When most people think about Cappadocia, they instantly picture hot air balloons floating over surreal landscapes. Which is very true! But after spending 3 nights there, I realised there’s SOOO much more to do!
Honestly, it felt like it wasn’t enough time, especially if you love history and nature. Cappadocia is full of both. Waking up early and running to the rooftop of Charming Cave Hotel to watch the balloons fly was magical. They get so close, it feels like you can almost touch them!
The ATV tour was a highlight for me because we got to see so many different valleys up close, and the rugged trails made it an adventure to remember. And the castle, Uçhisar Castle, was unbelievable. I kept thinking, “How did they even build this?”.
I could go on and on about what to see in Cappadocia. The fairy chimneys, cave hotels, unique trails, and the fascinating history of this place will make you want to come back. Trust me, if you’re not sure about visiting, the landscapes and experiences will win you over.
So if you have a trip coming up to Cappadocia, here are 16 things you have to try!
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Cave Hotels we recommend
($) Budget: Shoestring Cave House
($$) Mid-range: Charming Cave Hotel
($$$) Luxury: Museum Hotel
👉 Activities you cant miss
– Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
– Hike Through the Valleys
– Kaymakli Underground City
– Horseback Riding Tours
– Sunset ATV Quad Bike
– Flying dress Photoshoot
– Relax at a Turkish bath
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First things first… the hot air balloons! Watching them rise at dawn is better than in photos. Depending on whether you want to go up in one or see it from a rooftop cave hotel, they will float above the fairy chimneys. It’s a surreal sight I’ll never forget.
👉 Book your hot air balloon tour here.
Don’t miss Testi Kebab (clay pot kebab). The meat is slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot, and they break it open at your table. The flavours are rich, and it’s fun watching the pot being cracked open.
Explore Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, ancient underground cities used as refuges. I didn’t last long underground. Turns out I’m more claustrophobic than I thought! But it’s fascinating to see how people once lived there, with entire networks of rooms, tunnels, and ventilation shafts.
👉 Book a guided tour we recommend here
Cappadocia is a hiker’s dream. Check out Rose Valley, Love Valley, and Pigeon Valley. Each offers stunning rock formations, hidden cave churches, and scenic views. Hiking lets you really enjoy the landscape. Just wear comfy shoes because some trails are rocky and steep.
👉 Read Next: The Perfect Itinerary for 2 Days in Cappadocia
A UNESCO World Heritage site with rock-cut churches and monasteries decorated with ancient frescoes. It’s incredible to walk through these spaces. Many trails start in Göreme, and there are guided tours if you prefer to explore with a guide.
👉 Book a guided tour we recommend here
Known for its fairy chimneys, Pasabag feels like walking through a fantasy world. The rock formations are unreal and perfect for photos. You can even walk inside some of the chimneys.
You can’t visit Cappadocia without staying in a cave hotel. We stayed at Charming Cave Hotel, and it was amazing. Cosy, unique, and full of character! Each cave hotel has different room styles, some with stunning views and some more authentic cave-like (no windows).
Here are some we recommend:
($) Budget: Shoestring Cave House
($$) Mid-range: Sultan Cave Suites and Charming Cave Hotel
($$$) Luxury: Museum Hotel
This is a lot of fun! Immerse yourself in Turkish culture with traditional dances, music, and delicious food. Watching the whirling dervishes and folk dancers was a highlight.
Let your imagination run wild! The rocks here look like animals and random shapes. Super fun for creative photos. Definitely a unique valley you can’t miss.
An ancient monastic site with cave dwellings and churches. It’s quieter than Göreme Museum but equally fascinating. The abandoned village vibes make it feel like you’ve stepped into another era.
Did you know Cappadocia is known as the “Land of Beautiful Horses”? Seeing the valleys through horse riding trails is a great way to explore, especially during sunset.
👉 Book your horseback tour here.
Avanos is famous for pottery. You can join a workshop, learn traditional techniques, and even make your own pot. A great souvenir to remember your trip. It’s hands on and fun, even if you’re not artsy.
👉 This is the Pottery activity we would recommend.
This might have been a highlight for me! Riding through Love Valley, Sword Valley, and Rose Valley on an ATV was thrilling, especially at sunset. The landscapes look even more magical with the golden light.
👉 View recommended ATV tours here.
If you want some memorable photos, there are flying dress photoshoots available! They are taken in amazing locations like Göreme Viewpoint, Pasabag (Monk’s Valley), and Devrent Valley. Sunrise is the best time because of the balloons in the sky.
👉 If you want a professional photographer, we recommend this tour.
Climb to the top for panoramic views. The castle itself is like a giant rock filled with tunnels and rooms carved into it. It’s easy to navigate with stairs leading to the top.
After all the hiking, treat yourself to a Turkish bath. It’s relaxing, rejuvenating, and a unique cultural experience. The warm marble, the exfoliation, and the massage will feel like pure bliss after a long day of exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions on Cappadocia
Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-November) are perfect for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Book in advance through reputable tour operators.
👉 Reserve your hot air balloon ride here.
Yes, but some passages are narrow. Not ideal if you’re claustrophobic (I struggled a bit!).
Trails are well-marked, but a guide can enrich your experience.
👉 Book guided hikes here.
Comfortable clothes and sturdy walking shoes. Dress in layers, as mornings can be chilly even in summer.
Absolutely. I felt very safe exploring the region, even on solo hikes and tours.
We spent 3 nights, but honestly, 4-5 days would be perfect to fully explore without rushing.
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