Alanya & city of Side: Cappadocia 2-Day Guided Excursion

Traveling from the sunny coast of Turkey’s Alanya and Side to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia is quite the adventure—and if you’re considering it, chances are you’ve heard about the stunning rock formations, historic sites, and maybe even the possibility of a hot air balloon flight. We’ve looked into this popular 2-day guided tour offered by Seven Tours, and here’s what you need to know to decide if it fits your travel plans.

First off, two things we genuinely appreciate about this tour: the chance to see Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys and rock-hewn structures up close and the expertise of the guides, who seem to make the long journey feel smoother and more informative. The tour also offers good value, especially with the accommodation included and optional extras like ballooning, which can turn the experience from memorable to unforgettable.

That said, a potential hitch is the duration—it’s a long two days with a fair amount of travel, which might be tiring if you’re not used to long bus rides. Plus, some parts of the itinerary, like entry fees and lunches, are extra, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

All in all, this tour would suit travelers who are eager to see Turkey’s Cappadocia region but prefer a guided, structured experience that covers major highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s particularly appealing if you want a quick yet rundown, with options to elevate the experience with a balloon flight or a night in a cave hotel.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines historical sites, natural wonders, and panoramic views.
• Guide quality: Tour guides are praised for their knowledge and helpful attitude.
• Value for money: Includes hotel stay, dinner, breakfast, and transportation, making it a cost-effective option.
• Optional extras: Balloon rides and Turkish Night shows are paid separately but can add a wow factor.
• Travel logistics: Convenient pickup from Alanya and Side hotels, with skip-the-line entry.
• Not for everyone: Less suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to long bus rides and walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Tour

Day 1: Journey into Cappadocia’s Underground and Surface Wonders

You’ll start your journey with a pickup from your hotel in Alanya or Side, and then settle into an air-conditioned bus—comfort is key since the drive can take several hours. We’ve seen comments praising the smoothness of the ride and the helpfulness of guides, which makes a difference when covering such a distance.

Your first stop is the Saratli Underground City, a fascinating Byzantine-era site carved into the earth. It’s an excellent window into early local life—narrow tunnels, rock-carved rooms, and a sense of stepping back in time. The experience is quite evocative, and many travelers appreciate the chance to explore these ancient dwellings firsthand.

Post-lunch, you’ll visit the Devrent Valley, often called “Imagination Valley,” known for its whimsical rock formations that resemble animals and figures. It’s a fun spot for snapping photos and stretching your legs. Not far beyond is the Cavusin Old Village, an abandoned settlement with cliff-carved houses and churches that tell stories of bygone eras.

Next, you’ll see the church of St. John the Baptist, which adds a spiritual dimension to the day, and then head to Pasabag Valley, famous for the fairy chimneys—tall, mushroom-shaped rocks that seem to defy gravity. The views here are particularly striking, and you’ll probably find yourself taking countless photos.

Evening Options and Accommodation

You’ll spend the night in a cave-themed hotel, which many find a highlight of the trip—staying in a room carved into the rocks adds a unique touch. Alternatively, some guests opt for the Turkish Night, with traditional music and dance, for a lively cultural experience.

Day 2: Heights, Panoramas, and Hot Air Balloons

Your morning begins with a breakfast at the hotel, followed by the optional hot air balloon ride. This is often regarded as a highlight, offering a bird’s-eye view of the fairy chimneys and valleys. It’s paid separately, but many consider it well worth the extra cost for the incredible perspective and photo opportunities.

After the balloon, the tour continues with a panoramic view of Pigeon Valley, a lush, scenic spot. You’ll also visit Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, which rewards you with sweeping views of the landscape—perfect for a few memorable photos.

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What’s Included & What’s Extra

The package covers transportation, hotel night, dinner and breakfast, and a licensed guide who speaks both English and German. It also includes travel insurance, which adds peace of mind, especially for a trip involving so much travel and exploration.

However, keep in mind that lunch, entry fees, and optional activities like ballooning or Turkish Night are paid separately, so budget accordingly. If you’re traveling alone and want a single room, there’s an extra fee, but otherwise, you’ll be paired with another guest.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Dress comfortably and wear good walking shoes—many sites involve uneven terrain and some walking.
• Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if visiting in summer.
• Bring your passport or ID, as some sites may require it.
• Prepare for a long day of travel—stretch and hydrate to stay comfortable.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviews paint a pretty positive picture. One traveler praised the smooth organization and helpful guides, saying, “It was a very well-organized tour and my kudos to the guide for managing such a long ride so smoothly.” Another mentioned that although the journey is lengthy, it’s “worth it,” highlighting the good value for an almost all-inclusive two days.

A key highlight for many is the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—they’re often described as cooperative and full of information, making the long hours more bearable. Many also loved the views and photo ops, especially at Pasabag and Uchisar Castle.

Some travelers noted that the tour’s value is high, especially considering the accommodation and included dinners, even before factoring in optional extras like balloon rides. However, the long travel time might be tiring for some, and not everyone may want to pay extra for ballooning or Turkish Night.

The Sum Up

This 2-day guided tour from Alanya and Side offers a solid overview of Cappadocia’s most iconic sights. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to see the highlights without the fuss of planning each detail themselves. The combination of history, surreal landscapes, and panoramic views makes it a memorable experience—particularly with the optional hot air balloon ride that adds an extra layer of magic.

If you’re comfortable with long bus rides and enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides, you’ll likely find this package offers great value—especially with the hotel stay and some meals included. It’s not perfect for everyone, especially if you have mobility concerns or prefer a more relaxed pace, but for most, it delivers a good mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery.

This tour manages to balance affordability and quality, making it a strong choice for those looking to explore Turkey’s fascinating Cappadocia region in a short but fulfilling trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Alanya or Side? Yes, pickup from hotels in Alanya and Side areas is included, with transportation by air-conditioned bus.

Can I join a hot air balloon ride? You can book the balloon flight through the tour guide on the bus. It’s an optional extra and paid separately.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, a jacket, rain gear if needed, and your passport or ID.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments due to the nature of sites and long bus rides.

What meals are included? Dinner on the first night and breakfast on the second are included in the package.

How much does a single room cost? If you want a single room, there’s an additional fee of $15 payable directly to the hotel.

How long is the journey? The tour involves travel over several hours, but the guides are experienced in managing the long ride comfortably.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour balances adventure with convenience, making it a compelling option for those eager to see the best of Cappadocia without overextending themselves. It’s well-organized, offers memorable sights, and has friendly guides to help you maximize your two days.

You can check availability for your dates here: