Things to do in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is made for early starts and long walks. Beyond the famous balloons, the valleys, rock churches and underground cities can fill several days.

1. 1

   Float over the valleys at dawn

   A sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the fairy chimneys is the region's signature experience, and worth the early alarm. Flights are weather-dependent, so allow a spare morning.

2. 2

   Hike the valleys on foot

   Trails thread the Rose, Red, Love and Pigeon valleys, past rock formations and cave dwellings. The Ihlara Canyon offers a greener, riverside walk further out.

3. 3

   Go underground at Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı

   Descend into vast multi-level underground cities where early Christians sheltered, complete with stables, chapels and ventilation shafts. Cool, atmospheric and easy to pair with a valley tour.

4. 4

   Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum

   A UNESCO-listed cluster of rock-cut churches with vivid Byzantine frescoes, the best preserved in the region. Go early to stay ahead of the tour groups.

5. 5

   Watch sunset from a panorama point

   Claim a spot above Göreme or at Uçhisar castle as the soft rock glows gold and pink. Simple, free and unforgettable.

6. 6

   Throw a pot in Avanos

   The red-clay town on the Kızılırmak river has made pottery for millennia; a workshop visit is a hands-on break from ruins and hiking.

In-depth Cappadocia guides

• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride — Costs, Booking and What to Expect
  What a Cappadocia balloon flight costs, when to fly, how to book, and why weather cancellations mean you should plan for a spare morning.