Would you like to explore Cappadocia? Let's start with Göreme then.
The fascinating atmosphere of Cappadocia is revealed in Göreme Valley, which is decorated
with fairy chimneys. Cappadocia promises a mystical adventure with its historical
underground cities, unique rock formations, and unforgettable trips with hot air balloons.
Goreme, the charming town in the heart of Turkey's Cappadocia, attracts visitors with its
fascinating mix of unique rock formations, breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural
fabric. As the most frequented region of Cappadocia, Göreme hosts thousands of international
and local travelers every year. Göreme, located approximately 12 kilometers from the city of
Nevsehir, has many historical churches and monasteries, proving that it is one of the oldest
settlements in Cappadocia. Located at the junction of the main valleys of Cappadocia,
Göreme contrasts sharply with Avanos and Ürgüp.
❖ Let's take a look at Göreme
Here's a list for you of what to expect from your visit to Göreme;
Traditional Cuisine; Goreme is renowned for its authentic Turkish cuisine, featuring a
delectable array of dishes like kebabs, meze, and baklava. Travelers can savor these delightful
culinary offerings at the town's restaurants and cafes.
Fairy Chimneys: Goreme is renowned for its "fairy chimneys," towering cone-shaped rock
formations shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago. These formations are a
captivating and widely popular sightseeing attraction scattered throughout the town.
Hot Air Balloons; Goreme is one of the premier destinations globally for hot air balloon rides. Travelers can soar above the fairy chimneys and diverse rock formations, enjoying awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape.
Göreme Open Air Museum; The Goreme Open Air Museum, included as a UNESCO World
Heritage Site, showcases a collection of historic churches and monasteries meticulously
carved into the rock by early Christians. Exploring these architectural wonders allows visitors
to delve into the rich history and culture of the region.
Hiking in Cappadocia, Göreme; Goreme and its environs boast numerous hiking trails that
meander through the region's distinctive rock formations and natural landscapes. Hikers have
the opportunity to revel in breathtaking views and immerse themselves in the exploration of
local flora and fauna.
Nightlife; Göreme has a lively nightlife scene with many bars and clubs opening their doors
until late at night. Guests can enjoy live music, drinks and mingle with locals and travelers.
Did you know that there is a party in Cappadocia in the middle of summer to experience a
techno festival and spend a few incredibly fun days? Everyone who knows is flocking to this
party. Agartha Festival is a festival held every year in Cappadocia.
Handicrafts; Göreme is one of the important districts of Turkey, hosting various traditional
handicrafts such as pottery, carpets and textiles. Visitors can explore local shops and markets
to purchase these unique and beautiful products or even create their own handmade gifts that
are unique in the world by creating a special pottery with the Pottery Making Tour.
❖ What can you expect in Göreme?
Without a doubt, Göreme stands out as the most important attraction and focal point of any
trip to Cappadocia. Surrounded by magnificent valleys and interesting fairy chimneys, this
fascinating region, resembling an open-air museum, becomes the center of attention of local
and foreign tourists. It adds a unique touch to the fascinating charm of Göreme, which drags
travelers into a short past period and amazes them with its huge rock formations.
The fact that the majority of houses and guesthouses in Göreme are hewn from rock or made
of stone makes the district indistinguishable in daylight. But the real magic of this area
emerges at night when the houses and hotels are illuminated, creating a fascinating panorama.
To get the best perspective of Göreme, ascend to the high hills surrounding the area, where
specially constructed platforms offer a breathtaking vantage point to witness the stunning
sunset.Embarking on a journey to Goreme promises an unparalleled and lasting adventure. This
captivating destination, adorned with breathtaking natural vistas, a profound cultural legacy,
and a lively local ambiance, is an essential stop for any traveler exploring Cappadocia.
Whether your interests lie in delving into history, immersing yourself in nature, or simply
savoring local cuisine and the vibrant nightlife, Goreme extends a diverse range of
experiences to cater to every preference.
❖ YOU CAN SEE & DO IN GOREME
Exploring this region is easily navigable on foot, and convenient transportation options
connect you to other corners of Cappadocia. Indulge in the flavors of local cuisine, such as
Nevşehir pan, dried beans (agpakla), and various traditional dishes. With over 200 distinctive
accommodations, guests can immerse themselves in an authentic experience within
meticulously restored houses, stately mansions, and unique boutique hotels.
P.S; ALSO YOU CAN VISIT IN GOREME;
• The Elmali Church
• Dark Church
• Tokali Church
• Yilanli Church
• Saint Basil Chapel
• Santa Barbara Chapel
• Santa Catherine Chapel
❖ SOME VIEWPOINTS IN GOREME;
Esentepe Hill; Panoramic vantage points, offering stunning vistas of the remarkable Goreme
National Park, situated in the elevated terrain along the Goreme-Avanos route, draw
considerable attention from travelers. Take a seat at one of the surrounding restaurants or
cafes, where you can marvel at the breathtaking scenery while indulging in a delightful meal.
Here, relish the expansive panorama of Goreme from the platforms on the Esentepe viewpoint
and be captivated by some of the most extraordinary vistas in the region. Immerse yourself in
the complete splendor of Goreme valley and town, adorned with enchanting fairy chimneys,
intricate rock formations, and charming cave houses.
Pigeon Valley; Pigeon Valley is a remarkable locale where select cave dwellings have been
whitewashed to attract birds seeking their valuable droppings. Renowned for its exquisite
views, the valley, nestled between Uchisar and Goreme, earns distinction for its captivating
landscapes, earning it the top spot among Cappadocia's renowned and impressive valleys.
Strolling along the valley to the hills, admiring the landscape from the edge of the tree
adorned with the famous evil eye bead, and engaging in pigeon feeding contribute to the
unique charm of this scenic destination.
Lovers Hill; Lovers Hill, located adjacent to Goreme town, is accessible by ascending a
pathway near the central Goreme Mosque. This spot stands out as one of the prime locations
to witness the sunrise in Cappadocia. You can also marvel at the picturesque views of Goreme
National Park and the early morning hot air balloons drifting across the horizon.
❖ What can we eat in Göreme?
Goreme presents a delightful array of dining and wine experiences, offering visitors a taste of
local delicacies and menus crafted from natural ingredients. The town boasts numerous
restaurants and cafes, providing delicious meals at budget-friendly prices.
A diverse culinary landscape awaits, featuring everything from olive oil-infused dishes and
appetizers to authentic Turkish kebabs. Among the renowned flavors of Cappadocia are jug
kebab, pot beans, stuffed apricots, wedding soup, and homemade wines, which stand out as
indispensable delights. Vegetarian and vegan options are also readily available catering to
various dietary preferences.
❖ What can we buy as souvenirs from Göreme?
Goreme stands out for its renowned traditional handicrafts, encompassing pottery, carpets,
and textiles. Given its status as a tourist hub, most shops in the area specialize in selling
souvenirs.Exploring local shops and markets reveals a treasure trove of unique and high-quality items.
Consider purchasing hand-woven carpets, rugs, or runners from the distinguished Goreme
region, celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship. Additionally, miniature fairy chimney
sculptures and magnets, reflecting the architectural essence of the region, make for ideal gifts.
Embrace the tradition of haggling, as negotiating is expected to secure the best prices.
❖ What are the accommodation options in Göreme?
Goreme stands out as one of the most sought-after areas in the region thanks to its strategic
proximity to numerous famous tourist attractions, all easily accessible on foot. Additionally,
Goreme offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to luxury and budget-
conscious travelers.
Accommodation choices in Goreme span the spectrum, ranging from economical hostels to
upscale hotels. Many of these establishments are ingeniously integrated into the distinctive
rock formations, ensuring guests an authentic and unforgettable experience. Particularly
favored among visitors to Cappadocia, cave hotels contribute to the unique charm of
Goreme's lodging offerings.
❖ How do I go to Göreme?
Reaching Goreme is both effortless and convenient, given the array of transportation options
from neighboring towns and cities. Whether opting for a car, taxi, or the local bus, you can
seamlessly journey to this enchanting town and explore its numerous historic and cultural
landmarks, including the Goreme Open Air Museum and the iconic fairy chimneys.
• If you’re in Urgup; To reach Goreme from Urgup, you can take a car or taxi. The
town is situated approximately 12 kilometers away from Urgup, and the journey
typically spans around 20 minutes by car. Alternatively, local buses are available,
operating on a consistent schedule throughout the day, providing an additional
transportation choice for travelers.
• If you’re in Uchisar; The easiest way to reach Goreme from Uchisar is by car or taxi.
The town is situated approximately 5 kilometers away from Goreme, and the journey
typically spans around 10 minutes by car. An alternative option is a local bus service
from Uchisar to Goreme, offering regular and frequent daily runs for added
convenience.
• If you’re in Avanos; The optimal method for reaching Goreme is by utilizing a car or
taxi. The town is roughly 16 kilometers from Avanos, and the journey typically spans
around 25 minutes by car. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Avanos to
Goreme, with regular services running throughout the day for added flexibility.
❖ Intercity trip to Göreme
Goreme is situated about;
305 Km (190 miles) From Ankara
750 Km (466 miles) From Istanbul
780 Km (484 miles) From Izmir
60 Km (37 miles) From Kayseri
12 km (7 miles) From Nevsehir
P.S; Direct international flights to the Cappadocia region are not available. The closest local
airports are located in Nevsehir ( NAV Airport) and Kayseri (ASR Airport) but Direct
domestic flights from Istanbul (IST & SAW Airport / 1.25 hours) and Izmir ( ADB Airport
/ 1.30 hours) are available to both Nevsehir and Kayseri, providing convenient access to the
Cappadocia region.
Upon arriving in Kayseri or Nevsehir by either land or air travel, you can access Goreme
using minibusses, which typically take around 30 minutes from the airports. However, it may
be challenging. Another viable option is to opt for a taxi, whether you are in the city center,
bus station, or airport.
