the Complex of St. Daniel, each echoing the faith of Byzantine monks who once lived and worshipped here.
Red & Rose Valleys
Admire the Cappadocia Gloaming
The Red Valley (Kızılçukur Vadisi) and the Rose Valley (Güllüdere Vadisi) are the jewels of Göreme Historical National Park (Göreme Tarihi Milli Parkı). Hike or ride horseback through rippling rose-tinted cliffs. And don’t miss the Cappadocia valley churches. For example, the Crusader Church (Haçlı Kilise) in the Red Valley is especially magical in the golden hour.
Avanos
Participate in a Pottery Workshop
If you are a creative traveller looking for the most rewarding things to do in Cappadocia, Avanos is a town where you can join a hands-on workshop and try ceramic art techniques passed down since the Hittites. It is situated on the banks of the Kızılırmak River, the heart of pottery in the region.
Çavuşin Churches
Climb Through Early Christian History
The hillside village of Çavuşin is known for its cave dwellings and the historic Church of St. John the Baptist (Vaftizci Yahya Kilisesi). Nearby, explore another namesake Çavuşin Church (Çavuşin Kilisesi), now partly eroded but still rich in spiritual ambience and ancient wall paintings.
Zelve Valley
Wander Through a Forgotten Monastic Settlement
Cappadocia valleys hide numerous historic edifices, and Zelve Valley (Zelve Vadisi) is no exception. Located just 5 kilometres from Avanos, it once housed a thriving religious community. Its honeycombed rock formations include early churches and the remains of a 9th–to 13th–century monastery that trained priests.
Özkonak Underground City
Uncover a City Beneath the Soil
Only 14 kilometres northeast of Avanos lies the astonishing Özkonak Underground City (Özkonak Yeraltı Şehri). It may not differ from other Cappadocia landmarks of this kind, but its story does. The local muezzin and farmer, Latif Acar, found it in 1972 while searching for lost irrigation water. His discovery led to a city that once housed up to 60,000 people on ten levels.
Ürgüp
Stroll Through Tradition and Taste
A thriving town 20 kilometres from Nevşehir, Ürgüp blends heritage and hospitality. It boasts old Greek houses, cosy boutique hotels, and an atmosphere that has managed to preserve its charm and local tradition despite tourism. It's perfect for shopping in Cappadocia, and a must-see for those looking for authentic Ürgüp attractions and unique things to do in Turkey.
Ürgüp Temenni Hill
Scout Sacred Sites and Panoramic Views
Overlooking the town, Temenni Hill (Temenni Tepesi) is home to the Kılıçarslan Tomb (Kılıçarslan Gazi Türbesi) and provides sweeping views across the region. For the Cappadocia travellers seeking spiritual depth, the surrounding area hosts several Seljuk-era religious shrines within 20 kilometres: Altı Kapılar (Six Gates Tomb), Taşkınpaşa Madrasah (Taşkınpaşa Medresesi), and the revered Şeyh Turesan Veli Tomb (Şeyh Turesan Veli Hz. Türbesi) – ideal for those pursuing religious things to see in Ürgüp.
Mustafapaşa
Discover Cappadocia’s Greek Legacy
Once called Sinasos, the village of Mustafapaşa is a living memory of the Greek Orthodox community before the 1923 population exchange. Visit the Monastery of St. Nicholas (Aziz Nikolas Manastırı) and the beautifully preserved Church of Saints Constantine and Helen (Konstantin - Eleni Kilisesi).
Cappadocia Cave Restaurants
Watch Traditional Performances
Spend an evening in one of Cappadocia’s cave restaurants, where dinner comes with a side of culture. Guests can enjoy a traditional Night Show at Uranos Sarıkaya and Evranos Restaurant in Avanos. These are the mystical dance of the whirling dervishes, the proud Zeybek Dance, and even belly dancing, accompanied by regional folk music. The event lasts 2–3 hours and includes a full Anatolian meal.
Saruhan Caravanserai
Step into Seljuk Grandeur
Built in 1249 on the Silk Road by Seljuk Sultan İzzettin Keykavus II, the Saruhan Caravanserai (Saruhan Kervansaray) is the last of its kind in Cappadocia. With a majestic crown gate, summer and winter halls, and a domed mosque, the Saruhan Culture and Congress Centre today is another place for folk performances, linking trade history with tradition. Time your visit with one of the region’s cultural festivals for an even deeper connection to Cappadocia’s spirit.
Ortahisar
Climb the Fortress and Visit Cliffside Chapels
Dominated by its natural rock castle, the town of Ortahisar is still off most tourists’ radars. Nearby, the less familiar Balkan Churches, just 2 kilometres away, add depth for those chasing remote Cappadocia historical sites and panoramic vistas.
Pancarlık Valley
Cherish the Forgotten Murals
Pancarlık Valley (Pancarlık Vadisi) shelters the early Pancarlık Church (Pancarlık Kilisesi), famed for its expressive 11th-century paintings of biblical scenes. Quiet and uncrowded, it’s a peaceful stop for seekers of sacred art.
Keşlik Cave Monastery
Walk in the Footsteps of Monks
Tucked in a wooded area near Cemil village, Keşlik Monastery (Keşlik Manastırı) is an almost-unheard-of but incredibly evocative valley church in Cappadocia. Its humble cave chapel and refectory give a true sense of monastic life in the region’s spiritual heyday.
Top Things to Do in Cappadocia in One Day
If you have only one day, exploring the top things to do in Cappadocia demands an early start, but the reward is worth it.
Start your journey before dawn with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride. As the first rays ignite the horizon, your basket soars over the Cappadocia attractions. The fairy chimneys, serpentine valleys, and ancient volcanic formations unfold beneath you – defining any Cappadocia travel.
After landing, fuel your adventure with a leisurely Turkish breakfast of fresh cheese and olives, and simit at Zemi Café Breakfast on the Göreme Historical National Park grounds.
Next, head to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a labyrinth of historical sites in Cappadocia. Its frescoed rock-cut chapels render an instructive look into early Christian life.
Cappadocia travel tip: Due to the region’s uneven terrain, ancient steps, and narrow cave tunnels, wear comfortable walking shoes. Summer days can be scorching, while winters are freezing – so dress accordingly. Even in summer, underground cities remain chilly – pack a jacket when visiting them.
In the afternoon, take iconic photos at the Love Valley (Bağlıdere Vadisi) before ascending the citadel of nature, the Uçhisar Castle (Uçhisar Kalesi). The moderate climb culminates in breathtaking panoramic vistas across the region’s distinctive landscape. Those unable to climb can walk around the area at the castle’s base.
- Renting a car is the most convenient way to get to the castle. However, public buses depart every 30 minutes from Göreme to Uçhisar. The distance between these two destinations is only 5 kilometres, and it takes 15 minutes to get there.
Descend for lunch at the Cappadocia Senza Restaurant, which is not far from the castle and overlooks Göreme. Don’t miss the theatrical testi kebabi, a traditional Turkish dish cooked in a clay pot and cracked open at your table.
Then drive to the Derinkuyu Underground City (Derinkuyu Yeraltı Şehri), a cornerstone of Cappadocia tours. Walking past ancient stables, chapels, and wine presses affords a humbling glimpse into the resilience of past inhabitants – an essential acquaintance with the Cappadocia culture.
- How do you get to the Derinkuyu Underground City without driving? Budget-conscious travellers can take advantage of the local transportation. First, they must take a bus to Nevşehir downtown and another bus to the ancient underground city.
As the day wanes, go back to Göreme to chase the golden hour at the Rose and Red Valleys. Opt for a short hike or drive to an observation point to see how tuff transforms under the setting sun.
- Take a bus back to Nevşehir to switch for another bus to Göreme.
Conclude the day with a glass of local Cappadocian wine and dinner at Cappadocian Cuisine. Their menu also includes several vegetarian dishes.
This route captures the region’s charm, both for a guided Cappadocia tour and a self-paced Cappadocia itinerary. Cappadocia has countless things to see, but this one-day tour ensures newcomers don’t miss the essentials.
Best Things to Do in Cappadocia in Two Days
With two full days in Cappadocia, you will have time to unlock its dramatic topography, ancient underground cities, artisan villages, and local cuisine. This Cappadocia 2-day itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors looking to enjoy the best activities in Cappadocia without strenuous hiking.
Day 1: Top Things to Do in Northern Cappadocia
Like any well-planned Cappadocia travel guide will tell you, no trip is complete without a hot air balloon ride – and Day 1 begins with exactly that. The soul of Cappadocia sightseeing is floating over Göreme and the Love Valley and revelling in the skyline view over sculpted expanses. The balloon rides are typically held before daylight. And the best time for this activity is between April and October, when the skies are clearest and winds calmest.
After the ride, return to Göreme for Turkish breakfast. Have your first taste of Cappadocia’s local cuisine at the coffee shop Patio Cappadocia. It is a great place to relax, away from tourist crowds.
The next Cappadocia attractions are often part of the Red Tour route. They hit the most popular northern sights. Your first stop is the Göreme Open-Air Museum – a UNESCO-listed treasure and one of the Göreme National Park highlights.
A short drive from there takes you to the Love Valley Panorama Viewpoint. Then, visit the tallest point in Cappadocia – Uçhisar Castle. You can observe the castle from below or climb 275 steps for an expansive horizon.
For lunch in Uçhisar, seek Centre Restaurant or Montana Café & Restaurant. In Göreme, the highly rated eateries are Nazar Borek & Café and Cancan Café & Restaurant.
During midday, head to Monk Valley (Pasabag Valley). Proceed to Avanos, famed for its pottery made from the red clay. Delve into an authentic Cappadocia cultural experience by witnessing master potters shaping forms of ancient wheels.
Proceed to Devrent Valley (Devrent Vadisi/Imagination Valley). Its rock lumps resemble animal and human figures.
Conclude Day 1 with a relaxed Turkish meal and a glass of Cappadocian wine at Red Red Wine House in Göreme. This restaurant is also great for vegetarians.
Day 2: Top Things to Do in Southern Cappadocia: Main Attractions
Following the classic Blue Tour itinerary, your second day takes travellers to the scenic southern half of Cappadocia’s captivating nature. You will trade yesterday’s northern fairy chimneys for beautiful valleys, an abandoned village, and the region’s underground refuge. Those looking for prominent historical sites in Cappadocia will appreciate this route. It is ideal for visitors who desire an engaging excursion without overwhelming hiking.
On Day 2, after breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the two neighbouring spectacles, the Red and Rose Valleys. While serious hikers may spend hours here, even a short trail or roadside stop reveals wondrous regional vistas. These valleys especially amaze in the soft morning light, making them a must-see on any Cappadocia sightseeing tour.
The next destination is Çavuşin Village, a peaceful settlement with abandoned cave houses and the rock-carved Church of St. John the Baptist. It is in the list of those Cappadocia hidden gems that perfectly bridge natural and cultural appeal.
From here, take a break at a local restaurant. Nearly every restaurant in this village is ranked highly. You may opt for Café Old Turkish House or Cavusin Han Restaurant. Both serve delicious Anatolian dishes and boast a friendly ambience.
Post-lunch, drive to the Kaymaklı Underground City (Kaymaklı Yeraltı Şehri). While Derinkuyu is deeper, Kaymaklı is considered easier to navigate. Walk down four levels to see how entire communities lived here during invasions.
Cappadocia travel tip: If you are sensitive to confined spaces, skip the underground tunnels and browse many of the curiosities on the upper levels.
After emerging onto the surface, delight in an open-air contrast at the Fairy Chimneys. These are mushroom-shaped rocks that have become hallmarks of Cappadocia tours. Visit the Three Beauties (Üç Güzeller) near Ürgüp, a trio of fairy chimneys. They are in the collection of the most photographed spots in the region.
En route, pause at the Pigeon Valley (Güvercinlik Vadisi), dotted with ancient dovecotes. The peaceful vantage point is ideal for a short stroll or quiet reflection.
Our final stop is the Ortahisar Castle. Often overshadowed by the Uçhisar Castle, Ortahisar is less trodden yet equally impressive out of the top Cappadocia sites. While climbing to the top is optional, even viewing it from the base is rewarding.
As dusk approaches, find an eatery in Ortahisar before your return to Göreme. And afresh, you will come across a decent restaurant wherever you look. To name a few, Uğurlu Restoran, Narin Restaurant Cappadocia, and Janus Cappadocia Restaurant.
Whether you are a solo traveller or using a curated tour, this two-day itinerary emphasises some of the best activities in Cappadocia.
What to Do in Cappadocia in Three Days
Three days are enough to unveil the best places to visit in Cappadocia and its most famous hidden locations.
Day 1: Whispers of Rock & Flame
When discussing the top things to do in Cappadocia, the hot air balloon ride is a must.
Begin your Day 1 before daybreak to see the sunrise while floating in a basket.
After landing, indulge in the deliciousness of Turkish cuisine for your breakfast. Many Cappadocia cave restaurants in Göreme serve great food. So, travellers will easily find the inn that will satisfy their taste for local food.
After breakfast, the first things to see in Cappadocia are the Göreme Open-Air Museum and the Love Valley. Wander through these Cappadocia must-see places with rock-hewed churches, chapels, and refectories.
Next, make your way to Avanos, a haven for Cappadocia shopping. This charming town has pottery workshops and souvenir stores selling local crafts. Stay for lunch at Fatıma’nın Sofrası, a few minutes from the Red River.
After a good meal and perhaps a relaxing stroll along the river, drive to Zelve Valley (5 kilometres from Avanos). Centuries ago, the area was a major centre of the Christian community. The Cappadocia landmark here is the Zelve Open Air Museum (Zelve Açık Hava Müzesi). It contains a maze of abandoned houses, churches, and tunnels in the rock formation.
Continue the historic narrative at Çavuşin, a hillside village, only 2.5 kilometres from Göreme. A rock-chiselled church of St. John the Baptist dates to 964–965 AD.
As the afternoon light fades away, visit the fascinating Özkonak Underground City. It is less frequented than Derinkuyu, but newcomers can also imagine the lives of early Christians who sought refuge here. Those looking for the best places to visit in Cappadocia won’t regret visiting Özkonak.
To wrap up this extraordinary first day, settle in for Cappadocia cultural experiences on a plate at Asmali Konak Restaurant, which is not far from the underground city. Sample their renowned homemade gözleme (stuffed flatbread), flavourful köfte (spiced meatballs), and lentil soup.
This Cappadocia travel itinerary has everything – aerial majesty, profound history, artisanal craft, human-adapted natural marvels, and culinary delight. It sets the tone for an enduring sojourn that still lies ahead.
Day 2: Cappadocia’s Volcanic Lake and a Picturesque Town
Begin your second day of the three-day itinerary rooted in Göreme, eating a morning meal amidst the fairy chimneys. Today ventures beyond Göreme, covering the remarkable scope of Cappadocia day trips and the region's diverse Cappadocia attractions.
Start with a 30-minute drive to Kaymaklı Underground City, the most intriguing Cappadocia historical site and an accessible destination on many Cappadocia tours. Be amazed by the different kinds of beauty beneath the region’s surface.
From there, continue Cappadocia sightseeing southward, driving around 50 minutes to the breathtaking Ihlara Valley (Ihlara Vadisi). It is dotted with Cappadocia churches – remnants of early monastic life, perfect for faith tourism. Consider a brief, photogenic stop at Lake Nar (Narlı Gölü) along the way. Its green waters are an amazing natural wonder of Cappadocia.
Upon arrival in Ihlara, you have two lunch options depending on your appetite. If you're hungry after the drive, head straight to Baba Kebab, a casual eatery near the valley's entrance. Otherwise, save your appetite for later, relish a gentle riverside walk and watch the rock-engraved churches scattered along the canyon walls.
After your valley stroll, drive to Güzelyurt, about 20 minutes away, and treat yourself to a meal at Gelveri Gastronomi Konağı. Perched on a hillside, this restaurant serves authentic Cappadocian delicacies with a full-circle outlook across the valley.
At noon, proceed to the majestic Selime Monastery (Selime Manastırı), a vast rock-sculpted complex. Its sheer scale, intricate carvings, and panoramic setting solidify its place among the best places to visit in Cappadocia.
Drive back to Göreme in the early evening and enjoy supper in town. If you still have energy and time left, conclude the day at the Red Valley in the evening glow. This day, packed with geological sights, will be a good addition to any Cappadocian tour.
Day 3: Cappadocia Hidden Gems – Villages, Valleys & Forgotten Churches
The final day on this Cappadocia 3-day itinerary is dedicated to places many visitors overlook – Cappadocia's off-the-beaten treasures that provide authentic encounters far from the usual crowds.
On Day 3, after an early breakfast at the Göreme cave hotel, set out around 8:00 AM for a 10-minute drive to the Hallaç Monastery (Hallacdere Monastery), a UNESCO-recognised cave complex near Ortahisar. The 11th-century monument is one of the unique things to do in Cappadocia.
After spending around 90 minutes scrutinising its faded iconography and carved cells, continue to Ürgüp. Begin with a visit to the small Ürgüp Museum (Ürgüp Müzesi), displaying ancient coins and a set of mammoth teeth. The real allure, however, lies in Ürgüp’s vibrant streets. Dedicate the late morning to Cappadocia shopping, browsing local workshops and galleries for silver antiques and handwoven carpets. Rest for lunch at either Sofra Restaurant or Neva Ev Yemekleri.
Pro tip: Get the museum pass for unlimited access to most Turkish museums.
At noon, drive 11 minutes to the quiet Pancarlık Valley, rarely featured on standard Cappadocia tours. Yet it has been home to the church since the early 11th century. Its faded portraits and rural backdrop create a contemplative aura that few other Cappadocia landmarks can match.
By 1:50 PM, proceed to the nearby Cappadocia Coffee Museum (Kapadokya Kahve Müzesi) for a singular cultural pause. This unfrequented venue showcases the history of Turkish coffee culture and caters to a caffeine boost, with antique brewing tools and regional varieties. Try their signature brews, such as coffee flavoured with orange and others (until 3:00 PM).
A 10-minute drive brings you to the village of Mustafapaşa. A Greek community lived here until the early 20th century. Stroll past the magnificent old Greek stone houses and the old Orthodox churches.
Drive 15 minutes further to Damsa Village to see the Taşkınpaşa Mosque. This structure hides an extraordinary detail. The mosque’s balcony is decorated with walnut inlay, the only known example in all of Türkiye. It’s an important final entry in your journey through Cappadocia’s unspoiled treasures.
Optional extension: If ancient churches captivate you, from Mustafapaşa, drive 30 minutes to Yeşilöz Village to see the St. Theodore’s Church. Its unusual T-shaped layout and the adventure of climbing a ladder to the upper gallery offer an offbeat acquaintance with Cappadocia’s Byzantine legacy.
As dusk approaches, you may:
- Drive back towards Göreme, stopping at Red Valley, famed for its vineyards. Dine at Kızılvadi Restaurant, partaking in local cuisine as the valley dresses up with sunset hues.
- Or stock up on gourmet treats in Damsa, buy a bottle of Kızılçukur wine, and find a spot to watch an orange horizon.
This final day completes your travel with the depth of the Cappadocia must-see places and natural miracles. Travellers who want to go beyond the surface will embrace the essence of this timeless land with its secret valleys, hilltop monasteries, authentic villages, and historic mosques.