Is this place even real? The exact question I asked before discovering it indeed is. Cappadocia was one of those places I would see online and think it was probably impossible to get to, and that there was no way it actually existed. Cappadocia is one of the most unique destinations in the world, there is truly nothing like it. A land filled with abstract cave homes, beautiful sunsets, and mystical views of hot air balloons in the distance, it truly looks straight out of a fairy tale. I am so glad I went to witness its magic in person.

For my 3 Day Itinerary in Cappadocia including prices, hotel stay and activities: Click here

Cappadocia has something for every type of traveler. I had to make sure to compile a list so Cappadocia can make it on your bucket list. Let me be the first to tell you, nothing can prepare you for how captivating Cappadocia is in person, I will try to explain by telling you 10 reasons why you should visit:

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Discover best places to stay in Cappadocia:

1. UNREAL Landscapes & Scenery

Cappadocia is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. It is filled with tall fairy chimneys, and spires of soft volcanic rock, which are a striking feature of the region, varying in shape, size, and blends of color. The chimneys (rock formations) have been formed over 60 million years ago through a combination of volcanic eruptions, erosion, and tectonic activity.

The people of Cappadocia also played a role in shaping the landscape, carving out dwellings and churches from the soft rock, and creating an intricate network of underground cities, cave dwellings, and churches. Overall, the tall formations in Cappadocia are a remarkable sight to behold and a testament to the power of nature to create stunning landscapes over millions of years.

2. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Most people come to Cappadocia to experience the thrill of the Hot air balloon flight mixed with the fairy-like scenery that Cappadocia offers. Every morning, dozens of colorful hot air balloons lift off into the skies above Cappadocia, creating a surreal and mystical atmosphere. The balloon ride typically lasts about an hour.

Best time to go: Hot air ballooning is available year-round in Cappadocia, although the best time to fly is during the months of April to October when the weather is most favorable.

Cost: Around 150-200 USD. The cost of a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia can vary depending on the operator, the season, and the length of the flight.

3. Adventure Activities

ATV/Quad Biking: ATV/Quad Biking is a popular activity in Cappadocia that allows you to explore the rugged terrain and scenic countryside. You can rent ATVs and take a guided tour of the region's off-road trails and valleys.

Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a fantastic way to explore the region's stunning landscapes and scenic valleys. You can take a guided tour of the valleys and experience the region's beauty from a different perspective.

Hiking: Cappadocia offers a variety of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, taking you through stunning valleys, rock formations, and historic sites. You can explore the region's stunning scenery at your own pace and experience its beauty up close.

Rock Climbing: Cappadocia is a rock climber's paradise, offering a range of routes for climbers of all skill levels. The soft volcanic rock creates unique formations that make for a challenging and rewarding climbing experience.

4. Delicious Local Cuisine

Of course, one of my favorite topics: FOOD. If you haven't tasted it already, Turkish cuisine is known for its bold savory spices, delicious meats, and mouth-watering sweets. You'll find plenty of local restaurants serving up traditional dishes like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. Here are some must-try dishes when in Cappadocia.

1. Testi Kebab: Testi Kebab is a traditional Cappadocian dish that is cooked in a clay pot. The dish typically consists of meat (usually lamb or beef) and vegetables that are cooked in a sealed pot and served with rice or bread.

2. Lahmacun: A type of Turkish pizza made with a thin crust, topped with minced meat, onions, and spices

3. Dolma: Grape leaves stuffed with rice, spices, and sometimes meat.

4. Gözleme: Gözleme is a savory Turkish pastry that is made with thin, unleavened dough and filled with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, potatoes, or ground beef. It is typically cooked on a griddle and served hot.

5. Mantı: Mantı is a Turkish dumpling that is similar to Italian ravioli. The dumplings are usually filled with ground meat and served with tomato sauce and garlic yogurt.

6. Pide: A type of Turkish bread that is similar to pizza, but with a thicker crust.

7. Çömlek Kebab: Çömlek Kebab is another traditional Cappadocian dish that is cooked in a clay pot. The dish typically consists of lamb or beef, onions, and vegetables that are cooked in a sealed pot and served with rice or bread.

SWEETS

1. Cevizli kabak tatlısı: A traditional Turkish dessert made with frozen pumpkin and nuts, commonly served in the Cappadocia region (SO GOOD)

2. Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry that is made with layers of thin dough, syrup, and chopped nuts. It is a popular dessert in Turkey and is often served with Turkish tea or coffee.

5. Relaxation & Wellness

Cappadocia itself offers such peaceful surroundings that provide the perfect setting for meditation and yoga retreats. However, after a full day of fun adventure activities, I am sure you would love nothing more than a day of pampering. Cappadocia is perfect because it specializes in relaxation and wellness. If staying in a cave hotel you are likely to have a Turkish Bath in your bathroom. A Turkish bath can act as a steam room where you pour hot water, lay on stone, relax and take in all the physical and mental benefits, including improved circulation, and detoxification.

The region has numerous thermal spas and wellness centers, where visitors can unwind and rejuvenate. Cappadocia also has natural hot springs which carry so many healing properties that many spas offer treatments using these thermal waters. Services range from massages to facials, and traditional Turkish baths, all aimed at promoting relaxation and well-being.

6. Accessibility and Safety

I felt extremely safe in Cappadocia. It is overall a relatively safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate and a friendly and welcoming local population. The region is well-developed for tourism and has several hotels, restaurants, and tour operators that cater to visitors. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and not leaving valuables unattended.

In terms of accessibility, Cappadocia is relatively easy to navigate, with well-maintained roads and a reliable public transportation system. Most of the region's popular attractions are located within a short driving distance of each other, and there are plenty of taxis and rental cars available for those who prefer to explore on their own. Additionally, there are several tour operators that offer guided tours of the region, which can be an excellent way to see the sights and learn more about the local culture and history. Overall, Cappadocia is a safe and accessible destination that is well-suited for both independent and guided travel.

7. History and Culture

As someone who was ignorant of a lot of world history outside of Canada, I have a fond interest in the history and cultural development of the new countries I visit. Especially somewhere as fascinating as Cappadocia: How was the formations formed and when? What do all these sites reveal about the area and the people of the past?

I loved learning all about Cappadocia's ancient times. There are numerous historic sites to visit, including underground cities, cave churches, and ancient ruins. Göreme Open-Air Museum, Zelve Open-Air Museum, Çavuşin Old Village and more.

History:

• Cappadocia has a long and storied history that dates back to the Hittites in the 2nd millennium BCE. Over the centuries, the region has been inhabited by various civilizations including the Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines.

• The early Christians fled to Cappadocia to escape persecution in the Roman Empire and created an underground network of cities and churches to hide and worship in safety.

• During the Ottoman period, Cappadocia was an important cultural and economic center, and the region played a role in the Turkish War of Independence in the early 20th century.

Culture:

• What I love is that whether you're attending a local festival or shopping at a traditional bazaar, you'll feel like you're truly experiencing the local way of life

• The people of Cappadocia are known for their hospitality and a warm welcome to visitors. They have a rich cultural heritage and are proud of their traditions, including folk music, dance, and handicrafts such as pottery, carpets, and textiles.

• The region is also famous for its cuisine, which includes dishes made with local ingredients such as lamb, eggplant, and peppers.

• Cappadocia is also known for its traditional festivals and celebrations, such as the grape harvest festival in September and the Nevşehir International Balloon Festival in July.

8. Photography Opportunities - The Perfect Place For Content Creators

Cappadocia is a photographer's dream! Whether you're a professional photographer or just love taking photos, Cappadocia will offer the most unreal backdrop that will shock almost anyone. Hotels in Cappadocia got you covered, they offer an ideal setting with a Turkish twist to capture your dream picture, especially during sunset or sunrise with the balloons in the background.

Additionally, there are several panoramic viewpoints, hiking trails, and historic sites that offer fantastic vantage points for capturing the beauty of the region. Whether you are an amateur or professional photographer, Cappadocia offers a wealth of opportunities to capture the most epic pictures.

9. Affordable Prices

The most you'd probably spend on something in Cappadocia is the Hot Air Balloon rides. Besides, everything is pretty affordable. Turkey, in general, has a relatively low cost of living compared to other developed countries and relies heavily on tourism for its economy. This translates to lower prices for food, accommodation, and transportation. There is a high level of competition among tour operators and hotels in Cappadocia, which helps keep prices reasonable. With so many options available, tour operators and hotels have to keep their prices competitive to attract customers.

Check out my 3-Day Itinerary in Cappadocia where I provide prices to all the places I visited.

10. Try Some of the Best Wine

Cappadocia is home to a unique wine culture that dates back thousands of years. The region's climate and soil conditions, combined with ancient winemaking techniques, contribute to the distinct flavor of Cappadocia's wines.

The most popular grape varieties grown in Cappadocia are the white grapes Emir and Narince, and the red grapes Kalecik Karası and Öküzgözü. The wines produced in Cappadocia range from dry to sweet, red and white, getting to try it all is a treat!

Take a Winery Tasting Tour: If you're visiting Cappadocia during the harvest season (usually in September), you can participate in a grape harvest experience. Wine tours are great for learning and of course why you're really there, tasting. Getting that nice buzz while happy to be in such a place like Cappadocia.

11. Experience The Best Sunrise and Sunset Views

Cappadocia has some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the world. The best time to witness the best backdrop for pictures is sunrise, which is the time when the hot air balloons take flight. Popular spots for sunrise in Cappadocia are the Goreme Open Air Museum, Love Valley, Red Valley, and Rose Valley. For sunset, I recommend views from the top of Uchisar Castle, Pigeon Valley, and Ortahisar Castle.

Many hotels and restaurants in Cappadocia also offer sunset views from their rooftop terraces, eating with a sunset view is always the best vibe. Overall, experiencing the sunrise and sunset in Cappadocia is a must-do for any visitor to the region.

12. The Cutest Cats

I was never the biggest cat person but the cats in Cappadocia are just so cute. Maybe this one is a bit biased, as I personally met some of the cutest cats in my hotel. Known as Cappadocia's "guardians," they are everywhere. Whether at breakfast, relaxing on the patio or strolling the streets, you'll see a cute cat or kitten nearby. As I was lounging on the hotels rooftop alone, super serene quiet surroundings, just thinking about life, a cat came out of no where to lay on my lap (without attacking me!). It was one of my favorites moments, as if it sensed I needed that.

These cats are not only adorable and friendly but also play an important role in the local culture and history. In fact, they have been living in Cappadocia for thousands of years, with some experts believing that they are descendants of the cats that accompanied traders long ago.

Conclusion

I hope I convinced you to at least put Cappadocia on the top of your bucket list because it is THAT WORTH IT. In summary, Cappadocia is an absolute gem of a destination that is simply adorable and enchanting. Its natural beauty, rich culture, and fun activities make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique travel experience.

Until next time, adios! <3