Cappadocia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is a collection of rock-cut churches and monasteries that date back to the 10th century. Visitors can explore the intricate frescoes and learn about the history of the region. After the museum, the tour usually continues with a visit to the Pasabag Valley, which is known for its unique rock formations. These formations, also known as “fairy chimneys,” were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Visitors can hike through the valley and take in the stunning views. One of the highlights of the Cappadocia tour is a visit to the underground cities. These cities were carved out of soft volcanic rock by early Christians as a way to defend against invaders. The underground cities are a fascinating example of ancient engineering and architecture, and visitors can explore the tunnels, rooms and ventilation systems that were used by the early inhabitants. Finally, the tour usually ends with a hot air balloon ride over the stunning scenery of Cappadocia. It is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to see the unique rock formations and valleys from a bird’s eye view. All in all, a tour of Cappadocia is a must-see for anyone visiting Turkey. It offers a unique combination of history, culture and natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Cappadocia on the map of Turkey
Here was the birthplace of the Christian faith, and due to natural phenomena formed unique pillars with towers, which many travelers want to see with their own eyes. Excursions to Cappadocia can be 1 day tours with airfare, or 2-3 day bus tours.
Travel agencies and hotel guides offer different options for excursions to Cappadocia, because this place is large in area and in each part of it there is something to see.
Types of tours in Cappadocia:
- Red Tour. This route, marked in red on the map, includes a visit to the open-air museum, Ukhchisar observation deck, fortress and church of John the Baptist, pottery workshop, lunch, Derwent valley with animal sculptures, Pashaba valley with rocks in the form of mushrooms.
- Green Tour. Its route is marked on the map with a green line. It includes the Valley of Love, the underground 12-story city of Derinkuyu, the valley and canyon of Ihlara, lunch at the canyon, churches and monasteries Selime, onyx factory, viewing platform at the Pigeon Valley.
- Blue Tour. The route of the tour is marked on the map with a blue line. It includes a visit to Sinassos with its churches and monasteries, excavations of the ancient city, a walk through the Soanla Valley with a tour of the monasteries, lunch, the underground city of Derinkuyu, the city of Urgüp and the observation deck.
- Bicycle tours. If you wish, you can rent a bicycle to see as many interesting sights in Cappadocia as possible. Because of the mountainous terrain, this tour is suitable only for trained cyclists, because it involves a lot of physical activity.
- ATV tours. All routes can be seen on a quad bike. However, be prepared for the fact that you can ride them by yourself only on an asphalt road. And the rest of the tour is done in a group and with a guide.
- Hot air balloon ride. Hot air ballooning is the most popular attraction for tourists in Cappadocia. View from a bird’s eye view of the bizarre valleys, decorated by nature with stone pillars, an unforgettable spectacle! The cost of the balloon ride is approximately 120-120 euros.
Watch a video review of the Cappadocia tour:
