Cappadocia
Welcome to the land of fairy chimneys and world famous balloon rides. Discover this region full of valleys and ancient monasteries with us.
Explore recommended itineraries, schedules and pricing to help plan your visit to Cappadocia.
Visit Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloons, Fairy Chimneys & Underground Cities
Cappadocia is located in the heart of central Turkey and famous for its fairy chimney rock formations and unforgettable hot air balloon rides. This otherworldly landscape was formed by volcanic ash which was eroded over centuries by wind and water. The landscape stretches across a network of valleys perfect for hiking, photography and exploring. Thanks to its soft rock formations, the locals of the region carved cave churches, monasteries and villages into the rock formations, creating a unique land of natural beauty and complex history.
If you're traveling to Cappadocia, make sure to visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing dozens of chapels, monasteries and churches carved directly into the rock formations. Dating back to the Byzantine era, these churches contain well preserved frescoes depicting biblical scenes which offer a glimpse into the early Christian communities who once lived here. The museum remains one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks of the region.
Lacking proper materials to build castles, the locals throughout the history carved out vast underground cities into the soft volcanic rock. Underground cities like Derinkuyu and Kaymakli extend several stories deep and once sheltered thousands of residents, complete with ventilation shafts, wells, stables and chapels. These ancient underground complexes were built to serve as places of refuge during invasions and remain one of the region's most intriguing attractions for travelers.
Location & Climate of Cappadocia
As the name “Cappadocia” no longer exists on the modern map, one should look for cities such as “Nevsehir”, “Urgup” and “Goreme”. It is an hours flight away from major cities of Turkey such as Istanbul and Izmir with a number of flights during the day.
Being in the centre of Turkey, and with an altitude of 4000 ft. (1200 m.), the climate of Cappadocia is dry and the temperatures during the day average around 70-100 Fahrenheit (20-38 Celsius) in the summer and 40-25 Fahrenheit (6 - -3 Celsius) in the winter; making July-August the warmest and January-February the coldest months.
Iconic Landmarks In Cappadocia
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cappadocia known for?
It's famous for its unique landscape of fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. The region also has a rich history with underground cities and early Christian sites.
What's the best time of year to visit Cappadocia?
Spring (April - June) and autumn (September - October) are ideal. The weather is more appropriate for walking in the stunning valleys of Cappadocia.
How many days should I spend in Cappadocia?
2-3 days is ideal to explore the major attractions, join a balloon ride and have some free time to hike in the valleys or relax in the towns.
Is Cappadocia safe for tourists?
Yes, it's generally very safe. The region is quiet and welcoming, with low crime rates and a strong tourism infrastructure.
Can I visit Cappadocia without a car?
Yes. Many travelers join guided tours. Unfortunately, most of the sites are far from the hotel areas and it's very time consuming to figure out public transportation in Cappadocia.
What is the weather like in Cappadocia?
It has both extremes (hot in June-July, cold in December-April). Bring layers of clothing as the region has a dry climate and early morning and evenings can get quite chilly even in the summer months.
Do I need to book a hot air balloon ride in advance?
Yes, especially between May-October. Flights might sell out days ahead.