Cappadocia is a region in Turkey known for its underground cities with cave houses, giant rock formations made of tuff stone, colorful frescoes, and hundreds of hot air balloons. While hot air ballooning is a popular activity in Cappadocia, there are plenty of other budget-friendly activities to enjoy in this magical region.
Before we dive into the activities, let’s talk a bit about the history of Cappadocia. Millions of years ago, there were three major volcanic eruptions that covered the landscape with layers of lava and ash, resulting in a unique combination of hard and soft rock. The soft rock is easy to carve into caves, and since the Middle Ages, people have been living in cave houses. Nowadays, these cave dwellings have been converted into hotels and beautiful accommodations.
One of the must-visit attractions in Cappadocia is the Göreme Open Air Museum. This site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984, features well-preserved rock churches and monasteries dating back to the 9th century. Carved out of soft volcanic tuff stone, these buildings are adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Don’t miss the Dark Church, with its colorful murals. The museum is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00, with the last entry at 16:00, and the cost is approximately 20 euros.
Another great activity is hiking in Pigeon Valley, named after the hundreds of pigeons that have inhabited the valley for centuries. The lush greenery of Pigeon Valley, thanks to its fertile soil, makes it a popular spot for newlyweds. A two-hour hike through the area will lead you to hidden caves and stunning views.
For a unique experience, visit the Uçhisar Castle, a massive castle carved out of volcanic rocks that offers a panoramic view of the region. Climbing the stairs on the outside of the castle, especially during sunset, provides a breathtaking experience. You can also enjoy fresh fruit, juices, and water from the stalls in front of the church.
Love Valley is another surreal landscape in Cappadocia characterized by towering, phallic-shaped rock formations known as fairy chimneys. A popular activity here is horseback riding, where you can marvel at these unique rock formations that resemble giant asparagus.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, consider booking a jeep safari tour in Cappadocia. Riding a 4×4 jeep through the rugged landscape will give you a memorable experience with picturesque views and dusty trails. Some tours even include a free photoshoot, making it a fun adventure.
For history buffs, a visit to the Zelve Open Air Museum is a must. This outdoor museum, spread across three large valleys, features numerous cave houses, tunnels, and chapels. With about 15 different churches to explore, you can spend hours wandering through this historical site.
To indulge in Turkish wine, head to the Gülor Wine Cave for a wine tasting experience. Sample five different Turkish wines accompanied by a complimentary cheese platter and fruit in a cool cellar setting, perfect for a hot summer day.
End your day with a lavish 8-course dinner at Revithia, one of the top restaurants in Cappadocia. The restaurant’s medieval castle-like interior sets the scene for a delightful meal featuring traditional Turkish dishes with a Mediterranean twist. Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options on the menu.
While a hot air balloon ride is a popular and unforgettable activity in Cappadocia, there are plenty of other budget-friendly and exciting things to do in this magical region. Whether you’re exploring ancient rock churches, hiking through lush valleys, or sipping Turkish wine in a cave, Cappadocia offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.