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Sunrise balloons over Cappadocia

Cappadocia

Fairy chimneys, cave hotels and the most photographed sunrise in Turkey. Is the balloon ride worth it?

Every clear morning, up to 150 hot-air balloons lift off over the valleys around Göreme. Whether you are in one or watching from the ground, it is one of the great travel sights.

The ride costs €150 to €250 depending on the season and the size of the basket. It is magical, but you get just as good photos from the ground: climb to the viewpoints above Göreme before dawn, or have breakfast on your hotel roof. Flights are cancelled if the wind is up, so book early in your stay to leave room to rebook.

Beyond the balloons

Walk the Rose and Red valleys at sunset, and the Love Valley past its (yes) suggestive rock towers. Visit an underground city at Derinkuyu, eight levels deep. Stay in a cave hotel: some cost less than a hostel elsewhere in Europe.