Cappadocia, Turkey
The region of unique historical and cultural features
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Cappadocia tours
Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey known best for hot air balloons, unique rock formations, wine and picturesque views. Rich in history and culture, Cappadocia promises its visitors a one-of-a-kind adventure. If a hot air balloon ride is on your bucket list, and you’re thinking about making a trip to this magical area in Turkey, this section is for you.
Cappadocia, Turkey – the hot air balloon paradise
As you already know and have probably seen in some fairytale-like photos, Cappadocia is arguably the best place in the world for hot air ballooning. You can book a hot air balloon tour almost all year round and see up close the incredible landscape shaped by nature. If your reason for visiting Cappadocia is joining a balloon tour, we recommend booking as far in advance as possible. Despite the fact there’s no specific tour itinerary (since the hot air balloon flight depends on the wind), you’ll likely see some of Cappadocia’s most popular sights, for example, the Red Valley and the famous “fairy chimneys”.
If you’re afraid of heights, you can just skip the balloon ride and experience the spectacular view of colourful balloons floating in the sky from the ground. Just make sure to have an early night and get up at sunrise since the flights take place in the mornings. Kudos to you if your hotel has a balcony with a view of the valleys that you can enjoy while eating breakfast. If not, nothing’s lost as there are numerous viewpoints from which you can watch.
What is the best time to visit Cappadocia?
If seeing the amazing view of hot air balloons flying over the valley, and maybe even hopping into one, is your main reason for visiting Cappadocia, it’s best to plan a trip between April and November. Although ballooning in Cappadocia can be enjoyed all year round, the weather conditions are more favourable during those months and so the chance of balloon tours cancellations are much lower. However, if you want to avoid extreme heat and crowds of travellers, consider a visit in late spring or early autumn.
How many days should you spend in Cappadocia?
As many as possible! Turkish Cappadocia region offers so many things to do that an extended trip is recommended to fully experience the culture, history, valleys and landscape. You could easily spend here a week and still want more. However, if you have very little time and are not planning to explore extensively, 2 or 3 days are better than none! In 3 days you should be able to get a taste of Cappadocia and maybe even squeeze in a balloon ride
Where to stay in Cappadocia, Turkey?
Since Cappadocia is the whole region in Turkey, you may wonder which airport to fly into. You can reach Turkish Cappadocia via two airports – Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) and Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV). The second airport is closer and the most convenient for Cappadocia tours.
Where do most travellers decide to stay while in Cappadocia?
- Goreme: Most tourists book their hotel and tours in Goreme as it offers many budget and mid-range accommodation options. It also has great views of the fairy chimneys in Goreme National Park and easy access to all kinds of tours in Cappadocia. In addition, it has lively nightlife and many restaurants, so you can eat Turkish breakfast, lunch and dinner in a different place every day. Goreme is especially recommended if you’d like to see the amazing spectacle that are Cappadocia’s hot air balloons. Many of the hotels in Goreme have balconies from which you get great views. Just keep in mind that Goreme can get very crowded, given it is the most popular town to stay in during a visit to the region.
- Uchisar: Known primarily for the Uchisar Castle, this town is located about a 5-minute car ride from Goreme, but it’s much less touristy. Perfect for those who want to relax and be away from the crowds. There are spectacular views here since it’s the highest point in Cappadocia. To keep in mind: most Cappadocia tours are organized in Goreme, so you’ll either have to ensure they come with a hotel pick up or get there via taxi.
- Urgup: One of the biggest towns in Cappadocia, Urgup is the wine capital of the region. If you’re a wine lover and would like to join a tour of wine houses and vineyards, this is the place to be. Urgup has plenty of high-quality boutique hotels and inns, some of them with cave rooms. You’ll also be close to restaurants, cafes and shops here, so you can easily go for a night out and enjoy a glass of wine.
- Avanos: Some people also decide to visit Avanos. This city is famous for pottery making, which has been done here for millennia. There are many family-run potteries which we recommend visiting. It’s also possible to join a workshop if you’d like to try your skills at pottery making. A great place if you’re looking to buy souvenirs and learn more about the local culture.
Airport transfers with MrShuttle
Once you’ve booked your flight to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport, have a look at our airport transfers in Cappadocia for a convenient and safe ride. Depending on your destination, you can book a transfer from Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport to Goreme, Uchisar, Ugrup or Avanos. Once your holiday is over, our professional driver will collect you from the hotel and take you back to the airport.
Best tours in Cappadocia, Turkey
Undoubtedly, the best tours in Cappadocia are the hot air balloon rides. There are many companies which offer hot air balloon tours, but you have to book them in advance. For an enhanced adventure we recommend opting for a private tour.
Already have a hot air balloon tour planned? Great! Now, consider other ways to experience Cappadocia and its charming valleys.
North Cappadocia tours with MrShuttle
Immerse yourself in the local culture with our bestselling Cappadocia tour that comes with comfortable transportation and an experienced tour guide. During this day tour of North Cappadocia, you’ll see some of its most beautiful sights. The itinerary includes, among others, the Uchisar Castle, Goreme Open Air Museum and Pasabag Fairy Chimneys. Have a look at all the details here.
Visit Cappadocia not only for a hot air balloon ride
If you didn’t manage to get your spot for a hot air balloon flight, or your tour got cancelled, don’t fret. There are plenty of other things that you can do in Cappadocia. Here are a few suggestions from MrShuttle:
See rock-cut churches at the Goreme Open Air Museum
This museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and consists of interesting cave churches (built into the rocks). The Dark Church is the highlight for some beautiful and colourful frescoes.
Explore an underground city
Other great attractions in Cappadocia are the underground cities, although not recommended if you don’t like tight or dark spaces. These underground settlements were created to provide shelters for the citizens and consisted of kitchens, schools, churches… It is believed there are more than 150 underground cities, but less than 5o have been discovered so far. Derinkuyu Underground City and Kaymakli Underground City are among the most popular and largest ones, and both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Visit the Uchisar Castle and Pigeon Valley
Built in the highest point of Cappadocia, the Uchisar Castle is one of the main attractions in this area. If you climb up to the top, you can see pretty much the whole of Cappadocia. We recommend getting to the castle via the Pigeon Valley from Goreme. It’s an easy hiking trail, during which you’ll see many pigeons.
Admire the sunset (or the sunrise) from many viewpoints
Cappadocia’s landscape and rock formations provide a magical scenery for photographs. The magic is even greater during the sunsets. Take advantage of the many viewpoints and add some stunning photos to your collection.
Go on a hike in the Ihlara Valley
Located around 85 km from Goreme, this lush valley is a great idea if you’re looking for a day tour in Cappadocia. Ihlara Valley is a canyon that is up to 150 metres deep and it is very popular among hikers. If you’re looking to do some exercise in beautiful surroundings, consider going there.
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