Cappadocia Hotels

And you’re going to want to be doing that, because Cappadocia’s mix of whirlwind atmosphere and ancient enchantment is exactly the sort that merits bragging about online. Hittite underground cities like Tatlarin and Ozkonak lie below, while above ground Goreme overflows with archaic tales. Start with the 11th century Dark Church for sacred art and a mystical vibe, and the Snake Church for a beautiful, peeling fresco dedicated to Saint Onuphrius. And what would a digital album of holiday snaps be without blurry evidence of overindulgence? Cappadocia’s atmospherically frenzied nightlife won’t leave you wanting.

Cappadocia's Top 10

Cappadocia History

• Gumusler Monastery – Dated to the 10th century, this monastery in Cappadocia is carved from rock and remains hidden from the world.
• Kamakli – An underground settlement in the centre of Ozluce, it has different geological formations and features compared with the other underground cities.
• Tatlarin Church – Called The Castle, several walls and frescos remain in the narthex of the old church.
• Kizil Minare Camii – A mosque built in 1236 that is unique with its red minaret.
• Kiliclar Kilisesi – Called the Church of the Sword, this church contains many frescoes that are from the 10th and 11th centuries.

Cappadocia Art & Culture

• Goreme Open Air Museum – A collection of fairy chimneys and caves found within several small churches.
• Aksaray Museum – This museum in Cappadocia is found in the chain seminary building, Ziniciriye Medresesi, which was built in 1336.
• Ihlara Valley – Near Aksaray, this valley contains dozens of byzantine churches that tell the religious history of the area.
• Uchisar Castle – Situated on top of the hill in Uchisar, this castle is one of the oldest buildings in the area.
• Zelve Museum – Zelve is 10km from Goreme and is a cave town with religious dwellings and secular chambers.

Cappadocia Shopping

• Dari Han – A caravanserie that was built by Selcuk Turks and offers pottery and carved alabaster items for sale.
• Avanos – The area in Cappadocia to buy intricate pots, ornate plates, chess sets and even beautiful carpets.
• Anatolia Traditional Souvenir Shop – The best place to find souvenirs, all available at normal and affordable prices.
• Kaya Ceramics – A ceramics store in Gerome that also offers pottery classes.
• 1001 Books – A book store with a good selection, though falling a bit short of 1,001 books.

Gay & Lesbian Cappadocia

• Fatboys – Play some pool and drink a few beers after a day out in the sun.
• Flinstones Cave Bar – A popular bar in Cappadocia that can get crowded when the dancing starts.
• Red Red Wine House – This bar offers a selection of Cappadocian wines and beers with an intimate, candle-lit interior.
• Joy Café & Bar – Located in Urgup, this café offers music while drinking or dining.
• Hazan Turku Evi – The bar plays live music daily but is closed during the winter months.

Cappadocia Outdoor

• Hot Air Balloon – Take a ride at dawn in Cappadocia to view some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area.
• Kalker Lake – Spend part of the day exploring the many natural springs that are found along the shores.
• Ziyaret Mountain – Arrive at the top of the mountain for spectacular views of the entire region.
• Pigeon Valley – Spend the day hiking the 4km trail through the valley.
• Jeep Safari – See much of the area by taking a jeep safari through the Uzengi River and past many wineries.

Cappadocia Sport

• Hike the volcanic valleys to view spectacular volcanic formations; Rose Valley should not be missed.
• Enjoy a beautiful ride along the Kizilirmark River.
• Go white-water rafting along the Zamanti Rivers with tours from Medraft.
• Play cross golf, which is golf played in natural environments; Cappadocia is the only spot in the world where this is available.
• Participate in adventure sports by abseiling at Ortahisar.

Cappadocia Events

The Cappadocia MTB Festival welcomes mountain bikers from all over the globe in June.

The Avanos International Tourism and Handicraft Festival celebrates the region’s folksy roots and all-round coolness. This August-to-September event is a great way to learn about Cappadocian history, as well as score some souvenirs and traditional eats.

September’s Goreme Food Festival is everything your local kebab shop isn’t.

Wine lovers find themselves in a frenzy during October’s Wine Festival. Come and celebrate the fertile soil by drinking, dancing and drinking some more!

December’s Mevlana Commemoration Festival celebrates the Muslim philosopher Mevlana. This dude was all about peace, goodness and charity.

When To Go

• Cappadocia sees super-hot summers and freezing winters. Expect summer to reach 34°C (93°F) and winter -3°C (27°F).
• If you’re after a white wonderland, January is the best bet for the snowy stuff.
• Cappadocia doesn’t encounter too much rain, but December and May see a few sporadic showers.

Getting Around

• Buses are frequent in summer (except on Sundays), but less so at other times of year.
• Considering the bus service slows to a trickle in winter, hiring a car is a good option at this time of year.
• The landscape of Cappadocia is ideal for mountain biking. It’s not the most convenient way to get around the city, but good if you have time on your hands.

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