Crunchy snow underfoot and fairy chimneys looming high into the sky, which is often punctuated by colourful hot air balloons: Cappadocia in winter is real treat.
The rocky landscape looks ethereal most months of the year, but its incredible views are made even more epic by the white blanket of snow that usually descends on the region in January and February.
Cappadocia’s well-equipped to deal with the cold – the balloons at sunrise usually still lift off, the Goreme Open Air Museum is still ready to welcome travellers – and Turkish cuisine is all the more hearty in the winter!
I visited Cappadocia in January and adored the scenery, history, and range of activities.
So, if you’re wondering what Cappadocia’s like to visit in winter, read on as I detail my full guide, based on my trip there!
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What’s Cappadocia in winter like?
Winter in Cappadocia, with its layers of soft snow blanketing the stark fairy chimneys, takes on an entirely different character than in other seasons.
Under the bright winter sun, the famous rock formations, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings of the region acquire an ethereal glow – it’s an otherworldly landscape.
Are you interested in history? The region’s rich heritage remains accessible during the winter months.
Underground cities like Derinkuyu and Kaymakli offer respite from the chilly outdoor temperatures and the Goreme Open Air Museum remains open even in snowy conditions.
Winter brings a hush over the area, making it an ideal time for those seeking a more tranquil trip.
The usual hustle and bustle of tourists recedes, replaced by a quieter, more introspective atmosphere.
Local businesses and eateries continue their warm hospitality through the cold season.
Indulge in hearty Turkish cuisine at a cozy restaurant or enjoy a hot cup of Turkish tea at a local café, as you take in the slower pace of life in Cappadocia during winter.
For the adventurous at heart, hot air balloon rides still dot the skies at sunrise.
There’s a special thrill in soaring over the white-clad landscape, watching the sunlight break over the snow-covered hills!
Things to do in Cappadocia in winter
Cappadocia’s one of my favourite destinations in Turkey in winter, purely due to the enchanting landscape that’s all the more magical when it snows. Here are all the best things to do in Cappadocia in winter, including hot air ballooning, underground cities and hiking!
1. Hot Air Balloon Ride
One of the most iconic experiences in Cappadocia, regardless of the season, is the hot air balloon ride.
Even during the chillier winter months, these rides offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to soar over the winter wonderland that Cappadocia transforms into.
Several reliable operators continue to offer hot air balloon rides throughout the winter.
One of the most renowned among them is Royal Balloon, known for their high safety standards and experienced pilots.
Another standout is Butterfly Balloons, whose commitment to small group sizes ensures a personal and intimate experience. My partner flew with them the first time he went to Cappadocia and he loved the experience!
While these businesses have winter-friendly equipment and seasoned pilots, be aware that all flights are subject to weather conditions.
If the wind speed is deemed too high or visibility too poor, flights may be cancelled for your safety.
However, when conditions allow, they promise an unforgettable journey over Cappadocia’s white-dusted fairy chimneys and labyrinthine valleys.
One crucial advantage of visiting in the winter is that these flights are not as heavily booked as they are in the peak tourist season, affording a wider selection of dates and times.
These hot air balloon tours are bookable through Get Your Guide, making the process of securing your unforgettable experience as smooth as the ride itself.
Unfortunatley, I was on a really tight budget when I visited Cappadocia and didn’t have the chance to go in a balloon myself.
But I did get some beautiful photos from ground level!
2. Watch the hot air balloons from a hotel terrace
Even if a hot air balloon tour isn’t your cup of tea (or if you’re on a similar budget to me!) you can still experience the magical spectacle of the balloons in flight from the comfort of a hotel terrace.
I loved the sunrises from Dervish Cave House, where there were comfy viewing seats with colourful cushions and we could take in dozens of balloons floating up to the sky.
But virtually every hotel will have somewhere to watch the balloons – I’d recommend checking photos and reviews on Booking.com before reserving your spot (or just stay at Dervish Cave House, I highly recommend it!).
Do check the weather forecast before you set your alarm – in some weather, the balloons are cancelled and you don’t want to get up pre-sunrise needlessly!
3. Stay in a cosy cave hotel
Cappadocia’s unique geology has given rise to a truly unique accommodation option – cave hotels.
Carved out of the region’s soft tufa rock, these hotels blend history and modern comfort in an enticing way that is uniquely Cappadocian.
People used to live in these caves, as they wanted to escape persecution from invaders and escape the harsh climate of the Anatolian plateau.
Nowadays, they’ve been revamped and modernised to create comfortable hotels.
I stayed in Dervish Cave House, which was comfortable, centrally located and had a great price.
We ended up with a suite with a sofa in the front room, a huge bedroom with a king-size bed and a bathroom with a shower bath.
There were no windows – it’s a cave, after all, but it was incredibly cosy.
The cave hotels are open year-round, but they seem especially suitable for the winter months.
Although they were originally an escape from the elements of the Anatolian plateau, nowadays they have central heating and comfortable beds!
4. Hike from Goreme to Uçhisar
Cappadocia’s stunning terrain is the perfect ground for hiking, and one of the most popular routes is Goreme to Uchisar.
I did this route on AllTrails, which includes stops at Love Valley, White Valley and Pigeon Valley.
The trail first weaves through the Cappadocian countryside, with a sea of surreal rock formations, deep valleys, and ancient cave dwellings, before plummeting into Love Valley and White Valley.
Uçhisar makes the perfect stop. The town’s crowning glory is Uçhisar Castle – a gigantic castle on a rock riddled with tunnels and windows.
There are also a few cafes and restaurants in Uchisar – we had some delicious gozleme (Turkish pancakes stuffed with potato and cheese) to fuel us for the return hike!
5. Visit Uçhisar Castle
Carved into a massive rock formation, Uçhisar Castle provides an unparalleled perspective of the surrounding valleys, villages, and the countless whimsical fairy chimneys that make Cappadocia so iconic!
The castle itself is a vast network of rooms, tunnels, and windows hewn directly into the rock.
While it’s called a “castle”, it’s more akin to a multi-storied cave complex, that was once a strategic stronghold and home to countless families over centuries.
Today, visitors can wander through the labyrinthine passageways.
It’s well worth walking up to the top of Uçhisar Castle. The pathway is rugged and a bit steep at times, but it’s a manageable climb that’s worth the effort!
From the summit, you’ll be greeted with a 360-degree view of the Cappadocian landscape.
6. Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum
The Göreme Open-Air Museum, located a mere 15-minute walk from the heart of Göreme, is a must-do in Cappadocia – and it’s open throughout winter!
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this complex showcases the region’s remarkable history and culture that dates back to the Byzantine era.
The museum comprises an expansive network of rock-cut churches, chapels, monasteries, and dwellings, a testament to the early Christian communities that resided here between the 4th and 13th centuries.
What makes the Göreme Open-Air Museum particularly special is its well-preserved frescoes.
Many of the chapels contain vivid wall and ceiling paintings depicting biblical scenes and Christian iconography, with the Dark Church (Karanlık Kilise) housing some of the finest examples.
These millennia-old murals remain remarkably intact due to the lack of exposure to the elements.
7. Relax in a Turkish bath
A trip to Cappadocia (or Turkey in general!) would be incomplete without immersing yourself in one of its traditional Turkish baths, or hammams.
You can enjoy a hammam by booking this experience on Get Your Guide.
Savor the Turkish bathing ritual that dates back to the Ottoman Empire’s time, serving not just as a means of cleansing but also as an essential social event.
This experience starts with a comforting steam bath that prepares your body for the forthcoming exfoliation.
In the hands of experienced staff, you’ll receive a thorough body scrub on a hot marble slab, encouraging your body to release toxins.
This is followed by a foamy wash, during which you’ll be astounded by the amount of dead skin that’s sloughed off!
This vigorous scrubbing not only revitalizes your skin but also improves blood circulation, leaving you feeling completely refreshed and invigorated.
For those seeking an in-depth understanding and a more convenient way to book this unique Turkish experience, consider opting for the Get Your Guide tour.
With benefits like free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, small group size, and a skip-the-line feature, this tour adds an element of ease and comfort to your trip!
8. Try a pottery kebab and other Cappadocian food
If you’re a foodie traveller, don’t miss hopping around Cappadocia’s varied restaurants!
One unique dish to try here is the pottery kebab.
This traditional Anatolian dish is cooked in a clay pot or ‘testi’, which imbues the meal with a unique, earthy flavor.
The dish typically contains tender chunks of meat (usually lamb or beef), fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all slowly cooked together.
The unveiling of the dish is a spectacle in itself, as a blowtorch cracks open the pot right at your table!
For vegans and vegetarians, many restaurants in Cappadocia have adapted the testi kebab to include plant-based ingredients, using a variety of vegetables, legumes, and spices.
I’m vegetarian myself, and found an option on every menu.
Aside from testi kebabs, there are plenty of other dishes you should try in Cappadocia – and personally, I find winter to be the perfect time for warming and hearty Turkish dishes!
Cappadocia Pide House offers an impressive variety of ‘Pide’ – a Turkish-style pizza with a variety of toppings like cheese, vegetables, and assorted meats.
The Turkish Ravioli Restaurant is the spot to try ‘Manti’, Turkey’s answer to ravioli.
These small dumplings are filled with ground meat or vegetables and served with a tangy tomato sauce and a generous dollop of yogurt.
In addition to the pottery kebab, the region is famous for its unique renditions of traditional Turkish dishes.
Be sure to try the fresh bread, mercimek (lentil) soup (the ideal winter warmer!) and ‘Gözleme’, a traditional Turkish flatbread filled with an array of fillings from spinach and cheese to potatoes and herbs.
9. Drink Cappadocian wine!
When the winter chill takes hold of Cappadocia, there’s no better way to stay warm than with a glass of local wine!
The region is one of Turkey’s most celebrated wine-growing areas, with a viticultural history stretching back thousands of years.
The unique volcanic soil and the favorable microclimate contribute to the distinctive characteristics of Cappadocian wines,
The best place to try this wines? Probably the Kocabag Winery in Uçhisar.
Here, you can taste a selection of wines made from indigenous grape varieties like Kalecik Karasi and Öküzgözü.
If you prefer a more relaxed setting, many local restaurants in Göreme have extensive wine lists featuring local Cappadocian wines.
10. Tour the underground cities
A trip to Cappadocia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the region’s famed underground cities.
These remarkable subterranean complexes were primarily built by Byzantine Christians, who hid here from invading forces.
With the ability to house thousands of people, these cities were designed to be entirely self-sufficient, complete with stables, chapels, kitchens, and ventilation shafts.
Two of the most popular underground cities in Cappadocia are Derinkuyu and Kaymakli. Derinkuyu, the deepest of the two, descends to approximately 85 meters and could shelter up to 20,000 people along with their livestock and food stores.
Kaymakli, though not as deep, is the wider of the two and spreads out over a large area.
Here, you can explore rooms that were once used for wine and oil storage, places of worship, and even a school!
11. Do an ATV/ Quad Bike tour
Thrill-seekers, rejoice!
One of the more exhilarating activities to do in Cappadocia during the winter season is an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) or Quad Bike tour.
These tours, typically lasting between two and four hours, provide a unique, adrenaline-pumping way to see Cappadocia’s famous rock formations, valleys, and caves.
As you ride through the frost-covered terrain, you’ll witness the region’s extraordinary beauty from an entirely new perspective!
Even though you’ll be bundled up against the cold, the sheer thrill of powering through the snow makes this a must-do winter activity.
Some tours include stops at notable landmarks and panoramic points, such as Love Valley or Pigeon Valley – check the details of your particular tour for more information!
Don’t forget to book your tour in advance, as this activity is quite popular. The tours were always sold out while I was in Cappadocia!
You can easily book in advance on Get Your Guide – check out this sunset ATV tour.
12. Go horseback riding!
If you’re looking to experience Cappadocia’s winter landscape in a more laid-back and traditional way, how about horseriding?
Cappadocia has a rich equestrian history that goes back centuries.
Horse riding tours offer an intimate and leisurely way to navigate Cappadocia’s wintry landscape, with the serene, rhythmic clip-clop of hooves as your steed carries you through snow-dusted trails, past ancient cave churches and through narrow paths hemmed by towering rock formations.
Riding schools in the region offer tours suitable for all ages and skill levels, with professional guides leading the way.
Some notable routes to explore on horseback include the enchanting Rose Valley and the Red Valley, both resplendent with their crimson-hued rocks contrasting against the white snow.
Tours usually provide the necessary equipment and, in some cases, refreshments.
Check out this sunset horseriding tour on Get Your Guide.
13. Cappadocia Red Tour
Cappadocia’s Red, Green, and Blue tours are organized trips that each offer a unique perspective of the region.
These tours are designed to showcase different aspects of Cappadocia’s beauty and historical richness.
The Red Tour, sometimes referred to as the North Cappadocia Tour, begins with the majestic Uchisar Castle, then proceeds to the enchanting Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes.
Next, marvel at the unique geological formations in Çavuşin and Pasabag Monks Valley, and visit Avanos Town, famous for its pottery workshops.
Finally, find yourself in the midst of a lunar landscape at Devrent Imagination Valley, where nature has sculpted incredible shapes in the rock formations.
The tour, though packed with sights, is relatively laid-back with minimal walking, as you’re transported to each destination.
While this is a great tour, it does include lots of attractions that you may see anyway as all of the attractions are relatively close to Göreme.
We opted not to do this one as we’d already been to Uchisar Castle and Göreme Open-Air Museum.
These tours can be conveniently booked through platforms like Get Your Guide.
Click here to read more about the Red Tour and to book!
14. Cappadocia Green Tour
The Green Tour, also known as the South Cappadocia Tour, whisks you away to the more distant and intriguing landmarks of Cappadocia. This is the tour that we chose to do when we were in Cappadocia!
Commencing with the striking Esentepe Viewpoint, you’re treated to a panoramic vista of Pigeon Valley, a sight to behold.
The tour then delves into Derinkuyu Underground City, an ancient multi-level labyrinth dwelling.
Next, the Green Tour transports you to the breathtaking Ihlara Valley where you can wander among the lush greenery, set against the backdrop of towering fairy chimneys.
The tour also includes a visit to the charming Belisirma Village, nestled next to the soothing Melendiz River.
The tour rounds off with the Selime Monastery, an entire monastery complex carved into a mountain.
We decided to do this tour because while it covers a large area and includes a reasonable amount of walking, the attractions would be more challenging to see independently.
This is the tour we booked – check it out!
15. Cappadocia Blue Tour
The Blue Tour carves out an itinerary that takes you to the charming areas of lesser-explored southern Cappadocia.
Your day begins with a visit to the picturesque Mustafapasa Village, an area known for its rich Greek Ottoman architecture, intriguing underground tunnels, and beautiful surroundings.
From there, the tour takes you to the tranquil Gomeda Valley, often dubbed the ‘Small Ihlara’, home to ancient rock-cut houses, churches, and a meandering river.
The highlight of the Blue Tour is a visit to Kaymakli Underground City.
Here, you can explore up to four levels of this eight-level subterranean city, with various sections dedicated to stalls, churches, and even wineries.
This tour offers a slower pace and an off-the-beaten-path experience, making it ideal for those looking for a more relaxed way to see Cappadocia.
The Blue Tour, along with other Cappadocia tours, can be conveniently booked via Get Your Guide. Check it out here.
16. Explore the Rose Valley and Love Valley
Another couple of valleys!
If you haven’t visited these on one of your tours, don’t miss Rose Valley and Love Valley.
Rose Valley is known for the rose-hued tints that its rocks showcase at sunset.
It’s dotted with ancient cave churches, such as the Hacli Church and the Kolonlu Church, both home to well-preserved frescoes.
Just adjacent is Love Valley, famous for its phallic-shaped rock formations that make for quite an intriguing sight!
Despite the cold, the panoramic views from the top of the valley, showcasing the blanket of snow on the fairy chimneys, are simply unforgettable.
There are several ways to reach these valleys.
ATV and horseback tours often include routes through them, so do enquire when booking.
Or if you have your own vehicle, you could drive to the entrance of the valleys.
Do you prefer hiking? A relatively easy trail starting from Göreme will lead you to these valleys in about an hour.
17. Catch a whirling Dervish show
Experiencing a Whirling Dervish show is an absolute must when visiting Cappadocia!
This traditional ceremony, known as Sema, is a spiritual sufi performance that symbolizes the mystical journey of a man’s ascent to truth and love through mind and love.
The performance takes place indoors, making it an ideal winter activity.
Göreme hosts several venues where these ceremonies take place.
One highly recommended spot is the Saruhan Caravanserai, a 13th-century structure that adds a touch of authenticity to the experience.
The stone walls of this ancient venue, coupled with the dimly lit atmosphere, create an intimate atmosphere that heightens the mystical nature of the performance.
The Whirling Dervish show usually begins with live traditional Turkish music followed by the main event, the mesmerizing dance of the Dervishes.
Cloaked in white robes, the Dervishes whirl in unison to the rhythm, their arms extended, symbolizing the acceptance of God’s beneficence.
The experience is uniquely hypnotic and has a profound effect on many viewers.
For convenience and easy planning, consider booking tickets through Get Your Guide – this tour includes round trip transport from your hotel.
Here’s a YouTube video demonstrating what you can expect when you see the Whirling Dervishes:
18. Mt Erciyes skiing
If you’re seeking a winter adventure in Cappadocia, head to Mount Erciyes!
Located approximately 80 kilometers from Goreme, Erciyes is the highest mountain in central Anatolia, reaching an impressive 3,917 meters.
And it’s a popular ski centre in the region!
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with (hopefully!) pristine snow conditions and an extensive range of ski slopes to suit all levels.
From beginner-friendly terrains to challenging routes for seasoned skiers, Mt Erciyes has something for everyone.
With modern ski facilities, including high-quality lifts and rental services for ski equipment, it provides a hassle-free skiing experience.
The mountain’s stunning beauty is a bonus.
From the top, you can gaze out over the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia, blanketed in snow.
Enjoy a hot cup of Turkish tea or a hearty meal at one of the many eateries at the resort after an exhilarating day on the slopes.
19. Side trip to Konya
Are you seeking a deeper dive into history and culture of Turkey?
Check out Konya.
This historic city, located about a three-hour drive south from Cappadocia, is an important site in Turkish history and a center for Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam.
Getting to Konya is fairly straightforward.
Regular buses operate between Nevşehir (one of the closest cities to Cappadocia) and Konya. I’d recommend taking a taxi to Nevşehir to save time.
Alternatively, you could hire a car or a driver and guide.
Once in Konya, the Mevlana Museum, home to the tomb of the famous poet and mystic Rumi, is an essential stop.
Here, you can learn about Rumi’s teachings and the practice of whirling dervishes.
The museum is filled with fascinating artefacts, including ancient manuscripts and stunning Persian rugs.
Nearby, the Alaeddin Mosque, the city’s largest mosque, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Seljuk Empire.
For a taste of local cuisine, visit one of the city’s traditional restaurants and try the famous “etli ekmek”, a kind of meaty flatbread that is a Konya speciality. (Don’t worry if you’re veggie, I found food in Konya fine!).
Konya is more conservative than other Turkish cities, so dress modestly.
We went to Konya before Cappadocia, and loved how different it felt culturally!
20. Side trip to Ankara
Another possible day trip is to Ankara.
The Turkish capital is a four-hour drive northeast of Cappadocia, with regular buses connecting the two regions.
One of the city’s standout attractions is the Mausoleum of Ataturk, known as Anıtkabir.
This imposing site serves as the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder and first president of the Turkish Republic.
We loved the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which houses a stunning collection of artifacts from various Anatolian cultures, dating back to the Paleolithic era.
For a change of pace, explore the trendy neighborhood of Kizilay, brimming with chic boutiques, lively bars, and restaurants serving everything from traditional Turkish fare to international cuisine.
To get a bird’s eye view of the city, take a trip to the Atakule Tower.
This 125-meter high communication and observation tower includes a revolving restaurant that offers a 360-degree view of Ankara.
As with Konya, Ankara tends to be more conservative than some of Turkey’s coastal cities, so do dress modestly!
We visited Ankara on our January Turkey trip and while it’s definitely not as fun or fascinating as Istanbul, it’s worth spending a day here!
Where to Stay in Cappadocia
The town of Göreme is the heart of Cappadocia, and it’s where many travellers choose to stay. Many tours depart from the town and it has plenty of restaurants!
However, Uçhisar is another lovely town, and it can be quieter than Cappadocia.
Here are some accommodation options:
Budget: The Dorm Cave by Travellers
For budget travellers, The Dorm Cave by Travellers is an excellent choice.
Located in the heart of Göreme, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms within a traditional cave setting.
Despite its affordable price, the hostel doesn’t compromise on amenities, providing comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, and a generous breakfast spread.
The friendly staff are always on hand to assist with local tips and tour bookings, ensuring you make the most of your stay in Cappadocia.
Click here to read more about the hotel and book your stay.
Mid-range: Dervish Cave House
During my visit, I stayed at Dervish Cave House, a charming mid-range hotel amidst the fairy chimneys of Göreme.
Each room in this family-run hotel is uniquely carved out of the rock formations, offering a quintessential Cappadocian experience.
Warmly decorated with Turkish rugs and traditional furnishings, these rooms provide a cosy retreat from the winter chill.
The property also boasts a lovely terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes – a perfect spot for enjoying a hot cup of Turkish tea.
And complimentary breakfast is served each day!
Click here to read more about Dervish Cave House.
Luxury: Argos in Cappadocia
For a luxury experience, Argos in Cappadocia came highly recommended by one of my friends.
This exquisite hotel in Uçhisar is set in a restored Byzantine-era monastery, and its rooms and suites are spread across several cave houses.
Each room is tastefully furnished, blending traditional elements with modern comforts. Many rooms offer private terraces or patios with stunning views of the Pigeon Valley.
The hotel’s renowned restaurant, Seki, serves delightful local and international dishes, with a special emphasis on regional wines from their extensive cellar.
Click here to read more about this hotel!
How to get to Cappadocia in winter
Reaching Cappadocia during winter months is relatively straightforward.
By plane
The region is serviced by two airports: Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) and Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV).
Both airports receive regular direct flights from Istanbul year-round. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.
From Kayseri Airport, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the main towns of Cappadocia by road, while from Nevşehir, it’s roughly a 40-minute drive.
Several companies offer shuttle services from the airports to the main towns (Göreme, Uçhisar, and Ortahisar).
Book your shuttle in advance, especially in the winter when schedules might be affected by weather conditions.
By bus
Alternatively, you can also reach Cappadocia by bus.
There are daily services from major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to Nevşehir or Göreme.
The bus journey from Istanbul takes approximately 10-12 hours. Though longer, Turkish buses are comfortable and affordable.
Driving
If you prefer to drive, car rental services are available at both airports.
Having a car gives you the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
But do be aware that winter conditions can make some roads icy and challenging to navigate. Make sure you check the local weather and road conditions before setting off.
What’s the weather like in Cappadocia in winter?
In a word – cold!
It’s freezing a lot of the time, and snow is common.
You may also experience a little rain and sleet; although when we were there we enjoyed cool but crisp weather on every day apart from the day we left!
| Month | Avg. High Temperature (°C/°F) | Avg. Low Temperature (°C/°F) | Avg. Rainy Days | Avg. Snowy Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November | 9° / 48° | -1° / 30° | 7 | 3 |
| December | 4° / 39° | -6° / 21° | 8 | 10 |
| January | 3° / 37° | -7° / 19° | 8 | 13 |
| February | 4° / 39° | -6° / 21° | 7 | 12 |
| March | 8° / 46° | -1° / 30° | 8 | 8 |
Winter tours to Cappadocia
The easiest way to visit Cappadocia is perhaps a guided tour – and by taking one, you can twin it with a trip to other Turkish destinations.
All of these tours run in winter; some include internal flights and others are by bus.
Tours from Antalya
This tour departs from Antalya by bus.
It provides hotel pickup and travel in a bus fitted with air conditioning.
It includes visits to an underground city, multiple scenic valleys, and an overnight stay at a cave or 3-star hotel.
This tour sets off from Antalya to Cappadocia by bus for a two-day trip.
The tour includes transportation by an air-conditioned bus, a night stay in a hotel, and visits to various famous spots in Cappadocia.
The tour also offers several optional activities, like a hot air balloon flight.
Tours from Istanbul
This tour departs from Istanbul to Cappadocia via domestic flight, making it a quicker option if you’re tight on time.
This tour provides comprehensive ground transports in Cappadocia, allowing you to visit multiple areas including the Goreme Open Air Museum, Red River, Devrent Valley, and Pasabag.
An overnight stay in Cappadocia and a full-day tour of South Cappadocia are part of the package.
This tour is a two-day excursion departing from Istanbul by overnight bus.
This budget-friendly option is ideal if you’re looking to save on transport costs.
It includes visits to numerous fascinating locations in Cappadocia, along with a night’s accommodation in a 4-star hotel.
Tours from Alanya
This tour departs from Alanya by bus, covering the well-known sites of Cappadocia in a two-day itinerary.
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by an air-conditioned bus, a tour guide, and meals.
You can also take an optional hot air balloon ride!
Visiting Cappadocia in winter FAQs
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about taking a winter trip to Cappadocia!
Is it worth visiting Cappadocia in winter?
Absolutely, yes – winter’s my favourite time to be in Cappadocia!
The snow-covered fairy chimneys and rock formations create an ethereal landscape.
Plus, fewer tourists during this season make for a more peaceful experience while enjoying the sites.
Just ensure you’re well prepared for the chilly temperatures!
Do balloons fly in Cappadocia in winter?
Hot air balloons do fly in Cappadocia in winter, weather conditions permitting.
Ballooning is typically possible throughout the year, but flights can be canceled if the weather is unfavorable for safe flight, which can be more frequent in winter due to wind or snow.
But witnessing the snow-covered landscape from a hot air balloon is a magical experience and is well worth doing!
Is December a good month to visit Cappadocia?
Yes, December can be a great month to visit Cappadocia if you don’t mind the cold.
While temperatures do drop significantly, and snow is common, the winter scenery is enchanting.
Plus, it is less crowded in December, giving you more room to enjoy the sites.
Is Cappadocia cold in winter?
Yes, winters in Cappadocia can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially at night.
Snow is common during the winter months. Make sure to dress warmly and pack suitable winter gear if you plan to visit during this time.
Which month is best for Cappadocia balloon?
The best months for hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia are typically April through October when the weather conditions are most favorable.
However, balloon flights operate year-round, weather permitting, and a winter flight can provide stunning views of the snow-covered landscape.
How many days to spend in Cappadocia in winter?
Generally, a three-day visit is sufficient to experience the main attractions of Cappadocia, including a hot air balloon ride, a visit to the underground cities, and exploring the various valleys and rock formations. Most of the attractions are open throughout winter, so you’ll generally need as many days as the summer.
If your schedule allows, staying a few extra days gives you some leeway in case of weather-related cancellations of outdoor activities.
Can we do hot air balloon in Cappadocia in January?
Yes, hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia are available in January, weather conditions permitting.
Do keep in mind that cancellations can occur due to winter weather conditions.
Booking with a reliable company that offers the option to reschedule in case of cancellations is a good idea!
Is Cappadocia colder than Istanbul?
Yes, during the winter months, Cappadocia tends to be colder than Istanbul.
Cappadocia experiences a more extreme continental climate, with colder winters, whereas Istanbul has a more moderate climate due to its coastal location.
Are you ready for your winter trip to Cappadocia?
Winter in Cappadocia proves that there’s no such thing as bad weather (only bad clothing!) as the moon-like landscape looks all the more enigmatic under a snowy carpet.
Most attractions are still open, hiking is possible, and Turkey’s food is the ultimate winter warmer.
I was thrilled that I decided to go to Cappadocia in January and wholeheartedly recommend it!
