2-Day Family-Friendly Visit to Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia, with its fairy-tale landscapes and magical experiences, is one of Turkey’s most enchanting destinations for families. With its rich history, natural wonders, and cozy accommodations, Cappadocia offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for families. My family and I recently traveled to Cappodocia over a long weekend and I’m sharing with you everything we did on our trip.
Day 1: Exploring Fairyland Landscapes
Morning
Start your family adventure by watching the hot air balloons over Cappadocia’s iconic valleys. Watch as the sunrise fills the sky with golden hues. We decided not to ride the hot air balloons on this visit. We plan to visit again in the fall when ticket prices are significantly cheaper.
If you decide you want to watch from the ground, a very popular spot is Göreme Panorama.
Midday
Head to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s perfect for curious kids and adults alike. Explore ancient cave churches and marvel at the preserved frescoes while learning about the history of the region. Bring along some snacks or visit a family-friendly café nearby for a break.
Afternoon
Take a leisurely hike through the enchanting Love Valley, known for its towering fairy chimney formations. Many trails are suitable for families with young children and offer plenty of opportunities to stop and snap fun photos. Don’t forget to pack hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water!
If you’re traveling to Cappadocia in the summer, be prepared for extremely hot temperatures. If you’re traveling in the winter, expect the wind to be strong and expect rain/ snow.
Evening
Wrap up your day with a delicious family dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant. Cappadocia offers a delicious slice of traditional Anatolian cuisine—earthy, hearty, and perfect for the cool cave-dwelling vibe. Here are the must-try foods when you’re in Cappadocia:
1. Testi Kebabı (Pottery Kebab):
- What it is: Meat (usually lamb or beef), vegetables, and spices slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot.
- How it’s served: The pot is cracked open at your table!
Where to try it: Seten, Dibek, or Uranos Sarıkaya.
2. Mantı (Turkish Dumplings)
What it is: Tiny handmade dumplings filled with minced meat, topped with garlic yogurt and spicy butter sauce.
Texture: Like ravioli but lighter and more flavorful.
Local twist: Kayseri-style mantı is famous in the region—Cappadocia is nearby!
3. Menemen
What it is: A Turkish-style scrambled egg dish with tomatoes, peppers, and sometimes cheese or sucuk (spicy sausage).
Best for: Breakfast or a light lunch.
Pro tip: Try it with village bread to dip.
4. Tandır (Tandoor Roasted Meat)
What it is: Slow-roasted lamb or beef cooked in an underground clay oven.
Flavor: Smoky, tender, and rich.
Often served with: Bulgur or rice pilaf.
5. Gözleme
What it is: Handmade Turkish flatbread stuffed with various fillings like spinach & cheese, potatoes, or minced meat.
Where: Often served in small family-run cafes or roadside stalls.
Day 2: Cappadocia History
Morning
Begin your day by exploring one of Cappadocia’s fascinating underground cities, such as Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. Kids will love the sense of adventure as they wander through tunnels and discover hidden chambers. Guided tours often provide fascinating insights while ensuring safety and ease of access for families.
A brief history of the underground cities: These underground cities were built as defensive hideouts. Early Christians used them to escape Roman persecution, and later they protected locals from Arab invasions, Mongol raids, and later, Turkish conflicts. The cities were hidden so well that even the chimney vents were disguised.
Despite the darkness, life thrived. The cities included:
Living quarters
Kitchens
Wine and oil presses
Churches
Animal stables
Graveyards
Ventilation shafts and wells
Massive stone doors (weighing up to 500kg) could be rolled into place to seal off tunnels from invaders.
Pro-Tip: Make sure to visit between 10-12 before the crowds get too crazy.
Midday/ Afternoon
Stop by a local pottery workshop in the town of Avanos. Here, kids can try their hand at creating their own piece of pottery—a fun and memorable activity that’s unique to the region. Parents can browse handcrafted treasures to take home as souvenirs. This was one of my children’s favorite activities.
Here are a few of the places that we visited:
Things we didn’t do but are on our list for next time:
Mahmut’s Pottery Workshop– He has great reviews from many families and it seems it’s a very kid-friendly activity.
Evening
End your visit with a family-friendly cultural show, such as the Whirling Dervishes or a traditional Turkish dance performance. These events offer an engaging way to introduce children to the rich traditions of the region while creating a memorable final night.
Last Minute Tips For Visiting Cappadocia
- Plan Around the Weather: Summer months can be hot, so aim for spring or fall for cooler temperatures.
- Pack for Adventures: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and hats are a must for exploring.
- Hire a Guide: A good guide can bring history to life and keep the kids engaged with interesting stories.
- Split Your Days: Alternate between adventure and relaxation. Enjoy a morning hike and save the afternoon for a quiet family lunch and downtime.