Antalya to Cappadocia: 2-Day Cave Hotel & Balloon Tour

Summary

Winding from Antalya to cave hotels, fairy chimneys and sunrise balloons

You’ll leave Antalya early, winding through Anatolia toward Cappadocia’s surreal valleys and ancient caves. Stay overnight in a real cave hotel (with dinner included), wander fairy chimneys with your local guide, and—if you want—float over everything at sunrise in a hot air balloon. Along the way: home-cooked meals, hidden churches, laughter with strangers, and landscapes you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Antalya before sunrise — the city still half-asleep, the bus windows foggy with that early-morning chill. I didn’t expect the drive to feel so long but honestly, watching the light change over those dry hills and random villages was kind of hypnotic. Our guide (his name was Emre) kept pointing out little things — a flock of goats here, a ruined caravanserai there. Somewhere near Konya we stopped for tea; I tried simit with cheese and got sesame seeds everywhere. The air smelled like dust and wild thyme.

The first real shock was Tatlarin Underground City. I’d seen photos but nothing prepares you for ducking into those tunnels — cool air on your face, walls rough under your palm. Emre told us stories about families hiding down here centuries ago. There’s this old iron door on the church inside; he joked it’s “Cappadocian security system.” After that we hit Avanos for lunch (the lentil soup was perfect) and then wandered through Love Valley. The rocks really do look like something out of a dream — or maybe a cartoon? Someone in our group started naming them (“That one’s definitely a camel,” she said). We ended up at Uchisar Castle just as the sun started dropping; wind in my hair, views forever. I still think about that.

I woke up before my alarm in the cave hotel — not sure if it was excitement or just the weird quiet you get underground. Some people did the hot air balloon ride (extra cost), and when they came back their faces were all pink from the cold and grinning like kids. Breakfast was strong tea, olives, bread still warm from the oven. Later we wandered Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley), trying to spot animals in the rocks — I swear one looked like a dolphin but maybe I was just tired. There’s a break for shopping after that; lots of pottery and little evil eye charms everywhere.

On the way back to Antalya we stopped in Konya for lunch again — this time I tried etli ekmek (kind of like Turkish pizza). The bus ride home felt quieter somehow; everyone sort of lost in their own thoughts or scrolling through photos. It’s funny how two days can feel both long and short at once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Travel and explore Cappadocia highlights

• Bus journey from Antalya to Cappadocia
• Visit Tatlarin Underground City and Church
• Lunch at a restaurant in Avanos
• Explore Love Valley in Göreme
• Visit Uchisar Castle
• Hike in Pigeon Valley
• Dinner and check-in at hotel

Day 2 — Discover valleys and return to Antalya

• Visit Fairy Chimneys
• Explore Devrent Valley
• Shopping and personal time
• Lunch stop in Konya
• Return bus journey to Antalya

Top questions

How long is the bus journey from Antalya to Cappadocia?

The bus ride takes about 8 hours each way between Antalya and Cappadocia.

Is hotel accommodation included on this tour?

Yes, one night at either Akuzun Hotel or Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel (or similar) is included.

Can I book a hot air balloon ride on this tour?

Yes, you can opt for an early morning hot air balloon flight for an additional cost.

Are meals provided during the tour?

Dinner and breakfast at your hotel are included; lunch stops are made at local restaurants along the way.

What sites will we visit in Cappadocia?

You’ll visit Tatlarin Underground City, Love Valley, Uchisar Castle, Pigeon Valley, Devrent Valley, and see fairy chimneys.

Is pickup from my hotel in Antalya included?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Antalya is part of the package.

Are entry fees covered?

The entrance fee to Tatlarin Underground City is included in your tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children can join but must present valid passports at museum entrances; some physical fitness is required due to walking/tunnels.

What’s included

Your journey includes round-trip transport from Antalya by comfortable bus with AC, one night’s stay at a selected cave or 3-star hotel with breakfast and dinner provided, entrance fees for Tatlarin Underground City, plus guidance throughout by an English-speaking local expert. Lunches are not included but stops are made at trusted local restaurants along the route.