Çavuşin Old Village
Step back in time in Çavuşin Old Village, a historic Cappadocian settlement with ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Çavuşin Old Village
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Çavuşin Old Village, a historic Cappadocian settlement with ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches.
"One of the best places I’ve been in Turkey; amazing food and service, so kind people!"
🚶♀️ Wander Through History
Get lost in the maze of ancient cave homes and churches. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring uneven terrain!
🍽️ Taste Authentic Flavors
Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals at family-run restaurants. The Kayseri ravioli is a must-try!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Cave Dwellings
Throughout the village
Explore centuries-old homes carved directly into the soft volcanic rock, offering a unique architectural experience.
Rock-Cut Churches
Various locations within the village
Discover historical churches adorned with faded frescoes, whispering tales of Byzantine artistry and devotion.
Panoramic Village Views
Higher vantage points
Ascend to elevated spots for breathtaking vistas of the entire village and the surrounding Cappadocian landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Old Cappadocia
Savor Authentic Cappadocian Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander Through History
Get lost in the maze of ancient cave homes and churches. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring uneven terrain!
🍽️ Taste Authentic Flavors
Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals at family-run restaurants. The Kayseri ravioli is a must-try!
📸 Capture Stunning Views
Find elevated spots for incredible photos of the village and Cappadocia's unique landscape.
🤝 Experience Warm Hospitality
Locals are incredibly welcoming. Engage with them for a richer cultural experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander Through History
Get lost in the maze of ancient cave homes and churches. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring uneven terrain!
🍽️ Taste Authentic Flavors
Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals at family-run restaurants. The Kayseri ravioli is a must-try!
📸 Capture Stunning Views
Find elevated spots for incredible photos of the village and Cappadocia's unique landscape.
🤝 Experience Warm Hospitality
Locals are incredibly welcoming. Engage with them for a richer cultural experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Çavuşin Old Village is consistently praised for its authentic atmosphere, rich history, and incredibly warm hospitality. Visitors are enchanted by the ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches, often describing the experience as stepping back in time. The delicious, home-cooked food and the genuine kindness of the local people are frequently highlighted as standout features, making it a highly recommended stop in Cappadocia.
"We were here in 2022 and I am still thinking about how amazing this place was. A truly unique experience. Family dinner, one of the most authentic and enjoyable nights we will always remember. The gentleman who served us and his lovely wife made us feel like we were part of a family. Food was great and the atmosphere was even greater than the food. Thank you so much for this opportunity. Every time someone tells me they are going to Kapadokya I always recommend this place."
Chiara Kyarochka Arduini
"We had the chicken & beef döner. Both dishes were great. Staff were pleasant and accommodating. We would eat here again"
Mikaela Millan
"The Old Turkish House Café was such a pleasant surprise! The restaurant is tucked away upstairs, so you don’t immediately see the tables from outside, but once inside there’s comfortable seating with a lovely view. The man at the entrance was very welcoming and even helped adjust the curtain to block the sun for us, which we really appreciated.
Our waitress, Gizem, was fantastic—friendly, helpful, and spoke great English. She even had pictures of the menu items to show us, which made ordering much easier. We tried the chicken in tile with rice and the Kayseri ravioli. Both were delicious, but the chicken in tile was definitely the standout. They also bring a fresh basket of bread to the table, which was a nice touch.
The service was fast, efficient, and attentive—everything we had hoped for after a very disappointing experience across the street at Orman, where we waited over an hour and never even got our food. The Old Turkish House Café completely turned our evening around. Highly recommend!"
Nancy Alvarez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Çavuşin Old Village is easily accessible from Göreme, a popular base in Cappadocia. You can take a local dolmuş (minibus) which runs frequently between Göreme and Çavuşin. The journey is short, typically around 10-15 minutes. Taxis are also readily available, offering a more direct but pricier option. Some visitors also choose to rent a car for more flexibility in exploring the region.
Yes, the village itself is very walkable. However, the terrain can be uneven with many steps and slopes as you explore the cave dwellings and churches. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Absolutely! Çavuşin Old Village is often included in various Cappadocia tour packages, particularly those focusing on the 'Red Tour' or 'Green Tour' routes. This can be a convenient way to see the village along with other major attractions.
For travel between Çavuşin and other towns like Ürgüp or Avanos, local dolmuş services are the most economical option. They operate on set routes and schedules. Renting a car or hiring a private driver offers more freedom and comfort, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites in a day.
There are usually designated parking areas available near the entrance of the village, especially for those arriving by car. It's advisable to look for official parking spots to avoid any issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the village itself is generally free, allowing you to wander through its streets and admire the exterior of the cave dwellings. However, some specific historical sites or churches within the village might require an entrance fee, often covered by a Cappadocia Museum Pass if you plan to visit multiple historical sites in the region.
Çavuşin Old Village is an inhabited village, so it's accessible throughout the day. However, the best times to visit are during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and views. Shops and cafes typically operate from morning until evening.
Some of the more prominent cave churches may have a small entrance fee. It's a good idea to check locally or consider purchasing a Cappadocia Museum Pass, which often includes access to many historical sites across the region, potentially saving you money if you plan extensive sightseeing.
While you can explore the exterior and common areas of many cave dwellings, some may be private residences or still undergoing preservation. Always be respectful of private property and signs indicating restricted access.
Yes, guided tours are often available, either as part of larger Cappadocia tours or as dedicated village tours. A local guide can provide in-depth historical context and point out significant features you might otherwise miss.
📸 📸 Photography
For stunning photos, head to higher vantage points overlooking the village for panoramic shots. The unique textures of the rock-cut architecture, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget to capture the details of the ancient churches and cave homes.
While the main launch sites are elsewhere, you can sometimes see hot air balloons drifting over the valleys from Çavuşin, especially during sunrise. For the iconic balloon-filled skies, you'd typically need to be in a location with a clearer view of the main flight paths, often from higher elevations or specific viewpoints.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow on the rock formations and village. Midday can be harsh, but it's still possible to capture interesting details and architectural shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be mindful and respectful when photographing private residences or inside churches where flash photography might be prohibited.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, is useful for capturing both wide village vistas and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the cave interiors and expansive views. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography during sunrise or sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Visitors highly recommend trying the 'Kayseri ravioli' (a local specialty), 'chicken in tile' (güveçte tavuk), and various döner options (chicken and beef). Many reviewers also praise the 'kunefe' for dessert. The food is often described as authentic, home-cooked, and delicious.
Yes, many restaurants in Çavuşin Old Village offer vegetarian options. Reviewers have noted that you can find good vegetarian choices, and some places are happy to accommodate dietary needs.
Yes, some restaurants and cafes in Çavuşin Old Village do serve alcoholic beverages, including beer. This is a plus for those looking to enjoy a drink with their meal.
The dining experience is often described as warm, welcoming, and family-oriented. Many restaurants are family-run, offering a cozy atmosphere and attentive service. Views from some restaurants can also enhance the dining experience.
Yes, there are cafes in Çavuşin Old Village where you can enjoy a coffee, tea, or a light snack. These cafes often provide a relaxing spot to rest and soak in the village atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to dining, family-friendly restaurants with welcoming staff are abundant. Look for places that offer familiar options alongside local specialties. The relaxed atmosphere of the village makes it a pleasant place for a family meal. Consider visiting during the day when children have more energy and the light is good for exploring.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Don't hesitate to dine alone; you'll likely be seated at a communal table or receive extra attention from the friendly staff. The village is also a fantastic spot for photography, allowing you to capture unique shots without the pressure of group schedules. Consider joining a small group tour for a few hours to gain historical insights and meet fellow travelers.
📸 Photographers
Seek out elevated viewpoints for breathtaking wide shots of the village nestled within the valleys. Explore the narrow alleyways and cave entrances for intimate, atmospheric compositions. Don't forget to look for the remnants of frescoes within the rock-cut churches, offering a splash of color and historical depth to your images. Be mindful of private residences and always ask permission before photographing individuals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Cave Dwellings
The history of Çavuşin dates back to Roman times, with significant development during the Byzantine era. The village was once a prominent settlement, home to a large community. The erosion of the soft rock has led to some dwellings becoming unstable, and many have been abandoned. However, the remaining structures stand as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who carved their lives out of the landscape. Exploring these caves requires sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure, as some paths can be steep and uneven.
Some of the most notable features include the Church of John the Baptist, one of the oldest churches in Cappadocia, and the Varanus Church. While many of the dwellings are no longer inhabited, the village retains a sense of community, with some families still living in or near the ancient structures. The experience of walking through Çavuşin is like stepping back in time, offering a profound connection to the region's rich historical tapestry.
Culinary Delights and Hospitality
Popular dishes include the traditional 'Kayseri ravioli' (a small, flavorful Turkish dumpling), 'chicken in tile' (slow-cooked chicken in a clay pot), and various döner kebabs. Many reviewers also highlight the delicious 'kunefe' for dessert. The emphasis is on fresh, local ingredients and traditional preparation methods, offering a true taste of Cappadocian cuisine. Vegetarian options are also available, catering to a wider range of preferences.
Beyond the food, the service is frequently commended. Staff are described as friendly, helpful, and attentive, often going the extra mile to ensure guest satisfaction. This personal touch, combined with the delicious food and charming ambiance, makes dining in Çavuşin a truly special experience, often cited as a reason for visitors to return.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit