North and South Cappadocia Highlights Full Day Guided Tour

Göreme , Turkey

North and South Cappadocia Highlights Full Day Guided Tour

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About this experience

Experience the best of Cappadocia in just one day with a professional guide, small group comfort, and a perfectly designed route that combines iconic highlights with hidden gems. Enjoy guided storytelling at each stop, hands-on pottery in Avanos, and unforgettable photo opportunities at panoramic viewpoints. This tour blends history, culture, and nature into a seamless journey you won’t find anywhere else.

Available options

North and South Cappadocia Highlights Full Day Guided Tour

What's included

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

Professional English-speaking tour guide

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Parking fees

Detailed itinerary

Your guided adventure begins at Göreme Panorama, where sweeping views of Cappadocia’s valleys and fairy chimneys unfold before you. As you take in the scenery, your guide will explain the volcanic origins of the landscape and the history that shaped this magical region — setting the stage for the discoveries ahead.

Stop 2

From the open vistas, we descend into the hidden depths of Cappadocia to explore one of its remarkable underground cities. Following your guide through narrow tunnels and stone-carved rooms, you’ll hear stories of ancient civilizations who lived in safety beneath the earth during times of invasion.

Emerging back into daylight, we travel to the riverside town of Avanos, famed for its pottery traditions dating back to the Hittites. Your guide will share insights into this craft as you watch a live demonstration — and perhaps try shaping clay yourself — before enjoying a delicious lunch in a local restaurant.

Stop 4

After lunch, we continue to Paşabağ, where your guide leads you among towering fairy chimneys with multiple rock caps. Here, you’ll hear fascinating tales of hermits who once made these formations their homes, blending spirituality with the beauty of nature.

Stop 5

Just a short drive away lies Zelve Open-Air Museum, an abandoned cave town where history comes alive. As your guide walks you through rock-cut homes, churches, and tunnels, you’ll gain a vivid picture of daily life in this once-thriving community.

Stop 6

We then head to the surreal landscapes of Devrent Valley, where erosion has sculpted rocks into animal-like shapes and whimsical figures. With your guide’s keen eye, you’ll spot natural formations you might otherwise miss — from the famous camel rock to many more hidden treasures.

Our journey concludes in Ürgüp at the Three Beauties, Cappadocia’s most celebrated fairy chimneys. Surrounded by legends your guide will share, this final stop offers a perfect farewell to the region — and one last unforgettable photo before returning.

What's not included

Entrance fees to museums and historical sites

Lunch (Optional)

Tips for guide and driver (optional)

Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

EN TR

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Guests who are not using the hotel pick-up service can meet us either at Göreme Bus Station (Göreme Otogar) or at our office in Göreme town center.

About Göreme

Göreme is a small town in the heart of Cappadocia, renowned for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. This enchanting region offers a blend of natural wonders, ancient history, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Göreme Open-Air Museum

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring rock-cut churches and monasteries with stunning frescoes dating back to the Byzantine era.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Approximately 50 TRY

Love Valley

A scenic valley known for its phallic-shaped rock formations and hiking trails offering panoramic views of the region.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Uçhisar Castle

A towering rock castle offering the highest panoramic view of the Cappadocia region.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Approximately 20 TRY

Derinkuyu Underground City

An ancient multi-level underground city carved into volcanic rock, used as a refuge during times of invasion.

Historical 2-3 hours Approximately 30 TRY

Hot Air Balloon Ride

A must-do experience in Cappadocia, offering breathtaking aerial views of the unique landscape.

Adventure 1-2 hours Approximately 150-250 EUR

Must-Try Local Dishes

Testi Kebab

A traditional dish cooked in a sealed clay pot, containing meat, vegetables, and spices.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Pide

Turkish flatbread with various toppings, similar to pizza.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian

Göreme Salad

A fresh salad made with local vegetables, cheese, and herbs.

Lunch Vegetarian

Manti

Small dumplings filled with spiced meat, served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon ride Hiking ATV tours Horseback riding Spa and wellness treatments Wine tasting Picnicking in the valleys Visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

The weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Turkish
Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Göreme is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on prices before starting your journey in taxis or shared vehicles

Getting there

By air

Kayseri Erkilet Airport • 75 km (47 miles)
Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport • 35 km (22 miles)

By bus

Göreme Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are infrequent and not very reliable. They are best suited for short distances.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Göreme Town Center Uçhisar Çavuşin

Day trips

Derinkuyu Underground City

30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

Explore the fascinating underground city of Derinkuyu, a multi-level subterranean refuge dating back to ancient times.

Ihlara Valley

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

A scenic valley with lush greenery, ancient churches, and hiking trails along the Melendiz River.

Avanos

20 km (12.4 miles) • Half day

A traditional town known for its pottery workshops and pottery-making demonstrations.

Festivals

Cappadocia International Music Festival • September Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Festival • April Çavuşin Culture and Art Festival • July

Pro tips

Book your hot air balloon ride well in advance, as they often sell out during peak season
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the rocky terrain
Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day
Learn a few basic phrases in Turkish to enhance your interaction with locals
Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat