Before exploring Cappadocia on a tour, we’ve gathered the 15 most important things you should know about this region in our article.
As we all know, Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s—and even the world’s—most famous destinations. Millions of people visit the region throughout the year, marveling at everything from fairy chimneys to underground caves.
Although much has been written and said about Cappadocia, one of Turkey’s most touristic areas, there are still many mysterious and intriguing aspects.
Beyond all that, there is essential information you must know about the region before embarking on a Cappadocia tour.
Are you ready? Let’s get started!
1. Cappadocia on UNESCO’s World Heritage List
With its beautiful and fascinating fairy chimneys, rocky landscapes, and the unique history of cave dwellers, it’s no wonder Cappadocia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s important to note that no new construction is allowed here except for restoration work. Touching the caves or converting them into hotels is prohibited. That’s why most locals live in or near hotels.
2. Cappadocia’s Millennia-Old Caves
Cappadocia has a very ancient history, with settlements dating back to 1800–1200 BCE. The caves were originally used for hiding and escaping persecution but eventually became homes. Today, travelers can see monastery caves and impressive underground dwellings. There are even caves built specifically for pigeons.
The UNESCO site protects these caves for modern living and comfort, so people have very limited options beyond converting them into hotels. The land is state-owned, though farmers can still cultivate surrounding fields. Occasionally, you might see tractors instead of cars in the towns.
3. Not Suitable for Rock Climbing
The rock formations in Cappadocia were created thousands of years ago. While the rocks are old and solid, they are not suitable for climbing. Made from volcanic ash and soft minerals with countless holes, climbing these formations is not possible.
4. Love Valley and the Fairy Chimneys
Located just a 10–15 minute walk from Göreme, Love Valley is the most famous spot for those seeking a romantic atmosphere. The area is filled with numerous fairy chimneys. Visitors can stroll through the valley, enjoy the scenery, and take photos with the fairy chimneys.
5. Pigeon Valley
In agriculture, fertilizers are vital for productive crops. Pigeon droppings are a famous fertilizer in Cappadocia’s fields. Consequently, farmers built pigeon houses on the rocks so pigeons could nest and their droppings could be collected. In fact, the placement of these houses was also a strategy to keep foxes and hunters away. With numerous holes, you can easily spot the pigeon rocks. The best view is from a hot air balloon tour, but you can see it from afar as well.
6. Open-Air Museum
The Open-Air Museum is a preserved park of cave monasteries and monk residences. Some cave homes are decorated with wall paintings and frescoes, while other rooms remain empty and simple, resembling austere cave dwellings. You can even climb some with stairs, and trust us, it’s worth visiting these places.
7. Red Valley
Red Valley in Cappadocia gets its name from the red, pink, and yellow rocks found there. The colors of the Red Valley rocks are due to special minerals in the soil. You can visit Red Valley on foot from Göreme or admire it during a Cappadocia balloon tour.
8. Uçhisar Castle
Uçhisar Castle is a must-see location and is very close to Göreme, so we highly recommend visiting. The castle resembles a huge rock, with a small town built around it leading up to it. You can explore the caves and feel like you’re in an archaeological site. After your visit, descend through the valley to reach the main road.
9. Derinkuyu Underground City
Cappadocia’s underground cities are among the most fascinating stops on a tour. The most important is Derinkuyu Underground City, a multi-level complex reaching up to 60 meters underground, able to house 20,000 people and their livestock. Did you know Cappadocia has underground cities? In fact, there are over thirty. They were built for shelter and protection. Derinkuyu spans eight levels and includes churches, livestock areas, ventilation shafts, wells, and more. Tunnels start standing upright and gradually narrow as you crawl.
10. The Oldest Rock Monastery
Famous for the old rock monasteries of Soğanlı, this area is perfect for spending time exploring. The only way to reach it is by car or guided tour. Known as “Mini Cappadocia,” this fascinating region should be visited during your Cappadocia tour. Be sure to visit the oldest rock monastery located here.
11. Stay in a Cave Hotel
Göreme is a safe and comfortable town known for its cave hotels. Yes, real caves like the Flintstones! While not exactly the same, they are very similar. Today, all of Göreme is included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Therefore, these caves and rocks cannot be built upon or altered. Today, the area is used solely for tourist hotel purposes. You must stay in one of these hotels, enjoying its baths, meals, and breathtaking views.
12. Hot Air Balloon Ride is a Must
Prepare for a flight experience that gives you five times the feeling of floating. Especially during sunrise over the fairy chimneys…
A balloon tour in Cappadocia can be one of the most amazing experiences of your life. From fairy chimneys and pigeon houses to red rocks and rock formations, the spectacular views are only fully appreciated from a balloon.
13. Shoe Selection
Some paths in Cappadocia have slippery slopes, and the porous volcanic rock can crumble. Walk slowly and be prepared for potential slips. Bring comfortable walking shoes for your trip. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or running shoes as you will be exploring most of the day.
14. Bring Extra Food and Medicine
Don’t blame the volcanic rock for being soft—it easily turns to dust. Bring vitamin C, cold medicine, and a mask with you.
15. Minimum 4 Days
You’ll see that Cappadocia is a vast area with many villages, rocks, and valleys. While some parts can be explored independently by bus, scooter, or on foot, many travelers take walking trails to see more of the scenery. Some may rent a car, but the best way to explore Cappadocia is by joining a guided tour.