3-Day Family Adventure: Unexplored Cappadocia - Sightseeing & Shopping
Cappadocia, Turkey
3 days
About Cappadocia, Turkey
Discover the enchanting region of Cappadocia, Turkey, a unique geological wonder adorned with fairy-tale landscapes. Experience the awe-inspiring rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and remarkable underground cities. Float above the surreal terrain in a hot air balloon at sunrise, a must-do activity offering breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Göreme Open-Air Museum, showcasing Byzantine art and history. Wander through the charming town of Uçhisar, crowned by a majestic castle offering stunning vistas. Savor the local cuisine, with specialties like pottery kebab and testi. Stay in a cave hotel for an authentic experience. Cappadocia, a blend of natural beauty and rich history, promises an unforgettable journey.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Derinkuyu Underground City. This ancient city extends 60m underground and is an incredible sight to behold.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the testi kebab, another local specialty cooked in a clay pot.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Ihlara Valley. Enjoy a leisurely hike through the valley, taking in the beautiful scenery and visiting the rock-cut churches along the way.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try the pide, a Turkish pizza topped with cheese and various toppings.
Evening
Spend the evening exploring the local markets. You'll find a variety of goods, from traditional Turkish rugs to beautiful ceramics.
Day 3
Visiting Uchisar and Pigeon Valley
Morning
On your final day, visit the Uchisar Castle. This tall rock formation offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Lunch
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. Try the lahmacun, a thin Turkish pizza topped with minced meat and vegetables.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Pigeon Valley. This beautiful valley is home to numerous dovecotes carved into the rock faces.
Dinner
Have your final dinner in Cappadocia at a local restaurant. Try the manti, a Turkish dumpling dish.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing evening stroll through the town, soaking in the unique atmosphere of Cappadocia.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Goreme Open Air Museum
The Goreme Open Air Museum is a vast monastic complex with richly painted rock-cut churches and monk-cells. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the unique rock formations and amazing Byzantine artistry.
2Zelve Open Air Museum
Zelve Open Air Museum, which once was a monastic retreat, is now a fascinating and atmospheric open air museum. It is a surreal and haunting landscape of caves, fairy chimneys and a fascinating insight into the past.
3Derinkuyu Underground City
Derinkuyu is the deepest of the discovered underground cities in Cappadocia. It was used as a shelter by early Christians escaping persecution and could house up to 20,000 people. It features extensive living areas, stables, churches, storage rooms, wine cellars, and ventilation shafts.
4Ihlara Valley
A 16 km long gorge cut into volcanic rock in the southern part of Cappadocia, offering beautiful scenery and several rock-cut churches.
5Uchisar Castle
A tall rock formation that serves as a natural fortress, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
6Pigeon Valley
A beautiful valley between Göreme and Uçhisar, named after the numerous pigeon houses carved into the rocks since ancient times. It offers great hiking trails and stunning views.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Testi Kebab
A traditional Cappadocian dish, Testi Kebab is a meat and vegetable stew slow-cooked in a clay pot, which is broken open when served.
Manti
A popular Turkish dish similar to dumplings, Manti is filled with ground meat and served with yogurt and garlic sauce. It's a common dish in Cappadocia.
Gözleme
A traditional Turkish flatbread, Gözleme is filled with various fillings like spinach, cheese, and meat. It's a popular street food in Cappadocia.
Pide
Often referred to as Turkish pizza, Pide is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with cheese, meat, and vegetables. It's a common dish in Cappadocia.
Dolma
Dolma is a traditional Turkish dish made by stuffing vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, and eggplants with rice and spices. It's widely enjoyed in Cappadocia.
Baklava
A famous Turkish dessert, Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It's a must-try in Cappadocia.
Lokum
Also known as Turkish Delight, Lokum is a sweet confectionery treat made of starch and sugar, often flavored with rosewater, lemon, or mastic. It's a popular sweet in Cappadocia.
Salep
A traditional Turkish drink, Salep is made from the tubers of the orchid genus Orchis. It's a warm and comforting drink, especially popular in Cappadocia during winter.
Raki
Raki is a traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage, often referred to as 'lion's milk'. It's a popular drink in Cappadocia, often enjoyed with meals.
Ayran
A traditional Turkish drink, Ayran is a cold yogurt beverage mixed with salt. It's a refreshing drink, often enjoyed in Cappadocia during hot summer days.
Simit
A traditional Turkish bread, Simit is a circular bread typically encrusted with sesame seeds. It's a popular snack in Cappadocia.
Kunefe
A traditional Turkish dessert, Kunefe is a cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup. It's a popular dessert in Cappadocia.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Cappadocia, Turkey is during the spring months of April to June and the autumn months of September to October. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hot air balloon rides, hiking, and exploring the unique rock formations. The summer months of July and August can be quite hot, while the winter months from November to March can be cold with occasional snowfall. However, each season offers a unique charm in Cappadocia, with snow-capped fairy chimneys in winter and vibrant wildflowers in spring.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
April 9 | Tue | Ramadan Feast Eve |
April 10 | Wed | Ramadan Feast |
April 11 | Thu | Ramadan Feast Holiday |
April 12 | Fri | Ramadan Feast Holiday |
April 23 | Tue | National Sovereignty and Children's Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor and Solidarity Day |
May 19 | Sun | Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day |
June 15 | Sat | Sacrifice Feast Eve |
June 16 | Sun | Sacrifice Feast |
June 17 | Mon | Sacrifice Feast Holiday |
June 18 | Tue | Sacrifice Feast Holiday |
June 19 | Wed | Sacrifice Feast Holiday |
July 15 | Mon | Democracy and National Unity Day |
August 30 | Fri | Victory Day |
October 29 | Tue | Republic Day |
How to get around
Rental Car
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Cappadocia. It provides the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in the towns of Goreme, Urgup, and Nevsehir.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Cappadocia, especially in the towns of Goreme, Urgup, and Nevsehir. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Taxis are metered, but it's also common to negotiate a price for longer trips.
Public Bus
Public buses connect the main towns and attractions in Cappadocia. They are a cost-effective way to travel, but the service can be infrequent and may not reach all tourist sites.
Private Tour
Private tours are a convenient way to explore Cappadocia. They typically include transportation, a guide, and entrance fees to attractions. Tours can be customized to your interests and schedule.
Shuttle Service
Many hotels in Cappadocia offer shuttle services to and from the airport, as well as to major attractions. This can be a convenient option, especially if you're staying outside of the main towns.
Bicycle
Cycling is a popular way to explore the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. Many hotels and shops rent bicycles, and there are numerous trails suitable for all skill levels.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a traditional way to get around in Cappadocia. There are several stables offering guided tours, ranging from short rides to multi-day treks.
Hot Air Balloon
Hot air balloon rides are a signature experience in Cappadocia. While not a practical method of transportation, they offer a unique perspective of the region's stunning landscapes.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are not widely available in Cappadocia. However, a local app called BiTaksi operates in a similar way, allowing you to book a taxi ride from your smartphone.
Important information
Currency₺ TRY
Time zoneUTC+3
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112; Fire: 112; Police: 112
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Cappadocia, Turkey as a first time visitor
1
Cappadocia is located in the Central Anatolian region of Turkey, known for its unique moon-like landscape, underground cities, cave churches, and houses carved in the rocks.
2
The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.
3
Turkish is the official language. English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas, so learning a few basic Turkish phrases can be helpful.
4
Cappadocia has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. The average summer temperature is around 77°F (25°C), and in winter it can drop to 23°F (-5°C).
5
It's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should carry a scarf to cover their heads in mosques.
6
The tap water in Cappadocia is not recommended for drinking. It's best to buy bottled water.
7
Public transportation is limited in Cappadocia. Renting a car or hiring a taxi is the most convenient way to get around.
8
The region is safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
9
Turkish people are known for their hospitality. Don't be surprised if you're invited for tea or a meal.
10
The voltage in Turkey is 220V, and the socket type is F. You may need a voltage converter and plug adapter.
11
The time zone in Cappadocia is Eastern European Time (EET), which is 3 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3).
12
Turkey's emergency number is 112. It's good to have this number saved in your phone.
13
The cuisine in Cappadocia is rich and diverse. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like Testi Kebab and Gözleme.
14
Tipping is customary in Turkey. A tip of 10-15% is generally expected in restaurants.
15
It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be expensive in Turkey.
16
Turkey requires a visa for many foreign visitors. Check the visa requirements for your country before you travel.
17
Cappadocia is famous for its hot air balloon rides. If you plan to take one, book in advance as they are very popular.
18
Shops and markets in Cappadocia are known for their bargaining culture. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.
19
Cappadocia is in a seismic zone, so it's good to be aware of what to do in case of an earthquake.
20
The sun can be strong in Cappadocia, especially in the summer. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Basic Turkish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Merhaba | mehr-HAH-bah | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Hoşça kal | HOSH-cha-KAHL | Saying goodbye |
Please | Lütfen | LOOT-fen | Making a request |
Thank you | Teşekkür ederim | teh-shehk-KOOR ed-AIR-im | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Evet | EH-vet | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Hayır | HAH-yuhr | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Affedersiniz | AH-feh-DARE-sin-iz | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Anlamıyorum | AHN-la-MEE-yor-um | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz? | EEN-gee-LEEZ-jay koh-NOO-shoo-YOR moo-SOO-nooz | To ask if someone speaks English |
I'm lost | Kayboldum | KAI-bol-doom | When you're lost |
Where is the bathroom? | Tuvalet nerede? | too-VAH-let neh-REH-deh | When you need to find a bathroom |
How much does this cost? | Bu ne kadar? | BOO neh KAH-dahr | When you want to know the price of something |
Help | Yardım | YAR-duhm | When you need help |
Food | Yemek | YEH-mek | When you're looking for food |
Water | Su | SOO | When you need water |
Hotel | Otel | OH-tel | When you're looking for a hotel |
Taxi | Taksi | TAK-see | When you need a taxi |
Airport | Havaalanı | HAH-vah-AH-lah-nee | When you need to find the airport |
Good morning | Günaydın | GOO-nigh-dun | Greeting someone in the morning |
Good night | İyi geceler | EE-yee GEH-jeh-ler | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing for daytime
Warm clothing for cooler evenings
Swimwear (if planning to visit thermal pools)
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Rain jacket or umbrella
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer
Travel-sized first aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Visa (if required)
Travel insurance documents
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Emergency contact numbers
Map and guidebook
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and adapter
Camera
Extra memory cards
Portable power bank
Headphones
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Books or e-reader for downtime
Travel journal and pen
Tote bag for daily excursions
Binoculars for sightseeing
Weather Conditions
Cappadocia, Turkey, is a unique destination known for its fairy-tale like landscapes, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. However, the weather can greatly impact your experience, so it's important to plan accordingly. Cappadocia experiences a semi-arid climate with significant temperature differences between seasons and even within a single day. Summers (June to September) are hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C) during the day, but can drop to around 50°F (10°C) at night. Therefore, lightweight clothing for the day and a jacket or sweater for the evenings are recommended. Winters (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 23°F to 41°F (-5°C to 5°C). Snowfall is common during this period, which can add a magical touch to the landscape but also make outdoor activities challenging. If you're visiting in winter, pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Cappadocia. The weather during these seasons is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). These periods also offer beautiful scenery, with spring bringing blooming flowers and autumn showcasing vibrant fall colors. Regardless of when you visit, always remember to pack comfortable shoes as Cappadocia is best explored on foot. Also, don't forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun, which can be quite strong, especially in summer. Lastly, keep in mind that weather conditions can change rapidly, and forecasts are not always accurate. Therefore, it's a good idea to check the local weather forecast frequently during your stay. Enjoy your trip to this enchanting part of the world!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 10° / -2° | January is the coldest month in Cappadocia, with occasional snowfall. It's a great time for indoor activities and enjoying the winter scenery. |
February | 11° / -1° | February is still cold with potential for snow, but the end of the month starts to see a slight increase in temperature. |
March | 15° / 1° | March sees the beginning of spring with temperatures gradually increasing, but nights can still be chilly. |
April | 21° / 5° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
May | 27° / 9° | May offers warm and comfortable weather, perfect for hot air ballooning and exploring the fairy chimneys. |
June | 33° / 13° | June marks the beginning of summer with high temperatures, but it's still bearable for outdoor activities. |
July | 36° / 16° | July is the hottest month in Cappadocia, with long, sunny days. Early morning or late evening activities are recommended. |
August | 36° / 16° | August is equally hot as July, with minimal rainfall. It's a great time for visiting underground cities to escape the heat. |
September | 32° / 12° | September sees a decrease in temperature, making it a perfect time for hiking and exploring the valleys. |
October | 24° / 8° | October offers mild weather with fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for a peaceful visit. |
November | 17° / 3° | November marks the beginning of winter with cooler temperatures. It's a great time for photography with beautiful autumn colors. |
December | 12° / 0° | December is a chilly month with potential for snowfall. It offers a unique experience of winter in Cappadocia. |
Did you know?
Places near by Cappadocia, Turkey
Kayseri City Center
Known for its Seljuk architecture, Kayseri is a bustling city with a rich history. It's also home to Mount Erciyes, the highest mountain in central Anatolia.
Konya
Konya is a city in central Turkey that's known for its striking Seljuk architecture. It's also the home of the whirling dervishes, a mystical Sufi sect.
Aksaray
Aksaray is a city in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey. It's known for its historical sites, including the Aksaray Museum and the 13th-century Selime Monastery.
Nevşehir
Nevşehir is a city and the capital district of Nevşehir Province in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. It is one of the major tourism centers in Turkey.
Ankara
Ankara, Turkey's cosmopolitan capital, sits in the country's central Anatolia region. It's a center for the performing arts, home to the State Opera and Ballet, the Presidential Symphony Orchestra and several national theater companies.
Eskişehir
Eskişehir is a city in northwestern Turkey and the capital of the Eskişehir Province. The city is known for its natural beauty, vibrant student life, and industries such as automotive, aviation, and machinery.
Istanbul
Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here.
Izmir
Izmir is a city on Turkey’s Aegean coast. Known as Smyrna in antiquity, it was founded by the Greeks, taken over by the Romans and rebuilt by Alexander the Great before becoming part of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century.
Antalya
Antalya is a Turkish resort city with a yacht-filled Old Harbor and beaches flanked by large hotels. It's a gateway to Turkey's southern Mediterranean region, known as the Turquoise Coast for its blue waters.
