Cappadocia Attractions and Valleys
The valleys, rock formations and underground cities that make Cappadocia one of the world's strangest landscapes. This guide covers the headline attractions, how they formed, and how to see them without backtracking.
A landscape shaped by volcanoes
Cappadocia's surreal scenery began with volcanic eruptions that blanketed the region in soft ash. The ash hardened into tuff, then millennia of wind and water carved it into the spires, cones and ridges you see today. Humans added the final layer, hollowing churches, homes and entire underground cities out of the rock.
That combination — bizarre natural forms plus centuries of cave-dwelling history — is what makes the attractions here unlike anywhere else.
Guides in this section
Fairy Chimneys Explained
These tapering stone spires are Cappadocia's signature sight. Here's how they formed, where to see the most dramatic examples, and the best light for photographing them.
GuideLove Valley Guide
Love Valley's towering rock pillars are a favorite both from the ground and from the air at sunrise. Here's how to reach it, the best viewpoint, and when to go for photos.
GuideUnderground Cities Guide
Whole communities once lived below ground here, sheltering from raids in multi-level cities complete with stables, kitchens and churches. Compare the main underground cities and pick the right one for you.
GuideGoreme, Cappadocia: Town Guide
Goreme is the most popular base in Cappadocia, surrounded by valleys and balloon launch fields. Here's why it works so well as a hub and what to do right from town.
Guide