Planning a trip to Goreme, Cappadocia? Get ready for a destination like no other! With its fairy chimneys, cave hotels, ancient churches, and stunning hot air balloon views, Goreme is the heart of Cappadocia and the perfect base to explore the region.
Imagine waking up in a cave hotel, stepping outside to watch hundreds of hot air balloons floating above surreal rock formations, and spending the day exploring hidden valleys, underground cities, and panoramic viewpoints.
Goreme’s rich history, incredible landscapes, and warm hospitality make it one of Turkey’s most unforgettable destinations.
In this guide, we’ll help you plan the perfect trip, covering what to do, where to stay, what to eat, and insider tips to make the most of your visit.
Goreme at a Glance: Our Best Tips for Your Visit
✔ Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-November for perfect weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Winter months offer a magical snowy landscape.
✔ Where to Stay: Stay in a cave hotel for an authentic experience. Popular options include Sultan Cave Suites, Mithra Cave Hotel, and Kelebek Cave Hotel.
✔ Getting Around: Goreme is compact and walkable, but you’ll need a car, guided tour, or ATV rental to explore the surrounding valleys and attractions.
✔ Top Attractions: Don’t miss Goreme Open-Air Museum, Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, and the sunrise hot air balloon rides.
✔ Hot Air Balloons: Book your hot air balloon ride in advance, especially during peak season, as spots fill up quickly.
✔ Local Food to Try: Enjoy Testi Kebab (pottery kebab), Manti (Turkish dumplings), and local Cappadocian wines.
✔ Tours to Take: If you’re short on time, consider a Red Tour (Goreme & nearby highlights) or a Green Tour (Underground cities & natural wonders).
✔ Best Viewpoints: Catch the best sunrise views from Lover’s Hill, and head to Sunset Point for an unforgettable evening panorama.
Why Visit Goreme?
Goreme is the heart of Cappadocia, a town where fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, and surreal landscapes create one of the most unique destinations in the world.
Whether you’re here for adventure, history, or photography, Goreme is the perfect base for exploring everything Cappadocia has to offer.
What Makes Goreme Special?
✔️ Home to Cappadocia’s Top Attractions – Goreme Open-Air Museum, Love Valley, Red Valley, and some of the best hiking trails in the region.
✔️ Hot Air Balloon Capital – The best place in the world to experience a sunrise hot air balloon ride over magical landscapes.
✔️ Unique Cave Hotels – Stay in authentic cave hotels, carved into soft volcanic rock for an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
✔️ Incredible Outdoor Adventures – Hike through otherworldly valleys, explore ancient underground cities, or take an ATV tour at sunset.
✔️ Delicious Local Cuisine – Try traditional testi kebab, gözleme, and homemade Cappadocian wine in charming cave restaurants.
If you’re visiting Cappadocia, Goreme should be your starting point—it’s the ultimate place to experience the magic of the region!
Best Things to Do & See in Goreme
Goreme is the perfect base for exploring Cappadocia, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re here for adventure, photography, or cultural exploration, there’s no shortage of incredible sights and activities.
Here are some of the best things to do in Goreme:
Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum
No visit to Goreme is complete without seeing the Goreme Open-Air Museum, one of Cappadocia’s most famous attractions.
This ancient monastic complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, is home to stunning rock-cut churches and chapels decorated with Byzantine frescoes.
Must-see churches inside the museum:
✔ Elmali Church – Known for its apple-themed frescoes.
✔ Dark Church (Karanlık Kilise) – Famous for well-preserved, vibrant frescoes from the 10th century.
✔ Tokalı Church – The largest and oldest church in the museum.
✔ Yılanlı Church – Features unique depictions of St. George and the dragon.
⏳ Recommended time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Entrance fee required
Witness Stunning Views from Esentepe Hill
For one of the best panoramic views of Goreme, head to Esentepe Hill, located between Goreme and Avanos.
From this popular viewpoint, you can see fairy chimneys, rock formations, and cave dwellings spread across the landscape.
Best time to visit: Sunrise or sunset for the most stunning lighting.
☕ Enjoy a coffee or tea at one of the cafes nearby while taking in the views.
Watch the Sunrise & Hot Air Balloons from Lover’s Hill
Lover’s Hill is one of the best places to watch the sunrise in Cappadocia. Located just a short hike from central Goreme, this natural viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the hot air balloons floating over the valleys.
Best time to visit: Before sunrise for a spectacular view of the balloons.
Bring your camera – this is one of the most photogenic spots in Goreme.
Walk Through Pigeon Valley
Pigeon Valley is one of the most famous and scenic valleys in Cappadocia, known for its white-painted cave dwellings that once housed pigeons.
The valley, stretching between Goreme and Uçhisar, is ideal for hiking, photography, and spotting rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion.
Feed the pigeons at the famous evil eye tree at the valley’s highest viewpoint.
Hike the trail from Uçhisar to Goreme (about 1.5 hours, easy-to-moderate level).
Experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Goreme
One of the most iconic experiences in Goreme is a sunrise hot air balloon ride, offering a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Cappadocia’s valleys and fairy chimneys.
Watching dozens of colorful balloons float over the unique landscapes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Book your flight in advance, as spots fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.
More Info & Booking: [Check for tours and availability]
Stay in a Cave Hotel for an Authentic Experience
With over 200 unique accommodations, Goreme is famous for its cave hotels, many of which have been restored from traditional homes, mansions, and monasteries.
Staying in a cozy cave room offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends modern comfort with history.
Take a Sightseeing Tour
If you want to see the best of Cappadocia without the hassle of planning, consider joining a sightseeing tour.
These guided tours take you to Cappadocia’s most famous spots, including valleys, underground cities, and rock formations.
Red Tour (Cappadocia Highlights) – Covers Goreme Open-Air Museum, Uçhisar Castle, Pasabag (Monks Valley), and Avanos pottery workshops.
Green Tour (Nature & History) – Explores Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
Blue Tour (Hidden Gems) – Focuses on less crowded attractions, including Cavusin Village, Ortahisar Castle, and Soganli Valley.
All tours include hotel pickup, guide, and entrance fees.
Try Traditional Cappadocian Cuisine
Goreme is home to fantastic local restaurants where you can try authentic Cappadocian dishes, many of which are cooked in clay pots or over wood-fired ovens.
Must-try dishes:
✔ Testi Kebab – A slow-cooked meat dish prepared in a sealed clay pot and cracked open at your table.
✔ Nevşehir Pan – A traditional oven-baked meat and vegetable dish.
✔ Agpakla (Dried Beans Stew) – A hearty, slow-cooked dish perfect for chilly nights.
Try a glass of local Cappadocian wine, made from the region’s unique volcanic soil.
Best restaurants in Goreme:
✔ Dibek Restaurant – Famous for its authentic clay pot dishes.
✔ Seten Restaurant – Great for fine dining with amazing views.
✔ Topdeck Cave Restaurant – A cozy, family-run spot inside a cave.
Visit Pasabag (Monks Valley) to See Cappadocia’s Most Unique Fairy Chimneys
Pasabag, also known as Monks Valley, is famous for its tall, mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. These rock formations, shaped by centuries of erosion, look like something out of a fantasy movie.
✔ Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
✔ Combine with a visit to Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley), where rock formations resemble animals and mythical creatures.
Experience a Whirling Dervish Ceremony in a Historic Caravanserai
A Whirling Dervish ceremony is a spiritual and cultural experience that reflects the mystical traditions of the Sufi order. Watching the hypnotic spinning dance in an ancient caravanserai is an unforgettable way to end your day in Goreme.
Best places to watch:
✔ Sarıhan Caravanserai – One of the most atmospheric locations for this experience.
Goreme Video Tour
You can watch the below video your to see how Goreme looks like.
NAT GEO Goreme with Mock VO from Kayla Wumer on Vimeo.
Goreme for a Day: Our Best Itinerary
Got just one day in Goreme? No problem! Here’s a perfect 1-day itinerary to experience the best of Goreme, from sunrise to sunset.
Sunrise: Watch Hot Air Balloons from Lover’s Hill
✔ Hike up Lover’s Hill (Aşıklar Tepesi) before sunrise.
✔ Watch the hot air balloons floating over the valleys.
✔ Snap some amazing photos of the sunrise and fairy chimneys.
8:00 AM: Breakfast at a Cave Hotel
✔ Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with fresh cheese, olives, honey, and eggs.
✔ Best spots: Sultan Cave Suites, Mithra Cave Hotel, or Kelebek Hotel for rooftop views.
9:30 AM: Explore Goreme Open-Air Museum (UNESCO Heritage Site)
✔ Walk through rock-cut churches and ancient monasteries.
✔ See 10th-century frescoes inside Dark Church & Tokalı Church.
✔ Allow 1.5–2 hours to explore fully.
☕ 11:30 AM: Coffee Break at a Local Café
✔ Stop for Turkish coffee or tea at a cozy café in town.
✔ Try Coffeedocia or Espresso Lab Goreme.
12:00 PM: Hike or ATV Tour in Red & Rose Valley
✔ If you love hiking, take a 1-hour walk through Red & Rose Valley.
✔ Prefer adventure? Rent an ATV for an exciting ride through the valleys.
✔ Stop for panoramic views and incredible rock formations.
1:30 PM: Lunch in Goreme Town
✔ Try Testi Kebab (slow-cooked meat in a clay pot).
✔ Best restaurants: Dibek, Seten, or Topdeck Cave Restaurant.
2:30 PM: Visit Esentepe Panorama Viewpoint
✔ Enjoy sweeping views of Goreme and Cappadocia’s landscapes.
✔ Great spot for relaxing with a tea or taking epic photos.
3:30 PM: Explore Pasabag (Monks Valley)
✔ See the tall, mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys.
✔ Learn about the history of the monks who lived here.
4:30 PM: Walk Through Pigeon Valley
✔ A short, scenic walk between Goreme and Uçhisar.
✔ Stop at the famous evil eye tree and feed the pigeons.
5:30 PM: Sunset at Uçhisar Castle
✔ Climb to the highest point in Cappadocia for an unbeatable sunset view.
✔ Watch the sky turn golden over the fairy chimneys.
7:00 PM: Dinner & Wine in Goreme
✔ Try local Cappadocian wine and traditional dishes.
✔ Best restaurants: Pumpkin, Inci Cave, or Organic Cave Restaurant.
Optional Evening Activity: Whirling Dervish Ceremony
✔ Experience a mystical Sufi dance in a historic caravanserai.
✔ Best spot: Sarıhan Caravanserai (starts around 8:00 PM).
Eating Out – What to Eat?
Goreme offers a mix of traditional Turkish cuisine, cozy cave restaurants, and rooftop dining with spectacular views.
️ Must-Try Local Dishes:
✔ Testi Kebab: Meat and vegetables slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot.
✔ Manti: Turkish-style dumplings served with yogurt and garlic butter.
✔ Gözleme: Savory Turkish flatbread stuffed with cheese, potatoes, or minced meat.
✔ Baklava & Turkish Tea: The perfect sweet treat after a meal.
Best Restaurants in Goreme:
✔ Seten Restaurant: One of the best spots for authentic Cappadocian cuisine with a view.
✔ Dibek Restaurant: A cozy family-run spot serving traditional pottery kebab.
✔ Topdeck Cave Restaurant: Offers a warm, homely atmosphere and excellent local dishes.
✔ Inci Cave Restaurant: Great for Turkish breakfast, grilled meats, and vegetarian options.
✔ Pumpkin Goreme Restaurant: A top-rated place for delicious homemade meals and fresh ingredients.
Many restaurants offer rooftop terraces, making dining in Goreme a magical experience, especially at sunset or under the stars.
Shopping – What to Buy?
Goreme is a great place to shop for traditional Turkish handicrafts, unique souvenirs, and Cappadocian specialties. The village is filled with bazaar-style markets, boutique shops, and artisan workshops, where you can find authentic, handmade items.
️ What to Buy in Goreme:
✔ Pottery & Ceramics: Handmade clay pottery from nearby Avanos.
✔ Turkish Carpets & Kilims: Colorful, handwoven rugs with intricate patterns.
✔ Evil Eye Beads (Nazar Boncuğu): A symbol of protection in Turkish culture.
✔ Spices & Dried Fruits: Local flavors like saffron, sumac, and dried apricots.
✔ Cappadocian Wine: Locally produced wine made from Anatolian grapes.
Nightlife & Night-time Activities
Goreme transforms into a relaxed and atmospheric village after dark, with cozy rooftop restaurants, live music, and cultural performances. While it’s not a party town, it offers a great mix of evening entertainment.
Things to Do in Goreme at Night:
✔ Sunset Viewpoints: Watch the sunset over Goreme from Lover’s Hill or Sunset Point.
✔ Rooftop Dining: Enjoy a romantic dinner with fairy chimney views.
✔ Turkish Night Show: Experience traditional folk dances, belly dancing, and live music at places like Evrim Turkish Night.
✔ Wine Tasting: Try locally made Cappadocian wines at a cozy wine house.
✔ Café & Lounge Bars: Enjoy a relaxed night at Fat Boys Bar, One Way Café, or Angel Café Bistro.
For a quieter evening, take a stroll through the village, where cave hotels and stone houses glow warmly under the moonlight.
Accommodation in Goreme – Where to Stay?
Goreme offers some of the most unique accommodations in the world, with cave hotels, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly stays.
Best Cave Hotels in Goreme:
✔ Sultan Cave Suites: Famous for its sunrise rooftop views and cave-style luxury.
✔ Mithra Cave Hotel: Offers stunning terraces perfect for watching hot air balloons.
✔ Kelebek Special Cave Hotel: A mix of authentic charm, comfort, and spa services.
✔ Aydinli Cave Hotel: A family-run hotel with traditional Turkish hospitality.
✔ Doors of Cappadocia Hotel: A stylish boutique stay with beautiful cave rooms.
Budget-Friendly Options:
✔ Goreme Inn Hotel: A comfortable mid-range hotel with great service.
✔ Charming Cave Hotel: Offers authentic cave rooms at a reasonable price.
✔ Osmanbey Cave Hotel: A great budget-friendly option with excellent location.
Many cave hotels in Goreme offer terraces with stunning sunrise views, making your stay a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
How to Get to Goreme?
Goreme is one of the most accessible towns in Cappadocia, with multiple transportation options available from nearby cities and towns.
How to Get to Goreme from Nearby Towns
From Uçhisar (5 km – ~10 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A quick 10-minute drive via Uçhisar-Goreme Road.
✔ By Bus: Regular local minibuses (dolmuş) run between Uçhisar and Goreme throughout the day.
From Avanos (16 km – ~25 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A 25-minute drive via Avanos-Goreme Road.
✔ By Bus: Minibuses run regularly between Avanos and Goreme, making it an affordable option.
From Ürgüp (12 km – ~20 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A 20-minute drive via Ürgüp-Goreme Road.
✔ By Bus: Frequent local buses connect Ürgüp and Goreme throughout the day.
Traveling to Goreme from Major Cities
Goreme is well-connected to Turkey’s major cities via air and road transport.
Distance from Major Cities:
✔ Ankara → Goreme: 305 km (~3.5-hour drive)
✔ Istanbul → Goreme: 750 km (~8-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight)
✔ Izmir → Goreme: 780 km (~9-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight)
✔ Kayseri → Goreme: 60 km (~1-hour drive)
✔ Nevşehir → Goreme: 12 km (~20-minute drive)
Getting to Goreme by Air
There are no direct international flights to Cappadocia. The nearest airports are:
✈ Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) – 44 km from Goreme
✔ The closest airport to Goreme.
✔ Offers domestic flights from Istanbul and other major Turkish cities.
✈ Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) – 75 km from Goreme
✔ More frequent domestic flights from Istanbul and Izmir.
✔ Typically offers more flight options and lower fares than Nevşehir Airport.
Getting from the Airports to Goreme:
✔ By Public Minibus: Available but can be inconvenient, especially with luggage.
✔ By Taxi: Readily available at both airports but costs more than a shuttle transfer.
✔ By Airport Transfer (Recommended):
- Shared Shuttle: ~€8 per person, the most affordable and comfortable option.
- Private Transfer: ~€80 per vehicle, ideal for groups or travelers seeking privacy.
Since Cappadocia is a rural region with limited public transport, taking an airport shuttle is the most convenient way to reach your hotel in Goreme, Uçhisar, Avanos, or Ürgüp.
