Side: Cappadocia 2-Days Tour & Hot Air Balloon Option

Embark on a breathtaking 2-day journey to Cappadocia, staying in a unique cave hotel and experiencing the magic of a hot air balloon ride over one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes.

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Overview

This 2-day tour takes you from the sunny shores of Side to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, a region renowned for its fairy chimneys, rock-cut churches, and ancient cave dwellings. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be transported to another world. Marvel at the undulating valleys, sculpted over centuries by wind and water, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural history. The journey offers countless photo opportunities and the chance to experience a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient traditions.

One of the highlights of this tour is an overnight stay in a traditional cave hotel. These accommodations are carved into the rock, offering a cozy yet authentic experience. You’ll feel the essence of Cappadocia’s ancient history while enjoying modern comforts. Wake up to a stunning view of the valleys, and enjoy a delicious local breakfast before setting off on your adventures.

A trip to Cappadocia wouldn’t be complete without a hot air balloon ride. This optional experience allows you to glide silently above the fairy chimneys and valleys at sunrise. The panoramic views are simply unmatched, making it an unforgettable highlight of the tour. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this balloon ride is not to be missed.

The tour includes visits to some of Cappadocia’s most iconic sites, such as the Goreme Open-Air Museum, Avanos pottery workshops, and the underground cities. Each location offers a glimpse into the region’s fascinating history and traditions. You’ll also have the chance to explore local markets and sample delicious Turkish cuisine, adding a flavorful dimension to your journey.

Traveling from Side to Cappadocia is made easy with comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides who ensure you get the most out of your experience. Learn about the geology, history, and legends of this incredible region from experts who bring the landscape to life with their stories.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1, Child x 0 , Infant x 0

Adult

Age 9-25+

Child

Age 4-8

Infant

Age 0-3

Excursion Itinerary

Side
Start Activities

Bus / coach (Transfer)
Duration: 8 Hours

Enjoy an 8-hour scenic bus ride from Side to Cappadocia, with comfortable seating and breaks, offering a relaxing way to experience Turkey’s stunning landscapes.


Tatlarin Underground City
Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 45 Minute

Tatlarin Underground City is a unique place to explore the mysterious history of Cappadocia. With labyrinth-like tunnels and rooms, it offers a fascinating atmosphere.


Tatlarin Cave Church
Photo stop, Visit,
Duration: 45 Minute

Few people find their way to Tatlarin, and the entrance to the cave church with 13th-century frescoes is locked by an iron door, preserving the frescoes from vandalism.


Avanos, Nevşehir, Türkiye
Lunch,
Duration: 45 Minute Optional, Extra Fee

Love Valley
Visit, Free time,
Duration: 30 Minutes

Love Valley in Göreme is a romantic valley famous for Cappadocia's unique fairy chimneys. It's ideal for nature walks and photography.


Uchisar Castle
Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 45 Minute

Uchisar Castle is one of the highest points in Cappadocia, famous for its panoramic views. It offers a blend of historical and natural beauty.


Pigeon Valley
Photo stop, Visit,
Duration: 45 Minute

Pigeon Valley in Cappadocia is famous for its historic pigeon houses and stunning views. It's popular for nature walks and photography.


Ürgüp
Overnight stay, Dinner,
Duration: 1 Hours

Upon check-in, guests are invited to join us in the restaurant for dinner, which is included in the package.


Fairy Chimneys Cappadocia
Sunrise, Balloon flight,
Duration: 1 Hours Optional, Extra Fee

We kindly request that guests refrain from participating in activities outside the group during the tour. Due to time limitations, it is important to follow the group schedule.


Devrent Valley
Photo stop, Visit,
Duration: 45 Minute

Devrent Valley is famous for Cappadocia's unique rock formations and is known as the "Imagination Valley." The rocks are notable for resembling animal figures.


Sultanite and Onyx Naturel stone Workshop
Break time, Free time, Shopping,
Duration: 45 Minute

Bus / coach (Transfer)
Duration: 2 Hours

Konya
Lunch,
Duration: 45 Minute Optional, Extra Fee

Bus / coach (Transfer)
Duration: 5 Hours

After a fulfilling journey, we conclude our tour and bid farewell to our guests, ensuring they are comfortably returned to their original pick-up locations.


Side
Finish Activities

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Experience the magic of Cappadocia’s landscapes, including its iconic fairy chimneys and v
  • Stay overnight in a unique cave hotel for an authentic Cappadocian experience.
  • Take an optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise for spectacular views.
  • Explore the Goreme Open-Air Museum and other historic sites.
  • Enjoy a hassle-free journey with professional guides and comfortable transport.

What's Included and What's Not?

Included

  • Round-trip transportation from Side.
  • Overnight stay in a cave hotel.
  • Meals: dinner on the first day, breakfast and lunch on the second day.
  • Guided tours of key sites in Cappadocia.
  • Professional, English-speaking guide.

Not Included

  • Optional hot air balloon ride (available at an additional cost).
  • Drinks and snacks not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Entrance fees to specific attractions (e.g., Goreme Open-Air Museum).
  • Personal expenses and tips for guides and drivers.

Not Suitable For This Activities

  • People with mobility impairments

Not Allowed This Activities

  • Alcohol and drugs
  • Pets

Important Information

What to Bring

Camera
Cash
Comfortable clothes
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Sunscreen

Information Before Booking

  • This tour involves a significant amount of walking and may not be suitable for travelers who prefer minimal physical activity.
  • It’s ideal for adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and those looking to experience something truly unique.
  • Please note that the hot air balloon ride is weather-dependent and may be canceled for safety reasons.

Know Before You Go

  • Entrance fees to some attractions are not included in the tour price and must be paid on-site. Details will be provided on your voucher.
  • The hot air balloon ride is an optional activity and requires an additional fee. Booking in advance is recommended as spots are limited.
  • Hotel accommodations are in a cave hotel, which may have uneven surfaces and unique layouts.
  • The tour operates in all weather conditions, but adjustments may be made to ensure your safety and comfort.

4.7/5

38
Reviews

About This Activity

Free Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot and pay nothing today

Duration 2  Days

Check availability to see starting times.

Live Tour Guide

English, German, Russian

Pickup Optional

Most of the hotels in Side region has got high privacy rules. Please meet us at the main entrance gate of your hotel not the reception.

Location

Side Türkiye

Book Today

From

€60

per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Robin - United Kingdom
24 September 2024

Our tour guide, Kadir, was outstanding. The trip was incredible, and the scenery was absolutely stunning. Staying at the cave hotel was unforgettable. Though the journey was long and exhausting, the experience was completely worth it. Highly recommended!

Wiktoria - Poland
11 October 2024

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The trip was fantastic and offered great value for the number of places visited and the quality of the accommodation. The Cave hotel was truly unique, with an unforgettable atmosphere. The only downside was the limited free time, especially for activities like shopping in Cappadocia. The food was average, around 4/10, and could definitely be improved. We opted for the morning jeep safari, which was absolutely incredible! Our guide, Kadir, was friendly and very helpful. Highly recommended!

See More Reviews

Customer Reviews

All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.

Overall Rating

4.7/5

Based on 38 Reviews

Guide

4.7/5

Transportation

4.7/5

Value for Money

4.7/5

By Traveler Types
By star rating
R
Robin - United Kingdom
24 September 2024

Our tour guide, Kadir, was outstanding. The trip was incredible, and the scenery was absolutely stunning. Staying at the cave hotel was unforgettable. Though the journey was long and exhausting, the experience was completely worth it. Highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

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Wiktoria - Poland
11 October 2024
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The trip was fantastic and offered great value for the number of places visited and the quality of the accommodation. The Cave hotel was truly unique, with an unforgettable atmosphere. The only downside was the limited free time, especially for activities like shopping in Cappadocia. The food was average, around 4/10, and could definitely be improved. We opted for the morning jeep safari, which was absolutely incredible! Our guide, Kadir, was friendly and very helpful. Highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

J
Joel - Germany
15 October 2024
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This was my second trip with Apo, and once again, it was absolutely fantastic! The tour truly lived up to the expectations and was well worth the excitement.

Helpful? Yes

J
Jerome - United Kingdom
03 May 2024

The bad weather was a bit disappointing as we couldn’t ride a hot air balloon, but our guide was incredibly kind and made the experience enjoyable nonetheless.

Helpful? Yes

M
Melissa - United Kingdom
21 March 2024
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Amazing experience! Although the journey was long and tiring, it was absolutely worth it. The first day was packed with numerous stops, offering a fascinating mix of historical insights and stunning sights. The highlight was the breathtaking sunrise balloon ride on the second day. Our guide was not only friendly and knowledgeable but also incredibly accommodating, making the trip even more enjoyable.

Helpful? Yes

K
Katie - United Kingdom
06 February 2024

The hotel was fantastic, complete with a jet bath for added luxury! Sadly, the balloon ride was canceled due to the weather, but the other activities were incredible, and we learned so much about Cappadocia. Kadir was exceptionally friendly and provided plenty of helpful information about the area. Overall, the entire experience was excellent value for money!

Helpful? Yes

R
Riina - Estonia
27 April 2024

My confirmation stated a 3 AM pickup from Seher Sun Palace, but the bus didn’t arrive until 5:30 AM, despite repeated calls and assurances of new pickup times. That part was quite frustrating. However, the guide, driver, and the excursion itself were outstanding. The Cave Hotel Meliz was an absolute treasure! Overall, we’re satisfied—Cappadocia and the balloons were absolutely magical.

Helpful? Yes

E
Eric - United Kingdom
17 November 2024
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November 16-17, 2024: We had an amazing time on this trip—completely worth it! Shaheed, our guide, was fantastic. Fluent in multiple languages, he took great care of us throughout the journey. He’s truly made for this role! Although the journey was long, we barely noticed because we were either captivated by the stunning views or entertained by Shaheed’s fun facts and helpful tips. We highly recommend this tour—don’t miss the jeep safari and the hot air balloon ride; they were the absolute highlights!

Helpful? Yes

Z
Zuzanna - Netherlands
08 November 2024
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Fantastic!!

Helpful? Yes

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Lisa - Germany
22 October 2024
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Unser Ausflug war großartig! Unsere Guide Gözde hat uns viele interessante Informationen gegeben und war sehr hilfsbereit, als der geplante Ballonflug abgesagt wurde. Das Cave Hotel ist ebenfalls absolut empfehlenswert. ????

Helpful? Yes

M
Michael - Germany
08 October 2024
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An unforgettable experience! The sky filled with hundreds of balloons was breathtaking, the stops were stunning, the cave hotel was exceptional, and everything was seamlessly organized by our guide, Kadir.

Helpful? Yes

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Lars - Germany
29 September 2024

Although the trip was pricey, it was absolutely worth it. Our guide, Kadir, kept us in great spirits and shared plenty of insights at every stop. The drive from Side was quite long, but with so much to see along the way, it was an experience we’d gladly repeat!

Helpful? Yes

J
Jack - United Kingdom
22 September 2024
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Kadir did an incredible job guiding our group and ensuring we had a fantastic experience. Although the balloons didn’t fly, he quickly arranged other activities, including an amazing jeep safari. Highly recommended! The Cave Hotel was a delightful surprise, far exceeding our expectations. We also had time to explore Cappadocia at night, enjoying its cozy vibe, lively bars, and great restaurants. An intriguing destination that offers excellent value for money!

Helpful? Yes

F
Florie - United Kingdom
22 September 2024

I highly recommend this tour! Our guide, Kadir, was extremely organized and went above and beyond to accommodate everyone. The driver was excellent as well. Unfortunately, we couldn’t see the balloons due to strong winds, but we did the Jeep Safari instead, and it was an absolute blast—our Jeep driver made it a thrilling ride. A big thanks to Kadir for creating unforgettable memories and arranging a fantastic cave hotel room for us!

Helpful? Yes

J
Jasmine - United Kingdom
10 September 2024

This tour was an incredible experience, all thanks to our amazing guide, Kadir. He shared fascinating insights about the places we visited, the history of Turkey, and was always there to assist us with anything we needed. The cave hotel was clean, comfortable, and a unique experience. Our transfer was punctual, and even when our bus broke down, Kadir quickly found a solution and got us back on track. The sunrise jeep tour was the highlight for us—it’s absolutely worth the extra cost to see the balloons. A huge thank you to Kadir for making the tour so special. We highly recommend this trip; Cappadocia is such a captivating destination, and we’re thrilled we chose this tour over going independently!

Helpful? Yes

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Nichole - Belgium
02 August 2024

The tour was fantastic! We loved everything—the journey, the guide, the hotel, and all the incredible places we visited. Huge thanks for the excellent organization; it was an unforgettable experience made possible by amazing people!

Helpful? Yes

S
Sara - Germany
12 July 2024
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Very good!!!

Helpful? Yes

J
Jack - United Kingdom
21 June 2024

The trip was incredible! My partner and I had so much fun exploring the caves and seeing how people once lived in them such a unique experience unlike anything we’d seen before. While we were disappointed not to see the hot air balloons due to bad weather, the overall experience was fantastic. Our guide, Osman, was friendly, helpful, and made the journey more engaging and memorable. Despite hearing advice against online bookings, I trusted GetYourGuide, having used them before, and it was a great decision. Highly recommend their services to others!

Helpful? Yes

A
Aleksandra - Poland
18 June 2024

Overall, it was an excellent experience! The only downside was the panorama, which cost €30 per person unnecessarily since there were no required entrance tickets. We essentially paid that amount just to be taken about 5 kilometers to the spot.

Helpful? Yes

M
Mia - United Kingdom
23 May 2024

We had an amazing trip! Ruslan (apologies if the spelling is incorrect) was an incredibly knowledgeable and friendly guide who shared so much about the area. Gözde was also fantastic—hard to believe it was her first trip! She was warm, welcoming, and very helpful, with great knowledge of the region. Thank you to the entire team for making our experience unforgettable. We truly loved it and can’t wait to see you again when we return to Türkiye! - Mia and Oliver

Helpful? Yes

D
Detlef - Germany
21 April 2024

An absolutely fantastic program—we’d do it again in a heartbeat! ????????????

Helpful? Yes

J
Joel - Germany
15 March 2024
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The trip was fantastic, and we experienced so much. However, the communication regarding the transfer could be clearer, though it was generally dependable. It would also be beneficial if the prices for the panorama or hot air balloon rides were shared upfront. Given the need for cash and the high fees charged by ATMs, having this information in advance would make planning more convenient.

Helpful? Yes

K
Katie - United Kingdom
06 February 2024

The hotel was wonderful, complete with a jet bath for added luxury! Although the balloon ride was canceled due to the weather, all the other activities were fantastic, and we learned so much about Cappadocia. Kadir was incredibly friendly and provided plenty of helpful information about the area. Overall, the experience offered excellent value for money!

Helpful? Yes

M
Marco - Germany
27 December 2023

We enjoyed the trip overall. The bus ride from Side was understandably long and a bit tiring. The time spent in the underground city felt too short for our mothers, as they have difficulty walking. However, the price-performance ratio was excellent, and we got to see so much during the tour.

Helpful? Yes

P
Petra - Germany
29 October 2023

The tour was very well organized and conducted in English, Russian, and German. The balloon ride was an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend. The organization for that was also excellent. I’ll definitely book with “Get Your Guide” again on my next vacation!

Helpful? Yes

M
Maria - Germany
22 September 2023

The Cappadocia tour was excellently organized. Our guide, Murat, shared fascinating insights at every stop, giving us a deeper understanding of the country, its landmarks, and its history. Each stop was worth visiting, with plenty of breaks along the way. The bus was comfortable, and the atmosphere was always pleasant. We had ample time at each stop to explore, take photos, relax, and enjoy a drink. The meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—were plentiful and delicious. We highly recommend this tour; the long journey to Cappadocia is absolutely worth it! The cave hotel was an excellent choice, and all the sights, including the stunning hot air balloon panorama, were truly remarkable!

Helpful? Yes

S
Susanne - Germany
21 September 2023

The trip was very well organized from start to finish. Everything, from the pickup to the return journey, went smoothly. Watching the balloons rise was absolutely mesmerizing and a must-see in Cappadocia.

Helpful? Yes

K
Katie - Germany
27 July 2023

I really enjoyed it and can highly recommend it!

Helpful? Yes

V
Vytautas - Lithuania
12 July 2024

Kadir is an excellent guide, and I intended to give him 5 stars but accidentally gave 4.

Helpful? Yes

D
Dalia - Lithuania
02 July 2024

The car to the bus was overcrowded, with more people than seats available. Although I booked a German-speaking tour, it was conducted in Russian, English, and Turkish instead. This should have been communicated upfront so I could decide if I was okay with it—after all, I booked a German tour for a reason. The food was disappointing as well, costing €15 plus drinks. I would have gladly paid a bit more for higher-quality meals. These issues made me question whether I’d book this tour again, which is unfortunate since I’m usually very satisfied. Thankfully, Mr. Kaya, the second guide, was fantastic. He went above and beyond to ensure we felt comfortable. The jeep safari was a highlight, but if the main attraction didn’t happen, they should have offered a refund. We were also promised two free drinks, but that didn’t happen either.

Helpful? Yes

G
Gün - Germany
07 June 2024

An incredible experience filled with unforgettable moments! The trip is quite demanding due to its length—be prepared for up to 20 hours of travel on the first day, much of it on the bus (from Antalya). Breakfast and lunch are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring some food for the first day, as the quality of the meals isn’t great. However, lunch on the second day is much better.Among the additional activities, the sunset panorama is a must-see, and the balloon ride is absolutely breathtaking! The cave hotel is worth it for the unique experience, though the cleanliness of the sanitary facilities could be improved. The traditional dinner at the cave hotel was delicious.A special shoutout to the driver Mustafa and guide Ilham (Russian/Turkish speaking), who were outstanding—trustworthy, reliable, and incredibly helpful. They went above and beyond to quickly retrieve my phone, which I had accidentally left behind in the cave hotel. A huge thank you to both of them for their efforts!

Helpful? Yes

R
Riina - Estonia
27 April 2024

My confirmation stated a 3 AM pickup from Seher Sun Palace, but the bus didn’t arrive until 5:30 AM despite multiple calls and assurances of new pickup times. That part was quite frustrating. However, the guide, bus driver, and the excursion itself were fantastic. The Cave Hotel Meliz was an absolute treasure! Overall, we are happy with the experience—Cappadocia and the balloons were simply breathtaking.

Helpful? Yes

N
Niklas - Germany
24 April 2024

Overall, it was a good trip. The journey to Cappadocia was quite long, taking 8 hours and 45 minutes to reach the first scheduled stop due to numerous "technical stops" that conveniently occurred at shops. Although we booked a German-speaking guide, Ruslan, who led the tour in English, was excellent—friendly, patient, and very clear in his explanations. He was a fantastic guide.The trip gained momentum and became more enjoyable once we reached the first proper stops, despite them being short on both days. This was understandable given the tight two-day schedule. The 3-star hotel, located 15 minutes from Göreme in a charming little town, was clean and perfectly adequate.The highlight of the trip was, of course, the balloons in the morning. The panoramic view ride, which costs €30 per person, was absolutely worth it and a memorable experience. The return journey was much smoother, with fewer stops, making it far more comfortable than the trip there.In summary, it was a good trip, though a bit exhausting due to the long travel times. However, the numerous highlights and overall experience made it worthwhile. Excellent value for money and highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

f
fabrice - France
29 March 2024

The guide was excellent, but having lunch at 3 p.m. is far too late and could definitely be improved.

Helpful? Yes

F
Frank - Germany
06 February 2024

The sequence of activities was thoughtfully planned.

Helpful? Yes

J
Julia - Germany
17 September 2023

The day began early at 3:45 a.m. from the hotel. Unfortunately, instead of the German-speaking guide we booked, we were assigned an English/Russian-speaking one. After raising concerns, we were able to switch to a German-speaking bus with Murat, a very friendly and dedicated guide.The long journey included several stops for breakfast and shopping. On the first day, we followed the itinerary as described, visiting many sights with short tours and limited free time due to the packed schedule. The second day offered the option of a hot air balloon ride—an unforgettable experience of flying for about an hour at sunrise. However, booking through GYG cost €120 more than booking locally. Additional paid activities were offered on the bus, such as horseback riding, quad biking, a panoramic view, and a Turkish night.The cave hotel offered a lovely view of the small town, was clean, and had a rustic charm, though nothing extraordinary. Breakfast was very basic, with no alternative options available, which was a downside.

Helpful? Yes

R
Robert - Poland
27 August 2023

A fantastic experience! Visiting Cappadocia has always been a dream of mine, and it did not disappoint. The balloon flight was absolutely amazing! ???? Minor downsides: no Polish-speaking guides and no complimentary water. Other than that, everything was perfect!

Helpful? Yes

J
Jerome - Germany
26 July 2023

I enjoyed it a lot, except for the bus journey.

Helpful? Yes

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Adult

12y+

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Children

2 - 12 years

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Infant

Below 2 years

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