Three days in Cappadocia: a balloon, valleys and underground cities route

Cappadocia is a region where, even in three days, you can see all the classics if well planned. The area is wide, though: it is 90 km from Göreme to Ihlara and 40 km to Derinkuyu. Grouping the route by geography therefore saves both time and fatigue. Below we share a three-day route distilled from Ufukça guides' 15 years of experience.

Day 1: Göreme, Uçhisar and Çavuşin

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum early in the morning; crowds increase in the afternoon. Then climb Uçhisar Castle for the region's panorama and walk in Çavuşin's abandoned cave village. Watching the sunset from Pigeon Valley is the best way to end day one.

Day 2: Balloon, Paşabağ and Avanos

Balloon flights start before sunrise, around 05:00–06:00. The flight lasts 60–75 minutes, followed by breakfast and a champagne ceremony. If the wind is unsuitable the flight is cancelled, so planning two mornings in the programme makes sense. In the afternoon see Paşabağ's three-headed fairy chimneys, Devrent Valley's 'camel' rock and a pottery workshop in Avanos.

Day 3: Underground city and Ihlara

Derinkuyu underground city descends up to eight levels and may have sheltered 20,000 people. For those with claustrophobia because of the narrow passages, Kaymaklı is the alternative. In Ihlara Valley you walk 4 km along the Melendiz stream, passing 14 rock churches. Selime Cathedral closes the day with a cinematic finish.

Where to stay

Cave hotels are part of the Cappadocia experience. In Göreme and Uçhisar rooms with terrace views stand out, but there are many steps, so keep luggage small. Reserve your room type 6–8 weeks ahead for spring and autumn holidays.

Practical tips

• Morning and evening temperatures can fall 15°C below daytime; take a light jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses and a hat are essential
• For ATV and horse tours choose operators with safety equipment
• Gift ideas include testi jugs, pottery, carpets and apricot products

If you would like to follow this route with us, the Cappadocia Balloon and Valleys Tour starts from 14,900 TRY for three nights with flights, cave hotel and balloon flight included.

Budget and season

High season in Cappadocia is April – June and September – October. A balloon flight costs between 90 and 150 EUR per person in 2026 and must be booked two to three weeks ahead. Cave-hotel stays in boutique rooms range from 180 to 400 EUR a night; package tours make this cost more affordable through a combined price.