Best Things in Cappadocia & Locations for Hot Air Balloons

Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey, is a large magical area with unique sites and magical features. Since becoming a world heritage site in the 1980s, it has become a popular spot for many people worldwide. The rocky mountains, caves, and exciting views of the land area are always worth looking forward to. You may see hot balloons on almost all the captivating images of Cappadocia. Well, hot balloons are common in this area, and we will talk about them at length -- especially places you can visit to see lovely rides. However, there is more to Cappadocia than hot balloon rides. In fact, there are many activities to explore while in this part of turkey. So, let's get to it.

Visit the Göreme Open-air Museum and Watch the Famous Göreme Sunset

The Göreme open-air museum is a way to experience the authenticity of the past world. This museum consists of buildings from the 11th century -- right where they were built. The museum has over ten churches and refectories that you can explore. The museum offers additional experiences such as an audio-guided tour that allows you to explore the ancient ruins alone. The museum opens in the money and closes late in the evening. The monasteries available at the location have a rich history and are all beautiful structures. The way that leads to these buildings has remained natural. This museum is an excellent place for great holiday pictures. 
 

Hiking

Hiking? Yes, you read that right. Hiking is one of the interesting things to do in Cappadocia. The love valley in this region is an excellent place to hike. The rock formations of the love Valley make it a choice place to explore. The hills in this area are well carved with many beautiful views to enjoy. It's a picture-worthy area with excellent terrain for hikers. Hiking in the love valley brings you close to nature, and as you move further, you'd know why it has that name. You can hike with the help of a local professional who is familiar with the terrain, or you can use Google maps to maneuver your way around. 

Explore the Cave Hotels 

To give visitors the best experience, the caves in the region have been converted into hotels. Formerly a spot for old houses and places that locals dwelled. The caves of Cappadocia now have hotels in these caves. The major benefits of these hotels nestled in the caves are the amazing views. From different angles based on the location of each hotel, you get to see the amazing terrain of the entire area of Göreme especially. The view is mesmerizing at any time of the day. Although this may not sound like the best plan, you can choose to lodge in multiple hotels in the cave during your stay to enjoy the different views of the location. Alternatively, you can visit these hotel premises during the day, although you won't get to wake up to the views since you are not lodged in the facility. 

Explore the Underground at Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu 

The Underground at Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu are good examples of underground cities with lots of history. Dating back to the 6th century, these cities were the escape route for Christians trying to evade the Arab and Persian who invaded them in ancient times. The Kaymakl has up to eight levels with rooms scattered across the structure. As a visitor, you are allowed to explore up to four levels, as for the Derinkuyu, it's an underground City that is considered to be the deepest compared to any other area in the region of Cappadocia. The tunnels here are much smaller and more profound. The design of this city can be explored. It has a great ventilation system and storage areas. Except you're claustrophobic, you'll enjoy your time exploring and appreciating the genius of the builders who worked on these underground cities.

Visit the Ihlara Valley 

If you enjoy hiking, the valley of Ihlara is a good place to explore. The Valley has several natural elements to offer. It boasts cliffs, lustrous greens, solid trees, and cave structures. The Valley has a couple of monasteries and churches that served as retreats to monks and clergypersons in times past. The Valley has large fertile farmland and villages you can explore. The views this part of Cappadocia offers are among the best in the region. As you walk through, savor the moments and take amazing images of this paradise in the area of Cappadocia. 

Visit Eski Gümüşler Monastery 

In the south of Cappadocia is the famous Gümüşler monastery. This huge structure is a top place for many visitors. It has paintings that date back to the 11th century and many tunnels to explore. The structure is complex, yet that's what makes it interesting to explore. As an old structure, the Gümüşler monastery is not the smoothest place to explore; however, you are sure to enjoy your time in it. 

Explore Kayseri 

For a blend of modernity and antiquity, Kayseri is an excellent place to visit. Kayseri is a lively city with interesting monuments and the famous Kayseri castle sitting right in the middle of the city,  surrounded by modern edifices. Kayseri has an architectural museum that has a couple of excavations that are worth seeing. Mount Erciyes is also a feature of the city that offers great views. Not to mention the winter ski experience it offers. This city is close to the airport. As you arrive in Turkey, this should be an important step before you start exploring the entire area of Cappadocia. 
 

Explore Ceramics Stores 

If you like to collect artworks or to sightsee, then the ceramic store in Avanos is a place to be. The area of Avanos is worthy of exploration as it has roads decorated by ruins of old mansions. Beyond this is the amazing pottery history of this place. Pottery has always been a major occupation for people who lived here in the past. And that hasn't stopped. The porters in this area use beautiful red clay in this area to mould different designs that will leave you in awe. The porters are everywhere in Avanos. You'll find them near the river of Kizilirmak and in other places. Now, this is where it gets interesting. The porters can allow watching as they mould or watch their past works. Additionally, you can be allowed to participate -- such as moulding any object you desire. It's always a fantastic experience when you visit this part of the city.