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

Traveling from Side to Cappadocia for a quick two-day adventure can sound ambitious, but if you’re after a glimpse of Turkey’s most iconic landscapes, this tour packs quite a punch. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the details and reviews suggest it’s a well-organized way to see the highlights without breaking the bank.

What really draws us in are the stunning views of fairy chimneys and valleys, plus the chance to stay overnight in a cave hotel—a unique experience that adds a layer of authenticity to your trip. We also like that the tour offers an optional hot air balloon ride, which is a bucket-list item for many.

That said, keep in mind that this is a group tour with a packed itinerary—so if you’re after a slow, private experience, it might not be your ideal fit. Also, the price is quite accessible at around $54 per person, but extras like the balloon ride or single rooms do add to the cost. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, affordable introduction to Cappadocia’s most famous sights.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers good value for a 2-day guided experience.
• Highlights include underground cities, fairy chimneys, and valleys, giving a broad taste of Cappadocia’s landscapes.
• Stay in a cave hotel or a 3-star hotel, adding authenticity to your overnight experience.
• Optional hot air balloon ride is a popular extra, weather permitting.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience smoother and more engaging.
• The tour is group-based and not suitable for those with walking difficulties or mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour from Side is designed to hit all the major sights efficiently, making it perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful taste of Cappadocia. It combines sightseeing with some culture and the chance to stay overnight in a setting different from typical hotels—namely, a cave hotel or a 3-star hotel.

Day 1: From Side to Cappadocia

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Side, followed by a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride. You’ll stop along the way for breakfast, so prepare for a journey of roughly several hours. Once in Cappadocia, the first big stop is Kaymakli Underground City. Here, you’ll explore the subterranean tunnels and rooms carved out centuries ago—an eerie and fascinating experience that many reviews praise as a highlight.

Following this, you’ll head to Uchisar Fortress, where panoramic views of the surrounding landscape are breathtaking. From the top, you’ll see the famous Pigeon Valley, a beautiful spot for photos and soaking in the scenery. Later, a visit to Avanos provides a chance to explore a traditional town famous for its pottery workshops—an opportunity to see artisans at work and maybe even try your hand at pottery.

Lunch is usually at a local restaurant in Avanos, giving you a taste of Turkish cuisine. Afterward, the tour continues with visits to Derwent Valley (Valley of Fantasy), the Valley of the Monks, and other scenic stops. You’ll then check into your hotel, where dinner is included, and you might opt for an extra folklore show to finish your evening.

Day 2: Hot Air Balloon & More Sights

This part is highly anticipated—the hot air balloon ride, if you choose to add it. Many reviews mention how stunning the views are from above, making it the centerpiece for those who want a memorable experience. Keep in mind, though, weather conditions can cancel balloon flights, so it’s good to have a backup plan.

After breakfast, the tour continues with a visit to Uchguzel (Three Beauties), the iconic fairy chimneys that are almost synonymous with Cappadocia. You’ll also see Chavushin and St. John the Baptist Church, exploring more of the rock-cut architecture that makes this region so unique.

Following a final lunch and some last sightseeing, you’ll begin the journey back to Side, filled with photos and stories of a landscape unlike any other.

The Experience in Detail

The guided aspect of this tour is highly praised, especially by those who mention their guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer, Jamie, called Gozde an “amazing tour guide,” emphasizing how approachable and informative she was. Another traveler, Barbara, appreciated how well-organized the trip was, despite her initial apprehensions as a solo older traveler. This kind of positive feedback suggests the guides are attentive and keen on making sure everyone is comfortable.

The hotels seem to vary in comfort—while the cave hotel is described as basic but clean and safe, some reviews mention it being cold at night. The experience of staying in a real cave is a big draw, but if you’re expecting luxury, be prepared for a simple, authentic stay. The option for a single room exists but costs extra, so budget accordingly if you prefer privacy.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value of Included Activities

For just $54, you essentially get transportation, a guide, entrance tickets to major sites, and meals. The reviews suggest this is good value, especially considering the cost of private tours or independent trips. The underground city tour, the panoramic stops, and the pottery workshop in Avanos** provide both entertainment and education.

Optional Extras and Flexibility

The hot air balloon ride is an optional upgrade and often cited as a bucket-list experience. While weather can affect flights—something that a few travelers mentioned when their balloon ride was canceled—the Jeep safari alternative was well-received as a fun, scenic substitute.

Practical Considerations

This tour is best suited for those who are comfortable with group travel and long bus rides. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, as some sites involve walking and climbing. The tour operates with a live English-speaking guide, which enhances the experience with storytelling and context.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a well-priced, all-in-one introduction to Cappadocia’s highlights and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour is a solid choice. It offers a mix of history, stunning landscapes, and culture, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors or those traveling from Side who want a convenient, guided experience.

Travelers who want an extra touch of adventure may love adding the balloon ride, while those seeking solitude or luxury might prefer private or more relaxed options. If you’re okay with basic accommodations and can manage the physical aspects of sightseeing, this tour delivers a memorable taste of one of Turkey’s most iconic regions.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Cappadocia tour from Side offers a well-rounded look at a landscape that’s truly unlike anywhere else. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the chance to stay in a cave hotel, it provides an authentic, affordable way to experience the region’s most famous sights.

While the tour is quite full, many travelers find the value outweighs the hectic pace, especially considering the price. The optional hot air balloon ride is a highlight for most, adding a magical perspective to the already breathtaking scenery.

If you’re eager to see fairy chimneys, explore underground cities, and enjoy some Turkish hospitality along the way, this trip is likely to meet your expectations. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes, be prepared for some early mornings, and keep an open mind about basic hotel accommodations. It’s a memorable journey that fits well into a short trip and leaves you with plenty of stories—and photos—to share.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking and some uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility difficulties. Children will need to present valid passports for museum entries.

What does the price include?
For around $54, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned bus (or a smaller vehicle if group size is small), a guide, accommodation (cave or 3-star hotel), entrance tickets to underground cities, and breakfast and dinner.

Can I book a single room?
Yes, single rooms are available for an extra charge—about $30 for the cave hotel or $15 for other accommodations.

What about meals?
Breakfast and dinner are included, but lunch and drinks are not. You’ll have the chance to enjoy local Turkish cuisine at a restaurant in Avanos.

Is the hot air balloon ride guaranteed?
No, flights depend on weather conditions. If canceled, you might be offered alternative activities like a Jeep safari.

How long is the bus ride from Side?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect several hours of travel each way, with stops for breakfast and sightseeing along the way.

What if I want a more relaxed pace?
This tour is quite full, so if you prefer downtime, consider a private or self-guided trip. The group setting and packed schedule might feel rushed for some.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides like Gozde and Kadir are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge, making the experience richer.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and a change of clothes—especially if you plan to do the hot air balloon ride or walk around outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a practical, budget-friendly way to tick off Cappadocia’s top sights in a short timeframe. With good reviews and a focus on authentic experiences, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re heading from Side and craving a taste of this fascinating landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: