Exploring Cappadocia with a guided tour is often the best way to uncover its hidden treasures, and this Green Tour promises a full-day adventure packed with history, natural beauty, and local flavor. While we haven’t personally strapped into this exact experience, we’ve sifted through plenty of reviews, details, and itineraries to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
What we love about this tour is its balanced mix of iconic sites like the Derinkuyu Underground City and Ihlara Valley, the inclusion of lunch and entrance fees, and the chance to hear stories from guides with deep regional knowledge. We also appreciate its affordability — at $37 per person — which offers serious value given the sights covered. That said, the tour involves a fair amount of walking and stairs, so it might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or claustrophobia. This tour seems best suited for travelers eager to see the most famous locations within a comfortable, organized structure.
Good To Know
- Affordable price with many inclusions such as entrance fees and lunch
- Expert guides who are knowledgeable and passionate about Cappadocia’s history and culture
- Diverse itinerary covering underground cities, valleys, monasteries, and panoramic viewpoints
- Suitable for most travelers but not ideal for those with mobility challenges or claustrophobia
- Comfortable transportation and small group options enhance the experience
- Authentic local touches like tasting sweets and experiencing local culture
What Makes the Green Tour a Great Choice
This 9-hour adventure packs in some of Cappadocia’s most celebrated sights, making it a fantastic option for travelers wanting a structured yet rundown. The tour includes all entrance fees, lunch, and an English-speaking guide, which means you don’t have to worry about extra costs or language barriers — a real plus.
What many travelers love is the depth of knowledge from guides like Jazme, Beck, Ahmed, or Shahin, who bring stories and insights that turn sightseeing into storytelling. Reviewers mention their guides’ ability to clarify historical details, correct misconceptions, and even entertain with local songs or personal anecdotes. This personal touch elevates the experience from mere sightseeing to a memorable cultural journey.
Prefer private tours? More Selime exclusive experiences we've written about
A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Starting Point & Pickups
The tour kicks off with hotel pickups from 12 locations, including popular spots like Göreme, Uçhisar, Avanos, and Nevşehir. This level of flexibility makes it easier for travelers staying in different parts of Cappadocia to join without hassle.
The Panoramic View at ATAY
Your first stop, ATAY Panorama, offers a breathtaking 30-minute vista at the highest point of Göreme. Here, you’ll get a sweeping view of rock hotels, valleys, and the Uchisar Castle. It’s a perfect way to orient yourself and set the scene for the day ahead.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDerinkuyu Underground City
Next is the Derinkuyu Underground City, where guides like Beck and others have earned praise for their in-depth knowledge and storytelling. With eight levels extending 55.5 meters deep, it’s a labyrinth that once sheltered thousands from invasions. Expect rooms for pets, warehouses, churches, and even a missionary school. Many reviews highlight how impressive the ventilation system still functions and how well-lit the tunnels are, helping visitors feel safe exploring even its narrow passages.
Narlgöl Crater Lake & Scenic Views
On the way to the next site, you’ll stop briefly at Narlgöl Crater Lake for some great photo opportunities. While the stop is only 15 minutes, travelers often mention the stunning views and the opportunity to snap memorable pictures.
Selime Monastery
Then comes Selime Monastery, the highest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia. Guides often emphasize the spectacular views from this site and its impressive architecture. It’s a place where you can imagine monks living, praying, and working in a landscape that feels almost surreal.
Ihlara Valley & Hiking
The highlight for many is the Ihlara Valley, a 14-kilometer-long canyon lined with rock churches and residential caves. After a relaxed lunch (often in a lovely riverside setting), you’ll hike about 1.5 hours along the murmuring river, with some reviews noting that the first 3.5 km of the actual hike in the valley was a bit shorter than expected, but still beautiful. Expect to see dozens of ancient churches carved into the cliffs, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.
Pigeon Valley & Local Flavors
A quick photo stop at Pigeon Valley allows you to capture the famous dovecotes, which were crucial for fertilizing soil for crops like grapes and herbs. It’s a charming spot that really sums up the harmony between humans and nature in Cappadocia.
The final stop, Beyzade Kuruyemi, is an opportunity to shop for local snacks, try traditional tea, or taste Turkish coffee. Many reviewers mentioned the delicious selection of sweets and nuts, adding a tasty and cultural touch to the day.
Drop-Off & Flexibility
The tour concludes with drop-offs at 12 locations, including Göreme, Uçhisar, Nevşehir, and Avanos, ensuring you can return comfortably to your accommodation or explore further.
Transportation & Group Size
Most reviews mention the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle used for transfers, making long drives more pleasant. The option for private groups is available, which might appeal if you prefer a more intimate experience. The group sizes tend to be small, making it easier to ask questions and stay engaged.
Authenticity and Value
For $37 per person, this tour offers great value considering all entrance fees, lunch, and guidance are included. Compared to private tours, it’s highly budget-friendly, yet many travelers report feeling like they received personalized attention thanks to professional guides and small group sizes.
The tour’s emphasis on local stories, history, and culture rather than just ticking off sites makes it a rewarding experience. Plus, the inclusion of local sweets and a tea ceremony offers a taste of Cappadocia’s hospitality.
Practical Tips for Tour Day
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes; expect walking and some stairs, especially in the underground city and Ihlara Valley.
- Be prepared for about 200 stairs in Ihlara and a 40-minute walk in the canyon.
- If you’re sensitive to enclosed spaces, you might want to skip the underground city.
- Carry a small water bottle — the tour provides a small bottle of water per person.
- A camera is a must for those panoramic views and photo stops.
- Since drinks aren’t included at lunch, consider bringing a bottle of water or purchasing drinks during the meal.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This Green Tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Cappadocia’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s perfect for those who value expert guidance, cultural insights, and local cuisine, all at an attractive price point.
It suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a well-organized day trip with lots of diverse sights. However, if you have mobility issues or claustrophobia, some stops like the underground city might be challenging.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from 12 different locations, so you can relax and start the day stress-free.
How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs for about 9 hours, with starting times available depending on your booking.
Are lunch and entrance fees included?
Yes, both lunch (in a museum setting) and entrance tickets to sites are covered in the price.
Can I choose a private group?
Absolutely, private group options are available, providing a more personalized experience.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll walk quite a bit and go upstairs or downhill at sites.
Is there a limit on how many people are in the group?
While not specified, reviews mention small groups, making the experience more intimate.
Can I skip certain stops?
The itinerary is standard, but you can discuss options with your guide if you have specific preferences.
Is the underground city suitable for everyone?
It involves walking through narrow tunnels and stairs, so it’s not recommended for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues.
What language are guides available in?
Guides can speak multiple languages including English, Chinese, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Turkish, Japanese, Korean.
How does the tour handle weather?
Most sites are outdoors or semi-open, so dress appropriately; rain won’t stop the tour but could affect some experiences.
The Cappadocia Green Tour offers a fantastic way to see the region’s most iconic sites in one day, with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances history, natural beauty, and local culture, making it ideal for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing each site individually.
The inclusion of lunch, entrance tickets, and insights from passionate guides makes it a worthwhile choice, especially for first-timers or those eager to understand Cappadocia’s enchantment. While not suited for those with mobility restrictions or claustrophobia, it remains a top pick for most visitors seeking a memorable, fun-filled day.
Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views, exploring underground cities, or tasting local delights, this tour provides a snapshot of Cappadocia’s magic that you’ll carry with you long after the trip ends.
You can check if your dates are available here: