GÖREME
Göreme is the heart of Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscape. This region of central Turkey is famous for its “fairy chimneys,” a spectacular geological canvas carved by millennia of wind and volcanic activity.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Göreme is a hub for adventure and history, offering visitors unforgettable hot air balloon flights and the chance to explore ancient rock-cut churches and underground cities.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Landscapes & Geologic Wonders:
The Fairy Chimneys: Towering, cone-shaped rock formations spread across the region, offering a surreal, moon-like vista.
Paşabağı (Monks Valley): Famous for the best examples of mushroom-capped “fairy chimneys,” once serving as a hermitage for monks.
Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley): A valley known for its zoo-like rock formations, with the most famous resembling a large camel.
Uçhisar Castle: A massive, honeycombed rock citadel carved into a natural peak, offering the most panoramic views of Cappadocia.
Ortahisar Castle: A prominent rock-cut fortress in the heart of the region, providing spectacular views of the surrounding valleys.
Ancient History & Rock-Cut Sites:
Göreme Open-Air Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a complex of 10th- to 13th-century rock-cut churches and monasteries with vibrant Byzantine frescoes.
Zelve Open-Air Museum: A magnificent cave town that was once a monastic retreat and one of the latest inhabited settlements in the area.
Derinkuyu Underground City: The deepest and most thoroughly excavated of Cappadocia’s subterranean complexes, spanning eight floors for refuge.
Kaymaklı Underground City: A vast, multi-level underground city, complete with kitchens, churches, and stables, used by early Christians to escape invaders.
Selime Monastery: The largest rock-cut monastery in the Cappadocia region, featuring a cathedral-sized church carved directly into the cliff face.
Karanlık Kilise (Dark Church): An exceptionally well-preserved church inside the Göreme Open-Air Museum, renowned for its vibrant, intact frescoes.
Valleys & Viewpoints for Hiking:
Pigeon Valley (Güvercinlik Vadisi): Named for the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the soft tufa rock, popular for its scenic hiking trail between Göreme and Uçhisar.
Love Valley: Known for its striking, phallic-shaped rock formations and popular as a sunrise viewing spot for hot air balloons.
Red & Rose Valley (Güllüdere Vadisi): Famous for its stunning sunset views when the rock formations glow in shades of red and pink.
Ihlara Valley: A deep, lush canyon with the Melendiz River flowing through it, lined with numerous Byzantine rock-cut churches and an excellent hiking path.
Sunset Point (Aşıklar Tepesi): The most popular viewpoint just above Göreme for watching the sunrise, sunset, and the mass balloon ascent.
Panorama Point (Göreme Panorama): An accessible viewpoint offering a classic, sweeping view over Göreme town and the surrounding valleys.
Culture, Activities & Local Towns:
Hot Air Balloon Flights: A signature, once-in-a-lifetime sunrise experience of soaring above the unique geological landscape.
Avanos Town: Known as the pottery center of Cappadocia for centuries, offering workshops and demonstrations of the traditional art using red river clay.
Cave Hotel Stay: Spending a night in a room carved directly into the ancient volcanic rock, a truly unique lodging experience.
Whirling Dervish Ceremony (Sema): Witnessing the mesmerizing, ancient religious ceremony of the Mevlevi Order, often held in a historic Caravanserai.
Horseback Riding Tours: Exploring the valleys on horseback, a popular way to see the landscape around sunset.
ATV Quad Biking Tours: An adventurous, guided tour for exploring the rugged, off-road trails of the valleys.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight: Experience the quintessential Cappadocia moment, floating over the fairy chimneys and valleys as the sun rises, with hundreds of other balloons filling the sky.
Hike the Red and Rose Valleys: Trek through stunning landscapes, especially beautiful at sunset, known for their pink and red-hued rocks, and explore hidden rock-cut churches.
Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut churches and monasteries with well-preserved Byzantine frescoes dating from the 10th to 12th centuries.
Visit an Underground City (Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı): Descend into the multi-level subterranean cities where early Christians hid from persecution, a remarkable feat of ancient engineering.
Ride an ATV or Quad Bike at Sunset: Join a thrilling guided ATV tour through the rugged valleys, including Love Valley or Swords Valley, for an adrenaline-fueled experience.
Stay in a Cave Hotel: Sleep in a room carved directly into the volcanic rock, offering a unique and luxurious cultural experience with modern amenities.
Hike or Cycle through Pigeon Valley: Explore the valley named for the thousands of dovecotes carved into the rock face, often used for farming in the past.
Watch the Sunrise/Balloons from Sunset Point (Aşıklar Tepesi): Climb to the highest point in Göreme for the best panoramic view of the town and the spectacle of the hot air balloons at dawn.
Climb Uçhisar Castle: Explore the tallest rock formation in Cappadocia, honeycombed with tunnels and rooms, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the entire region.
Take a Pottery Workshop in Avanos: Visit the nearby town of Avanos, famous for its red clay pottery, and try your hand at the ancient craft, often using traditional kick-wheel techniques.
Experience a Turkish Bath (Hammam): Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Turkish bath, including a scrub, foam massage, and tea, for a true local pampering experience.
Local Tips & Transport
Walkability is Key in Town: Göreme is very compact and walkable; all the hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies are clustered together. You can also walk to the trailheads of nearby valleys like Love Valley and Rose Valley.
Public Transport (Dolmuş): Local shared minibuses, called dolmuş, connect Göreme to nearby towns like Ürgüp, Avanos, and Uçhisar on regular, budget-friendly routes. Look for the “dolmuş” signs or ask your hotel for the schedule.
Tours for Distant Sites: Many of the farther-out attractions, like the Underground Cities (Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı) or Ihlara Valley, are best visited via organized tours (often called the Red Tour or Green Tour) or by renting a car/hiring a private taxi, as public transport can be sparse.
Airport Transfers: The nearest airports (Kayseri-ASR and Nevşehir-NAV) are serviced by affordable pre-booked shuttle services (shared or private) that deliver you directly to your hotel door, which is the easiest option.
Rental Car Considerations: Renting a car offers great flexibility for exploring remote villages and valleys at your own pace, but parking in Göreme during peak season can be difficult and paid.
Book Balloons for Your First Morning: Hot air balloon flights are strictly weather-dependent and are frequently cancelled due to wind or rain. To maximize your chances, book your flight for the first full day of your trip, so you have a few days to re-schedule if needed.
Embrace Turkish Cuisine: Don’t miss the local specialities. Testi Kebab (Pottery Kebab) is a meat and vegetable stew cooked and served in a sealed clay pot that is theatrically broken open at your table. Also, try Mantı (Turkish dumplings) and traditional Turkish breakfast.
Cash is Recommended: While larger hotels and tour agencies accept credit cards, many smaller cafes, shops, and dolmuş services operate on a cash-only (Turkish Lira, TL) basis. Carry small denominations for convenience.
Valley Etiquette & Safety: When hiking, wear sturdy shoes as paths can be uneven and dusty. Some hiking trails, especially in Rose and Red Valleys, can be confusing—download an offline map or consider a guided walk.
Shopping for Pottery and Carpets: The region is famous for its craftsmanship. If buying pottery in Avanos or a Turkish carpet, be prepared for a ritual of negotiation (haggling) over a cup of traditional Çay (tea). Avoid tourist shops with massive bus parking lots for a more authentic and better-priced experience.
Hidden Gems:
- Zelve Open-Air Museum: A quieter alternative to the main Göreme museum, this former troglodyte village was continuously inhabited until the 1950s and offers a less crowded look at rock-cut homes and churches.
- Love Valley Viewpoint (Not the one near Uçhisar): The viewpoint closer to the village of Çavuşin provides a spectacular, less-touristed perspective over the famous towering “fairy chimneys.”
- Old Greek Village of Mustafapaşa: A charming, less-visited village with beautiful stone houses showcasing the area’s rich, multi-cultural history.
- Sip Turkish Wine: The volcanic soil and high altitude are excellent for grape growing. Seek out local Cappadocian wines from producers like Turasan, often served in the cave restaurants.
Top Restaurants
Dibek Traditional Home Cook Restaurant [$10-$25] – A historic, 475-year-old traditional cave building where you typically sit on the floor at low tables. Famous for pre-ordered slow-cooked dishes like the Testi Kebab (pottery kebab) and mantı (Turkish dumplings).
Topdeck Cave Restaurant [$15-$30] – An intimate, family-run restaurant in a small, cozy cave setting. Known for its delicious traditional Turkish home cooking and signature mezze platters. Reservations are highly recommended.
Nazar Börek & Cafe [$5-$15] – A popular, casual local spot famous for its gözleme (Turkish flatbread) and various börek (stuffed pastries). A perfect stop for a cheap, authentic, and satisfying lunch.
Cafe Şafak [$5-$15] – A family-owned budget-friendly eatery where the mother cooks. Highly recommended for authentic Turkish food like mantı, mercimek çorbası (lentil soup), and their excellent eggplant dip.
Old Cappadocia Cafe & Restaurant [$10-$20] – A classic, central restaurant that serves up generous portions of traditional local cuisine in a no-frills setting. Good for a quick, reliable, and authentic meal.
Turkish Ravioli Restaurant [$10-$20] – A charming eatery specializing in Mantı (Turkish dumplings), served in various styles. A good spot to try this essential local dish.
Inci Cave Restaurant [$10-$25] – A relaxed, local cave restaurant with a warm atmosphere, known for serving hearty kebabs and fresh mezze platters.
Aysel’in Mutfağı [$10-$25] – A cozy, well-decorated restaurant offering home-style Turkish cuisine with friendly service and often a nice view.
Kale Terrasse Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located under one of the fairy chimneys, this restaurant has rustic interiors and is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine and a charming setting.
Kilim Restaurant Göreme [$15-$30] – Specializes in Anatolian dishes cooked over a tandoor fire and serves local dishes in the region’s traditional clay pots.
Tandır House [$15-$30] – A restaurant known for dishes cooked in a traditional tandır (tandoor oven), offering a genuine taste of local meat and bread specialties.
Soffy’s Kitchen [$15-$30] – A charming and inviting spot offering a diverse menu with a focus on local Turkish fare and warm hospitality.
Sedef Restaurant [$15-$30] – Known for authentic Turkish cuisine, with a highly-regarded signature lamb kebab.
One Way Cafe Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers a delightful selection of Turkish cuisine, known for its friendly staff and authentic flavors.
Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant & Art Gallery [$20-$40] – A highly-rated, family-run restaurant with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and organic ingredients. They typically offer a fixed-price menu that changes daily, often featuring slow-cooked lamb or the clay pot kebab. Reservations are essential.
Seten Anatolian Cuisine [$25-$50] – Serves sophisticated Anatolian dishes using traditional methods in a charming stone building, often with a terrace offering sunset views. Known for its elevated take on regional classics.
Haruna Restaurant [$25-$50] – Offers a diverse and delicious menu ranging from traditional Turkish meat dishes to pastas, with a stunning rooftop bar that provides excellent views across Göreme.
Lagarto Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in nearby Ürgüp, this restaurant is known for its gorgeous views from atop a hill and a menu that boasts high-quality food.
Fat Boys [$15-$30] – A popular restaurant and bar offering generously portioned Turkish classics alongside pub fare and vegetarian options in a lively setting.
Mozaik Restaurant [$20-$40] – Offers a mix of traditional and modern Turkish cuisine, with a reputation for quality and flavor.
Aravan Evi [$30-$50] – Located in nearby Ürgüp, this unique spot focuses on healthy, hearty cuisine using freshly harvested ingredients from its on-site garden and eco-farm.
Seki Restaurant (at Argos in Cappadocia) [$50-$80] – Located in nearby Uçhisar, this fine dining restaurant offers modern Anatolian cuisine with a refined touch, famous for its stunning panoramic views and extensive wine cellar carved into the rock.
Lil’a Restaurant (at Museum Hotel) [$60-$90] – Located in nearby Uçhisar in a historic mansion, this fine dining establishment offers gourmet Turkish cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant setting.
Maya Cappadocia [$40-$70] – A fine-dining, cave-carved space with a focus on Mediterranean and Turkish coast-inspired cuisine.
Romantic Concept Dinner in the Valley [$150-$250 for two] – While not a single restaurant, this is a premium, private dining experience set up for couples in a picturesque, secluded spot in the valley, featuring a curated multi-course meal amid romantic lighting and stunning views.
Göreme: Dinner and Folk Show at a Cave Restaurant [$50-$80] – A classic, lively cultural experience inside a large cave, featuring a multi-course traditional Turkish dinner, unlimited drinks, and a folk show with belly dancers and whirling dervishes.
Restoran Kapadokya Lezzet Sofrasi [$20-$40] – Known for providing an excellent set menu that often includes a variety of traditional Cappadocian dishes, allowing for a tasting experience of the region’s cuisine.
Millocal Restaurant Kapadokya [$40-$70] – Located in nearby Uçhisar, this restaurant is known for its focus on seasonal, farm-to-table menus and its cozy cave atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Rooftop at Sultan Cave Suites: This popular spot in Göreme offers one of the most iconic rooftop settings, known for its incredible panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset. It’s an excellent place for a romantic evening, serving local wines, cocktails, and other drinks.
Haruna Restaurant at Carus Cappadocia Hotel: Located in Göreme, this upmarket venue offers fine dining and a diverse drink menu, including cocktails, with absolutely amazing, romantic views over the town and surrounding valleys, particularly enchanting at night.
Red Red Wine House: A charming spot in Göreme known for its excellent selection of local Cappadocia wines. The ambiance is cozy, making it perfect for wine lovers looking to relax and sample the region’s best vintages.
Organic Wine House: Found in Göreme, this establishment focuses on organic local wines. It features inviting indoor and outdoor spaces and a warm, welcoming atmosphere where staff are eager to share insights about the region’s wine culture.
Fat Boys: More of a restaurant and pub located centrally in Göreme, this spot features a well-stocked bar, pub fare, and an outside terrace. It’s a lively social venue that serves cocktails and has a friendly, casual nightlife vibe.
Keyif: Situated with a beautiful terrace that offers a full view of Göreme, this restaurant also boasts an impressive wine selection. It’s a great place to enjoy a delicious dinner and a glass of local wine in a joyful atmosphere (“Keyif” means pleasure).
Cafe Harmony Hookah Bar&Bistro: Located in Göreme, this delightful spot on a second floor is known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional shisha, but it also serves drinks and is a relaxed place for a night out.
Mithra Terrace at Mithra Cave Hotel: A top spot for relaxed drinks, offering fantastic, unobstructed views over Göreme Town, Red Valley, and Swords Valley. A great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Seten: Discreetly blended into the ancient buildings in the area, this upmarket restaurant and bar is known for beautiful views and a sophisticated setting, making it one of the more exclusive places for a quiet drink in the Cappadocia region.
Rupa Bar: Found in Göreme, this venue is noted for its good music and vibrant, inviting atmosphere, making it a great choice for exquisite cocktails and a fun night out.
Kaira Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: Located in the heart of Göreme, this spot offers stunning views alongside a selection of exquisite drinks and flavors, ideal for a memorable evening.
Pasha cafe bistro: A lively hotspot in Göreme, offering not just delicious Turkish cuisine but also cocktails and often featuring live music, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere.
Panoramic Rooftop BAR: Situated in Göreme, this bar is considered a premier sunset destination, providing breathtaking panoramic views and a good selection of drinks.
Ferize Meyhane: Perched within the Keyif Restaurant in Göreme, this newly opened meyhane (a traditional Turkish drinking establishment) blends tradition and creativity, known for its iconic view and effortless ambiance, perfect for enjoying Rakı and mezes.
The Hangout Gastro Pub: Located in Göreme, this pub offers a lively atmosphere and a mix of international and local drinks, appealing to those looking for a more familiar pub setting.