17 Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: Top Viewpoints You Shouldn’t Miss
Cappadocia is one of the most beautiful places in the world to watch the sunset. Whether it’s from a rocky viewpoint or overlooking the famous fairy chimneys, there are plenty of options when searching for the best sunset spots in Cappadocia.
From popular spots in Göreme to quieter areas tucked away from the crowds, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy the views. From panoramic landscapes to colorful skies above the valleys, we're going to share it all.
In this guide, we’ll share the best sunset spots in Cappadocia, including well-known favorites and a few hidden gems, with tips for enjoying (and photographing) the sunset in Cappadocia. Get ready to discover where to watch the sun go down in one of Turkey’s most magical regions.
*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you. Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience. Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!
Our Travel Planning Recommendations
Skyscanner (flights)
Booking.com (hotels)
🎫 Get Your Guide (tours)
Ticket Master (events)
📸 Best Buy (equipment)
🚗 Rental Cars (car rentals)
Train Line (train tickets)
Bus Bud (bus tickets)
Direct Ferries (ferries)
Cruise Direct (cruises)
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: a Brief Intro
Before diving into all of the best sunset spots in Cappadocia, let's go over some of the basics.
What Time is the Sunset in Cappadocia?
The sun sets in Cappadocia in the summertime hovers around 8:00 or a little after, while int he winter the sun sets around 5:30. The latest sunset in Cappadocia is at 8:09 pm in June, and the earliest happens at 5:19 pm in December.
Where Can I Watch the Sunset in Cappadocia?
There are so many great places to watch the sunset in Cappadocia! Whether you're high up and getting to see the sun go down, or simply enjoy the vibrant colors of the sky bouncing off the stunning landscapes, it's definitely one of the most enjoyable times of the day.
Cappadocia has so many great places to watch the sunset.
Do Cappadocia Balloons Fly at Sunset?
The balloons in Cappadocia only fly during sunrise. That means you'll certainly need to wake up early for some beautiful views of hot air balloons. Don't worry though - even though there won't be balloons, there are still some incredible places to enjoy the sunset in Cappadocia,
The hot air balloons only fly at sunrise in Cappadocia.
How To Travel Cheaper and Better in 15 minutes!
How much more would you travel, if it costed you less resources?
With our Free eBook, you will learn how to save money and time on your future trips. Plus, you'll see the exact system we use.
Grab your copy for free when you sign up for our newsletter 👇
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia
So are you ready for all of the great sunset spots in Cappadocia? Here are 17 hand-picked locations for you to enjoy the sun go down.
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: Free Viewpoints
We're all about enjoying nature at its finest, and while there are some cool rooftop restaurants and activities that you'd have to pay for, first we want to share some of the places you can relax at free of charge.
1. Sunset Point, Goreme
This is the most popular sunset spot in all of Cappadocia. Because it sits right above the city of Goreme, it can easily be reached by foot or a quick drive for some fabulous panoramas of the city.
The area is really set up for tourism - it has kiosks selling food, souvenirs, and even some photo ops scattered around it. While you certainly won't have it to yourself, it's definitely a great spot for an easy and rewarding view,
2. Cappadocia Sunset Point
The funny thing it - Cappadocia Sunset Point is actually one of the best places for epic balloon views in Cappadocia. But it's been named "Cappadocia Sunset Point". The entire area boasts gorgeous views of Love Valley on one side, but also shows beautiful sunset views on the other.
You'll find cute photo ops here, free parking, and a little kiosk serving beverages and snacks.
3. Balloon Road/Uchisar Castle
Most people head down this road to catch the balloons at sunrise, but if you go at sunset you can see some incredible views of Uchisar Castle in the distance!
4 Ortahisar Panorama
We like to think of this one as a little hidden gem. Ortahisar is a pretty underrated town in Cappadocia, and it looks pretty beautiful from the distance. Head to the viewpoint and you'll get stunning panoramas, especially at sunset!
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: Valleys
The valleys of Cappadocia are honestly some of the most mind-blowing locations in the area, and are certainly not to be overlooked. Some of our favorite sunset spots in Cappadocia are found within the valleys, as the sun glows gently on the landscapes revealing pinkish hues.
Here are a few of our favorite valleys to enjoy the sunset in Cappadocia:
5. Red Valley
Without a doubt, one of the best (and most popular) sunset spots in Cappadocia is in Red Valley. There is a small entrance fee of 70 TL to enter, and there is a paved lot you can drive right up to.
Many people will set up their chairs right next to the lot, but you can also wander to the right where you'll see various look out points which are just minutes away by foot.
We recommend going to Red Valley for Golden Hour and walking inside the valley itself, and grabbing a drink from the adorable restaurant inside before heading back up to enjoy the sunset.
6. In Front of Red Valley
Red Valley is one of the most popular sunset spots in Cappadocia, but many tourists don't know that there are some really cool viewpoints nearby that are less crowded and free of charge!
This viewpoint allows you to see the sun setting from one angle, and the vibrant hues from the mountains behind it from another.
To get here you'll need to turn down the dirt road to the left just before the official entrance to Red Valley, and chances are you'll have it to yourself just like us!
7. Rose Valley
Rose Valley has some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Cappadocia. The valley is quite big though, and there are so many hidden corners waiting to be discovered.
You can enjoy wandering the valley on your own during golden hour, but we really recommend joining this Rose Valley sunset tour which brings you to the most beautiful rock formations and hidden cave churches.
8. Pasabag Valley
Looking for a fun, accessible, and free valley to visit for sunset? Take a few minutes to climb above Pasabag valley to enjoy the sun dipping down behind these bizarre and beautiful rock formations!
9. Devrent Valley
There are so many incredible valleys in Cappadocia, and while most tourists stick to the more popular ones like Love Valley or Rose Valley, Devrent Valley is this breathtaking hidden gem sitting behind them.
Take a walk through the unique formations, or head up to the viewpoint to see the sun highlighting its vibrant colors.
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: Restaurants & Bars
Looking to watch the sun go down in Cappadocia with a drink (or food) in hand? Here are some cool restaurants and bars you can enjoy at sunset in Goreme and Uchisar.
10. Sunset Wine Garden
Uchisar has some of the best sunset spots in Cappadocia, but our favorite is Sunset Wine Garden. It gives really nice views of the fairy chimneys with the sun setting behind them.
With cute photo ops and beautiful views it's easy to see why this is one of the best places to grab a drink and watch the sun go down.
PS: They had a proposal setup when we went in a dome and it looked really beautiful!
11. Kaira Rooftop Bar
Kaira Rooftop bar is definitely one of the best restaurants to watch the sunset in Cappadocia. It sits just below Cappadocia sunset point in Goreme, overlooking the whole town. Not only that, but they have excellent live music during sunset, making it an even more magical experience.
Just make sure to get here super early! We arrived 20 minutes before sunset and the place was absolutely packed.
12. Panorama Wine House
We got to Kaira a little too late, and there was no seating. We were scrambling to get a good spot to enjoy the sunset, and luckily found this wine bar just next door!
It's rooftop sits just next to Kaira, so you can still enjoy the music, the same views, and less people for a bit of a more relaxed vibe.
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: Seasonal
Cappadocia is an incredible destination year-round, but one of the best times to visit Cappadocia is in the summertime, especially for this unique opportunity to enjoy one of the best parts of nature the area has to offer.
13. The Lavender Fields
Did you know that Cappadocia has lavender fields? From the end of May through July you can find various lavender fields in the region, with one of our favorite ones being just 20 minutes from Goreme and 10 minutes from Avanos.
Kapadokya Lavanta Tarlasi features cute photo ops and long fields of lavender. It's absolutely one of the best sunset spots in Cappadocia during summertime, and we highly recommend getting a professional photoshoot here!
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: Unique Spots & Activities
While there are so many incredible sunset spots in Cappadocia you can visit, the absolute best way to enjoy the sun going down is with one of the unique activities!
14. Take a Gondola Ride in Avanos
We LOVE Avanos - it's truly one of the most underrated areas of Cappadocia. While it's known for its pottery making, this little village sits right on the river.
There are a variety of activities to enjoy here, but our personal favorite is the gondola ride up and down the river - a truly romantic way to enjoy the sunset in Cappadocia.
15. Go on an ATV Ride at Sunset
One of our favorite activities in Cappadocia is to explore the stunning valleys by ATV. While you can enjoy them all day long, it truly is one of the best things to do for sunset. You'll ride around to some incredible spots, getting to enjoy them with a gorgeous golden glow.
You'll finish off by watching the sun dip behind the valley with your group - a truly epic way to finish off a thrilling excursion.
Here are some sunset ATV rides you can sign up for:
16. Take a Trip to Tuz Lake
Did you know that there is a pink lake near Cappadocia? It's 2 hours from the main towns of Cappadocia, and makes for a fabulous afternoon trip. There are a lot of day trips offered to visit Tuz Lake with a local guide, or you can also rent a car and drive yourself.
We decided to break up our trip driving from Istanbul to Cappadocia and went for sunrise. We instantly regretted not leaving earlier and doing it for sunset, because the sun would have perfectly set over the lake!
Do keep in mind that the lake looks different throughout the year. We visited in summer so it was much drier, but if you visit at another time it may not look as pink. Regardless, it is one of the best sunset spots in Cappadocia to add to your bucket list!
17. Do a Sunset Photoshoot
Cappadocia is known for its sunrise photoshoots with the balloons as an epic backdrop, but sunsets truly are the time to also get some incredible photos with the perfect lighting and fewer crowds.
Having a local photographer join you is the absolute best way to capture the beauty of Cappadocia, especially with the sun going down in just moments, you'll want to maximize every second rather than scrambling to capture it all on your own.
We're partnering with one of the best photographers in Cappadocia to offer 30% photoshoots - he specializes in shots with running horses, but can also offer totally personalized sessions with classic cars, caves, and stunning dresses, making all of your Cappadocia photo dreams come true.
Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!
The Best Sunset Spots in Cappadocia: Final Thoughts & Tips
Now you know all of the best places to watch the sunset in Cappadocia! But before you go, here are a few tips you may find handy.
When planning for sunset, make sure to get there an hour before! Due to the fairy chimneys and tall landscapes, the sun will actually disappear earlier depending on your location.
The best areas to enjoy the sunset are in the valleys of Cappadocia- there's almost always an area where you'll be able to see the sun, and the moments before (during golden hour) turn the landscapes a beautiful shade of pink.
Goreme is full of great rooftop restaurants - these are an ideal way to enjoy a drink while watching the sun go down.
If you do want to enjoy sunset at a restaurant, make sure to get there well in advance!
Most of the best hotels in Cappadocia also have rooftops or terraces to enjoy - make sure to check them out so you can enjoy beautiful views.
Set up a photoshoot at sunset - they're less busy than sunrise, and are a fun way to get stunning pictures while visiting.
Watching the sunset from the rooftop pool at Kingdom of Cappadocia.
Looking To Travel Somewhere?
Off The Beaten Trips is our travel agency.
But this isn't anything like you've ever experienced before. You'll have an epic trip without having to break the piggy bank.
Unique locations. Epic adventures. Lifetime memories.
What's Next?
Now that you know the best sunset spots in Cappadocia, you'll probably want to know all of the other great things to see and do in the region! Here are some other guides we've written which will help you plan an awesome trip to Cappadocia:
13 Reasons to Visit Cappadocia
20 of the Best Things to Do in Cappadocia
29 Unique Activities & Tours in Cappadocia
22 Best Cave Hotels in Cappadocia
The Best Valleys in Cappadocia
What to Do in Cappadocia When it Rains
What to Expect on a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
The Best Places for Hot Air Balloon Views in Cappadocia
The Best Time to Visit Cappadocia
...and more coming each week!
Travel Planning Tools
Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!
So are you ready to enjoy some of the best sunset spots in Cappadocia? While we know sunrise is more popular, there really are so many great ways to watch the sun go down.
Want to learn more about traveling around Cappadocia? We have a bunch of other Cappadocia travel guides for you to check out - with more coming up each week! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for all of our weekly updates, as well as exclusive discounts we offer on our shop!
Ready to start planning the most unforgettable trip to Cappadocia? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa offers custom travel planning services, delivering you specially-curated itineraries and hand-picked hotels and activities for you. Want to learn more? Simply send us an email so we can get started with your free consultation!
Here are some other articles you'll love:
Like this article? Please share it with your family and friends, so that we can continue to keep creating free travel guides for you! It takes just a second, and would mean the world to us. Thanks for being here!
