The best of Beautiful Cappadocia

Cappadocia, the land of fascinating rock formations, rock homes, magical hot air balloons everywhere in the sky, and unique and beautiful places to stay. You’ll want to go on a magic carpet ride and dream of distant places you haven’t even seen yet.

The best time to visit Cappadocia is from April/May to September/October. You should have the least rainy days during July and August if we look at statistics based on the last 30 years.

The balloons usually take off early in the morning at any time between 04H00 and 06H00. If you’re a keen photographer, this is the time to take photos. The balloon tours are definitely not a cheap activity. It is a bit expensive but if you can afford to add this to your trip, it is definitely worth it.

The balloon tours start just before sunrise. In summertime between 04:00 and 05:00 (April-October), and in wintertime between 05:00 and 06:00 (November-March).

Yes, the hot air ballooning in Cappadocia runs all year long, however it is weather permitting and you’ll have to get up early before sunrise to catch the best of the day.

In my opinion, sunrise is the most beautiful part of the day here anyway, so you’ll enjoy being up early. After the balloon ride enjoy a late breakfast at your hotel (with a view). Speaking of which; Cappadocia has some of the most stunning places to stay ever. (See below)

The Hot Air Balloon Festival which takes place at an international level is a wonderland of balloons in all shapes and sizes (there is even a night glow session). The festival draws millions of followers each year, so it is essential to book your trip well in advance. However, there is no set date. The date changes each year depending upon the season.

The best place to view hot air balloons

For the best panoramic views of Cappadocia, go to: Goreme Viewpoint, Red Valley (Kizilcukur) Viewpoint, Lovers Hill Viewpoint, Goreme Open Air Museum Viewpoint, Uchisar Castle Viewpoint, Ortahisar Castle Viewpoint, and Urgup Wish Hill Viewpoint.

Travel Tips:

In our experience, you can save a lot of money by making your own bookings or by booking with a trusted touring company if you want something that includes the whole package. We share the links below to trusted places to stay (the links also allow you to check for the cheapest price if that is something you have to keep in mind).
If at all possible book the best you can afford. Go for the place that includes breakfast, a beautiful view, and those rating good on service. Cappadocia is all about the view. It is just not the same as the stuff you see on social media when you book in a place with no view. If you’re traveling on a budget and you’re booking somewhere ‘not so luxurious’ and ‘expensive’, then spoil yourself with a special dinner or breakfast somewhere that has a view. As I said, a visit to Cappadocia is all about the views.

All the best Things to do in Cappadocia

There are a few things you just have to do while you’re in Cappadocia.

Things to do in and around Goreme

Visit the open-air museum in Goreme exploring homes inside rocks, dating back to the 14th century.
Enjoy some traditional Turkish food at one of the local restaurants. Dibek Restaurant is a good idea.
Go horseriding. Did you know Cappadocia is also famous for its beautiful horses?
Enjoy sunsets at the special viewpoints mentioned above.
Instagram Photo Opportunity: Galerie Ikman (The Carpet place/shop/emporium). The open-air carpet room is simply spectacular. It is quite an experience to visit the shop.
You can also visit the Pink salt lake: Lake, Tuz on a day trip from Cappadocia.

How many days should I spend in Cappadocia?

3 days in Cappadocia are more than enough (4 days max). You’ll have time for sightseeing as well as spending a lazy day at your hotel. Keep in mind that Cappadocia is a huge region, not a town and it all depends on where you’re staying.