Top 10 Best Cappadocia Tours - Explore the Magic of Turkey's Enchanting Land
Updated: May 24
Are you looking for a unique and awe-inspiring travel experience? Look no further than Cappadocia, Turkey! Nestled in the heart of Central Anatolia, Cappadocia is a region known for its unique geological formations, otherworldly landscapes, and rich cultural history. With so much to see and do in Cappadocia, planning the perfect tour can be overwhelming. But don't worry, we've got you covered with this comprehensive guide on all you need to know about Cappadocia tours.
What is Cappadocia?
Cappadocia is a region in central Turkey that covers an area of approximately 5,000 square kilometers. The area is known for its distinctive geological formations, including fairy chimneys, valleys, and caves, which were formed by volcanic eruptions and erosion over millions of years. The region also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Hittites in the 18th century BC.
Top 10 Best Cappadocia Tours
Red Tour
Green Tour
Blue Tour
Private Tour
ATV Tour
Horseback Riding Tour
Turkish Night Show
Cappadocia Jeep Safari
Quad Bike Tour
Hot Air Balloon Tour: A hot air balloon ride is a popular way to see the stunning landscape of Cappadocia from above. Visitors can take a one-hour ride during sunrise or sunset to see the unique rock formations, valleys, and fairy chimneys that the region is known for. This tour is a must-try for visitors to Cappadocia, and it is considered one of the top hot air balloon destinations in the world.
Red Tour: The Red Tour is a full-day guided tour that takes visitors to some of the most iconic sites in Cappadocia. The tour typically includes stops at the Goreme Open Air Museum, the fairy chimney rock formations at Pasabag, the Devrent Valley, and the historic town of Avanos, where visitors can see traditional pottery-making techniques.
Green Tour: The Green Tour is another full-day guided tour that takes visitors to some lesser-known, but equally impressive sites in the region. The tour typically includes stops at the Ihlara Valley, the Selime Monastery, the Yaprakhisar Panorama, and the underground city of Derinkuyu.
Blue Tour: The Blue Tour is a half-day guided tour that focuses on the natural beauty of Cappadocia. Visitors can expect to see the Pigeon Valley, the Three Beauties rock formation, and the ancient village of Cavusin. The tour typically ends with a visit to a local pottery workshop.
Private Tour: A private tour allows visitors to customize their itinerary to suit their interests and preferences. A private tour can be arranged for individuals or groups and can include visits to any of the sites in Cappadocia, such as the hot air balloon ride, the Red Tour, the Green Tour, or the Blue Tour.
ATV Tour: An ATV tour is a thrilling way to explore the rocky terrain of Cappadocia. Visitors can ride through valleys, over hills, and along dusty trails on a guided tour that typically lasts for one or two hours.
Horseback Riding Tour: A horseback riding tour is a more leisurely way to see the landscape of Cappadocia. Visitors can ride through the valleys and along the trails on horseback, stopping to take in the views and learn about the history and culture of the region from a guide.
Turkish Night Show: A Turkish Night Show is a cultural experience that typically includes dinner and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine while watching a performance that includes folk dances, music, and belly dancing.
Cappadocia Jeep Safari: A jeep safari is a thrilling way to explore the rocky terrain of Cappadocia. Visitors can ride in a 4x4 jeep and navigate the rocky trails and valleys on a guided tour that typically lasts for several hours.
Quad Bike Tour: A quad bike tour is another exciting way to explore the terrain of Cappadocia. Visitors can ride on a quad bike through valleys, over hills, and along dusty trails on a guided tour that typically lasts for one or two hours.
How can one travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia?
There are three different ways to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia: by flight, by bus, and by train. Flights are the most popular among travelers due to their price, balance, and comfort. However, you may also check our other post on bus and train transportations for more information on these options.
Flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia can cost between $20 to $60 per person depending on the season you travel. Winter season and early booking can result in lower prices. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines are the two most well-known airline companies. While Turkish Airlines is a popular choice for international flights, it is not recommended for domestic flights due to frequent cancellations. Pegasus Airlines is a smarter option with lower prices.
When booking flights, be careful about the airports in Istanbul and Cappadocia. Istanbul has two airports: Istanbul New Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW), while Cappadocia has two airports as well: Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) and Nevsehir Airport (NAV).
Transportation to the airports can be arranged through shuttle services or private transfers. Havaist services and Havabus company provide shuttle services to Istanbul New Airport and Sabiha Gökcen Airport respectively. Private transfers cost around $40 to $60 for 1 to 6 persons, providing a hassle-free and timely transfer.
Once you land in Cappadocia, you have two options to get to Goreme, Urgup, or Avanos: shuttle service or private transfer. Shuttle service costs around 30-40 Turkish lira per person, while private transfer costs around $40 to $60 per person. Private transfers are recommended for those who value comfort and stress-free travel.
It is essential to note that there are two airports in Cappadocia: Kayseri Airport, which is about 65 km away from Goreme Village, and Nevsehir Airport, which is about 30 km away.
Overall, flights are the most convenient and affordable way to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia, and private transfers provide a stress-free and comfortable option for transportation to and from the airports.
WHERE TO STAY IN CAPPADOCIA?
For those planning to stay in Cappadocia, we suggest opting for a cave or stone hotel in the towns of Goreme, Uchisar, or Avanos. It is best to avoid larger chain hotels that are located outside of the town center. In these three villages, there are plenty of boutique hotels that offer a unique and memorable experience. Stay in the center of these towns and marvel at the breathtaking view. If you're having trouble choosing a hotel, don't hesitate to contact us for recommendations.
BEST TIME TO VISIT CAPPADOCIA?
The best time to visit Cappadocia is during both the summer and winter seasons. From May to October is considered peak season with dry and sunny weather, averaging temperatures between 35-45 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the winter season boasts cold and snowy weather, with temperatures ranging from -10 to -5 degrees Celsius. Although buses and flights may be slightly more irregular during the winter, guided tours in Cappadocia are available year-round.
CAPPADOCIA TOUR FROM ISTANBUL
If you're planning a trip to Cappadocia from Istanbul and looking for tours, there are several popular options available. The Cappadocia Green Tour, also known as the Cappadocia South Tour, takes visitors to sites such as the Red Valley, Love Valley, and underground cities like Kaymakli or Derinkuyu. The Cappadocia Red Tour, also known as the Cappadocia North Tour, includes visits to the Panoramic View of Goreme, Goreme Open Air Museum, and the Three Beauties Rock Formation, among other sites.
Another popular option is the Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight, which is available early in the morning and offers stunning views of the landscape. For those interested in traditional Turkish culture, the Cappadocia Whirling Dervish Ceremony and Turkish Night Show and Dinner provide unique experiences.
If you're looking to save money, you can arrange your own transfers, flights, and tours. However, this may come with unexpected issues and could end up costing you more in the long run. If you value your time and comfort, it's recommended to consider one of the many tour packages available. These packages can include airport transfers, guided tours, accommodation, museum entrance tickets, breakfast and lunch, and optional activities like hot air balloon rides or whirling dervish ceremonies.
Tour packages range from two to five days, and prices vary depending on the inclusions and duration of the tour. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which tour or package is the best fit for your budget and interests.
Let's discuss one of the most popular activities in Turkey: Cappadocia hot air balloon flights! Travelers from all over the world choose this unique experience, which offers breathtaking views of Cappadocia at sunrise. Here are some common questions:
How and when should I book a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia? Due to limited hot air balloon flights allowed by the Civil Aviation Authority, it can be difficult to secure a spot. We highly recommend booking your hot air balloon ride at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak season.
Is hot air ballooning in Cappadocia safe? Although there is always some risk, hot air balloon companies take safety very seriously, and accidents are extremely rare.
How high do hot air balloons fly in Cappadocia? Balloons typically fly between 3,000 and 6,000 feet above ground level, but this can vary depending on wind direction and strength.
How long are the balloon flights? There are two types of balloon flights in Cappadocia. Standard flights last about an hour, while deluxe flights last about an hour and a half.
Is there an age limit for balloon flights? Most balloon companies do not allow children under six years old, even with their families.
Why do we recommend taking a tour of Cappadocia? Cappadocia is a village with many tourist destinations to visit. By taking a guided tour, you can sit back and relax in air-conditioned vehicles while your guide shows you the most important tips and treasures of the region. Additionally, self-arranged trips may result in last-minute surprises, whereas travel packages arranged by licensed local travel agencies are more reliable.
At our travel agency, we offer flexibility in customizing all of our Turkey tour packages to meet your needs. You can add an extra night, extra places to visit, or make other customization requests. Contact us to customize your Turkey travel.
In summary, if you are planning a trip to Cappadocia, don't hesitate to check out our tour packages
If you need a customized tour package please contact with us