Cappadocia is the city that has astounded Instagram with views of fairy chimneys and hot air balloons at sunrise for years. It put the Turkish city on every traveler’s bucket list. But many show up unprepared and miss out on the opportunity to soar 800 meters high. Learn how to go hot air ballooning in Cappadocia with these important things to know.

We’ll guide you through planning your bucket list balloon ride, what to expect from hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, and help you create a back-up plan for bad weather.

So, what do you need to know to go hot air ballooning in Cappadocia?

Planning a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
---------------------------------------------

Cappadocia is best known for its view of hot air balloons flying above the fairy chimneys at sunrise. It’s a stunning image that would inspire any traveler to visit. Which is exactly what it’s done for years.

You’ll find Cappadocia on every Turkish travel itinerary. This is why it’s important to plan your hot air balloon ride in advance.

Although Cappadocia sees 100 to 150 hot air balloons drifting through the clouds each morning, there aren’t enough spaces for everyone. During the peak season of July and August, these balloons are fully booked for weeks.

To avoid missing out on hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, book your flight in advance.

You can book your flight through your accommodation or do your own research and find a provider that appeals to you.

I wanted to fly with an English-speaking guide who could chat with us. I used TripAdvisor and some tips from bloggers to find a company with a strong safety record and engaging pilots.

When Is the Best Time to Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia?
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Hot air balloons need ideal weather conditions to fly. Although bad weather can happen anytime, certain times of the year often have worse conditions than others.

Hot air balloons are active in Cappadocia for about 250 days a year. Although they can technically fly year-round, weather often grounds the balloons. The worst of that weather comes in winter.

There’s a misconception that Turkey doesn’t have winter. In reality, it does. The country gets cold and often sees snowfalls.

With the cold comes high winds, fog, and precipitation that prevents hot air balloons from flying.

Although Cappadocia looks magical when covered in snow, there’s a high chance of your hot air balloon flight being canceled.

Most people opt to avoid the December to February winter season because of the high chance of bad weather.

However, the peak tourist season of July and August brings its own challenges. You have a higher chance of going hot air ballooning because of the good weather, but it’s much harder to book a flight. You’ll end up paying more during these times due to inflated prices and the need to upgrade to deluxe flights to get a spot.

To save your money while still having good odds of going hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, plan to visit between March and June or September and November.

How Much Does It Cost?
----------------------

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is a once in a lifetime experience. That’s partially because of the magic of it, and partially because it’s expensive.

It’s important to factor the cost into your travel budget to avoid overspending and missing out.

Hot air balloon flights cost anywhere from 150 to 250 euros per person. The exact cost depends on the type of balloon you take, the package, and the time of year.

Although that may seem like a lot for a 1-hour experience, it’s worth the price. You’ll never get a better experience than drifting peacefully through the sunlit clouds as Cappadocia wakes for the day.

When I thought about the cost, I realized I was happy to pay 200 euros. I wouldn’t trust a balloon that only cost 50 euros and was flying 800 meters high!

Different Types of Hot Air Balloon Rides in Cappadocia
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Not every hot air balloon ride is alike.

Typically, a hot air balloon ride includes transit from the company’s offices to the balloon, a place amongst 28 people in the basket, a 1-hour ride, and transit back to the offices.

You can upgrade this experience in several ways with different companies and packages.

[I opted for a deluxe hot air balloon ride to have fewer people in the basket](https://ninaoutandabout.ca/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia/). I didn’t realize all of the benefits that came with it beyond the extra elbow room.

A deluxe flight includes transport to and from your accommodation, a free continental breakfast (which is definitely appreciated when you run out of your hotel at 4 am), an extra 30 minutes in the air, champagne, and a certificate to commemorate your flight.

You can get even more elbow room by booking a private ride. 

Beyond price, there are also different times for hot air balloon flights.

In Cappadocia, 100 balloons are allowed to fly before sunrise. 50 are allowed post-sunrise. This is a less demanded time but is just as beautiful (and potentially a bit warmer).

You can also book sunset flights for those who can’t fathom the idea of waking up at 4 am.

Is Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia Safe?
-----------------------------------------

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840761/hot_air_balloons_on_ground_cappadocia_large_460d62fa07.jpg)

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is a must-do activity, but it is safe?

Pilots are certified like airplane pilots. They have to get training, fly a certain number of hours, and have a license. They also have to have medical tests done to ensure that they are healthy enough to fly.

Most pilots in Cappadocia have been operating for decades.

Like any mode of transportation, there is some risk to hot air ballooning. [Of 1.5 million passengers, fewer than 10 people died and less than 50 were injured.](https://www.wanderlustchloe.com/cappadocia-hot-air-balloon-tips/)

Most hot air balloon accidents are due to poor weather and inexperienced pilots. They almost always occur on landing.

**That’s why it’s so important to pick a company with experienced pilots and a good safety record.** And it’s why you should be grateful that the Civil Aviation Authority cancels flights when the weather is bad. 

**Apart from statistics and licenses, hot air balloons feel safe when you’re in them.** 

Although they look dainty from afar, up close they are serious machines. The balloons are massive, with thick fabric material that takes a half dozen men to roll up. The basket is woven, but it’s so sturdy that in the air you feel like you’re on the ground.

There is almost no sensation of “flying” as we know it from planes or helicopters. You drift with the wind, which makes you feel incredibly secure, even 800 meters high.

What to Wear for Your Hot Air Balloon Ride
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![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840920/tourist_watching_hot_air_balloons_cappadocia_large_3bc6e4f17e.jpg)

So many people pose in dresses on their cave hotel balcony overlooking the morning balloons.

But that attire isn’t great for actually riding a hot air balloon.

Hot air balloons typically take off before sunrise, which means the air is still chilled from the night. They rise 800 meters (3000 feet) high, above the cloudline. The cold of night, the open air, and the height of the balloon all mean one thing: it’s cold in a hot air balloon.

The actual severity of the cold depends on the time of year you visit. I flew in March when Turkey was still slowly shifting into Spring.

That meant I had to really bundle up with:

*   A light winter jacket
*   A fleece sweater
*   A long-sleeve shirt
*   Pants
*   If you have them, I’d add long underwear, tights, or fleece leggings
*   Thick socks
*   Boots or sneakers
*   A hat/ear muffs
*   A light scarf
*   Gloves (although mittens are a better choice to operate a camera)

Since you’re standing still, you really feel the cold. At first, I needed the occasional blast of the fire to keep warm. By the time the sun rose, I was unzipping my jacket and abandoning my gloves.

For your hot air balloon flight, dress for weather 10 degrees below what it is on the ground. Wear layers that you can unzip or remove if needed. Always have something for your ears and hands.

Don’t forget to pack your camera, phone, and/or go pro for amazing shots!

Always bring sunglasses. You’re flying through the sunny skies, which often ends up with you blinded by the sun for a few seconds as the balloon turns.

I forgot mine and was squinting painfully for the landing. Bring yours to avoid my mistake!

What It’s Really Like to Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia
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![view from hot air balloon in cappadocia](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840876/hot_air_balloon_view_cappadocia_large_b7b1e4482a.jpg)

In a word, hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is miraculous. It’s one of the most beautiful experiences of my life.

You wake far too early and stumble into all of your layers before racing out to your shuttle to the balloon company’s offices.

There you sign your liability waivers with weary eyes while you try not to spill your complimentary tea over the pages. Munch on a few biscuits and eavesdrop on some groups nearby while you mentally prepare to fly.

The company will give you a safety talk, that includes the surprise twist that you should have kept up your squats during your vacation.

Hot air balloons land on their side, which means you end up landing on your back. To prepare for landing, you have to squat down and brace yourself against the back of the balloon while it topples over.

Experienced pilots (like mine, luckily) can land on the platform without tipping the balloon, but you’ll still have to brace in case.

You’ll drive to a hilltop where a half dozen balloons are glowing with the flames inflating them. Their bright-colored tarps slowly rise from the grass until they’re a stunning display of reds, yellows, and blues across the darkness.

You have to get in the balloon before it’s fully inflated. That means clambering over the side (less than gracefully, in my case) and taking a spot in the four quadrants of the basket. 

You can grab a few shots on the ground before the balloon lifts off. 

You won’t even realize you’re flying until you see the scenery start to move around you.

### The Lift-Off

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840921/hot_air_balloon_gas_powered_large_36642efe3f.jpg)

Every flight is different. Hot air balloons follow wind streams, which change every day. Your pilot will guide you over the fairy chimneys that cover the landscape of Cappadocia, highlight the distant mountains, and drift above the clouds to see the rising sun.

But the exact route is never the same.

My ride saw us skirting between fairy chimneys just 3 feet off the ground, before rising above a hilltop of photographers (and a dog) to drift higher with the rest of the 100 balloons aloft that morning.

The pilot kept radioing someone in Turkish. Eventually, I asked what he was saying. He was telling the chase crew where we were.

You see, hot air balloons have to be caught at the end. Since they follow different routes daily, no one knows where that will be. A team with a truck and the trailer for the balloon had to chase us along the route to meet us wherever we’d land.

### The Landing

The landing was the most nerve-wracking part of hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. My legs were quaking from the start of the squat and I was worried about the sensation of falling backward.

In the end, there was no reason to worry because our pilot set us down straight onto the trailer. He had to shift the balloon a couple of times, but we remained upright through it all.

Afterward, we enjoyed a slice of cake and champagne in a field while the team worked to load the balloon up for travel.

The ride is always over too fast, even for 90 minutes in the air. I took about 2,000 photos of the different balloons, the peaks and valleys, my own grinning face, and the sunset.

It’s an experience unlike any other.

What to Do if Your Hot Air Balloon Ride Gets Canceled
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![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840762/tourists_watching_hot_air_balloons_cappadocia_large_1_13762a6710.jpg)

Unfortunately, many flights are canceled due to the weather.

It’s completely unpredictable and can happen up to the point that you’re inside the basket about to lift off.

Don’t miss out on your opportunity to go hot air ballooning in Cappadocia! Have backups in place in case this occurs:

*   Plan to stay in Cappadocia for 3 days to give yourself multiple chances to fly
*   Book your flight for your first day
*   Visit during off-peak times to have a better chance of rebooking
*   Avoid the winter months when weather is most volatile
*   Ensure your company offers a refund for canceled flights
*   Have a plan to rebook

If your flight is canceled and you need to rebook, follow these steps to increase your chances to get a new flight:

*   Ask your initial company if they have space the next day, or the day after
*   If they don’t, start emailing and calling other companies to check with them
*   Don’t rely on your hotel, as they will often only call a couple of companies
*   Ask about deluxe, sunset, or post-sunrise flights. They may cost more or be at a time you didn’t choose, but they’ll still offer an amazing experience
*   Keep an eye on your phone/inbox. Companies will typically only reserve your space for 1 hour before you confirm
*   Don’t miss out on the other incredible things Cappadocia has to offer while you wait

Other Things to Do in Cappadocia
--------------------------------

Although hot air ballooning is the most popular thing to do in Cappadocia, it’s not the only thing in the region.

Take advantage of your extra time in the area by visiting some of the highlights:

*   Watch the hot air balloons from Lover’s Hill
*   Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum
*   Hike to see the sunsets over Red Valley or Rose Valley
*   Visit the Fairy Chimneys
*   Tour an underground city
*   Stay in a cave hotel (or have breakfast at one)

Closing Thoughts
----------------

Don’t miss out on hot air ballooning in Cappadocia by not preparing for your visit. These helpful things to know will ensure that you increase your chances of having a magical experience in Turkey.

Pack gloves, have your camera ready and be prepared with extra days to make your hot air ballooning dream come true. Have a safe flight over the fairy chimneys!

hot air balloons cappadocia afternoon large

hot-air-balloons-cappadocia-afternoon-large.jpg

Get ready for a magical hot air ballooning experience in Cappadocia, Turkey! Find out everything you need to know to plan your dream balloon ride and enjoy breathtaking views.

Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia (Everything You Need to Know)

Turkey is a geographically diverse country where you can enjoy the merits of each season. The best time of year to visit Cappadocia is a hard pick because you see many facets of this beautiful place in different seasons.

So, when is the best time of year to visit Cappadocia? You can plan your visit to Cappadocia between April to June and September to October. The winter often brings snow, and the peak season during the summer months **can be overcrowded.**

So, why is this time frame the best time of year to visit Cappadocia? Next, we’ll talk about the diverse climate and geography of Turkey.

The Climate of Cappadocia Throughout the Year
---------------------------------------------

To understand Cappadocia’s climate, first, you should know the exact location of this beautiful area. Cappadocia sits almost at the heart of Anatolia, which is modern Turkey, a little to the east. The Taurus Mountains are in the south, and the Black Sea is in the north.

Cappadocia is located in the inner part of Turkey, where the continental climate is dominant. In such areas, the winters can be cold, and snowfall for an extended period is regular.

On the contrary, the summers are arid. These aren’t the seasons you want to be outside to do sightseeing.

Typically, spring and fall are the best seasons to enjoy what nature offers in areas with a continental climate. The weather can be windy in spring and fall. Still, most of the time, the weather is suitable for outdoor activities like sightseeing or hiking.

When you take a closer look at each month of spring, you can see certain differences. March is still a tad cold compared to April. Sometimes, you can see snowfall, even in March. This fact makes March not an ideal candidate for a visit.

April and May have temperate weather; however, April can still be windy if you consider hot balloon tours.

Generally speaking, the fall is the second good option to visit Cappadocia. During September and October, the weather is still reasonably warm.

Nevertheless, you can feel the footsteps of winter coming around the end of October. November isn’t so viable since the freezing wind will surely keep you from enjoying the scenery and nature. Consider all these factors before booking your trip and packing your suitcase with [the right kind of clothes for your visit](/posts/what-to-wear-in-turkey).

Let’s take a better look at the geography of Cappadocia to learn more about the climate.

Geography of Cappadocia
-----------------------

As we mentioned before, Cappadocia is pretty close to the heart of Anatolia. This region is a high plateau surrounded and covered with mountains from north and south. Cappadocia is on a plateau, which is about 1000 m (3281 ft) in altitude.

In the south, the Taurus Mountains, which is actually a range, directly affects the climate. These mountains stop the airflow coming from the Mediterranean Sea.

The rain-bearing clouds can’t reach the region from the south because of the high peaks. That’s why the area doesn’t get much rainfall and is classified as semi-arid.

The unique feature of this area is the antique volcanic activity. Many dormant volcanic peaks can be found in this region. The highest peak is Mount Erciyes, and that is about 4000 m (13 123 ft) high.

These volcanic peaks are the result of the rise of the Taurus Mountains and the moving of the Anatolian Plateau to the north due to this formation.

After the volcanic activity ceased in the area, the remaining tuft became a layer on the plateau. The lava and basalt mixture covered the tufted layer.

With water and wind corrosion, these layers were shaped intrinsically. This process is how the hoodoos, commonly known as fairy chimneys, were formed in this area. 

In antiquity, Cappadocia was shaped by water; however, now it’s semi-arid because of the same reason that created the layers of tuft in the first place.

This is the short story of how the spectacular geography of Cappadocia was formed. Geography directly affects the climate and the reasons for visiting Cappadocia.

Now, let’s see some of the tourist attractions on this iconic landscape and when to do which activity in this region.

When to Take a Hot Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
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The allure of Cappadocia is all about the unique geography. Ancient people from millennia ago understood this area’s beauty, and they decided to carve their cities right in the volcanic formations.

Nowadays, Cappadocia isn’t just about seeing the beauty of this landscape. [The tourist attractions](/posts/best-things-to-do-cappadocia) are also undoubtedly impressive.

Of course, most of the places you’ll visit in Cappadocia are going to be in the open air. **The first and foremost tourist attraction of this area is the hot air balloon rides.**

To see this spectacular geography from a distance, many tourists hop on to the baskets. They take a magnificent tour of the region on the air.

Since [hot air balloon rides](/posts/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia-things-to-know) are all about the weather, you should consider the climate if you want to do it in Cappadocia. According to many tourists, **the best time to take a hot air balloon ride is between May and June in the spring/summer season, September and October in the fall season.**

This time April may not be the best time since the winds are the main problem. They directly affect the takeoffs of hot air balloons.

If you plan to be in Cappadocia for a few days just for the hot air balloon experience, April can be a bit risky. June seems to be the ideal period. July will be quite crowded since it’s the peak tourism season of Turkey in general.

In addition to the hot air balloons, you can do hiking and outdoor sports like mountain climbing in your preferred season. It’s wise to know that winters can be harsh for these types of activities.

Especially for trekking, to see the magnificent underground cities and visit the ancient sacred monasteries, winter and summer aren’t the best options.

All the time, we emphasized that winter isn’t an ideal time to visit Cappadocia. However, if you want to see this unique region, the hot air balloons are year-round. 

In addition to this, most of the hotels are open year-round. In these hotels, you can enjoy the scenery of Cappadocia with warm hot chocolate in your hand [in an affordable luxury hotel](https://www.agoda.com/historical-goreme-house/hotel/goreme-tr.html?finalPriceView=1&isShowMobileAppPrice=false&cid=-1&numberOfBedrooms=&familyMode=false&adults=1&children=0&rooms=1&maxRooms=0&checkIn=2020-11-21&isCalendarCallout=false&childAges=&numberOfGuest=0&missingChildAges=false&travellerType=0&showReviewSubmissionEntry=false&currencyCode=USD&isFreeOccSearch=false&tspTypes=5,16,8&los=1&searchrequestid=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000). Staying in [a cave hotel](https://www.agoda.com/millstone-cave-suites/hotel/nevsehir-tr.html?finalPriceView=1&isShowMobileAppPrice=false&cid=-1&numberOfBedrooms=&familyMode=false&adults=1&children=0&rooms=1&maxRooms=0&isCalendarCallout=false&childAges=&numberOfGuest=0&missingChildAges=false&travellerType=0&showReviewSubmissionEntry=false&currencyCode=USD&isFreeOccSearch=false&los=9&searchrequestid=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000&checkin=2020-12-02) makes for an interesting winter getaway.

Sometimes, the allure of hot air balloon tours makes Mount Erciyes go unnoticed when you consider visiting Cappadocia. If you like skiing, Mount Erciyes is a good alternative for even the Alpines.

Plus, the region won’t be overcrowded this season. Don’t fret about visiting Cappadocia even in winter.

Where to Stay
-------------

*   Staying in any cave hotel around Cappadocia will be an unforgettable experience. At [Hezen Cave Hotel](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Urgup-Hotels-Hezen-Cave-Hotel.h4431000.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-11&chkout=2022-09-12&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661714108653&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=6054888&destination=Cappadocia%2C+Turkey&destType=MARKET&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=83&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=314043556&selectedRatePlan=381303923&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) you can immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of this fairyland. The fairy chimneys will be your view at breakfast or under a starry night, and you’ll be surprised to see that the cave rooms have natural air-conditioning. It will definitely be an authentic experience.
*   [Olivia Cave Hotel](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Nevsehir-Hotels-Olivia-Cave-Hotel.h68032289.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-11&chkout=2022-09-12&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661713859057&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=6054888&destination=Cappadocia%2C+Turkey&destType=MARKET&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=62&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=314235810&selectedRatePlan=382739394&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) is a budget-friendly alternative to the mysterious-looking cave hotels in Cappadocia. This hotel is in the small town of Göreme within easy reach of all the landmarks, but also to the supermarkets and shops. The stone building has excellent rooms with authentic decor, so you’ll still breathe in the magical atmosphere of the town, and the guest reviews are great.

Closing Thoughts
================

Cappadocia is a region that amazes its visitors. It’s impossible not to wonder and daydream about the formation of these fairy chimneys, the people who lived in the underground cities, and the sacred rituals done in the monasteries. Indeed, [this region is filled with so much to experience](/posts/best-things-to-do-cappadocia).

Cappadocia offers you its unique facets in every season. If you are all about hot air balloon rides and outdoor sports, maybe the end of spring and the start of fall is the best choice for you.

Most tourists come to this region for this attraction and to visit the underground cities. Don’t forget that even in winter, you can still find amazing tourist attractions.

Come to Cappadocia to see it for yourself!

cappadocia-hot-air-balloons-large.jpg

Learn about the ideal time to visit Cappadocia, the unique geography, and the must-try hot air balloon rides. Explore enchanting cave hotels and experience the magic of this fairyland region.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cappadocia?

Cappadocia is a must-see for travelers visiting Turkey. Leave the chaos of Istanbul behind and learn the best things to do in Cappadocia.

The town offers some of the best things to do in Turkey. Check off incredible bucket list items like sleeping in a cave and soaring into the sunrise in a hot air balloon. Be sure to add Cappadocia to your Turkey itinerary after reading this guide.

So, what are the best things to do in Cappadocia?

1\. Embrace the Hot Air Balloons
--------------------------------

![aerial view of cappadocia from hot air balloon](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840876/hot_air_balloon_view_cappadocia_large_b7b1e4482a.jpg)

Cappadocia is synonymous with [hot air ballooning](/posts/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia-things-to-know) for most travelers.

People book trips specifically to see the bright balloons filling the horizon as the sun rises each morning. You can stand on Lover’s Hill and get an amazing view as balloons pass within meters of you.

Watching the balloons is a great way to appreciate the activity for free.

Or you can be more adventurous and take to the skies yourself.

150 hot air balloons lift off each morning while the sky is still dark. They soar [almost 10,000 feet into the air, dipping as low as 3 feet](https://ninaoutandabout.ca/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia/) between the fairy chimneys in the valleys below. Although you’re high up, the smooth ride makes it feel like you’re on solid ground. 

You’ll be surprised how safe you feel staring above the Tabletop Mountain as you drift past other balloons.

There are dozens of companies that launch balloons every day. [It's best if you choose the right season for hot air ballooning](/posts/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia-things-to-know) and prebook during the busy summer season to avoid them selling out. Prices vary based on your vendor. 

Don’t forget your camera and your gloves! Keep your fingers warm while you take shots of yourself above the cloud lines.

Prepare to stay in Cappadocia for more than one night to ensure you get good weather for your ride. The balloons can’t fly without gentle winds and clear conditions.

Even if you don’t plan to ride in a balloon, spending more than a day in Cappadocia is a must-do!

2\. Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum
------------------------------------

![panoramic view of göreme open air museum in turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840875/goreme_open_air_museum_large_f1cb4a4909.jpg)

An open-air museum is exactly what it sounds like: a museum that’s outside in the open air.

Goreme is a unique spot to visit an outdoor monastery built into the natural cliffs of Cappadocia’s valleys.

From the outside, this museum looks like hollows in the sandy stone. It’s not until you step inside one of these hollows that you’ll discover the true beauty of the monastery. Inside this community are altars and tombs.

The walls are painted with fading frescos depicting religious life.

It’s both religion and museums in a way you’ve never seen before.

The Göreme Open-Air Museum is the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey, recognized for the incredible preservation of the rock-cut churches. 

Budget 25 TL (Turkish Lira) for your visit.

3\. Explore the Valleys on a Hike
---------------------------------

![silhouette of a man waving at cappadocia valley in turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840879/valley_cappadocia_large_c0f866e83f.jpg)

One of the reasons Cappadocia is so famous for its hot air ballooning is its gorgeous landscape. The region is covered with cave dwellings, fairy chimneys, and deep valleys. The best way to see the region up close is to go hiking.

Hiking is the second most popular adventure in Cappadocia, after hot air ballooning. It’s a free option that lets you see more of the area’s landscape up close.

You’ll get amazing views of sunsets over the valleys, see more interesting formations in the rocks, and walk between the fairy chimneys.

You can’t do that from a hot air balloon.

There are dozens of hikes to do in the region. The best hikes in Cappadocia are:

*   Red Valley at sunset
*   Rose Valley to see the unique pink-tinted sand
*   Love Valley to Uchisar Castle, past the Fairy Chimneys
*   Ihlara Valley for a greener side of Cappadocia
*   Pigeon Valley for ancient cave paintings and lots of pigeons

4\. See the Fairy Chimneys
--------------------------

![fairy chimneys with hot air balloon in love valley cappadocia](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840877/love_valley_cappadocia_large_955aeaa85b.jpg)

Cappadocia was formed by volcanic eruptions over 100 million years ago. When the lava hardened and was exposed to the cold, it cracked, causing pieces to fall off.  This left the softer rock of the bottom exposed, causing it to erode faster than the top. Rain and wind helped sculpt the fairy chimneys as they stand today.

They gave the famous Love Valley its name due to the suggestive shape of some of the rock formations.

You can see the Fairy Chimneys from a hot air balloon along the route as you drive through Cappadocia or up close on a walkthrough of Love Valley or Paşabağ Valley.

Be sure to stop to see these gorgeous rock formations up close. 

5\. Visit an Underground City
-----------------------------

![derinkuyu cave in nevsehir turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840882/derinkuyu_large_a2840079d4.jpg)

Cappadocia is full of history, both above and below the ground. One of the best things to do in the city is to visit an underground cave city, such as Derinkuyu.

The caves originated in the 8th century BCE but weren’t expanded into the multi-level chambers they are now until the arrival of the Christians. They created miles of tunnels beneath the surface that could be closed in with a stone door from the inside.

The caves were the perfect place to hide from persecution during the Arab-Byzantine wars in the 8th century CE.

Derinkuyu is a multi-storeyed cave community that can hold up to 20,000 people. Take a tour of the wine and oil presses, or head to the stables to see how they housed animals underground. 

This is a great activity for history buffs and anyone who isn’t claustrophobic. Some areas get a bit tight due to low ceilings and can be quite dark. Make sure you’re comfortable before you start winding deeper into the city’s depths. 

5\. Stay in a Cave Hotel
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![panoramic view of cave hotels in cappadocia turkey](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840881/cave_hotels_cappadocia_large_6439f8df93.jpg)

With all the amazing things built in the volcanic rock in Cappadocia, it’s no wonder that hotels are on the list.

Cave hotels are a popular attraction in Cappadocia. They have all the amenities of a modern hotel: comfy beds, electricity, wifi, and bathrooms. Some even have underground pools or breakfast overlooking the hot air balloon flights in the morning.

Unlike the underground cities, the cave hotels are above ground. They’re built into the rock, much like the Goreme monastery, with windows and high ceilings to make any guest comfortable.

If you’re looking for a true, one-of-a-kind accommodation, [you need to book a cave hotel](http://booking.com/hotel/tr/mosaic-cave.html?aid=304142;label=gen173nr-1DCAEoggI46AdIM1gEaCeIAQGYATG4AQfIAQzYAQPoAQH4AQKIAgGoAgO4AoqVtf0FwAIB0gIkYzFhMWM5OGQtOGQwOC00Yzg1LWExYmQtNTZiMTNiMzc3OTc32AIE4AIB;sid=515835696d8de901f547589252139a2c;all_sr_blocks=297355301_110133784_0_1_0;checkin=2020-11-20;checkout=2020-11-21;dest_id=2758;dest_type=region;dist=0;group_adults=1;group_children=0;hapos=1;highlighted_blocks=297355301_110133784_0_1_0;hpos=1;nflt=price%3DTRY-min-500-1%3B;no_rooms=1;req_adults=1;req_children=0;room1=A;sb_price_type=total;sr_order=popularity;sr_pri_blocks=297355301_110133784_0_1_0__2501;srepoch=1605192386;srpvid=3d7667e0a0df01ae;type=total;ucfs=1&#hotelTmpl(opens in a new tab)) (link to read reviews on Booking).

For the luxury you get, the prices are very reasonable. Rooms begin at 200 TL, the equivalent of $40 USD.

Pack your bag and get ready for the trip of a lifetime, staying in a romantic cave hotel.

6\. Eat a Pottery Kebab
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![pottery kebab on the table](https://res.cloudinary.com/dkib2v4rl/image/upload/v1679840878/pottery_kebab_large_fdaf4c5c52.jpg)

Not all of the best things to do in Cappadocia are adventure or history-related.

Eating a pottery kebab is a must-do. They’re a regional dish from Cappadocia that will make anyone drool.

Turkish people use “kebab” to signify any kind of meat. This isn’t a skewered meat dish. It’s more like a stew, served in a clay pot.

The dish is made up of stewed meat of your choice with vegetables. It’s slow-cooked until the vegetables are lovely and soft. The dish is typically served with a side of rice. You can even get it vegetarian by asking for no meat.

You’ll find the dish all around the city. Prepare to feel very full and a bit sleepy after this ultimate comfort food dish.

It’s a great way to end a night before you head back to your cave hotel to curl up and hibernate. 

Where to Stay
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*   Staying in any cave hotel around Cappadocia will be an unforgettable experience. At [Hezen Cave Hotel](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Urgup-Hotels-Hezen-Cave-Hotel.h4431000.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-11&chkout=2022-09-12&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661714108653&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=6054888&destination=Cappadocia%2C+Turkey&destType=MARKET&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=83&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=314043556&selectedRatePlan=381303923&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) you can immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of this fairyland. The fairy chimneys will be your view at breakfast or under a starry night, and you’ll be surprised to see that the cave rooms have natural air-conditioning. It will definitely be an authentic experience.
*   [Olivia Cave Hotel](https://prf.hn/click/camref:1100lqhet/creativeref:1100l68075/destination:https://www.expedia.com/Nevsehir-Hotels-Olivia-Cave-Hotel.h68032289.Hotel-Information?chkin=2022-09-11&chkout=2022-09-12&x_pwa=1&rfrr=HSR&pwa_ts=1661713859057&referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jb20vSG90ZWwtU2VhcmNo&useRewards=false&rm1=a2&regionId=6054888&destination=Cappadocia%2C+Turkey&destType=MARKET&sort=REVIEW_RELEVANT&top_dp=62&top_cur=USD&semdtl=&userIntent=&selectedRoomType=314235810&selectedRatePlan=382739394&siteid=1&langid=1033) (link to see availability on Expedia) is a budget-friendly alternative to the mysterious-looking cave hotels in Cappadocia. This hotel is in the small town of Göreme within easy reach of all the landmarks, but also to the supermarkets and shops. The stone building has excellent rooms with authentic decor, so you’ll still breathe in the magical atmosphere of the town, and the guest reviews are great.

Closing Thoughts
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The best things to do in Cappadocia aren’t a guarded secret. In fact, the city wants you to discover them, so you have an amazing time. Anyone you ask will give you recommendations on where to hike, amazing cave hotels, and how to book a hot air balloon flight.

Take advantage of all of the amazing things Cappadocia has to offer on your visit to Turkey.

cappadocia-sunrise-large.jpg

Discover the best things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey. From hot air ballooning to exploring underground cities, this guide has it all.

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