A city known for its marvelous topography, the otherworldly beauty of Cappadocia’s volcanic landscape makes you feel like you’re on another planet! During your visit, going on a hot air balloon to get a bird’s-eye view of the city’s rocky hills, towering boulders, and narrow valleys is a must-try. However, Cappadocia also has a plethora of activities beneath its surface, where you can check out its many underground cities and the architecture in the caverns. For more ideas on things to do in Cappadocia, check out our guide below!
A trip to Cappadocia wouldn’t be complete without a hike through Pigeon Valley, an easy trail that stretches between Goreme Town and Uchisar Town! Here you can take in the city’s moon-like landscape, admire the tall rock formations called “fairy chimneys”, or explore the caves along the trail, which are occasionally used by the pigeons to roost. With its spectacular views that make for fantastic photos, especially during a clear day, it’s no surprise that Pigeon Valley is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cappadocia. Should you need to take a breather, stop by the many gift shops and refreshment stands.
Known for its well-equipped resort, most travelers visit Mount Erciyes during the winter when it's covered in thick snow. During this time, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountain and its surroundings as you take the ski lift to the top and while you ski down the slopes. However, Mount Erciyes can also be visited during other times of the year! With warmer weather, you can freely explore the mountain trails without having to worry about the cold by hiking around or going on a mountaineering adventure.
If you’re visiting Cappadocia during the winter, spending a day or two at the Erciyes Ski Resort is simply a must! A popular wintertime destination for tourists, here you can relax and unwind as you take in the views from the gondola and tackle the mountain’s slopes. Should it get too cold outside, you can just choose to stay inside the resort for some warmth. Equipment rentals, including gloves, are readily available at the location.
An inactive volcano with two summits that tower at over 3,000 meters, Hasandağı is a landmark in Cappadocia that can be appreciated even from afar. However, it is recommended to go hiking here to get the best experience. Before you make your way up the top, eat and drink up at the picnic area to fuel your hike. Once you reach the top, you’ll get an unbeatable view of Central Anatolia, including nearby landmarks such as the Taurus Mountains and Mount Erciyes. If you visit in the winter, Hasandağı becomes even more picture-perfect, with a snow-capped peak revealed once the clouds dissipate.
Perched on a rock, the Uchisar Castle is a majestic citadel that houses centuries-old historical relics. Spend some time exploring the cave dwellings, some of which are still inhabited to this day, and the tunnels that can be found throughout. We recommend that you climb up to the top of the castle, which will reward you with panoramic views of the city and the surroundings. Visit early in the morning to watch the hot air balloons take off or late in the afternoon so you can catch the stunning sunset, which paints the castle in vivid orange.
If you’re up for some adventure, then the Anti-Taurus Mountains is the perfect place for you! Home to many nomads and civilizations throughout time, you’ll be able to learn about the ways of the past as you explore the old villages and rock pools. This mountain range is also filled with various trekking and climbing routes that offer sweeping views of Turkey on one side and of the Mediterranean on the other, which make for memorable souvenir photos.
Witness one of the most popular landmarks in Cappadocia, the Pasabag Valley, where you can take a close look at the conical, mushroom-shaped rock formations called “fairy chimneys”. Situated between the Goreme and Avanos, it’s an ideal place for a leisurely walk as you travel from one to the other. During your trip, make sure to get a good look at the monk refuges carved into some of the pillars, which have been well-preserved throughout time. It is recommended to wear a sturdy pair of shoes when exploring the valley, especially if you wish to climb to the top.
Famous for its one-of-a-kind lunar-like landscape that makes you feel like you’re on another planet, Devrent is a must-visit for any traveler. Let your imagination run wild as you observe the rock formations in the valley, which can take on different animals, such as camels, alligators, snakes, and more, depending on the observer. If you want to get a different view of the valley, you can try hopping on a hot air balloon for a bird’s-eye view.
Experience an adventure like no other with a trip to Aşıklar vadisi, a gorgeous valley that’s renowned for its rock formations, rugged mountains, and amazing views. Here you can spend some time just taking in the valley’s landscape or even explore it by hopping on an ATV so you can traverse it without any difficulty. We recommend visiting in the early in the morning or late in the afternoon so you can take in the breathtaking sunrise or sunset, which illuminates the landscape with a fiery orange tint.
Get your fill of nature and the outdoors by visiting Kapuzbaşı Selalesi Kayseri, a well-hidden place in Cappadocia. With its wonderful scenery consisting of a rugged landscape, high-altitude lakes, and snow-capped mountain peaks in the wintertime, it’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking some time away from the city. Outdoorsy types will get the chance to examine its natural wonders up close by hiking, while those who prefer a more relaxed visit can simply sit back and enjoy a picnic.
Cappadocia is best known for its natural wonders and landscapes. Locals and visitors alike enjoy its various outdoor activities like examining the rock formations at Pasabag and Pigeon Valley, enjoying the uninterrupted views from the Anti-Taurus Mountains, or going on nature excursions.
As a mostly outdoor destination, it’s highly recommended to visit in Mar-June, when the weather is warm and clear but not too high, or in Sep-Oct for the Grape Harvest Festival in Ürgüp. Visitors can also stop by in winter (Nov-Feb) to see the snow-capped peaks.
Choose between Göreme and Uçhisar for a central location and access to restaurants, nightlife, luxury hotels, and the fairy chimneys. If you wish to enjoy a quieter accommodation, try Çavuşin or Ürgüp.