Most interesting rock formations resulting in churches being carved within. Lovely frescoes showing height of Byzantine art. You have to pay extra to get into the Church with the most frescoes. We did not go in because there was enough to see in the other churches.

Anyone visiting the Goreme Open-Air Museum in Cappadocia is instantly transported through time. The ancient rock-hewn churches, boasting vivid frescoes, reveal tales of early Christian civilization. Nestled amid Cappadocia's famed fairy chimneys, this museum is a fusion of history and breathtaking nature

Very interesting museum ... essentially a series of rock dwellings but they show the eveolution of early Christianity across the region. Lots of different areas to explore, but there is a lot of steep walking and some moderately challenging passages. So take care ,, and if in doubt ... hold back!

The Goreme Open Air Museum is a fairly small visitor park appreciable mostly to those who marvel at the works of nature and man. The expansive, wondrous tufa formations within and outside the official confines of the park form both backbone and backdrop to the worshipful frescoes laid on the walls of cave warrens carved out as living quarters by early Christian refugees. First worlders used to highly organized attractions should be mindful that this site is pretty much “au naturel” with little guidance, railings, secured walkways or signage. You gird your loins and walk, stagger and even crawl up to your cave goal, and attain your objective oftimes only by grace of the courtesy and helpful assistance of strangers. Definitely a dangerous venture if you’re targeting the Dark Cave and aren’t in youthful top shape. The frescoes are worth both the fee and the effort, especially if you luck into tolerant or invisible guards whereupon you can take as many photos sans flash that you can sneak in.

It takes some time to get it into your head that this is an early monastic complex with churches dating from the 10th century. The paths round the complex are well maintained and easy to follow. Access to some of the churches is up fairly steep metal staircases. My wife and I are both in our mid-70s but we were able to manage them. Information boards dotted round the site provide the history of what you are looking at in English. There is one church, the Dark church, for which there is an extra charge but it is well worth it to see how they wall paintings are being restored and preserved. I think that the Goreme Open Air Museum should be on the "to do" list of anyone visiting Cappadocia.

This park is a must see when you're in town. You can explore caves with churches dating back many centuries. You should be mobile enough for a little climbing and balance, etc. Due to some instabilities, some of the churches may be closed off- the Apple church was one highly rated church we were unable to go inside. Some cordoned off areas for the guard to sit were set with cardboard, which throws the vibe a little bit. There are markets by the entrance if you need a drink or snack or have limited souvenir time.

Goreme Open Air Museum captivated us with its unique rock-cut churches and captivating history. The ethereal landscapes painted a romantic backdrop. Though crowded, the experience was enriching. A must-visit for couples seeking cultural and scenic bliss.

You will have to do a lot of hiking uphill to view the rock formations up close in the Goreme Open Air Museum. Some paths are boardwalks and others are dirt trails. These structures were remnants of early Christian dwellings. One of the first structure encountered will be the nunnery. First floor was dining, kitchen, rooms. Second floor was chapel. Third floor was church. Another rock structure housed a church where over time outside walls have collapsed. There were additional structures to explore. The museum cafeteria was by the entrance. Limited food choices and way overpriced. Several other eateries were located just outside the entrance. However they don’t allow retry once you go outside for better and less expensive foods. So plan accordingly if you are hungry.

Any trip to a new place is made exceptional on account of the people one interacts with....and our trip to Goreme, Cappadocia gave us lovely memories to bring back home. Goreme is a big contrast to the hustle and hustling of Istanbul. "Quiet efficiency' & "gentle hospitality" are what come to mind. We stayed at the Volare Stone Hotel and big thanks to Ibu for organising our hot air balloon ride and giving us tips to make our stay comfortable and peaceful. Also a big thank you to our wonderful guide Ali G for taking us around on the day trip. His humour & knowledge were a fun mix. Would highly recommend. We did the Hereke Green Tour. Traveller Tips : 1. There is more than one airport in Goreme (and Istanbul)... be careful when booking cabs and tickets. 2. Comfortable shoes with good grip are VERY important. (even Istanbul has steep, cobbled streets esp. the old city. Some places are slippery when the frost sets in). 3. Warm clothing if travelling in winter (holds true for Istanbul as well...it is a seaside city but weather is not tropical/warm).

This is a great site to see the ancient churches and homes of a lost time, I don't think you can come here without seeing it and it is the best place to see the dwellings as they were, especially if you don't have time to see the underground city. The entry fee was fine but I did feel ripped off having to pay and extra e6 each to access the Dark Church which is the best part of the museum. We enjoyed it very much but we were barely here 1.5hours. It is crowded, even arriving first thing (which I would recommend) and it is not easy to visit if you have physical issues, you need to be a bit fit. Overall a great place to visit.