Cappadocia in November: What to See & Do? Our Best Tips

Thinking about visiting Cappadocia in November? This is when autumn fades into early winter, bringing crisp air, stunning golden landscapes, and fewer crowds. The weather is cool but still manageable, making it a great time for hot air balloon rides, sightseeing, and hiking through the valleys.

While some days are sunny and pleasant, chilly mornings and cold nights mean layering up is essential.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Cappadocia in November, including weather conditions, what to pack, and how to make the most of your trip.

Is November a Good Time to Visit Cappadocia?

Definitely! November is a quieter and more peaceful time to visit Cappadocia. The summer crowds are gone, and you’ll find lower hotel prices and fewer people at major attractions like Göreme Open-Air Museum and underground cities.

Hot air balloon rides still operate most mornings, and the clear skies create some of the most breathtaking sunrise views of the year.

By late November, the first snowfall may arrive, covering the fairy chimneys in a magical dusting of white. If you don’t mind cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, November offers a serene and picturesque Cappadocia experience.

Weather in Cappadocia in November

November brings cold mornings and evenings with cool but pleasant afternoons, especially early in the month. By mid to late November, temperatures drop significantly, and frosty mornings become common.

• Daytime temperatures: 10-18°C (50-64°F) early in the month, dropping to 5-12°C (41-54°F) later
• Nighttime temperatures: 0-5°C (32-41°F), occasionally below freezing in late November
• Rainy days: 4-6 days (light rain or drizzle)
• Chance of snow: Possible in late November, but usually light
• Wind: Can be strong, especially in open valleys

Mornings can be very cold, so dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable throughout the day.

What to Pack for November in Cappadocia

November’s weather means packing warm layers and preparing for chilly mornings.

✔ A warm coat or insulated jacket (essential for sunrise activities and evenings)
✔ Sweaters and long-sleeve shirts for layering
✔ Thermal or fleece-lined pants (especially for morning balloon rides)
✔ Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots (trails may be damp or frosty)
✔ A scarf, gloves, and a warm hat (mornings can be freezing)
✔ Sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun is still strong during the day)
✔ A small backpack for day trips (for extra layers and water)

For hot air balloon rides, temperatures before sunrise can be near or below freezing, so a thick coat, hat, gloves, and thermal layers will keep you comfortable.

If you’re planning to hike through Red Valley, Love Valley, or Rose Valley, waterproof and warm clothing is helpful, especially in late November when mornings are frosty.

November is a beautiful and quiet time to visit Cappadocia, with lower prices, breathtaking scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere. Just dress warmly, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience!

Best Things to Do in Cappadocia in November

Here’s how to make the most of Cappadocia in November:

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Changing Landscape

November is one of the last months before winter fully sets in, offering clear skies and stunning golden valley views. The crisp air and softer autumn light make hot air balloon rides an unforgettable experience.

✔ Book in advance, as fewer flights operate compared to peak season.
✔ Dress warmly—mornings are cold, with temperatures often close to freezing.

We recommend the below tour options for the great value for money.

Wanna learn more about hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia? >>

Hike Through the Valleys in the Refreshing Autumn Air

November is a fantastic time for hiking, with cool but manageable temperatures and stunning autumn colors. Some of the best trails include:

• Red Valley & Rose Valley – Best for sunset hikes, with pastel-colored rock formations glowing in the autumn light.
• Love Valley – Famous for its unique fairy chimneys and panoramic views.
• Ihlara Valley – A hidden gem with a river, cave churches, and vibrant fall foliage, offering a peaceful escape.

✔ Wear layers, as the temperature changes throughout the day.
✔ Hiking shoes are essential, especially if there’s mud or frost on the trails.

We recommend you to participate Cappadocia Sightseeing Tours (Red, Green or Blue) to best experience the valleys.

Each tour offers a different perspective of this magical region, so consider your interests and physical activity level before deciding.

• Want the most famous landmarks? → Choose the Red Tour.
• Love history and hiking? → Go for the Green Tour.
• Prefer hidden gems and scenic trails? → The Blue Tour is your best bet.

Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum in Tranquility

The Göreme Open-Air Museum is usually crowded in peak season, but in November, you can explore the rock-cut churches and frescoes in peace. The cooler temperatures make it much easier to explore without overheating.

✔ Go early in the morning for the quietest experience.
✔ Bring a jacket, as some of the caves can be chilly inside.

Explore the Underground Cities Without Crowds

November is one of the best months to visit Cappadocia’s underground cities, as tour groups are fewer, and the constant cool temperature inside feels comfortable rather than cold.

• Derinkuyu Underground City – The deepest and most famous, with intricate tunnels and ventilation shafts.
• Kaymaklı Underground City – Easier to navigate, with wider passages and fascinating history.

✔ Bring a light jacket, as temperatures underground stay around 10°C (50°F).
✔ Visit in the afternoon, when outdoor temperatures drop.

Wanna learn more about underground cities in Cappadocia? >>

Watch the Sunset from Uçhisar Castle

Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, offers unbeatable panoramic views over the valleys. November sunsets are breathtaking, as the soft golden light contrasts beautifully with the cooler tones of the landscape.

✔ Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to find a good spot.
✔ Wear warm layers, as it gets windy at the top.

Stay in a Cave Hotel and Enjoy Cozy Evenings

Cappadocia’s cave hotels feel extra cozy in November, especially those with fireplaces or heated floors. The cool evenings make it the perfect time to relax in a warm, traditional setting.

✔ Book a hotel with a fireplace for a cozy experience.
✔ Enjoy a Turkish tea or Cappadocian wine on the terrace—some mornings, you might even see light snowfall!

Go Horseback Riding in the Cool Autumn Breeze

Cappadocia, known as the “Land of Beautiful Horses,” offers horseback riding tours through scenic valleys. The mild November temperatures make it one of the best times for this activity.

✔ Sunset rides in Red Valley or Rose Valley offer the most stunning views.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

Wanna learn more about Horse Safari in Cappadocia?

Take an ATV or Jeep Safari for a Thrilling Ride

If you’re looking for an adventurous way to explore Cappadocia, an ATV or Jeep Safari is a fun way to see the valleys without hiking. November’s cooler weather makes it more enjoyable compared to summer.

✔ Go for a sunset tour for the best golden-hour views.
✔ Wear warm clothes, as riding through the open valleys can get chilly.

We recommend the below ticket options for the great value for money.

Try Traditional Cappadocian Cuisine to Warm Up

November’s cool weather makes it the perfect time to enjoy hearty Turkish dishes. Some must-try dishes include:

• Testi Kebab – A slow-cooked meat and vegetable dish, served in a clay pot.
• Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası) – A warm and comforting Turkish staple.
• Mulled Wine (Sıcak Şarap) – A spiced warm wine, perfect for cool evenings.

✔ Great restaurants for cozy dining: Dibek Restaurant, Topdeck Cave Restaurant, and Seten Restaurant.

Watch a Whirling Dervish Ceremony in a Historic Caravanserai

A Whirling Dervish ceremony in a centuries-old caravanserai is a spiritual and cultural experience. The traditional music, hypnotic dance, and candlelit setting create an unforgettable atmosphere, especially on a cool November night.

✔ Saruhan Caravanserai is one of the best places for this experience.

Keep Reading!

Planning to stay in Cappadocia a bit longer? Check out our guide to Cappadocia in December!

We also have essential guides to help you plan your trip:

✔ Best Sightseeing Tours – Discover the top guided tours that take you to Göreme Open-Air Museum, underground cities, and breathtaking valleys.
✔ Hot Air Balloon Rides – Everything you need to know about booking, pricing, and what to expect from a sunrise flight over Cappadocia.
✔ Must-See Attractions – From hot air balloon rides to underground cities, don’t miss these experiences.
✔ Best Local Food & Drinks – What to eat and where to find authentic Cappadocian dishes.