Side is a fantastic base for exploring beyond the coast. Its central location in Turkey makes it an ideal starting point for 2-day tours to iconic sights like Cappadocia or underground cities. We particularly love the chance to experience hot air balloon rides over fairy chimneys or walk through ancient underground chambers—both highlights offered by several of these tours. Whether you’re after a scenic adventure, culture, or comfort, these options give a good mix of experiences, all accessible from Side.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed reviews of five of the best 2-day tours. From the immersive City of Side: 2-Day Cappadocia, Cave Hotel, & Balloon Tour to the more budget-friendly 2 Days Cappadocia Tour From Side With Cave Hotel Overnight, each offers something unique. We’ll help you compare the itineraries, price points, and special features to find your ideal escape.
1. City of Side: 2-Day Cappadocia, Cave Hotel, & Balloon Tour
At number 1, this tour provides a comprehensive 2-day Cappadocia experience from Side with a mix of iconic sights and optional adventure. It’s perfect if you want to see fairy chimneys, explore the Kaymakli Underground City, and learn about the region’s fascinating geology and history through guided commentary. The tour includes stays in a cave hotel or a 3-star hotel, with breakfast and dinner included, making it a hassle-free experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the hot air balloon ride (optional but highly recommended). The early morning ascent over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape is a highlight that turns the trip into a truly memorable experience. Reviewers frequently mention the professionalism of the guides—one said, “Abo was brilliant—so organized and kind,” emphasizing how smoothly everything runs. The jeep safari offered on Day 2 is a fun alternative if you prefer to stay closer to the ground.
Bottom line: This tour balances sights with comfort, making it ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded, guided experience—and the price of $54 per person makes it very accessible.
2. Cappadocia 2 Day Excursion including fee
Coming in at number 2, this tour offers a more comprehensive journey that includes a stop at the Mevlana Museum in Konya and visits to Goreme Open-Air Museum. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine the natural wonders of Cappadocia with a touch of regional culture. The trip includes overnight accommodation at a 3- or 4-star hotel, with dinner and breakfast.
This tour’s strength is its detailed itinerary—visiting the underground city, Vineyard, and handmade ceramics and carpets. The inclusion of Konya, a city famous for the Whirling Dervishes, adds depth to the experience. The sunrise hot air balloon ride is available as an upgrade, which many guests find worth the extra expense for the incredible photo opportunities.
Reviewers like the convenience of hotel pickup and round-trip transport, making logistics easy. One traveler summed it up: “The trip was well organized, with plenty of time at each stop, and the guide was very knowledgeable.”
Bottom line: If you’re after a cultural and scenic tour with some extras like wine tasting and optional ballooning, this offers good value at $106.72 per person.
3. Two Days Tour to Cappadocia with HB Hotel & Transfer from Side
At number 3, this enchanting 2-day trip emphasizes the natural beauty and ancient sites of Cappadocia. It’s a slightly more personalized experience—starting with early morning pickup from your Side hotel and including a visit to Saratli Underground City and Goreme Open-Air Museum.
The tour covers well-known highlights like Ortahisar Castle and Avanos, with a focus on rock dwellings and cave sites. The lunch in Ortahisar is included, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. During the trip, the guide shares stories about the region’s history, making it educational and engaging.
Guests praise the smooth organization—one reviewer said, “Our guide was very informative and kind,” and enjoyed the scenic panoramas. The tour is priced at $156.94, which is slightly higher but includes hotel pick-up, transfers, and most entrance fees.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided exploration that combines natural beauty with cultural insights, suitable for those comfortable with a longer day of sightseeing.
4. 2 Days Cappadocia Tour From Side With Cave Hotel Overnight
Number 4 offers an affordable yet immersive experience with a stay in a cave hotel—a highlight for many travelers. The tour involves early morning departure from Side and visits to Tatlarin Underground City and Love Valley. It’s a good pick for those who want to experience Cappadocia’s landscape up close but are conscious of spending.
The itinerary includes exploring underground cities and natural valleys, with an emphasis on secretive sites and local lore. Guests mention the friendly guide and the comfortable bus ride, which makes the long journey manageable. One reviewer noted, “The cave hotel was beautiful, and the scenery was breathtaking,” highlighting the value of the stay.
Because it’s priced at $60 per person, this tour offers great value but might be more basic in accommodations compared to more premium options. The limited reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for budget travelers or those seeking an authentic experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a comfortable overnight in a cave hotel and access to key sites.
5. Side: 2 Day Cappadocia Tour with Hotel Lunch and Dinner
Finally, the number 5 spot features a focused 2-day adventure with hot air balloon rides, underground city visits, and explorations of Old Çavuşin Village. This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced itinerary with meals included. It’s priced at $79 per person and emphasizes scenic flights and historic rock formations.
You’ll visit Saratli Underground City, walk through Paşabağ Valley, and enjoy the mystical atmosphere of Cappadocia’s rock churches. The inclusion of hot air balloon rides makes it stand out, though travelers should note that balloon prices are paid separately. The reviews are modest but positive, pointing out the value of the hotel accommodations and the variety of sites visited.
This tour is a good pick for budget travelers wanting a well-rounded experience with options for scenic flights. It’s better suited for those comfortable with a packed schedule.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking an affordable, comprehensive tour with included meals and optional ballooning, this is a solid choice.
How to Choose Your Perfect 2-Day Tour in Side
Choosing the right 2-day tour depends on your budget, interests, and comfort preferences. For a luxury experience with a balloon ride and cultural insight, the City of Side: 2-Day Cappadocia, Cave Hotel, & Balloon Tour offers excellent value at $54. If cultural depth and regional highlights appeal, the Cappadocia 2 Day Excursion including fee combines cultural sites with scenic views for $106.72.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the 2 Days Cappadocia Tour From Side With Cave Hotel Overnight, which offers authentic cave accommodation and site access for just $60. For those wanting a more relaxed pace with meals included, the Side:2 Day Cappadocia Tour with Hotel Lunch and Dinner provides a balanced schedule at $79.
Booking early, especially in peak seasons, ensures you get your preferred dates and the best experience. Also, consider whether you want to include hot air balloon rides—these are often optional but highly recommended for the breathtaking vistas they provide.
Final Thoughts
From affordable day trips to immersive overnight adventures, the options listed here cover a wide range of preferences. For first-timers, the guided tours with included accommodations and meals are convenient and stress-free. For the more adventurous or budget-minded, tours offering authentic cave stays and flexible experiences are excellent choices.
If you’re dreaming of seeing fairy chimneys from above or exploring ancient underground cities, these tours will satisfy your curiosity and sense of adventure. Just remember, book early—these popular trips fill quickly, and the best experiences often go fast.