Ten Things To Do In Cappadocia.
The Cappadocia region of Turkey is a traveling and holiday hotspot for people from many nations. The region caters for every type of traveller from the backpacker on a daily budget, to the romantic couple who want a luxurious weekend get-away. If it is an area that you have not been to, you are missing out on a whole range of activities and sights that will make it one of your favorite holiday destinations. Here are the top ten things for you to do in Cappadocia.
Stay in a Cave Hotel
This region is famous for hundreds of ancient caves that are dotted all over the landscape. Many of these caves have been converted into hotels while still maintaining their authentic feel. Prices start from roughly 20 Euros a night for a basic room.
Get an Adrenaline Rush
Every morning when the sun rises, hot air balloons will appear in the sky by the
dozen. This area is known for views of the landscape from a hot air balloon and a two hour trip will only cost you 100 Euros and give you some lifetime memories.
Get in Touch with Nature
If hiking is your desired past time, take a 14km trek through the Ilhara Valley. This gorge was formed thousands of years ago when an earthquake hit the area. The result is stunning scenery, a pleasant hike and four ancient churches for you to visit on the way.
Explore Other Religions
Haci Bektas is a town is off the beaten track and not often visited by tourists. It is the center of the Alevi branch of the Islam religion and is also the resting place of the philosopher Haci Bektas. The museum has some impressive artifacts and the locals will welcome you with open arms.
Visit a Bustling Turkish City
Another city that is often ignored by holiday makers and travelers is Kayseri. It is on the outskirts of Cappadocia and one day is enough time to explore the tombs, mosques, museums and castle that make up this proud, historic city. Be aware if you like a drink though, as alcohol is not widely served.
Religious Heritage
When the Christians were persecuted for their religion, they made their churches out of caves in Goreme, Cappadocia and secretly practiced their religion there. Today this area is now known as the Goreme Open air museum and it is a world heritage site. You can still see ancient paintings on the wall of the Virgin Mary and Lord Jesus Christ.
Hire a Car and Explore
Cappadocia is made up of a number of villages. The most famous ones are Uchisar, Urgup, Goreme and Avanos. All are unique and worth exploring if you want to see daily Turkish life, meet the locals and buy souvenirs. Transport can be hired for the day in the form of mountain bikes, scooters, quad bikes or a car.
Travel Photography
This area is known for producing some excellent travel pictures. Sunsets from Rose or Pigeon Valley that turn the sky orange. Castles in Nevisehir and Uchisar make a good base to take pictures of the landscape and locals will gladly stop and smile while you snap away. Your choice of photographs is endless.
Go Under the Earth
If you are not claustrophobic, there are 36 underground cities for you to explore. The most famous is the Derinkuyu underground city which was used as a safe haven hundreds of years ago. When the area was attacked, locals used to flee to the underground cities and lock themselves in, sometimes living there for up to 5 months.
Do a John Wayne Impression
There are two horse ranches in Goreme, Cappadocia. You can go on either a two or four hour trek through the rugged landscape and into the hills. The treks run on a daily basis. Experienced riders can opt for a tougher course while beginners will find comfort in the instructors leading the way.
This list is only a few samples of daily activities for you to do. There are many others that will make a two week holiday fly by. For your next destination, consider Cappadocia in Turkey and enjoy something different than the average bucket and spade holiday.
Written by the author of the Turkish Travel Blog, Natalie Sayin.  Find her at http://turkishtravelblog or http://www.facebook.com/turkishtravel
