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09
Beyond Cappadocia
One extra day can change your trip
Canyons, more rock churches, a Seljuk city and Rumi’s tomb. Times are estimates by car, each way from Göreme.
Day trips
About 1¼–1½ hr by car
Ihlara Valley & Selime
A 15 km canyon along a stream, with around 50 rock churches. Walk from Ihlara to Belisırma for lunch, then see the vast Selime Monastery.
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About 1 hr by car
Soğanlı Valley
Twin valleys of rock churches, quieter than Göreme, with dolls sold by village women along the path.
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About 1–1¼ hr by car
Kayseri
A Seljuk city of basalt walls, the Hunat Hatun complex, the twin Çifte Medrese and a busy covered bazaar.
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About 1½ hr by car
Mount Erciyes
The dormant volcano above Kayseri; drive up for cool air, wide views and a walk before the ski season.
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About 1 hr by car
Hacıbektaş
The town of Haji Bektash Veli, whose former lodge is now a museum and a place of pilgrimage for Alevis and Bektashis.
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About 3 hr by car
Konya & the Mevlana Museum
Rumi’s turquoise-domed tomb and lodge, with the Selimiye Mosque next door. A long day; leave early.
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Good to know
Hire a driver or join a tour
Public transport between these places is slow; a driver or a small-group tour saves a day.
Start early
October daylight is shorter. Leave after breakfast and be back before dark.
Dress for the shrines
Cover shoulders and knees for Konya and Hacıbektaş; women bring a scarf.
Fill up
Fuel and food are easy on main roads but scarce in the valleys; carry water and snacks.
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