Curator’s statement
While on your couple’s trip to Turkey, set aside three days to explore the one-a-kind Cappadocia region. You'll be swept away into a world of romance, whimsical atmosphere, breathtaking views and cherished romantic moments. Get ready for stunning landscapes, immersion in rich culture, amazing cuisine and being swept away by truly unforgettable experiences. Each day of this itinerary offers a new adventure for the two of you to treasure.
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Day 1: Relaxation and pampering
When you arrive in Goreme, a whimsical atmosphere will envelop you that makes you feel as though you've stepped out of time. Your romantic journey begins in the enchanting region of Cappadocia.
Let your bags to the hotel and start exploring by walking the captivating surroundings of Goreme town. Lose yourselves in the labyrinthine streets, where every corner reveals a new discovery. Goreme also has many charming boutiques and cafes. Its one-of-a-kind architecture creates a perfect setting for your romantic escape with your partner. You'll find yourself surrounded by the unique charm of Goreme. This town really invites you to slow down.
For lunch, I recommend you Dibek, a restaurant serving authentic Turkish cuisine. The traditional decor and the food is absolutely amazing.
Early afternoon, check-in and settle into your room. Then, for the rest of the afternoon, experience an ultimate moment of relaxation and rejuvenation. Indulge in a Turkish bath and spa treatment. Enjoy this moment together.
As the sun begins to set, get ready for a romantic evening of dining. There are plenty great restaurants in Goreme. Indeed, Cappadocia's culinary scene is incredible. For your first day, I recommend the restaurant Areni, renowned for its traditional Turkish dishes like testi, köfte and baklova. You will savor amazing dishes in an intimate place, providing the perfect setting to end your first day.
Day 2: Love is in the air
A day that promises to take your romance to the next level. In the early hours of the morning, experience the magic of Cappadocia from a different perspective: a Hot Air Balloon ride. Depending on the seasons, the pick-up time is usually around 4am, to catch the sunrise, when you are already in the sky. (Bring a warm layer because it can be cold up there). As you ascend into the sky, holding each other close, you will be amazed by the breathtaking landscape views of rocky formations and valleys unfold beneath you and enjoy a memorable sunrise. You will experience a truly magical moment together.
After this incredible morning, the day continues with a touch of adventure and intimacy. In the afternoon, go off the beaten path and discover the captivating and must-see Love Valley. Cappadocia Love Valley’s unique landscape and its fairy chimneys will make you feel like you are on another planet. Opt for a private and customizable ATV tour or horseback riding that matches your preferences, so you can choose to visit whatever you want. (Wear sunscreen, a sun hat and bring a reusable water bottle).
Finish your tour by watching the sunset from one of Sunset Hill viewpoints in the Love Valley. This is an absolute must! Indeed, this is one of the best ways to experience the Cappadocia sunset.
In the evening, enjoy a last romantic dinner in Cappadocia, at Lil’a, a high-end restaurant located in the Museum Hotel, the only Relais and Chateaux property in Turkey. It will be the opportunity for you to reflect on the day's adventures and celebrate your love in a warm ambiance.
Day 3: Magical morning & the Ihlara Valley
After experiencing Cappadocia's morning from the sky, the previous day, let's encounter its beauty from the ground this time. Wake up around 5am to witness an enchanting sunrise –the Cappadocian sky adorned with colorful hot air balloons. From the romantic rooftop terrace, with a cup of coffee or tea in hand, watch as these graceful giants take flight, adding a touch of magic to the morning air. Just contemplate the stunning landscape view and create memories. It’s like a fairytale.
After this mesmerizing spectacle, enjoy a nice breakfast on the hotel’s terrace. Then check-out your room and embark on a day trip to the Ihlara Valley, a place of inspiring beauty and natural wonder. It’s a 15-kilometer-long canyon, with depths of up to 150 meters. Start your journey, with an exploration of the canyon through a nice leisure walk. It can take you approximatively two hours and is followed by a Riverside lunch. The serenity of the valley, the cool breeze rustling through the trees, and the sound of the rushing stream create an idyllic setting.
Then, drive around 15 to 30 minutes to a truly remarkable discovery in Cappadocia. It is the wonderful rock-cut monastery in Selime. Selime was home to Hittite, Assyrian, Persian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilizations.
As your three days Cappadocia journey ends, take some time to cherish all these unforgettable moments, a testament to the love you've shared in this magical destination.
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Travel Advisor
Colette Gueye
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Türkiye. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Rhythms of Rio: A 10-Day Couple Itinerary Celebrating Afro-Brazilian Heritage and the Vibrant Soul of the City.