Think all Cappadocia’s underground cities are packed with tourists like Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı? Think again! Özkonak, tucked 14 km from Avanos, is a quieter treasure waiting to be explored. Discovered by accident in 1972 when a local named Latif Acar was digging a well, this maze of tunnels has a charm all its own. Fun fact: Latif still runs a little café nearby – track him down for some great stories!

Özkonak may be smaller than the big names, but it’s just as fascinating. Narrow passages, clever ventilation shafts, and massive rolling stone doors – used to seal off invaders – give you a real sense of ancient life. Only a fraction has been excavated, leaving plenty of mystery underground. Best part? Hardly any crowds. Bring a flashlight and comfy shoes, and you’ll feel like an explorer stepping back in time.