The Highlights of Cappadocia with a Lunch Stop in Central Anatolia

If you’re looking to explore the heart of Central Anatolia and soak up the beauty of Cappadocia, then a highlights tour with lunch in Central Anatolia is the perfect way to do it. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget or a luxury traveler with deep pockets, this tour will ensure you experience the best of both worlds.

On this tour you can expect to see some of Cappadocia’s most stunning sights, a recommended lunch break, an introduction to the local culture, and some of the most remarkable natural wonders found in the region. Here is what you should expect when it comes to highlights of Central Anatolia and Cappadocia’s tour with lunch:

Explore Cappadocia’s Fairytale Landscapes

Often referred to as the “fairytale land’ or “everlasting dream’, Cappadocia is renowned for its unique and extraordinary landscapes. On this tour, you’ll get to explore the surreal scenes that are shaped by powerful volcanic eruptions and erosion over thousands of years. You can expect to marvel at incredible rock formations like the Uchisar Castle or the otherworldly cave dwellings found throughout the region.

Visit an Underground City

One of the highlights of your Cappadocia tour will be the opportunity to explore an underground city. Derinkuyu underground city was carved out of soft volcanic ash by its Byzantine ancestors and stems at least 11 stories deep. It dates back to an incredible 4,000 years ago and would make the perfect spot to break up your day with a unique cultural experience.

Lunch Stop in Mustafapasa

When it comes to lunchtime on your Cappadocia tour, you will make a stop in Mustafapasa for a bite to eat. This ancient town is brimming with Ottoman-era buildings and stone-paved streets to explore. Here you can taste local cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients while perusing the vibrant bazaars. After lunch, you will continue your journey through Cappadocia and learn more about its history and culture as you go.

See Zelve Open Air Museum

After lunch, you will head to Zelve Open Air Museum, which was carved into an extinct volcanic crater from the Hittites in 11th century BC. Here you can explore interesting rock formations covered in early Christian paintings and inscriptions. As well as being an important site from bygone eras, it also grants visitors stunning panoramas over the region.

Watch a Spectacular Sunset over Pigeon Valley

As the sun begins to set over Pigeon Valley, you can rest assured that you’ll be in for a magical evening filled with untouched silence and peace. This awe-inspiring spot might seem familiar to Star Wars fans – just look out for Lukes House where part of the scene was filmed. Here you can capture dramatic shots of the mesmeric central Anatolia landscape as the sun slowly sinks over the horizon.

Take Flight with a Hot Air Balloon

No visit to Central Anatolia or Cappadocia would be complete without experiencing the extravaganza that happens up in the clouds. You’ll get the chance to board a hot air balloon and drift above the magnificent region and watch golden rays twinkle across the horizon. With your local guide on-hand, you’ll even get the chance to take some unforgettable shots from up above.

Taste Local Delicacies at a Traditional Restaurant

To finish off your epic journey of Central Anatolia and Cappadocia, your final stop will be at a traditional local restaurant in Göreme Village. Here you can indulge in a selection of delicious authentic dishes whilst also learning more about local culinary customs from your knowledgeable guide. You will, of course, also be able to buy some souvenirs to take home with you, including delicious jams and preserves made from roses, apricots, figs and nuts.

Book Your Highlights Tour With Lunch Today!

The highlights tour with lunch in Central Anatolia and Cappadocia is an incredible way to get acquainted with this mystical region. With so many remarkable sights, delicious meals and unique experiences to look forward to, it’s no wonder why this tour has become increasingly popular amongst both budget backpackers and luxury travelers alike.
For an amazing day trip adventure jam-packed with highlights and local culture, book your tour with GetYourGuide today!

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering Cappadocia Beyond the Usual Tourist Spots

Cappadocia is a region in Central Anatolia, Turkey, known for its unique landscape of fairy chimneys, underground cities, and cave dwellings. While the well-known attractions are a must-see, there’s so much more to this region that is worth exploring. As an insider, I’d like to share some lesser-known gems that will take your Cappadocia experience to the next level.

Local Attractions

Of course, no visit to Cappadocia is complete without seeing the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum and hot air ballooning at sunrise. But, there’s more to discover beyond these popular sites. Just a short drive from Göreme, the village of Mustafapaşa is a hidden gem worth visiting. The village is a great example of Ottoman architecture, and you can wander around its deserted streets and discover the old churches and monasteries hidden in the rocks. Another great off-the-beaten-path spot is the abandoned city of Kaymaklı, where you can discover the vast underground tunnels and chambers that once served as homes and escape routes for early Christian communities.

Dining Spots

Cappadocia has a rich culinary tradition shaped by both its history and geography. Traditional dishes like mantı (Turkish dumplings) and testi kebab (meat and vegetables cooked in a clay pot) are a must-try. One local favorite is Şişköfteci Ali Usta, a small restaurant in the town of Uçhisar, where you can taste the best şiş köfte (spiced minced meat grilled on skewers). For something sweeter, head to the town of Avanos and try the local pottery keşkül (almond pudding) served in handmade ceramic bowls.

Cultural Experiences

Cappadocia has a rich cultural heritage that is well-preserved. One of the best times to experience it is during the annual Cappadox Festival. This multi-disciplinary festival brings together music, art, and outdoor activities against the stunning Cappadocia landscape. Another way to discover the region’s culture is by visiting the local museums, such as the Nevşehir Museum, which has a unique collection of artifacts from the Hittite period, or the Ethnographic Museum in Mustafapaşa, where you can learn about the daily life of locals in the past.

Local History

Cappadocia’s history is fascinating, and some stories are worthy of a Netflix series. For example, the town of Avanos has been known for its pottery for centuries and still maintains the tradition. The pottery keşkül I mentioned earlier comes in a handmade ceramic bowl, which is one of the town’s specialties. Another interesting story is the underground cities, which date back to the Hittites period, and where early Christian communities found shelter from Roman persecution.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To experience Cappadocia’s landscape like a local, rent a bike or a scooter and ride around the valleys. I recommend the Red Valley, which has some of the most stunning rock formations and hiking trails. Another unique experience is a visit to the Selime Monastery, located at the end of the Ihlara Valley. This impressive complex is carved into the rock and was once a place of refuge for monks escaping from Roman persecution. To make your visit truly unforgettable, take a hot air balloon ride at sunset, and watch as the sky turns into shades of orange and pink.

In conclusion, Cappadocia is a destination that will surprise and delight you. With its unique landscape, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that it’s becoming a bucket-list destination. I hope this insider’s guide inspires you to explore its lesser-known gems and create memories that will last a lifetime.