Rick Steves Says This Aerial Activity Is Perfect For Thrill-Seekers Vacationing In Europe

When travelers think of Europe, many imagine afternoons spent strolling down cobblestoned streets, gondola rides through the canals of Venice, or museum-filled afternoons in Paris. But for those who crave a different type of travel experience (perhaps the kind fit for adrenaline junkies), one unexpected travel guru may have a few suggestions. Famously known for his European travel guides, Rick Steves is typically associated with slow, thoughtful, culture-rich experiences. However, even the guru of slow travel gets a hankering for some adrenaline-packed adventure from time to time — and his endorsement of one particular aerial adventure might surprise you. For travelers looking to elevate their vacation (quite literally), this thrilling activity offers an unforgettable way to experience Europe from all-new heights. 

In his article on the Rick Steves' Europe website, Steves highlights the majestic hot-air balloon rides over the eroded badlands of Cappadocia, Turkey, as a must-do bucket list item for thrill-seekers, describing the experience of floating above the "fairy-chimney formations of the exotic landscape" as mesmerizing, with "the rhythmic bursts of flame punctuating the captain's jokes while warming his wide eyes." This dramatic scenery, combined with Cappadocia's relatively stable weather conditions and wide-open skies, makes it one of the world's top hot-air ballooning destinations. For thrill-seekers and romantics alike, this is not just a must-do activity — it's an almost otherworldly experience that lingers long after you touch back down to Earth. 

Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985, has continued to mesmerize visitors with its unique volcanic landscape, ancient cave dwellings, and fairy chimney rock formations. The combination of natural wonders across this stunning scenery makes for a surreal and unforgettable aerial journey. So, how do you go about choosing the right experience for you, and what can you expect when booking a hot-air balloon ride? First, it's important to note that no matter which company you choose, your balloon flight will take off early. Balloon flights are scheduled in the early morning hours to take advantage of better temperatures, calmer winds, and beautiful natural light. However, according to Steves, "arguably the best hot-air balloon experience in the world is reason enough to get up at 4:30 a.m." In other words — suck it up! This early wake-up is well worth it. 

With that in mind, according to Tripadvisor, the top five companies with the highest reviews are Discovery Balloons, Lord Balloons, Royal Balloons, Turkey Balloons, and Turquaz Balloons. Each of these (plus the other available companies) offers similar options. Most companies will offer a few different flight options, and the difference will be in the length of time in the air (anywhere between one hour to an hour and a half) and the number of people per balloon basket. Most companies include hotel pick-up, and sometimes a pre-flight breakfast in the price of the tour. Upon landing, most agencies will mark the occasion with a champagne toast or sparkling juice, along with a flight certificate or medal to commemorate your high-flying adventure. Even if your flight is scheduled in summer, it's important to dress in layers as it's significantly cooler up in the air.

Hot-air balloon flights operate year-round in Cappadocia, weather permitting, but the best times of year are spring and fall. These months bring clearer skies, comfortable temperatures, and relatively low wind — all ideal conditions for ballooning. Summer is peak tourist season, which means more crowds, higher prices, and hotter temperatures. Winter sees lots of snow, transforming the landscape into a beautiful winter wonderland; however, flights at this time are more infrequent due to poor weather. If you have your heart set on flying high, book in advance and give yourself a few extra days' cushion in Cappadocia in case of rescheduling due to weather. 

Getting to Cappadocia takes a bit of pre-planning. The closest airport is Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport, about 40 minutes away. Kayseri Erkilet Airport is another option and is about an hour from Cappadocia. Some hotels will offer shuttle pickups from the airport, and if not, visitors can grab a taxi or rental car. Travelers coming from Istanbul can also take a 10-hour bus to Nevsehir. Upon planning your trip, it's important to note that Cappadocia is not just one city or village, but many, with the most popular places to stay and take a hot-air balloon ride being Göreme, Ürgüp, and Uçhisar.

Hot-air ballooning in Cappadocia is one of those rare travel experiences that truly lives up to the hype. It combines the thrill of flight with the deep tranquility of nature, all against the backdrop of one of the world's most unique landscapes. For thrill-seekers vacationing in Europe, there may be no better way to soar. So, it makes sense that this high-flying adventure got Rick Steves' stamp of approval.