Cappadocia, Turkey: What to See?

We always wondered what it would be like to visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cappadocia. Since we were staying in Göreme, this place was an absolute must—and it turned out to be an incredible experience. It’s amazing to think about how people thousands of years ago created such a stunning site. We explored the churches, chapels, and monasteries carved into the volcanic rock mountains. The intricate wall art, which has survived for centuries, left us truly impressed. These thousand-year-old artworks are a remarkable testament to history. This site is a priceless treasure of the world. History is such a timeless and fascinating subject to explore, and this place offers a perfect, real-life lesson that you can learn so much from. We highly recommend visiting!

This place was absolutely amazing. So much history, and so many cool things to see. Make sure you arrive at least an hour before when they close. We tried going the day prior but didn't get there in time. Their closing time is really strict, so arrive with plenty of time to spare. Also, if you go when there's snow and/or ice outside, walk *very* carefully. Things here get super slippery!

One of my favorite museum in turkey, it is very beautiful and has very interesting history. The area is so big and you have to hike and climb a stair a little bit. The area is so beautiful and there are many beautiful paintings inside of the church.

It’s about a 20-minute walk from Göreme town on mostly flat roads with a gentle slope. The open-air museum is small and can be explored in about one to two hours. I recommend using the museum’s app for audio guides. The Dark Church has a separate entry fee; although it’s a bit pricey, it’s worth it for the stunning frescoes inside. Be sure to use the app’s free commentary while you’re there! I recommend visiting around sunset to avoid the heat of the day.

This was a delightful experience. Although the price has increased over the years, the historical significance of the site still makes it worth visiting. We didn’t hire a guide, but we found one on the grounds. Yunus was an excellent guide who shared the history of the area and provided detailed information about the various churches within the museum. While photography is prohibited in the main churches, there are a few others where you can take pictures or admire the paintings or unique cave architecture. I highly recommend hiring a guide to learn more about the history of each church as you explore. The “dark” church, so named because sunlight hasn’t reached the inside, is a must-see. Many of the paintings are untouched and still vibrant in their original bright blue colors. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to this UNESCO open-air historical museum.

We very much enjoyed our stay at this unique cave hotel. It was especially possible thanks to the great and easy to communicate with staff. The breakfast was also great, ingredients were fresh and the terrace had a great view for both the inside and outside sitting arrangements. Fantastic view of the balloons in the morning. The rooms were quite clean and very much enjoyed the spacious and modern bathrooms. Some points for improvement/constructive criticism: I will point out the that the overall furniture choice especially cushions felt quite antique but in a dusty way, I’m allergic and the furniture did not suit me (could be just a me issue). Also although the cave structure makes the rooms relatively cooler, the a/c unit was only in the living room so some added fans would definitely be beneficial. The terrace had some very worn and dusty cushions which were not enjoyable to sit on.

Wonderful hotel, large clean rooms, EXCELLENT service. This is a family business and they are SUPER attentive. Book all ur tours/balloon rides/activities with the them, they have the best/ standard rates and only work with the quality companies.

We spent 3 nights at Balloon Cave Hotel in early Jun’24. We had no expectations and nothing booked for our time in Cappadocia. The hotel had two main tours on offer for €65 each (Green tour and Red tour) so we decided to book these for our two full days in Cappadocia. The hotel staff were so friendly and hospitable; they really made us feel looked after. Its a family run hotel and it really shows from the care and attention they take of their hotel and their guests. We were given lots of restaurant recommendations which we used for our three dinners in Cappadocia, all excellent choices and within walking distance of the hotel. The hotel is centrally located to Gerome and its easy to find your way around. The hotel itself is very boutique style and stunning with air con, nice showers, good space in the room and comfortable bed. The rooms and hotel are also very clean. On our first morning we went to the hotel terrace to see the balloons and it was magical. This is a great advantage of staying at this hotel as you just need to go upstrairs to see the magic. The terrace is so beautiful with lots of cozy seating spaces. This is also where breakfast is served; the food is freshly prepared and really tasty. They had a range of options and if you needed anything specific the staff were very accommodating (eg I needed hot milk for my coffee!). I thought its really nice of them to prepare chicken based breakfast (chicken ham / sausages) based on tbe fact that they have a lot of indian guests who dont eat beef. Lovely hotel and would recommend especially because of the hot air balloon views and the service

Cannot say enough good things about this Hotel. Amazing staff! They cannot be more accommodating. Every need and whim were taken care of. They booked us with a balloon company. All transfers we perfect, on time and seamless. Made us feel like family. And, the hotel is immaculate! Quaint and charming. Highly recommend

A Dreamlike Escape at Balloon Cave Hotel, Cappadocia From the moment you step into the enchanting Balloon Cave Hotel in Cappadocia, you are transported into a world of meticulous care and exceptional service. This hotel is not just a place to stay; it is an experience that captivates your heart and soothes your soul. Every inch of the hotel is immaculately maintained, with an eye for detail that promises an unparalleled guest experience. The reception area sets the tone with its warm, inviting ambiance, ensuring that every guest feels like royalty. The staff at Balloon Cave Hotel are nothing short of phenomenal—attentive, knowledgeable, and always eager to accommodate every request with a personalized touch. Whether arriving weary from travel or seeking adventure in the magical landscapes of Cappadocia, the team is ready to assist with exceptional competence and a smile. The rooms themselves are a haven of comfort, blending rustic charm with modern amenities, all while maintaining the unique cave-like feel that is synonymous with the region. The views from the hotel are breathtaking, offering a panorama of Cappadocia’s iconic fairy chimneys and vibrant hot air balloons dotting the early morning sky. Dining at the hotel is an affair to remember, with dishes that showcase the rich, local flavors prepared with finesse. The hotel’s commitment to providing an intimate and caring environment makes every meal feel like a private celebration. In conclusion, Balloon Cave Hotel stands out as a jewel in the heart of Cappadocia. It’s more than just a hotel—it’s a place where memories are made, where every need is met with a smile, and every moment is infused with magic. For anyone looking to be enveloped in care and luxury, this hotel is undoubtedly one of the best choices in the region.

The Hot Air Balloon ride in Cappadocia is a truly unforgettable experience! Floating above the stunning landscape, with its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys, offers breathtaking views at sunrise. The smooth ride and knowledgeable pilots make it both safe and exhilarating. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Cappadocia!

We booked a hot air balloon ride well in advance through Airbnb, as this was the highlight of our trip to Cappadocia. This was the main reason we traveled there. However, upon arrival in Cappadocia, we were met with complete chaos and a lack of information. No messages, no updates – nothing! We had no idea if we would be picked up, at what time, or how the whole experience was supposed to unfold. By 8 p.m., just a few hours before the scheduled flight, we had to reach out ourselves to find out what was going on. To our surprise, they informed us that our flight had been canceled due to “bad weather.” But in reality, the weather forecast was perfect. The next day, we found ourselves surrounded by hundreds of balloons in the sky with perfect weather – not a single hint of the bad conditions they had mentioned! We even took a tour to watch the balloons take off from the ground, and it was stunning. All I could feel was deep frustration. Our flight was canceled, and no one even offered to reschedule it for the following day. How is this even possible? We were faced with another major problem – because of their incompetence and failure to warn us in advance, we had no chance to book another flight. Everything was sold out, and there simply wasn’t enough time. As a result, we missed out on the most important experience we had planned for our trip to Cappadocia. The way we were treated was an appalling display of incompetence and a complete lack of care for their customers. No explanations, no alternative solutions, not even an apology. We spent a lot of money and effort to come here, only to be left without the highlight of our trip. Absolutely unacceptable! If you value your time and money, I highly recommend finding a more reliable company that actually cares about their customers and doesn’t ruin their dreams. Since our booking was canceled, we couldn’t leave a review on Airbnb, so we had to leave it here on Google Maps. P.S. The photo was taken on September 20, a day when the weather was supposed to be bad, according to the expert opinion of our tour operator.

Hot Air Balloon Soganli Yes, you read it right – our hot air balloon flight took place in Soganli, not Cappadocia, and the experience was underwhelming. How We Ended Up in Soganli: - We originally booked our balloon flight for Cappadocia, but due to cancellations on the first day, prices soared to 320 EURO per person for the next day. With a budget of 150-200 EURO, we couldn’t justify the increase. - We were offered a rate of 220 EURO per person, later learning it was for a flight in Soganli, 40 km away from Cappadocia. Unfortunately, the agent didn’t disclose this initially, focusing only on the price difference. Comparing Soganli and Cappadocia Balloon Experiences: - Balloon Count: In Cappadocia, there are around 150+ balloons flying simultaneously, creating a stunning visual experience. In Soganli, there are only about 10-12 balloons in the sky, which significantly affects the atmosphere. - Views: Cappadocia offers iconic landscapes with fairy chimneys and valleys. Soganli, by contrast, has mostly agricultural fields and basic mountain views, which felt lackluster in comparison. Final Thoughts and Recommendations: - If you’re ever offered a flight in Soganli as an alternative to Cappadocia, don’t choose it if you’re seeking the quintessential Cappadocian balloon experience. Even after bargaining down to 160 EURO per person, it wasn’t worth it. - Alternative Suggestion: If budget is a constraint, consider the hot air balloon ride in Pamukkale. For under 80 EURO, you get 15-20 balloons with spectacular views. - This way, you can opt for the iconic balloon photography in Cappadocia and experience a more affordable ride in Pamukkale.

Exotic & once in a lifetime experience in Pamukkale that I wouldn’t trade for anything else in the world. Gorgeous views & amazing nature that God has made for all of us to enjoy & be mesmerized by! 😍

This was the Highlight of the turkey tour. Most dreamy and magical tour. It is completely dependent on weather and wind we were lucky as 3 days tours before us and even next day after ours the tour were cancelled. Its all worth the wait and money to go for this tour.

Kaymaklı Underground City in Turkey is not just a tourist destination; it's a portal to a hidden ancient world, only rediscovered in 1964. The thought that this sprawling subterranean network once housed an entire civilization is nothing short of mind-blowing. The city’s complex system of tunnels, doors, and ingeniously designed traps speaks volumes about the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its former inhabitants. Exploring Kaymaklı is like walking through a live history book. Each narrow passage and carved-out room offers a glimpse into the past, showing how people lived, stored food, and protected themselves from invaders. The experience is immersive and awe-inspiring, making it a must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. However, a word of caution: this is not a place for everyone. If you are claustrophobic or have mobility issues, particularly bad knees, the cramped and often steep passages might prove challenging. The site demands a fair amount of bending and climbing, so it’s essential to be physically prepared. In terms of cost, like many attractions in Turkey, the admission fee for foreigners is higher than for locals. However, at 100 Turkish Lira (approximately $5-6 USD), the price feels reasonable for such a unique and historically significant site. Despite the higher cost for international visitors, the value of experiencing Kaymaklı Underground City firsthand is immense. For those who are up for the physical challenge, Kaymaklı offers an unforgettable adventure into the depths of ancient human ingenuity and survival. It’s a vivid reminder of what humans are capable of creating, and a unique historical treasure not to be missed during your visit to Turkey.

I don’t remember the entrance fee, but after getting in there are the guides whose services are very expensive. They asked for 30 euro per person. This is very much if you ask me. We entered and I didn’t feel comfortable at all. The tight tunnels scared me and the feeling that mountain is pressing on me was very overwhelming. I don’t qualify as claustrophobic but visiting this place might have triggered it. If you get over the breathing difficulty the place might me interesting. They tell about how people lived, how they were preserving food and storing wine.

Kaymakli is known for its intricate underground network, which dates back to Hittite times and was later expanded during the Byzantine era. With a ticket price of 13€, visitors can explore 4 out of the 8 levels. These include living spaces, storage rooms, kitchens, and ventilation systems. The city was used as a refuge during periods of invasion, and its design demonstrates advanced engineering for its time. While fascinating, the narrow passages and steep climbs may pose a challenge for some visitors.

Worth an experience for €13 if you are not claustrophobic and enjoy caves. This is a good thing to do in less than 1 h if you are in the Capadocia area. They will offer you guides but it is not required in my opinion, you can navigate following the red arrow signs in and following the blue arrow signs out, it is a round trip anyway and typically there are other groups of people on a weekday.

Kaymakli Underground City is a fascinating historical site located in Cappadocia, Turkey. This was our first visit and it left a lasting impression. Entry tickets cost €13 per person and we decided to hire a guide at the entrance. Mustafa, our guide, initially quoted 2000 lira for the tour but we negotiated the price down to 1500 lira. Hiring him was the best decision we made. His detailed explanations brought the underground city’s history to life. Without his guidance, we wouldn’t have fully understood the purpose of the different rooms and tunnels, nor would we have navigated the maze-like structure easily. The city, carved into volcanic rock, dates back thousands of years and served as a refuge during times of invasion. Mustafa shared fascinating insights about how the inhabitants lived underground for extended periods, complete with ventilation shafts, storage rooms, kitchens and even a church. It’s remarkable to think about the ingenuity that went into creating such a space. We spent about an hour exploring and the early morning visit proved wise, as the site can become overcrowded later in the day with large tour groups. The narrow, low-ceilinged passages require careful navigation—watch your head! Kaymakli is more than a tourist attraction; it’s a testament to human resilience and creativity. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and highly recommend hiring a guide to make the experience more enriching. This hidden world beneath the surface is truly a marvel.

Price is 13€ per adult. The city itself is a unique place and worth to visit at least once in a lifetime. I counted ~200 steps (~15cm each) to the bottom level which is equivalent of ~30m. The main ventilation shaft seems never cleaned: bottom covered with trash (who are these people!!??). Some corridors are very low (~1.2m). I think the space inside might be better and more picturesque illuminated.

It is impressive to see how this undergorund city was carved without machines… it is just incredible. And although I wasn’t that excited to visit this, I glad I did. It is surreal to think people lived there. Tips for travelers in a budget: -We arrived by car, parking next to the entrances is paid. But if you don’t mind walking 2/3 blocks you’ll find free parking almost everywhere -The entrance ticket is 13 euros. We visited it during October, not very crowded luckily. -Beware that once you get down to the underground cities there are people “helping” you understand where to go and telling you things about the city, these are Tour guides, so don’t follow them unless you want to pay for a tour. They don’t offer you the service upfront, they kinda trick you. -Don’t go with a full stomach, going down 8 stories can feel VERY funny, I had a runny nose and some cough like when on a plane. It is totally manageable if you don’t have heart condition. -If you are not going with a guide, read about the underground city before you go so it is not just a cave -If you are claustrophobic then don’t go. It is tiny and dark.

Fascinating place. I loved it and I live the history. I didn't get a guide but probably worth it for all the information. You can tell its still a 'work in progress' and mostly because it's very much a part of the locals way of life, rather than some cool attraction. Go early to beat the queues. I went around 9am and there were onky 2 other groups. Spent a good time down there. Tight spaces and some upward climbs so something to think about if your an unfit and/or wide human. Tall people will do some crouching but there is enough open space to stretch back out. I think it's only claustrophobic when there are lots of people down there. Cost me 450 lira today 20.09.24

I visited Derinkuyu Underground City as part of the Green Tour, and it was absolutely fascinating. It’s incredible to see how people once lived in such a complex underground system. The city is vast, with so many levels and rooms, and offers a real glimpse into the past. However, the spaces can be quite narrow and cramped, so it’s not ideal for very tall people or the elderly, as some areas are difficult to navigate. Despite that, it’s a must-see and an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Without a guide allot of what you see is unknown. It was a fun experience to go down and see a city built in the past underground. Seeing some of the basic structures. The tunnels are very narrow and you need to bend low to walk down the stairs.

Amazing Cave Castle! You can explore all around it, and from the top, enjoy a fantastic view of the cities and valleys. Entrance fee: 250 TL. You can reach it also by public transport, taking a minibus from Göreme, stopping at Uçhisar (35 TL).

Stanning 360 panorama at the top (~15 floors like). Meet a sunset here - strongly recommend! Adult ticket is 10$ Windy (so, based on season be prepared, I visited in January). P.s. Many wild dogs in the town and nearby valleys - be aware because they can be really aggressive.

This was my favorite place during my trip to Türkiye—the highest viewpoint in Cappadocia! This historical and natural landmark used to be a fortress and watchtower carved from a massive volcanic rock formation. The castle is filled with rooms and tunnels, making it an exciting place to explore. Stairs have been built to allow visitors to climb to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with the best view from the highest point in Cappadocia. The scenery from the summit is absolutely breathtaking—one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen in my life. As a bonus, there are plenty of friendly cats along the way to greet you as you explore the castle, adding to the charm of the experience. They’re so adorable! This place is truly incredible. Don’t miss the chance to visit this amazing site if you’re in Cappadocia.

We visited around 10 AM, and the place wasn’t very crowded but still had a lot of visitors. I don’t remember the price of the entrance fee, but wasn’t very expensive. At the ground floor they have a nice art exhibition. After climbing some stairs inside, you switch to the outside and walk stairs in the sun. If is no wind, you are fried😂 I recommend sun-screen. The castle is interesting because of its architecture (if I can call it that way).

Uçhisar Castle is a true gem of Cappadocia! Perched atop the region’s highest point, it offers breathtaking panoramic views that are simply magical, especially at sunset. The castle’s labyrinthine rock-carved interior and rich history transport you to another era. A must-visit spot for anyone seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage!

How did the world create such a beautiful scene as this amazing landscape? It took millions of years of natural erosion to shape these mountains into what they are today—and they are truly stunning. This is one of the most breathtaking views we’ve ever seen. Located not far from downtown Göreme, we highly recommend visiting this scenic spot to experience it at least once. Love Valley offers many great spots for capturing amazing photos. There’s even a camel ride service if you’re looking for a unique experience. The charming wooden stairs, adorned with talismans of luck hanging everywhere, add to the enchanting atmosphere. At the top of the hill, you’ll find a cute yellow van set against the backdrop of beautiful mountains and cliffs—a perfect spot for photos!

Amazing experience. Such beautiful place during sunrise ! We absolutely loved every second of this spectacle. Unfortunately, at that time we were there, hot balloons ride was too expensive for us. But we enjoyed being there anyways ! It’s an absolute must-see

Took the kids on a ballon and got to travel over the love valley. Truly a remarkable landmark. Beautiful sights from above and below. The my are still building the entrances so it a little messy with construction. - bring cash.

Amazing view and unique landscape. The hiking trail can be a bit confusing. Using a good hiking app will definitely help. Pity there were quite a lot trash along the trails. Please bring your waste with you to protect this beautiful place.

A unique and scenic spot. The landscape is unlike anything else, offering great photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect place for a leisurely walk or to simply take in the natural beauty. Definitely worth a visit if you're exploring the area!

The lake is located on the way from Derinkuyu town to the Ihlara Valley, so it makes sense to stop there. As far as I know, in some green tours a stop at this place is included in the tour program. It will take you 30 minutes to admire the lake and take photos.

Nice and calm lake. Good spot for camping or having a barbeque in a day family picnic. The road to get here was paved and smooth. Drive extra care when descending through the lake's slope to the valley side and be cautious for the landslides on the sides.

A lake which you’re not allowed to swim in defeats the purpose to me. At least the view is nice.

Its where the ticken from KFC come to grab a drink after thier shift. Would recommend to friends and family Mashallah

I’d be happy to skip this if you’re staying for a short period of time as there are similar lake looking spots in my country and probably any other countries too. It was a good opportunity to visit this place but you’re not missing out so much if you don’t.

✨🩷 A Stunning Pink Salt Lake in Turkey Tuz Lake is a hidden gem. When the sun hits the salt surface, it reflects the most beautiful pink hues, creating a surreal, dreamy landscape. It’s a perfect spot to stop your car, relax, and take in the scenery. The lake is very accessible with plenty of parking, a café, and clean toilet facilities, making it a convenient place to unwind. 🎫 No ticket is required to enjoy this natural wonder. ✨ Highly recommended for a peaceful stop and unique photo opportunities!

Salt Lake, one of the largest salt lakes, was a bit disappointing for us. When we visited, there was no water - just an expansive, white ground stretching as far as the eye could see. It might look better when there's water, but unfortunately, we weren't lucky enough to see it at that time.

Salt lake - A protected area, hosts one of the largest breeding colonies of great flamingo in the world.

Lake Tuz: A Picturesque Yet Limited Escape Lake Tuz, Turkey, boasts a mesmerizing pink hue and vast salt flats, offering a unique photo opportunity. However, be aware of its limitations: Seasonal Spectacle: The pink color is most vibrant in spring and early summer. Later visits might reveal a less colorful landscape. Remote Location: Getting to Lake Tuz requires a drive off the beaten path. Limited Amenities: Few facilities are available near the lake, so pack essentials like water and snacks. Uneven Terrain: Walking on the salt flats can be challenging due to the uneven surface. Overall: Lake Tuz offers a glimpse of a unique natural wonder, especially during the spring and early summer. However, manage expectations for a less developed tourist destination.

Went here during winter. Amazing and wide view of the surrounding natural landscape. It looked like I could see the ends of the earth on that day. Plus I loved breaking/stomping small patches of ice frozen water around.

Fairy Chimneys, also called Paşabağları Müze ve Örenyeri, is a must-visit place in Cappadocia. This amazing spot is famous for its unique rock formations, known as “fairy chimneys,” created over many years by volcanic eruptions and erosion from wind and rain. The unusual shapes of the rocks make the area look like it’s from another planet. We spent about two hours here and it was enough time to explore and enjoy the site. There are paths that take you through the area, where you’ll see caves, old homes, and even small rock-carved chapels. The place is also great for taking photos because the views are absolutely stunning. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing and the scenery is unforgettable. The entry fee is only €12, which is very affordable for such an amazing experience. Wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget your camera. Highly recommended!

Really interesting to see this magical place with thousands of fairy chimneys carved out of Volcanic rock. It is a magical place to be in. Both the place and its name are like straight out of fairy tale . We were told that the fairy chimneys are natural yet surreal-looking spires up to 130 feet (40 meters) tall that were carved out of soft volcanic rock by the elements over millions of years. There is a café where visitors could sit ,have a drink , relax to enjoy the breathtaking view of this magnificient landscape with panoramic feel . Certainly worth seeing !!!

We used the company for the hot air balloon and we don’t regretted from beginning to end was a great service. Not expensive compared with other companies

Wonderful to check out when in the area. The structures are very cool to see in person and look like large mushrooms! It does get super crowded so try to go early especially during peak tourism season. Right when you start walking the path, I highly recommend going up the low key path that veers of course - you'll be blessed with a lovely view in all directions that come with the high vantage point! Also when you're finishing your walk you'll come across the guard office which is a fairy chimney itself!

Fairy Chimney Inn in Cappadocia is a magical retreat. Carved into the unique rock formations, the rooms are enchanting caves with modern amenities. The panoramic views of Cappadocia's surreal landscapes from the terrace are breathtaking. The attentive staff ensures a warm and personalized experience. The breakfast, served amidst the fairy-tale surroundings, is a culinary delight. The inn's central location makes it convenient for exploring the region's wonders. With its blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and excellent hospitality, Fairy Chimney Inn offers an unforgettable stay, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a truly immersive Cappadocian experience.