Things To Do
in Nevşehir

Nevşehir is a vibrant city located in central Turkey, known for its unique geological formations and rich historical heritage. It serves as the gateway to the stunning Cappadocia region, famous for its fairy chimneys and hot air balloon rides. Visitors can explore ancient underground cities and rock-cut churches that date back to the Byzantine era.

The city's blend of natural beauty and cultural significance makes it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cappadocia
morning
:

Start your day with a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, offering breathtaking views of the unique landscape of Cappadocia.

afternoon
:

Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum to explore ancient rock-cut churches adorned with beautiful frescoes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Turkish cuisine, followed by a stroll through the town to experience local shops and cafés.

day 2
Day 2: History and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the Kaymaklı Underground City, an ancient multi-level city used for refuge.

afternoon
:

Visit Pasabag (Monks Valley) to see the impressive fairy chimneys and unique rock formations.

evening
:

Relax at a local wine house and taste some of the region's famous wines while enjoying live Turkish music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10-$20
Coffee$2-$4
🚕Taxi fare (within the city)$3-$5
🏨Hostel dormitory bed$15-$25
🍷Bottle of local wine$8-$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and unique rock formations.
  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Wide range of outdoor activities and adventures.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may require transportation to access.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet" - Yes

Places to Visit in Nevşehir

Visit one of these nice places.

Göreme National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning landscapes and unique rock formations.

Uçhisar Castle

The highest point in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views perfect for photography.

Love Valley

Famous for its phallic-shaped fairy chimneys, creating a whimsical backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nevşehir

Nevşehir offers a delightful culinary experience, with a rich array of traditional dishes that reflect the region's culture and history.

Nevşehir Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Testi Kebabı

A local specialty where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in a sealed clay pot.

Must-Try!

Manti

Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, often served with yogurt and garlic.

Pottery Kebab

Similar to Testi Kebab, but cooked in a pottery dish, adding unique flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nevşehir Market

A bustling market selling fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.

Street Kebab Stalls

Vendors throughout the city offering delicious kebabs and grilled meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nevşehir has a continental climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Average summer temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Hospitality

Turks are known for their hospitality; it is polite to accept tea or coffee when offered.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and refrain from discussing politics at the table.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nevşehir is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, always stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to keep your belongings secure and be cautious when exploring remote areas.

Tipping in Nevşehir

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants and cafés.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring.

Summer

Hot and dry, perfect for hot air ballooning, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, great for photography and sightseeing.

Winter

Cold and snowy, offering a magical landscape, but some activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Nevşehir at Night

Nevşehir's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. You can find some bars and cafes that offer live music, especially during weekends. Traditional Turkish nights with folk dances and music can be enjoyed in certain restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere.

Hiking in Nevşehir

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ihlara Valley

A picturesque gorge with a river running through it, offering a scenic hiking route with ancient churches along the way.

Red Valley

Known for its stunning red rock formations, this hike provides beautiful views, especially at sunset.

Airports

How to reach Nevşehir by plane.

Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport

Located about 30 km from Nevşehir, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections, serving as the main gateway to the Cappadocia region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nevşehir is moderately walkable. The city center is compact, allowing visitors to explore on foot, but some attractions may be spread out, requiring transportation. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but be cautious of uneven surfaces in older areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Turkish Locals

The majority of the population consists of Turkish citizens who are warm and hospitable.

Tourists

A growing number of domestic and international tourists visit Nevşehir, especially in the peak season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

A popular sport in the region, with local teams participating in various leagues.

Basketball

Widely played and followed, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nevşehir is generally light, and driving is relatively easy around the city. Public transportation options include minibuses and taxis, making it convenient for tourists to navigate between attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nevşehir.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes like stuffed grape leaves and lentil soup.

Gluten-Free

While traditional bread is common, some places provide gluten-free alternatives upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Nevşehir are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses during your stay.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide