Located in central Turkey, Cappadocia is a city of distinctive geological formations, a long history of human habitation, and unique cultural attractions. As far back as 8000 BC, the region was home to some of the oldest known settlements on Earth. Cappadocia was an important point on the trade routes between the Middle East and Europe for centuries and became a refuge for persecuted Christians fleeing Europe. Made up of volcanic tuff and soft rock, the ground around Cappadocia was transformed into ancient cave dwellings, churches, and (in more recent years) hotels. Experience the wonders of Cappadocia when you plan travel with Gray Line Worldwide!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Cappadocia
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Göreme Open-Air Museum features a collection of ancient rock-cut churches and monasteries that date back to the fourth century AD. Originally a monastic sanctuary for early Christians, the cavernous churches and residences were carved by monks wanting to offer a place of safety for their religious members. With over 30 cave churches, the Göreme Open-Air Museum showcases stunning frescoes of Bible stories. One of the more notable spots to visit is the Dark Church, known for its incredibly well-preserved frescoes due to limited light exposure.
Soar over landscapes that contain more than a touch of magic with a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia! Often cited as the quintessential Cappadocia activity, this excursion offers guests stunning aerial views of the region’s geological formations, including its fairy chimneys and valleys. Get some incredible once-in-a-lifetime photos, particularly as the sun rises and illuminates the vast spaces beneath your feet. Common in this region of Turkey, fairy chimneys are cone-shaped pillars composed primarily of soft volcanic tuff. Impressively, they can reach heights of up to 40 meters. Thought to originate from local legends that described the natural structures as the chimneys of fairies who lived underground, these lava-made wonders are just one piece of the incredible experience a Cappadocia hot air balloon ride provides.
As one of the largest and most well-preserved underground cities in the region, Kaymakli contains a veritable maze of tunnels, chambers, and hidden passageways carved out of soft volcanic rock. Thought to have served as a refuge for locals during the uncertain conflicts of the Hittite and, later, Byzantine era, the city includes multiple levels. Estimates suggest that 3,500 people could live in these subterranean spaces simultaneously. Believed to have originally been called Enegup, Kaymakli connects directly with Derinkuyu, another famous underground city. Explore the top four levels — there are eight altogether — and see the stables, living quarters, churches, and communal kitchens for yourself.
For a striking and captivating journey in Cappadocia, visit Pasabag — also known as Monks Valley. With mesmerizing fairy chimneys, Pasabag presents a unique geological landscape that draws visitors from around the globe. Pasabag translates to “Pasha’s vineyard” in Turkish, signifying the region’s long agricultural history. Home to early Christian hermits, some fairy chimneys actually house dwellings and places of worship carved by these monks. Wander among the mushroom-like pillars that make Cappadocia one of the most surreally beautiful places in the world (and make sure to take plenty of pictures!).
Also known as Imagination Valley, Devrent Valley showcases various geological formations created by natural erosion over centuries. With an atmosphere that borders on whimsical, the valley appears like a giant sculpture garden, one unshaped by human hands. Without formal walking paths, guests are encouraged to roam freely among the rocks. A great place for adults and children alike, Devrent Valley offers a chance to casually explore some of the more incredible natural wonders of Cappadocia.
Nestled alongside the Kizilirmak River, Avanos is a charming village known for its longstanding tradition of pottery making. The region’s rich red clay serves as the primary material for local artisans, who have honed their craft for generations. Participate in a hands-on workshop that introduces you to this ancient art form. With the stunning backdrop of the Kizilirmak, Avanos is also a great place to walk along the riverbanks and check out the wares in many of the village’s quaint shops and galleries. Depending on when you go, you could also witness one of the several cultural events that take place in Avanos throughout the year.
As the highest point in Cappadocia, Uchisar Castle offers a commanding — and intimidating — view of the spectacular landscape below. This ancient rock-cut castle is strategically perched atop a natural rock formation that makes it a recognizable landmark. With origins that date back to at least the Roman period, the castle experienced several conquests and ownership transfers from a variety of empires and peoples. The 15th and 16th centuries in particular saw locals using the castle as a military stronghold that could spot invaders — quite literally — from miles away. With a series of carved rooms, tunnels, and passages that showcase its complex history as both a fortress and dwelling, Uchisar is also a popular site for cultural events that highlight the region’s heritage.
An oasis of natural beauty and serenity, Ihlara Valley is a paradise of greenery and water situated within a dramatic gorge. Stretching approximately 14 kilometers, this canyon is shaded by towering cliffs adorned with vegetation that contrast sharply with the otherwise arid surroundings of Cappadocia. Plenty of hiking trails will keep visitors with an inclination for outdoor activities busy. Numerous cave churches decorated with ancient frescoes pepper the valley and give guests a glimpse of the region’s rich spiritual heritage. Birdwatchers will also delight in spotting various species while enjoying the area.
One of Cappadocia’s most remarkable sites (which is truly saying something in a region rich with natural and cultural wonders), the Zelve Open-Air Museum offers insight into the lives of the ancient populations that called the subterranean community home. Once a flourishing cave town, Zelve includes an array of rock-cut dwellings, churches, and communal areas that remained at least somewhat inhabited well into the mid-20th century. Revealing the underlying resourcefulness of its builders, Zelve is relatively open for visitors to explore at their own pace. Admire the vibrant frescoes from Byzantine-era churches and check out some of the site’s more famous structures, including the Grape Church and Fish Church.
Named for its phallic-shaped rock formations, Love Valley is a particularly apt description for a truly breathtaking site in Cappadocia. With fairy chimneys rising directly from the ground, the distinctive shape of the rocks tend to amuse visitors with their somewhat bizarre (and suggestive) shapes. Several trails wind through the valley, and plenty of photo opps in front of the formations will make your family and friends at home chuckle. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, book a guided tour on horseback through the valley.
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good selection of tours in various cities
easy to book a tour, good price, good variety of tours
Top notch tour and guide
Booking was a breeze. When we checked in we were “on the list” Our driver/guide was Marc. He was totally I,merged in the tour. Answered questions. I had my walker and he helped my family with it. We had planned y To hop off a couple of places but decided not as we were enjoyi...
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