Uçhisar
Nevşehir ProvinceAbout Uçhisar
Uçhisar is dominated by its spectacular rock castle — a naturally formed volcanic pinnacle riddled with tunnels, rooms and terraces that was once used as a fortress. Standing at the highest point in Cappadocia, the castle affords 360° views stretching to Göreme, Ürgüp and the snow-capped peaks of Mount Erciyes on a clear day. The village below is a charming cluster of cave houses, boutique hotels and local restaurants perched along winding cobblestone lanes.
Top Highlights
- Uçhisar Castle — highest point in Cappadocia
- Panoramic views to Göreme and Mount Erciyes
- Pigeon Valley trail to Göreme
- Boutique cave hotels with terrace views
- Sunset viewpoint — one of the best in the region
Things To Do
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are perfect. The castle is accessible year-round. Winter snow creates dramatic photography opportunities.
Getting There
Uçhisar is just 6km from Göreme and 7km from Nevşehir. Local dolmuş (minibus) runs frequently between Uçhisar, Göreme and Nevşehir. Taxi rides from Göreme take about 10 minutes.
Insider Tips
Buy a combined ticket for the castle and the nearby pigeon houses
Arrive at the castle 30 minutes before sunrise for the balloon spectacle
The village has some of Cappadocia's finest boutique hotels — worth a splurge
The Pigeon Valley walk is easy and takes about 45 minutes one way
Explore Uçhisar
Rock Castle & Panoramic Views
4.8
Rating
5,217
Reviews
Cappadocia
Region
103
Photos