Thinking of visiting Urgup, Cappadocia? This lively town is the cultural and historical heart of the region, offering stunning fairy chimneys, deep-rooted traditions, and some of the best boutique hotels and wineries in Cappadocia.
Picture yourself wandering through ancient rock-carved homes, hiking through breathtaking valleys, tasting world-class Cappadocian wines, and discovering hidden underground cities.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from top attractions and must-do activities to insider tips that will help you make the most of your visit.
Urgup at a Glance: Our Best Tips for Your Visit
No Regrets Booking Advice
✔ Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) for comfortable weather, great hiking conditions, and wine harvest season. September is perfect for the Urgup Vintage Festival.
✔ Where to Stay: Urgup is home to some of Cappadocia’s best boutique and luxury cave hotels.
✔ Getting Around: The town is easy to explore on foot, but you’ll need a car, taxi, or guided tour to reach the surrounding valleys and historical sites.
✔ Top Attractions: Don’t miss Temenni Hill (for panoramic views), the Three Beauties fairy chimneys, Mustafapaşa Village, and Ortahisar Castle.
✔ Wine Tasting: Urgup is Cappadocia’s wine capital—visit Turasan or Kocabağ wineries to taste locally produced Anatolian wines.
✔ Best Hiking Spots: Explore Red Valley (Kızılçukur) for sunset views, Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) for unique rock formations, and Gomeda-Uzengi Valleys for a mix of history and nature.
✔ Best Viewpoints: Watch the sunrise from Temenni Hill and the sunset from Red Valley’s panoramic terrace.
Best Things to Do & See in Urgup
Urgup, known as the “World City” of Cappadocia, is a town where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly.
With its well-preserved ancient sites, stunning valleys, and vibrant local culture, Urgup is one of the best places to explore in Cappadocia.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, historical landmarks, or experiencing Cappadocia’s famous wine culture, Urgup has something for everyone.
Visit Temenni Hill – The Best Viewpoint in Urgup
Temenni (Wish) Hill is the highest peak in Urgup, offering stunning panoramic views over the town and surrounding valleys.
✔ Climb to the historic tomb, believed to belong to Alaeddin Keykubat III.
✔ Visit the Tahsin Ağa Public Library, a hidden gem in the middle of the hill.
✔ Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the fairy chimneys.
Location: Centrally located in Urgup.
See the Famous Three Beauties (Üç Güzeller) Fairy Chimneys
The Three Beauties are one of Cappadocia’s most iconic fairy chimney formations. These three naturally sculpted rock pillars stand together in perfect harmony, creating one of the most photographed spots in the region.
✔ One of the best places for photography in Cappadocia.
✔ Learn about the local legends surrounding the Three Beauties.
✔ Easily accessible from Urgup town center.
Location: On the road between Urgup and Ortahisar.
Hike Through Red Valley – The Best Sunset Spot
Red Valley (Kızılçukur) is one of the most breathtaking valleys in Cappadocia, famous for its red-hued rock formations and fairy chimneys.
✔ One of the best spots for sunset and sunrise views.
✔ The 5 km hiking trail takes around 1-2 hours and leads to Çavuşin Village.
✔ Stop at the observation terrace for an unforgettable view.
Location: Between Urgup and Göreme.
Explore Devrent (Imagination) Valley – A Surreal Landscape
Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, is home to fairy chimneys that resemble animals and human figures.
✔ Spot the famous camel-shaped rock and other natural sculptures.
✔ A must-visit for photography lovers and kids.
✔ No hiking required—just walk along the valley and explore.
Location: 10 minutes from Urgup.
Visit Urgup Museum – Fossils & Ancient Artifacts
Urgup Museum offers a fascinating collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts from Cappadocia’s past.
✔ See fossils dating back 10 million years.
✔ Discover Hittite, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts.
✔ Learn about traditional Cappadocian handicrafts and textiles.
Location: Urgup town center.
Discover Mustafapaşa Village – A Historic Greek Town
Just 6 km from Urgup, Mustafapaşa (formerly Sinasos) is a beautiful old Greek village with a rich multicultural history.
✔ Walk through stone houses, historic churches, and monasteries.
✔ Visit Asmali Mansion, a famous Greek house turned hotel & restaurant.
✔ Explore the Cappadocia Art and History Museum, home to over 2,000 handmade dolls from around the world.
Location: 15 minutes from Urgup.
Explore Mazi Underground City
Mazi Underground City is one of the lesser-known but fascinating underground cities of Cappadocia.
✔ Discover hidden tunnels, kitchens, and secret escape routes.
✔ A quieter alternative to Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı Underground Cities.
✔ Learn how ancient civilizations lived and protected themselves underground.
Location: 20 minutes from Urgup.
Visit Ortahisar Castle for Stunning Views
Ortahisar Castle is one of the highest points in Cappadocia, offering a breathtaking panoramic view over the fairy chimneys and Mount Erciyes.
✔ Climb the restored rock-cut stairway to the peak.
✔ Best spot to see the fairy chimneys of Hallacdere.
✔ Ideal for photographers and history lovers.
Location: Ortahisar town, 10 minutes from Urgup.
Experience Cappadocia’s Wine Culture & Urgup Vintage Festival
Urgup is famous for its vineyards and locally produced wines. If you visit in September, don’t miss the Urgup Vintage Festival—a celebration of Cappadocia’s winemaking heritage.
✔ Visit Turasan Winery, one of the oldest and most famous wineries in Turkey.
✔ Taste local wines made from unique Anatolian grape varieties.
✔ Join wine-tasting events and learn about traditional winemaking techniques.
Location: Urgup town center.
Enjoy a Traditional Turkish Night Show
End your day with a Turkish Night Show, a lively evening of belly dancing, folk performances, and traditional music.
✔ Includes a full-course meal and unlimited drinks.
✔ Watch whirling dervishes and traditional dance performances.
Location: Various venues in Urgup.
Asmali Mansion
Visit Asmalı Konak (Mansion), where one of the famous Turkish TV series was shot.
The mansion, originally an old Greek house dating back to 1800, is one of the popular places in Mustafapasa village through Urgup. Today, it serves as a hotel and restaurant as the “Old Greek House”. Have a romantic lunch or dinner here!
Cappadocia Museum of Art and History – Doll Museum
This is a private museum located in Mustafapasa village and housed housed in a beautiful 150 years old mansion and features a wide range of exhibits that cover various aspects of Cappadocian history and culture.
More than 2000 pieces of hand made dolls from Turkey and all over the world in their unique costumes, the wall paintings of Kostas Meletiyadis, the mansion’s historical star windows, yards, rooms, doors and accessories can be admired at the museum.
Take a Sightseeing Tour
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.
Urgup Video Tour
You can watch the below video your to see how Urgup looks like.
Urgup for a Day: Our Best Itinerary
Only have one day in Urgup? No worries! This 1-day itinerary covers the top attractions, best viewpoints, and cultural experiences, making sure you make the most of your visit.
7:30 AM: Watch the Hot Air Balloons from Temenni Hill
✔ Hike to Temenni (Wish) Hill, the highest viewpoint in Urgup.
✔ Watch the hot air balloons float over the valleys.
✔ Enjoy a panoramic sunrise view over Urgup and its fairy chimneys.
8:30 AM: Traditional Turkish Breakfast
✔ Have a delicious Turkish breakfast with fresh bread, cheese, olives, and local honey.
✔ Best places: Kolcuoğlu Restaurant or Zeytin Cafe for a scenic morning meal.
9:30 AM: Visit Urgup Museum
✔ See fossils dating back 10 million years.
✔ Explore Hittite, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts.
✔ Learn about traditional Cappadocian crafts and textiles.
Location: Urgup town center.
10:30 AM: Discover the Three Beauties Fairy Chimneys
✔ Visit Üç Güzeller (Three Beauties), Cappadocia’s most famous fairy chimney formation.
✔ Learn about the local legends surrounding the rock formations.
✔ Take stunning photos of the unique landscape.
Location: On the road between Urgup and Ortahisar.
♂️ 11:30 AM: Hike Through Red Valley
✔ Walk the 5 km scenic trail through Red Valley.
✔ Enjoy the vibrant red-colored rock formations.
✔ Stop at the Red Valley Observation Terrace for breathtaking views.
Location: Between Urgup and Göreme.
1:00 PM: Lunch at a Cave Restaurant
✔ Try Testi Kebab, a traditional dish cooked in a sealed clay pot.
✔ Best spots: Ziggy Café, Dimrit Restaurant, or Han Çırağan Restaurant.
2:30 PM: Explore Mustafapaşa Village (A Historic Greek Town)
✔ Stroll through stone houses, monasteries, and old Greek mansions.
✔ Visit the Cappadocia Art and History Museum, home to over 2,000 handmade dolls.
✔ Stop by Asmali Mansion, a historic Greek house turned hotel and restaurant.
Location: 6 km from Urgup.
4:00 PM: Visit Ortahisar Castle for Stunning Views
✔ Climb the restored stairway to the highest peak of Ortahisar Castle.
✔ Enjoy panoramic views over the fairy chimneys and Mount Erciyes.
✔ One of the best sunset spots in Cappadocia.
Location: Ortahisar town, 10 minutes from Urgup.
5:30 PM: Sunset at Devrent (Imagination) Valley
✔ See fairy chimneys shaped like animals and human figures.
✔ Spot the famous camel-shaped rock.
✔ A perfect place for unique photography.
Location: 10 minutes from Urgup.
7:00 PM: Wine Tasting at a Local Winery
✔ Visit Turasan Winery, one of the oldest wine producers in Turkey.
✔ Taste local wines made from indigenous Cappadocian grapes.
✔ Learn about traditional winemaking in the region.
Location: Urgup town center.
8:00 PM: Optional – Turkish Night Show & Dinner
✔ Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner with live performances.
✔ Watch belly dancing, folk music, and whirling dervishes.
✔ Best venues: Evrim Restaurant or Yörük Tent.
Location: Various venues in Urgup.
Eating Out – What to Eat?
Urgup is one of the best places in Cappadocia for food lovers, offering a mix of traditional Turkish cuisine, fine dining, and cozy cafés. With its charming cave restaurants, rooftop terraces, and family-run eateries, Urgup provides a variety of dining experiences to suit every traveler.
️ Must-Try Local Dishes:
✔ Testi Kebab: A signature dish of Cappadocia, slow-cooked in a clay pot.
✔ Tandır Kebab: Lamb slow-roasted in a traditional oven for hours.
✔ Homemade Manti: Turkish dumplings served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
✔ Mezes & Local Cheeses: A great way to start a meal with local flavors.
✔ Cappadocian Wines: Try locally produced wines from Urgup’s famous vineyards.
Best Restaurants in Urgup:
✔ Ziggy Café & Restaurant: A stylish spot with amazing food, a cozy ambiance, and a terrace view.
✔ Dimrit Restaurant: Known for authentic Testi Kebab and homemade mezes.
✔ Tandir House: A great place for slow-cooked lamb dishes and local specialties.
✔ Urgup Konak Restaurant: Set in a historic stone house, offering a mix of local and modern flavors.
✔ Üç Güzeller Restaurant: A casual option with grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional desserts.
Shopping – What to Buy?
Urgup is a shopping hub in Cappadocia, known for its local handicrafts, handmade rugs, pottery, and wines. The town is home to boutique shops, bustling markets, and traditional artisan workshops, where you can find authentic souvenirs.
️ What to Buy in Urgup:
✔ Handwoven Turkish Carpets & Kilims: Made with traditional patterns and natural dyes.
✔ Pottery & Ceramics: Beautiful handcrafted pieces from nearby Avanos.
✔ Cappadocian Wines: Urgup is one of the best places in Cappadocia for wine tasting and buying local wines.
✔ Dried Fruits & Nuts: A local specialty, including apricots, figs, and walnuts.
✔ Handmade Jewelry: Unique pieces crafted by local artisans.
✔ Spices & Natural Soaps: Perfect gifts from the region, including saffron and olive oil soaps.
Urgup by Night
Urgup is one of the liveliest towns in Cappadocia after dark, offering a mix of rooftop dining, wine houses, and cultural performances. While it’s not a party destination, it has a vibrant atmosphere with great nightlife options.
Things to Do in Urgup at Night:
✔ Rooftop Dining: Many restaurants offer terrace seating with fairy chimney views.
✔ Wine Tasting at Local Wineries: Enjoy regional wines at Turasan Winery or Mahzen Şarap Evi.
✔ Turkish Night Show: Experience folk dancing, whirling dervishes, and live music at cultural venues.
✔ Relax at a Café or Lounge Bar: Urgup has a few casual spots like Kayakapi Lounge and Ürgüp Café Bistro for a relaxed evening.
✔ Take an Evening Stroll: Walk through Urgup’s old town, where historic buildings and stone houses are beautifully illuminated.
Urgup is a great place for those looking for a more relaxed, yet lively evening experience.
Accommodation in Urgup – Where to Stay?
Urgup is known for its luxurious cave hotels, boutique stays, and charming guesthouses, making it one of the best places to stay in Cappadocia.
Best Cave Hotels in Urgup:
✔ Kayakapi Premium Caves: A luxury cave hotel with beautifully restored suites and stunning views.
✔ Sacred House: One of the most unique boutique hotels in Turkey, featuring elegant historic design and luxury service.
✔ Fresco Cave Suites: Offers charming cave rooms with fresco-covered walls and a peaceful atmosphere.
✔ Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel: A beautifully restored stone and cave hotel with elegant interiors.
✔ Dere Suites: A stylish blend of modern comfort and historic charm.
Budget-Friendly Options:
✔ Urgup Inn Cave Hotel: A cozy and affordable family-run guesthouse.
✔ Cappadocia Palace Hotel: Offers good value for money in a historic stone building.
✔ Ürgüp Cave Suites: A comfortable and budget-friendly option in the heart of town.
Many hotels in Urgup offer wine-tasting experiences, spa services, and terraces with spectacular views, making it a top accommodation choice for travelers looking for comfort and authenticity.
How to Get to Urgup?
Ürgüp from Nearby Towns
Ürgüp is centrally located, making it easily accessible from Göreme, Uçhisar, and Avanos. Here’s how to get there from each town:
From Göreme (10 km – ~20 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A 20-minute drive via Göreme-Ürgüp Road.
✔ By Bus: Local minibuses (dolmuş) run frequently between Göreme and Ürgüp throughout the day.
From Uçhisar (7 km – ~15 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A 15-minute drive via Uçhisar-Ürgüp Road.
✔ By Bus: Regular minibuses operate between Uçhisar and Ürgüp, making it a budget-friendly option.
From Avanos (18 km – ~25 minutes)
✔ By Car or Taxi: A 25-minute drive via Avanos-Ürgüp Road.
✔ By Bus: Local minibuses run regularly, connecting Avanos and Ürgüp throughout the day.
Traveling to Ürgüp from Major Cities
Ürgüp is well-connected to Turkey’s major cities by air and road.
Distance from Major Cities:
✔ Ankara → Ürgüp: 300 km (~3.5-hour drive)
✔ Istanbul → Ürgüp: 750 km (~8-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight)
✔ Izmir → Ürgüp: 790 km (~9-hour drive or 1.5-hour flight)
✔ Kayseri → Ürgüp: 60 km (~1-hour drive)
✔ Nevşehir → Ürgüp: 20 km (~30-minute drive)
Getting to Ürgüp by Air
There are no direct international flights to Cappadocia. The nearest airports are:
✈ Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) – 44 km from Ürgüp
✔ The closest airport to Ürgüp.
✔ Offers domestic flights from Istanbul and other Turkish cities.
✈ Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) – 75 km from Ürgüp
✔ More frequent domestic flights from Istanbul and Izmir.
✔ Typically offers more flight options and lower fares than Nevşehir Airport.
Getting from the Airports to Ürgüp:
✔ By Public Minibus: Available but less convenient for travelers 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 most reliable and hassle-free way to reach your hotel in Ürgüp, Göreme, Uçhisar, or Avanos.
