Göreme , Turkey

Hiking and Underground City Tour

Active

(24 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this full-day tour of Cappadocia you'll visit Derinkuyu Underground City, the largest excavated site of its kind in Turkey. At a depth of 85 meters the multi-level city could accommodate up to 20,000 people.

Continue your journey to the stunning Ihlara Valley, where you’ll enjoy a scenic hike through a lush canyon carved by the Melendiz River. Along the way, discover ancient cave churches dating back to the 7th–11th centuries, many of which are adorned with remarkably well-preserved and vividly colored frescoes depicting biblical scenes.

Stop at Belisirma, a typical Anatolian village, to enjoy lunch and visit some of the churches open to tourists. Make a stop at Nar Lake (Nar Gölü), a volcanic crater lake historically believed to possess healing powers and once considered a spiritual site by local civilizations. Surrounded by legends and cultural reverence, it offers a peaceful glimpse into the region's mystical past.

Available options

Tour Including Entrance Ticket

Pickup included

Tour Excluding Entrance Ticket

Entrance Ticket: Please note that, this option does not include entrance tickets<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Lunch in a local restaurant

Licensed professional guide

Hotel Pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Marvel at Göreme Panorama, offering breathtaking views over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and the stunning valleys stretching into the horizon.

Discover the artistry of Cappadocia at Göreme Onyx, where skilled craftsmen transform volcanic stone into elegant jewelry and ornaments.

Explore Derinkuyu, Cappadocia’s deepest underground city, a fascinating labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, and history carved into the earth.

Discover Narlıgöl Crater Lake, a hidden volcanic lake in Cappadocia known for its turquoise waters and peaceful surroundings.

Relax in Belisırma village, nestled in the Ihlara Valley, where you’ll enjoy free time and a traditional lunch by the riverside.

Stop 6

Walk through the breathtaking Ihlara Valley, a canyon filled with lush greenery, rock-carved churches, and stunning landscapes.

Stop 7

Marvel at Pigeon Valley, famous for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and countless pigeon houses carved into the cliffs.

What's not included

Beverages

Personal expenses

Entrance Fees (If option selected approx 20€)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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