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

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour from Alanya and Side explores Cappadocia’s stunning rock formations and underground cities
• Includes accommodation, dinners, and breakfast, offering great value for a nearly all-inclusive experience
• Optional hot air balloon ride can be booked directly with the guide, providing a chance to float above the “fairy chimneys”
• Expert guides in English and Russian lead travelers through the region’s most famous sites with detailed explanations
• Pickup is included from hotels in Alanya and Side, making logistics straightforward
• Rated 4.2 out of 5 from 45 reviews, with positive notes on organization and guides

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Discover Cappadocia in Comfort: An Overview

This 2-day guided excursion offers a comprehensive look at Cappadocia’s unique landscape, starting from hotels in Alanya and Side. The tour is designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, as transportation, hotel stay, and some meals are included. The price includes a night at a cave-themed hotel, adding a special touch to the overall experience.

While the long journey might seem demanding, reviews consistently emphasize how well-organized the trip is and how knowledgeable the guides are. This tour suits those eager to explore rock-hewn churches, fairy chimneys, underground cities, and panoramic viewpoints, with optional activities like hot air ballooning available. Be prepared for a busy schedule, but rest assured that the value for money and scenic sights make it worthwhile.

Transportation, Pickup, and Group Size

The tour starts with transportation via air-conditioned bus, which ensures a comfortable ride for the entire two days. Pickup is conveniently available from hotels in Alanya and Side, with the guide meeting guests at the hotel security gates. The group size is not specified, but the experience includes skip-the-line access through a separate entrance, helping to keep the pace smooth.

The bus journey from the coastal areas inland to Cappadocia is one of the longer parts of the trip, but reviews praise the efficient management of the route and the driver’s friendly attitude. This setup allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery during the drive.

Exploring the Underground City of Saratli

The tour’s first stop is the Saratli Underground City, a complex from the Byzantine era carved into the rock. Here, visitors see rock-carved dwellings that reveal ancient ways of life and early forms of refuge. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history, with the guide providing informative commentary about the construction and use of these underground spaces.

This stop is a highlight for those interested in archaeology and history, as it showcases the ingenuity of early inhabitants. The cool underground environment offers a relief from the daytime heat, making it an enjoyable beginning to the day.

Tasting Local Flavors: Lunch and Dinners

Included in the tour is dinner on the first day and breakfast on the second, served at the hotel or nearby restaurants. While lunch is not included in the package, travelers have the opportunity to explore local cuisine in free time.

The meals provided are simple yet satisfying, giving travelers a taste of regional dishes. The hotel stay itself is themed around cave formations, adding an authentic touch after a day of sightseeing.

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Visiting Devrent Valley and Cavusin Village

After the underground city, the tour takes visitors to Devrent Valley, famous for its rock formations resembling animals and objects. This area invites great photo opportunities and encourages imagination as the rock structures seem to come alive.

Next, the guide leads the group to Cavusin Village, an abandoned settlement with rock houses carved into the cliffs. The ancient dwellings and church of St. John the Baptist are key sights here, offering insights into traditional life and architectural styles.

Both stops are appreciated for their scenic beauty and the chance to walk through historical sites with expert explanations.

Pasabag Valley and the Iconic Fairy Chimneys

The tour’s highlight for many is Pasabag Valley, home to tall, mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. These formations are some of the most photogenic in Cappadocia, and the guide explains their geological origins and historical significance.

This area also offers viewpoints where travelers can admire the landscape and take stunning photos. The scenic vistas make this a favorite stop, especially for those seeking memorable images of Cappadocia’s distinctive landscape.

Sunset Views and Optional Turkish Night

In the evening, guests can either relax at the cave-themed hotel or choose to join an optional Turkish Night show with traditional music and folk dance. The show incurs an extra cost paid locally but is highly recommended for an authentic cultural experience.

The sunset in Cappadocia adds a magical glow to the landscape, and some tours include viewing points for this spectacle. The evening activities provide a lively contrast to the day’s sightseeing, offering a chance to unwind and enjoy local entertainment.

Hot Air Balloon Experience: Flight and Views

A major highlight is the hot air balloon ride, which must be booked directly with the guide on the bus. This optional activity is a chance to float above the fairy chimneys and enjoy sweeping panoramic views at sunrise or during the day.

The balloon flight is typically about one hour long and offers stunning perspectives that are often described as breathtaking. The cost is paid locally, and availability depends on weather conditions. Many reviews praise the value of this experience as a highlight of the trip, though it is not included in the base price.

Exploring Uchisar Castle and Pigeon Valley

After breakfast, the tour visits Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, providing panoramic views over the region. The castle’s rock structure is impressive, and visitors can climb to see spectacular vistas.

Next, the group walks through Pigeon Valley, a scenic area filled with pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes these stops ideal for those wanting to capture more iconic images.

Hotel Accommodation and Cultural Experience

The cave-themed hotel provides a unique overnight stay, offering a taste of traditional Cappadocian architecture. Many guests find this hotel experience memorable, adding to the overall charm of the trip.

In the evenings, the option to attend a Turkish Night show adds a lively cultural dimension with live music and folk dances. While optional, this is a popular activity for those wanting to deepen their cultural understanding of the region.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

This tour is rated 4.2 out of 5 based on 45 reviews, with many praising its organization and the knowledge of the guides, like Mr. Murat. The long journey is acknowledged, but the smooth management and detailed narration keep participants engaged.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start. Travelers should bring essentials such as passport, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and camera. Note that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Summary: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 2-day Cappadocia trip from Alanya and Side offers excellent value with included accommodation, meals, and guided sightseeing. Its focus on key landmarks like underground cities, fairy chimneys, and panoramic viewpoints makes it perfect for history enthusiasts and photographers.

The optional hot air balloon provides a once-in-a-lifetime perspective, but travelers should be prepared for the long travel times. The well-reviewed guides and smooth organization mean most participants find the experience rewarding, especially if they enjoy cultural activities and scenic vistas.

This tour balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insight, ideal for those seeking a comprehensive but relaxed exploration of Cappadocia’s iconic landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book the hot air balloon ride separately?
No, the balloon ride is booked directly with the guide during the tour and is an optional extra paid locally.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suited for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of some sites and walking involved.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen), camera, rain gear, and a jacket.

Are meals included during the tour?
Yes, dinner on the first day and breakfast on the second are included. Lunch is not, so plan accordingly.

How long is the travel from Alanya or Side to Cappadocia?
The journey spans most of the first day, but the well-organized transportation ensures comfort and safety.

Can I stay in a single room?
Yes, single guests can pay an extra $15 to stay alone in the hotel.

Is there an age limit for participating?
The tour does not specify age restrictions but is not suitable for those with mobility limitations.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Key highlights include Saratli Underground City, Devrent Valley, Pasabag Fairy Chimneys, Uchisar Castle, and Pigeon Valley.

Is there an option to skip the activities I don’t want to do?
The itinerary is fixed, but optional activities like the Turkish Night or hot air balloon can be added or skipped based on preference.

How do I reserve my spot?
Reservations can be made online, with pay later options available, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

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