How to plan a 3-day Cappadocia itinerary with children, including a hot-air balloon flight

For a hot-air balloon flight, the key requirement for children is generally height rather than age: a minimum height of 120 cm is required so the child can safely see over the basket and meet operator rules.

Without a car, stay in Göreme for the easiest access to the main sights and the classic Cappadocia atmosphere. Ürgüp is a possible alternative, while Nevşehir, Kayseri and Avanos are less convenient bases for a short valley-focused trip.

With a car, you can cover more of Cappadocia in three days and can hire a guide to travel with you. Compare the Red, Green and Blue Tour itineraries when planning independently, as some expensive stops can be replaced with more affordable alternatives.

Do not schedule the balloon flight for your final morning. Book one of the first available sunrise flights so you still have another day to reschedule if wind or other weather cancels it.