Istanbul is a magnificent city where a confluence of cultures has created a melting pot tourist destination but Turkey truly comes alive when one escapes the confounds of the city and exchanges it for the wide open spaces of Central Anatolia.

Hot air balloon tours from Istanbul are multi-day escapes to Cappadocia where you can take flight in one of the most jaw-dropping settings imaginable.

Join hundreds of hot air balloons that soar high over the jagged sandstone cliffs of Cappadocia every morning, a spectacle unlike any other.

Here's everything you need to know about hot air balloon rides, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Istanbul.

Which hot air balloon tours in Istanbul should you choose?

2-day Cappadocia tour with hot air balloon ride

Take an all-inclusive 2-day journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia, the best place to enjoy a hot air balloon tour from Istanbul. Your adventure will include flights, accommodations, guided tours and an epic hot air balloon ride over the spellbinding Anatolian desert.

Begin your journey in Istanbul and board a short 1.5-hour flight to Cappadocia. Your first stop is Uchisar Castle, where a guided tour awaits you. Next, continue your exploration with a visit to the Goreme Open Air Museum.

You will make your way to Çavuşin, another fascinating destination in Cappadocia. Join a guided tour to uncover the ancient village's hidden gems and learn about its historical significance. Pause for a delightful lunch in Avanos, a charming town known for its pottery craftsmanship.

In the afternoon, venture to Fairy Chimneys in Cavusin, where a guided tour will reveal the enchanting rock formations that resemble towering chimneys. Conclude your day's explorations with a visit to the Devrent Valley. Finally, settle in for an overnight stay in Cappadocia, where you can relax and recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day two kicks off with the unforgettable hot air balloon flight over the striking landscapes of Cappadocia. After your exhilarating balloon experience, continue your exploration with a guided tour of Göreme.

Next, journey to the depths of the earth with a guided tour of the Derinkuyu Underground City. Then, set off on a hiking expedition through the scenic Ihlara Valley. As you make your way through Ihlara Valley, stop for a delightful lunch in Belisırma, a picturesque village nestled within the valley's stunning landscape.

After lunch, visit the impressive Selime Monastery and conclude your day with a visit to Pigeon Valley. Bid farewell to Cappadocia as you board a 1.5-hour flight from Kayseri in the evening back to Istanbul.

Three-day Cappadocia tour with hot air balloon ride

A 3-day tour from Istanbul to Cappadocia sees you leaving Istanbul in the afternoon rather than before dawn, which is the case with the 2-day tour.

You will follow a slightly more relaxed pace but still see all the highlights of Cappadocia, enjoying your hot air balloon ride on the second morning. The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation as well as lunch and breakfast on days 2 and 3.

You will leave for Cappadocia on a flight in the morning of day 1 and check into your hotel by the early afternoon. The first adventurous activity on this tour is a late afternoon ATV trip to explore the marvelous sandstone formations of central Turkey.

Start your second day with a hot air balloon ride at around 4.30 AM. You will keep the day going with visits to Uçhisar castle viewpoint, Goreme Open Air Museum, Cavusin old village and a lovely lunch. You will also see the Paşabağı and Urgup Fairy Chimneys, Devrent Valley and have free time in the evening to explore Goreme.

Day three starts with breakfast at the hotel and a trip to one of Goreme’s fantastic panoramic viewpoints. Visit the famed underground city to see the secrets it holds and take a short hike in the Ihlara Valley.

You will have one last lunch in Cappadocia before heading to Pigeon valley where your tour ends. You will be taken back to the airport for a flight back to Istanbul in the evening.

Four-day Turkey highlights tour with hot air balloon ride

Travelers looking for a comprehensive experience of Turkey’s highlights can take a 4-day tour from Istanbul which also includes a hot air balloon ride.

Your flight to Cappadocia leaves before sunrise from Istanbul, getting your adventure started early. Your first day includes visits to Cavusin, Kaymakli Underground City and Pigeon Valley, all with a guide by your side to show you all the highlights.

Your hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is on the second day of the tour, rising high into the air along with the sun. You will continue your exploration of Cappadocia with visits to Devrent Valley, Goreme National Park, Avanos and the Fairy Chimneys. Fly to Izmir in the afternoon and spend the night in Kusadasi, a charming coastal city not far from Izmir.

On the third day of your tour, you will explore the ancient city of Ephesus and enjoy a guided tour through the magnificent ruins. You will have some free time to roam around Kusadasi and enjoy its wonderful beaches.

On the last day, you will leave early and drive to Pamukkale. Here you will have a guided tour of the iconic thermal pools and the ancient ruins of Hierapolis. You will fly back to Istanbul from Cardak Airport in the afternoon, where your hotel transfer will be waiting.

Are there any combos available with hot air balloon tours from Istanbul?

Cappadocia hot air balloon ride combo tour plus camel safari

Make the most of your time in Cappadocia by adding another authentic experience to your itinerary. Take a 2-day tour from Istanbul that includes a hot air balloon ride but add a camel safari to further illuminate your experience.

Cappadocia hot air balloon ride combo tour plus ATV safari

Another way to get your heart racing is with an adventurous ATV safari to perfectly complement your hot air balloon ride. Experience all the thrills and spills of central Turkey as you race over land and soar high in the sky with an adventurous 2-day combo tour in Cappadocia.

How are the prices for hot air balloon tours from Istanbul?

A 2-day hot air balloon tour from Istanbul costs around US$1000 per person. This includes all your transportation and flights in both directions, overnight at a hotel, lunch and all entry fees for the guided tours on your itinerary. The same tour that excludes a return flight to Istanbul costs around US$930 per person.

Some tours do not include the price for your balloon ride as prices differ between operators. You can expect to pay around US$550 per person if the hot air balloon ride is not included in your ticket price. Alternatively, you can upgrade to a private service for US$830 per person.

A 3-day tour to Cappadocia costs US$780 per person or US$1000 per person for a private experience, both excluding the cost of the hot air balloon flight.

The more comprehensive 4-day tour from Istanbul costs US$940 per person excluding a hot air balloon ride or US$1400 with a hot air balloon ride.

What is included?

All trips to Cappadocia begin with airport transfers. Once you reach Cappadocia you will have transportation and a guide for all days of the tour as well as lunches, accommodation and breakfast at the hotel.

It also includes all the entry fees to museums and some tours include the price of your hot air balloon ride. Some tours only offer one-way flights and it is important to check the specifics of your tour before booking.

Where does they start?

Hot air balloon tours in Istanbul include hotel pickup in the city. Your experience starts around 4 AM and you will arrive back at your hotel in the evening of the following day, in case you opt for a two-day tour.

How long do they last?

Most hot air balloon tours from Istanbul last 2 days and include an overnight stay in Cappadocia. The hot-air balloon ride itself lasts around an hour. You can also opt for 3 or 4-day tours.

What time of year is best for a hot air balloon ride in Istanbul?

The best time for a hot air balloon tour in Turkey is during the spring or autumn seasons, which offer stable weather conditions ideal for hot air balloon flights. From May to September, the sky is often clear, allowing for excellent visibility and panoramic views of Turkey's beautiful landscapes.

As for time of day, hot air balloon flights usually take place in the early morning, when the wind is calmer.

Are they safe?

Yes, hot air balloon flights in Turkey are safe, as they provide expert guides and safety equipment. These tours are not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions, vertigo or other serious medical concerns. If in doubt, check with the tour provider before booking.

Are children allowed?

Most hot air balloon tours from Istanbul allow children of all ages to join, with an accompanying adult. However, the hot air balloon flight itself usually has a minimum age requirement of over 5 years old.

It is advised to confirm with the tour operator before booking in case you want to bring an infant or toddler.

Are they wheelchair friendly?

Unfortunately, hot air balloon tours from Istanbul are not wheelchair accessible. Visitors must be able to lift themselves into the balloon basket and tours also include lots of hiking and walking in areas that are not wheelchair friendly.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Hot air balloon flights will be canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable, and you can reschedule your trip or get a refund.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Istanbul?

Airplane tours in Istanbul
Camel riding in Istanbul
Helicopter tours in Istanbul
Horse riding in Istanbul

Travel tips

Hot air balloon tours in Turkey can be popular, so it's advisable to book your tour well in advance.
Check the weather forecast for the day of your tour and confirm with the operator if the conditions are suitable for flying.
Choose comfortable shoes with good grip, as you may be required to walk on uneven terrain during takeoff and landing.
Hot air balloon flights often take place at sunrise when the winds are calm, so be prepared to wake up early and plan your transportation accordingly.
Listen attentively to the pilot's safety briefing and follow all safety procedures and guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Wear layered clothing to accommodate changing temperatures during the flight.
If you are prone to motion sickness, be prepare for some light swaying.

Hot Air Balloon Tours from Istanbul