Balloons and viewpoints
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Sunrise balloon flight | Around 150 balloons fly over the valleys most mornings, an unforgettable sunrise. | Takes off before dawn; cancelled in wind |
| Göreme panoramic viewpoint | The best spot to watch and photograph the balloons from the ground at sunrise. | Above Göreme town |
| Uçhisar Castle | A towering rock carved with ancient rooms, with views over all the valleys from the top. | Uçhisar |
| Paşabağ valley | The most famous fairy chimneys with their rock caps. | Between Göreme and Avanos |
| Pigeon Valley | A valley whose walls are lined with carved dovecotes, with quiet walking trails. | Between Göreme and Uçhisar |
| Red Valley | Pink and red rocks and one of Cappadocia's finest sunsets. | Near Göreme |
Underground and villages
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Kaymaklı underground city | A city carved in levels and tunnels underground, where people once took refuge. | South of Nevşehir |
| Avanos pottery | A town on the Kızılırmak river known for pottery, where you can try making your own. | North of Göreme |
| Horse and ATV tours | Rides through the valleys on horseback or ATVs, best at sunset. | From Göreme |
Tips before you go
- April to June is the best balloon season, with most flights going ahead; winter is beautiful in snow but cancellations are more frequent.
- Book your balloon for your first morning, so a wind cancellation leaves time to rebook.
- Try a night in a cave hotel; we'll find you the best available rates in Cappadocia.
Hotels in Cappadocia
More places nearby
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Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for a balloon flight in Cappadocia?
April to June, when the weather is settled and most flights take off.
What are the top things to do in Cappadocia?
A balloon flight, the Göreme viewpoint, Uçhisar Castle, Paşabağ, Pigeon Valley, the Red Valley and Kaymaklı underground city.
Are balloon flights ever cancelled?
Yes, in strong wind or bad weather, so book for the first days of your trip.
Planning your trip to Turkey? Read Travel to Turkey from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.