This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through that link, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your continued support!

Cappadocia (or Kapadokya) was the crown jewel of our 11-day Turkey itinerary, which also included Istanbul, the Turkish Riviera, and the thermal pools of Pamukkale. But this magical region, with its whimsical landscapes and warm hospitality, absolutely stole our hearts.

While many people think of Cappadocia as a single town, it's actually a large region filled with charming villages, each with its own unique views and personality. To explore it properly, we rented a car, which I highly recommend if you're comfortable driving abroad! It was one of our easiest self-drive experiences to date.

Below you'll find 21 must-do activities to make the most of your visit to Cappadocia:

1. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

This is the iconic Cappadocia experience. Sadly, weather kept us grounded on our visit, but we’ll be back! Book your balloon ride for the first morning of your trip to allow for rescheduling if needed. It’s the ultimate sunrise bucket list moment.

2. Stay in a Cave Hotel

We stayed at Millstone Cave Suites in Uchisar, a quieter village near Goreme. Our suite felt cozy and historic, and the sunrise views from the cafe terrace were unreal… think hot air balloons drifting over Uchisar Castle!

3. Eat Breakfast with a View

Whether from your hotel terrace or a panoramic cafe, a traditional Turkish breakfast with views of floating balloons is a must. The spread includes olives, cheeses, breads, honey, and tea. Absolutely dreamy.

4. Walk Pigeon Valley

One of the easier hikes in Cappadocia, this 1–2 hour trail links Goreme and Uchisar. Start at sunrise for epic balloon views, and don’t miss the famous Evil Eye Tree about midway through.

5. Explore Love Valley

Known for its cheeky rock formations, Love Valley can be explored via a short 15-minute walk or a longer hike connecting Goreme and Uchisar. There’s also a cute cafe near the base of the valley for a rest stop.

6. Snap a Pic at the Three Beauties

These iconic hoodoos (rock pillars) are easy to spot from the road and are steeped in local legend. Worth a quick photo op as you drive through the region.

7. Visit Galerie Ikman

Even if you don’t buy a rug, this shop in Goreme is Instagram-famous for a reason. You can take photos inside for a small fee (20 TL) or chat with the friendly team about authentic Turkish carpets.

8. Climb Uchisar Castle

A short hike up cobblestone steps takes you to one of the best viewpoints in Cappadocia. Pair it with a hike through Pigeon or Love Valley for an epic morning adventure.

9. Explore Goreme at Night

Goreme twinkles after dark, with plenty of restaurants and rooftop terraces for dinner or drinks. Even if you’re staying in a nearby town, make time for a night stroll through its cozy streets.

10. Hike Rose & Red Valleys at Sunset

These valleys glow pink and crimson as the sun dips low. Combine both hikes and end at the Red Valley Sunset Viewpoint. It’s popular, so get there early for the best spot.

11. Have a Sundowner at Crazy Ali Panorama Cafe

Yes, it’s touristy, but the bean bags and cocktails with a sunset view are still a vibe. We enjoyed a drink here pre-sunset, then found a quieter roadside pull-off to soak in the actual sunset.

12. Drive Through Devrent (Imagination) Valley

Let your imagination run wild as you spot animal-shaped rock formations in this whimsical area. It’s a short detour from the main road, and locals may even offer you a ride up if you're walking.

13. Watch Balloons from Sunset Point

If you don’t get to ride a balloon, this is the next best thing. Bring a coffee or grab one from the nearby cafe and watch the sunrise action unfold from above Goreme.

14. Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features rock-cut churches and monasteries with frescoes dating back centuries. Just 1km from Goreme center, it’s a must.

15. Explore the Zelve Open-Air Museum

Less crowded than Goreme’s version, Zelve offers a quieter, equally impressive experience. Nearby Monks Valley makes for a great combo stop.

16. Visit Monks (Pasabag) Valley

These fairy chimneys have a distinct mushroom-like shape. Just 1.5 km from Zelve and a great add-on for your sightseeing day.

17. Have Lunch in Cavusin Village

Cavusin is a sleepy little village with ancient cave dwellings and sweeping views. We found a small restaurant overlooking Cavusin Church and it was the perfect mid-day stop.

18. Try a Testi Kebab

This slow-cooked clay pot stew is a local specialty. Reserve ahead (especially at popular spots like Dibek in Goreme) and watch your server crack the pot open tableside.

19. Tour Derinkuyu Underground City

Cappadocia has hundreds of underground cities, but Derinkuyu is the largest open to the public. Not ideal if you’re claustrophobic, but absolutely fascinating!

20. Hike the Ihlara Valley

A lush river canyon about 80 minutes from Goreme. Combine it with a visit to Derinkuyu and even Lake Tuz for a full-day road trip.

21. Visit Lake Tuz

This pink salt lake is about an hour’s drive away and a stunning detour if you’ve got extra time. We’ve heard sunset here is next-level beautiful.

Cappadocia is one of the most magical and family-friendly destinations we’ve ever visited. From cave hotels to moon-like valleys, there’s something for every kind of traveler—and we’re already dreaming of going back with our girls.

Need help planning your own picture-perfect Turkey itinerary? Let’s design a custom trip with boutique stays, iconic experiences, and of course, epic photo ops at every stop. Reach out to start planning!

21 Must-Do Experiences in Cappadocia, Turkey