Thinking of visiting Uchisar, Cappadocia? You’re in for a breathtaking experience! As the highest point in Cappadocia, Uchisar offers stunning panoramic views, rich history, and a peaceful escape from the busier towns.
This charming village is less crowded than Göreme, making it perfect for a more relaxing and scenic stay.
Picture yourself watching the sunrise from Uchisar Castle, taking in sweeping views of the valleys and fairy chimneys, exploring hidden cave houses and underground tunnels, and enjoying local Cappadocian cuisine in a cozy terrace restaurant.
In this guide, we’ll help you plan your perfect visit, covering top attractions, must-do activities, and local tips to make the most of your time in this magical town.
Uchisar at a Glance: Our Best Tips for Your Visit
✔ Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) for mild weather, clear skies, and fewer crowds. Winter offers snow-covered landscapes and magical views.
✔ Where to Stay: Uchisar is known for its luxury cave hotels with panoramic terraces. Top choices include Argos in Cappadocia, Museum Hotel, and Rox Cappadocia.
✔ Getting Around: The town is walkable, but you’ll need a car, taxi, or guided tour to reach the nearby valleys and attractions.
✔ Top Attractions: Don’t miss Uchisar Castle, Pigeon Valley, Esentepe Panorama Viewpoint, and the unique cave dwellings carved into the cliffs.
✔ Local Food to Try: Enjoy Testi Kebab (pottery kebab), Nevşehir Pan (baked meat and vegetables), and local Cappadocian wines.
✔ Tours to Take: Consider a Red Tour (best for fairy chimneys and rock formations) or a Green Tour (exploring underground cities and hidden gems).
✔ Best Viewpoints: Uçhisar Castle is the top spot for sunrise and sunset views, while Esentepe Hill offers incredible panoramic landscapes.
Best Things to Do & See in Uchisar
Uchisar is the highest point in Cappadocia, offering breathtaking panoramic views, stunning fairy chimneys, and a peaceful atmosphere. Located just 7 km from Nevşehir, this charming town is perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and soaking in Cappadocia’s best landscapes.
Whether you’re here for sunset views, historic sites, or local delicacies, Uchisar is a must-visit!
Visit Uchisar Castle – The Highest Point in Cappadocia
Uchisar Castle is the tallest and most famous landmark in Cappadocia, also known as the “Roof of Cappadocia.” Climb to the top for 360-degree panoramic views of the valleys, fairy chimneys, and nearby towns.
✔ See incredible views of Goreme National Park, Avanos, Ortahisar Castle, and Pigeon Valley.
✔ Used as a watchtower in ancient times, this natural rock fortress offers one of the best sunset views in Cappadocia.
✔ Sunset at Uchisar Castle is a bucket-list experience—watch as the golden light transforms the valleys below.
Explore Pigeon Valley – A Scenic Trail with Breathtaking Views
One of the most famous valleys in Cappadocia, Pigeon Valley gets its name from the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the soft tufa rock. This valley has been used for centuries by locals who collected pigeon droppings for farming.
✔ Hike the scenic trail between Uchisar and Goreme (moderate, about 1.5 hours).
✔ Enjoy panoramic views from the evil eye tree viewpoint, where you can take stunning photos and feed the pigeons.
✔ Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, with impressive rock formations and cave dwellings.
Enjoy the Best Views from Uchisar’s Panoramic Terraces
Uchisar has some of the best viewpoints in Cappadocia, where you can enjoy spectacular scenery of Goreme, Aktepe, and the surrounding valleys.
✔ Esentepe Hill – A popular observation terrace with stunning panoramic views over Cappadocia.
✔ Several restaurants and cafés around Uchisar offer terrace seating with unbeatable scenery—perfect for relaxing with Turkish tea or coffee.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Uchisar
A hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Uchisar offers some of the most incredible views from the sky. Floating above the fairy chimneys and valleys at sunrise is simply breathtaking.
✔ Watch the sunrise over Uchisar Castle, Love Valley, and Goreme National Park.
✔ Flights operate year-round, but book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
✔ More Info & Booking: [Check for availability & prices]
Sample & Buy Local Dried Fruits from Uchisar’s Street Stalls
One of the best local experiences in Uchisar is tasting and buying dried fruits from small vendors in the town center. You’ll find a variety of vibrant, sun-dried fruits such as:
✔ Pears, mulberries, strawberries, pineapples, pepino, and kiwi.
✔ Perfect for a healthy snack or a unique souvenir to take home.
Try Traditional Cappadocian Cuisine in Uchisar’s Cave Restaurants
Dining in Uchisar’s traditional cave restaurants is an experience in itself. Enjoy authentic Cappadocian dishes with incredible views over the valleys.
Must-try dishes:
✔ Testi Kebab – A slow-cooked meat dish prepared inside a clay pot and cracked open at your table.
✔ Nevşehir Pan – A hearty oven-baked meat and vegetable dish.
✔ Cappadocian Wine – The region is famous for its unique volcanic soil, which produces excellent local wines.
Best restaurants in Uchisar:
✔ Seki Restaurant at Argos in Cappadocia – A fine-dining restaurant with stunning views and an extensive wine selection.
✔ Millocal Restaurant – Great for authentic Turkish cuisine in a cozy cave setting.
Explore Uchisar’s Caves, Boutique Shops & Local Markets
Wander through Uchisar’s charming streets, where you’ll find:
✔ Handmade pottery and ceramics, perfect for souvenirs.
✔ Traditional Turkish carpets and textiles, woven by local artisans.
✔ Boutique jewelry stores selling handmade silver and turquoise pieces.
If you’re looking for authentic gifts or souvenirs, this is one of the best places in Cappadocia to shop for local handicrafts.
Take a Sightseeing Tour Covering Uchisar & Surrounding Areas
If you want to see the best of Cappadocia in a short time, consider joining a guided sightseeing tour. These tours include hotel pick-up, transport, and a professional guide.
Red Tour (Cappadocia Highlights) – Covers Goreme Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, Pasabag (Monks Valley), and Avanos pottery workshops.
Green Tour (Nature & History) – Includes Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
Blue Tour (Hidden Gems) – Focuses on less touristy spots like Cavusin Village, Ortahisar Castle, and Soganli Valley.
Great for travelers who want to see more in a day without worrying about logistics.
Uchisar Video Tour
You can watch the below video by Peter and Yen your to see how Uchisar looks like.
Uchisar for a Day: Our Best Itinerary
Only have one day in Uchisar? No problem! This 1-day itinerary covers the best sights, breathtaking views, and must-try local experiences in Uchisar.
Sunrise: Watch the Hot Air Balloons from Uchisar Castle
✔ Climb to the top of Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia.
✔ Watch hot air balloons floating over the valleys as the sun rises.
✔ Capture amazing panoramic views of Goreme, Pigeon Valley, and Ortahisar.
8:00 AM: Breakfast with a View
✔ Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast with fresh bread, olives, cheese, and honey.
✔ Best places: Seki Restaurant at Argos in Cappadocia, Millocal Restaurant, or Kadıneli Restaurant.
9:30 AM: Explore Uchisar Castle
✔ Walk through ancient cave rooms and tunnels carved into the castle.
✔ Learn about its history as a watchtower and defense fortress.
✔ Take in breathtaking 360° views over Cappadocia.
☕ 11:00 AM: Coffee Break with a Scenic View
✔ Stop by a cave café and enjoy Turkish coffee or tea.
✔ Best spot: House of Memories Café or Saklı Kahve for panoramic terrace views.
11:30 AM: Hike Through Pigeon Valley
✔ Take a short scenic hike from Uchisar to Goreme. (1.5 hours, easy trail)
✔ Spot thousands of ancient pigeon houses carved into the cliffs.
✔ Stop at the famous evil eye tree for a great photo op.
1:00 PM: Lunch in a Cave Restaurant
✔ Try Testi Kebab (slow-cooked meat in a clay pot).
✔ Best places: Elai Restaurant, Saklı Konak, or Lil’a at Museum Hotel.
2:30 PM: Explore Uchisar’s Local Shops & Markets
✔ Visit handmade pottery shops, Turkish carpet stores, and boutique jewelry stalls.
✔ Sample and buy local dried fruits like mulberries, pears, and pepino.
3:30 PM: Visit a Panoramic Viewpoint for Epic Photos
✔ Head to Esentepe Hill for the best views of Cappadocia’s valleys.
✔ Relax at a café with Turkish tea and baklava while admiring the scenery.
4:30 PM: Optional Activity – Sightseeing Tour (If you want to see more!)
✔ Take a Red Tour or Green Tour to explore Goreme, underground cities, and fairy chimneys.
✔ Great for visitors who want to see more of Cappadocia in one day.
5:30 PM: Sunset at Uchisar Castle
✔ Return to Uchisar Castle for a stunning sunset view.
✔ Watch the sky change colors over the valleys.
7:00 PM: Dinner & Cappadocian Wine
✔ Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a cave restaurant with local wine.
✔ Best picks: Seki Restaurant, Millocal, or Saklı Konak.
Eating Out – What to Eat?
Uchisar offers a fantastic selection of restaurants with stunning views, traditional Cappadocian dishes, and charming cave dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious meal with a view of Pigeon Valley or a cozy family-run restaurant serving authentic Turkish flavors, you’ll find plenty of great options.
️ Must-Try Local Dishes:
✔ Testi Kebab: Slow-cooked meat and vegetables sealed in a clay pot.
✔ Çömlek Kebabı: A specialty of the region, featuring lamb slow-cooked in an earthenware dish.
✔ Cappadocian Mezes: A variety of small appetizers, including hummus, roasted eggplant, and yogurt-based dips.
✔ Handmade Manti: Turkish-style dumplings served with yogurt and garlic butter.
✔ Local Cappadocian Wines: The region is famous for its unique Anatolian grape varieties.
Best Restaurants in Uchisar:
✔ Seki Restaurant (Argos in Cappadocia): A fine-dining experience in a restored cave, serving gourmet Anatolian cuisine.
✔ Millocal Restaurant: A stylish spot offering a mix of modern and traditional Turkish dishes.
✔ Elai Restaurant: Features an open-air terrace with panoramic views of the valleys and delicious local dishes.
✔ Kadıneli Restaurant: A women-run restaurant known for homemade regional specialties and warm hospitality.
✔ Uchisar Kule Restaurant: A great option for a romantic dinner with a breathtaking view of Cappadocia.
Most restaurants in Uchisar have beautiful terraces, making sunset dining a must-have experience!
Shopping – What to Buy?
Uchisar is one of the best places in Cappadocia for authentic, high-quality handicrafts, offering handwoven rugs, pottery, jewelry, and local delicacies. Shopping here is a mix of traditional craftsmanship and boutique elegance.
️ What to Buy in Uchisar:
✔ Handwoven Turkish Carpets & Kilims: Unique, high-quality, and beautifully designed.
✔ Pottery & Ceramics: Handmade ceramics from the region, including the famous Avanos pottery.
✔ Evil Eye Beads (Nazar Boncuğu): A cultural symbol for good luck and protection.
✔ Handmade Jewelry: Beautiful silver and turquoise pieces crafted by local artisans.
✔ Dried Fruits & Spices: Freshly sourced from the region, perfect as souvenirs.
✔ Local Wines: The vineyards of Cappadocia produce some of Turkey’s best wines.
Uchisar by Night
While Uchisar is quieter at night compared to Göreme, it offers a charming and romantic atmosphere with incredible panoramic views. The illuminated fairy chimneys, twinkling valley lights, and peaceful ambiance make it a magical place to experience Cappadocia after dark.
Things to Do in Uchisar at Night:
✔ Sunset at Uchisar Castle: The perfect place to watch the sun go down over the valleys.
✔ Wine Tasting at a Local Winery: Enjoy regional Cappadocian wines in a cozy setting.
✔ Rooftop Dining with a View: Many restaurants offer terraces overlooking Pigeon Valley, great for a candlelit dinner.
✔ Turkish Night Show: Experience traditional folk dances, whirling dervishes, and live music at selected venues.
✔ Stargazing: With less light pollution than Göreme, Uchisar is a great place for a peaceful night under the stars.
For those looking for a relaxed and intimate evening, Uchisar’s stunning nighttime views and fine dining make it a fantastic choice.
Accommodation in Uchisar – Where to Stay?
Staying in Uchisar offers a luxurious and peaceful retreat, with high-end cave hotels, stunning panoramic views, and top-tier hospitality. The village is home to some of the most beautiful and exclusive accommodations in Cappadocia.
Best Cave Hotels in Uchisar:
✔ Argos in Cappadocia: A world-class luxury cave hotel with stunning suites and fine dining at Seki Restaurant.
✔ Museum Hotel: A unique boutique hotel with authentic artifacts, an infinity pool, and breathtaking views.
✔ Kaya Kapadokya Hotel: A beautifully restored cave hotel with modern comforts and a historical touch.
✔ Rox Cappadocia: A stylish and cozy stay offering panoramic rooftop views and a charming boutique experience.
✔ Taskonaklar Hotel: A blend of luxury and tradition, featuring cave rooms with private terraces.
Budget-Friendly Options:
✔ Karlık Evi Hotel: A charming, mid-range boutique hotel with a homey feel.
✔ Ansia Hotel: Offers authentic stone and cave rooms at a reasonable price.
✔ Saklı Konak Cappadocia: A cozy and budget-friendly family-run guesthouse.
Many cave hotels in Uchisar provide private terraces, allowing guests to watch the sunrise, hot air balloons, and stunning landscapes right from their room.
How to Get to Uchisar?
from Nearby Towns
From Göreme (5 km – ~10 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A quick 10-minute drive via the Göreme-Uçhisar Road.
✔ By Bus: Regular local minibuses (dolmuş) run between Göreme and Uçhisar throughout the day.
From Avanos (12 km – ~20 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A 20-minute drive via the Avanos-Göreme Road.
✔ By Bus: Minibuses run regularly from Avanos to Uçhisar, offering a budget-friendly option.
From Ürgüp (7 km – ~15 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A 15-minute drive via the Ürgüp-Göreme Road.
✔ By Bus: Local buses operate throughout the day, connecting Ürgüp to Uçhisar.
Traveling to Uçhisar from Major Cities
Uçhisar is well-connected to Turkey’s major cities via air and road transport.
Distance from Major Cities:
✔ Ankara → Uçhisar: 304 km (~3.5-hour drive)
✔ Istanbul → Uçhisar: 752 km (~8-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight)
✔ Izmir → Uçhisar: 782 km (~9-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight)
✔ Kayseri → Uçhisar: 72 km (~1-hour drive)
✔ Nevşehir → Uçhisar: 8 km (~15-minute drive)
Getting to Uçhisar by Air
There are no direct international flights to Cappadocia. The nearest airports are:
✈ Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) – 44 km from Uçhisar
✔ The closest airport to Uçhisar.
✔ Offers domestic flights from Istanbul and other Turkish cities.
✈ Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) – 75 km from Uçhisar
✔ More frequent domestic flights from Istanbul and Izmir.
✔ Typically offers more flight options and lower fares than Nevşehir Airport.
Getting from the Airports to Uçhisar:
✔ By Public Minibus: Available but less convenient with luggage.
✔ By Taxi: Readily available but more expensive 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 easiest and most comfortable way to reach your hotel in Uçhisar, Göreme, Avanos, or Ürgüp.
