City of Side: 2-Day Cappadocia, Cave Hotel, & Balloon Tour

Exploring Cappadocia in Two Days from Side: Cave Hotels, Fairy Chimneys, and More
This 2-day guided trip from Side offers an immersive experience into the surreal landscape of Cappadocia, including visits to Kaymakli Underground City, stunning Uchisar Fortress, and the picturesque Pigeon Valley. For around $54 per person, you’ll spend two days exploring ancient sites, traditional villages, and rock formations, with the option of soaring above it all in a hot air balloon. The tour includes comfortable transportation, guided commentary, and overnight stays in a cozy cave hotel or a 3-star hotel, making it a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and insight.

What we love about this experience is how well it balances sightseeing and culture—you’ll get to walk through centuries-old underground tunnels and gaze over valleys filled with fairy chimneys, all while learning about the area’s fascinating history from your guide. Plus, the opportunity to stay in a cave hotel means you’re not just seeing Cappadocia but actually living part of its story overnight. The only thing to consider is that the tour runs long, and some may find the full schedule a bit hectic, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, landscape lovers, and those seeking an authentic experience without breaking the bank. If you’re comfortable walking and enjoy guided excursions packed with highlights, this adventure fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a rundown in a short amount of time, with a chance to include a memorable hot air balloon ride (if weather permits).

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blends underground cities, valleys, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Authentic experience with stays in a cave hotel or 3-star accommodation.
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of Cappadocia’s history and geology.
• Optional hot air balloon ride adds an unforgettable perspective on the landscape.
• Value for money at $54 per person, including transportation, accommodation, and entry tickets.
• Hectic schedule means early starts and a full two days of activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Heart of Cappadocia: What You Can Expect

If you’re considering this 2-day tour, you’ll want to know what makes each stop interesting—and what might be a little less comfortable. Let’s walk through the experience step-by-step, highlighting what you’ll see, do, and feel.

Day 1: From Side to Surreal Landscapes

The trip begins with hotel pickup in Side, typically early in the morning. You’ll board an air-conditioned bus—though if you’re in a smaller group, it might be a van or minibus, which could lack air conditioning but still gets the job done. The drive to Cappadocia takes several hours, with a breakfast stop along the way to fuel up for the day’s adventures.

Once you arrive, the first major highlight is Kaymakli Underground City. This vast subterranean network, carved into soft volcanic rock, was once a refuge for early Christians seeking safety from invasions. Your guide will help you navigate its tunnels, rooms, and storage areas. Many reviewers mention how fascinating and eerie the underground city feels, with some noting that it’s “really cool to walk through history below the surface,” though it can be somewhat confined for those with mobility issues.

Next, you’ll visit Uchisar Fortress, which offers panoramic views over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and valleys. The climb is manageable, and the view from the top is worth every step, providing a perfect photo opportunity. Your guide will share stories about the fortress’s strategic importance and how people used these rock formations for defense.

A scenic stop at Pigeon Valley offers a chance to marvel at the natural landscape while learning about the traditional pigeon farming in the area. The valley’s dovecotes carved into cliffs are visually striking, and the view stretches out for miles.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Avanos, famous for its pottery. Here, you’ll visit a pottery workshop, where artisans craft using traditional techniques that date back centuries. Many travelers enjoy watching the process and even trying their hand at shaping clay—an authentic touch that adds to the experience.

Dinner awaits at a local restaurant, accompanied by an optional Anatolian folklore show called “Night in Cappadocia,” which offers a lively taste of Turkish culture. Some reviews mention that this show is a fun addition, while others prefer to relax after a busy day; it’s entirely optional.

Day 2: Heights, Valleys, and Rock Churches

The morning begins with the optional hot air balloon ride—a highlight for many, offering a bird’s-eye view of Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscape, especially at sunrise. Weather can be unpredictable, and some reviews mention cancellations due to wind, but many say it’s worth trying if the weather cooperates.

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll visit Uchguzel (Three Beauties) for another panoramic stop—they’re the iconic fairy chimneys that symbolize Cappadocia. From here, you’ll explore Chavushin, a rock city with abandoned cave dwellings, and the Church of St. John the Baptist, where ancient frescoes and carved stone details tell stories of early Christian communities.

Lunch is included or at least planned in a local restaurant, giving you a chance to taste more Turkish cuisine before heading back toward Side. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the wealth of sights you’ve seen—each with its own story.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour offers a well-rounded view of Cappadocia at a price that’s quite accessible—just over $50 per person. It includes transportation, guided commentary, and accommodations, which makes it a good value, especially considering the entrance fees to underground cities and historical sites are covered.

Staying in a cave hotel is a highlight for many travelers. These rooms, carved directly into rock, offer a cozy, unique overnight experience. Some reviewers mention that the cave hotel was basic but very clean and safe, though the nights can be quite cold, so packing warm clothing is wise.

The tour’s schedule is packed, with early mornings and full days, which suits travelers eager to see a lot in a limited time. For those wanting a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit hurried, but overall, it’s a good way to cover the major highlights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation and Group Size

The transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, but note that if your group is smaller, it may be a smaller vehicle without air conditioning. This can make a difference in hot weather, so pack accordingly. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest it’s a typical guided tour with enough people to create a lively atmosphere but not so many that it feels crowded.

Guides and Customer Service

The reviews universally praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to handle the schedule. Many mention guides by name—like Gozde, Apo, or Kadir—and how their insights and helpfulness made the trip memorable. If you’re curious about the history or want local tips, you’ll probably find your guide engaging and well-informed.

Considerations and Limitations

While this tour is inclusive and full of highlights, it’s not suitable for guests with mobility difficulties due to the walking involved. Also, lunch and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly, especially if you plan to sample local cuisine or want beverages alongside meals.

The hot air balloon ride is optional and subject to weather conditions, so don’t be disappointed if it’s canceled—the jeep safari alternative still offers fun and fantastic views.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see Cappadocia’s main sights in a short time, this tour offers great value. You’ll get to walk through underground cities, admire fairy chimneys, and enjoy authentic local culture—plus the chance to stay overnight in a cave hotel, which is a highlight in itself. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey informative and enjoyable.

This trip is best suited for history and landscape enthusiasts who don’t mind a busy schedule and are prepared for some walking. If you want a relaxed, slow-paced exploration, you might prefer a longer stay or a more customized experience. But if your goal is to tick off the iconic sites and get a taste of Cappadocia’s magic, this trip will deliver.

For travelers who want to combine cultural sights with comfortable logistics and good value, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember, the adventure is as much about the landscape as the stories your guide shares, so bring your curiosity and camera.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the hot air balloon ride included in the price?
No, the hot air balloon ride is optional and can be added for an extra fee. It’s weather-dependent and might be canceled if conditions aren’t safe.

How long is the travel time from Side to Cappadocia?
The drive is several hours, with a breakfast stop along the way. The exact duration depends on your pickup location and group size, but you should plan for a full day of travel on Day 1.

Are meals included in this tour?
Breakfast and dinner at the hotel are included, but lunch is not. You’ll have opportunities to dine at local restaurants, especially in Avanos.

What kind of accommodation do I stay in?
You can choose between a cave hotel or a 3-star hotel. Many reviewers mention that the cave hotel was clean and safe, but it can be cold at night.

Is this tour suitable for children or guests with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for guests with mobility difficulties due to walking and uneven terrain involved in sites like underground cities and rock formations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and a change of clothes are recommended. An overnight bag is enough for the trip, and be prepared for outdoor walking.

In short, this 2-day Cappadocia tour from Side offers an accessible and engaging way to experience Turkey’s extraordinary landscape. With knowledgeable guides, authentic accommodations, and the chance to see some of the most iconic sights, it’s a solid choice for those eager to explore this surreal region without a hefty price tag. Just pack your curiosity, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure—you’re about to step into a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

You can check availability for your dates here: