Very few places transport you to an alternate world like Cappadocia in Turkey. This magical land is on every traveler's dream bucket list. It is a unique region where you will find magnificent rock formations, incredible rock-cut churches, mysterious underground cities, ancient cave houses, bewitching fairy chimneys, and dramatic lunar-like landscapes. The region has a perfect blend of natural and human-made wonders that are a sight to behold. And, of course, the icing on the cake here is the hundreds of colorful balloons that fill the sky every morning, beckoning millions of visitors to this place. Want to know what else is in store for you in Cappadocia? Keep reading!
List of Best Places to Visit in Cappadocia
Cappadocia has many exceptional places to visit that will tempt you to apply for a Turkey visa immediately.
Göreme Open Air Museum
The Göreme Open Air Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top attractions in Cappadocia. It is a cluster of monasteries within which are historic churches carved out in rock between the 10-12th Century. It is known for its striking frescoes that adorn the walls and showcase Christian biblical scenes.
Underground cities
Cappadocia has numerous underground cities, of which Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu are two of the most famous ones. In the past, these subterranean cities protected the inhabitants from outside invaders. Derinkuyu is the deepest underground city, with a depth of 85 meters. It has an elaborate ventilation system, several rooms and storage areas. Kaymaklı is one of the largest underground cities, with eight floors, of which only four are accessible to the public. It has many storage areas, wineries, and stables.
Uçhisar Castle
The iconic Uçhisar Castle is situated on top of a hill and is the highest point in Cappadocia. The rooms in this cylindrically shaped castle are carved out of rocks connected with passages and stairs. It has many cave pigeon houses, churches, and fairy chimneys that give a glimpse into the lifestyle of people who lived here years ago. Once you are at the top of the castle, enjoy a splendid panoramic view of the entire city.
Fairy Chimneys at Paşabağı Valley
The fairy chimneys of Paşabağı Valley are another prominent highlight of the region. Also known as hoodoos, these conic-shaped structures were formed due to past volcanic eruptions and they come under the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
Zelve Open Air Museum
The Zelve Open Air Museum dates to the Byzantine era; this started as a monastery in the 9th Century and transformed into a thriving village by the 20th Century. However, the town was abandoned in 1952 for safety reasons due to erosion and rockfalls. The entire village is converted into an open-air museum and is a must-visit for its unique architecture.
Exciting and Adventurous Things to Do in Cappadocia
Cappadocia is not just about history and ancient rock formations. This city packs quite a punch when it comes to the fun. Here are a few exciting activities you can enjoy in this delightful place.
Soar into the sky in a hot air balloon ride
Soar thousands of feet into the air and feast your eyes on the breathtaking vistas and watch numerous vibrant balloons surrounding you. Watch the landscape change dramatically in the morning light, with the sun's rays increasing the beauty of the fairy chimneys and spiral rock formations. Enjoying a hot air balloon ride is one of the top tourist attractions in Turkey. Book them in advance, as these get sold out quickly.
Stay in a luxurious cave hotel
Cappadocia has numerous naturally formed rock-cut caves that have been amazingly preserved. These are converted into hotels with all the latest amenities, lavish interiors, and luxurious ambiance. Book a suite at one of these wonderfully restored hotels and stay here for at least a few nights. We promise you that it will be one of the most marvelous experiences of your life.
Pamper yourself with a hammam session
Turkey is known for its hammams or baths, and Cappadocia has both traditional and modern hammams that you can book. Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul after a tiring day of sightseeing, and feel all the exhaustion leave your body. It is one of the most favorite things to do in Cappadocia for couples.
Hike the valleys
Cappadocia has many gorgeous valleys; hiking around them is the best way to soak in its unparalleled landscape and verdant countryside. You can see churches and monasteries carved on the rocks and cliffs. You can take your pick from Ilhara, Rose, Love, Pigeon, Devrant, and Red Valleys. You can even go horseback riding or book ATV rides here. If time permits, you must visit each of these valleys as they offer something very special.
Shop for carpets
Enjoy a few hours of retail therapy in Cappadocia. The markets here are lined with colorful carpet shops, and you can find carpets and rugs that are more than a hundred years old. They come in beautiful designs and intricate handwork and are a fantastic addition to your home decor.
Conclusion
In recent years, Cappadocia has gained a lot of fame due to its fascinating landscape and fairy-tale-like setting. Plan a holiday to Turkey as soon as possible and experience the charm of this place.
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