While Alanya still enjoys mild, sunny days in November, a completely different landscape is waiting a day's drive inland. Cappadocia, with its fairy chimneys, cave houses and underground cities, is one of the most famous regions in Turkey, and late autumn is a wonderful time to see it: fewer crowds, clear skies and warm colours in the valleys. The only thing you really need to prepare for is the change in temperature.
A different climate
Cappadocia lies on the Central Anatolian plateau, more than 1,000 metres above sea level. In November the days can still be pleasant, but mornings and evenings are cold and night frost is common. Many guests are surprised when they leave Alanya in a T-shirt and arrive in a place where they need a proper jacket.
What to pack
- A warm jacket, a sweater and a hat for early mornings and evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes with a good grip – paths in the valleys and open-air sites are uneven and can be dusty or muddy.
- Layers you can take off during the day when the sun comes out.
- Your passport or ID card, which is needed for the hotel check-in.
- A power bank: you will take more photos than you expect.
The long road
The drive from Alanya crosses the Taurus Mountains and the wide plains around Konya, so plan for most of the first morning and afternoon on the road, with regular breaks. The scenery changes from pine forests to high steppe, which is part of the experience. Bring snacks, water and something to read or listen to.
Typical highlights
- The fairy chimneys and viewpoints around Göreme, Uçhisar and Paşabağ.
- An underground city, carved deep into the soft volcanic rock.
- Rock-cut churches with old frescoes.
- The pottery town of Avanos on the Kızılırmak River.
The exact programme of our tour, including hotel and meals, is listed on the tour page.
What about the balloons?
Sunrise hot air balloon flights are the dream of many visitors. They are usually booked as an optional extra and always depend on the weather, so flights can be cancelled at short notice. Ask us about it when you book.
Plan your trip
Dates, programme and the current price are on our 2-day Cappadocia tour page. Pack warm, set your alarm early and enjoy one of Turkey's most magical landscapes.