Cappadocia: Guided Green Tour Incl. Lunch and Entry Tickets

If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, chances are you’ll want to see its famous fairy chimneys, underground cities, and otherworldly landscapes. The Guided Green Tour offers a comprehensive look at South Cappadocia’s most captivating sites, all in one day. It’s designed for travelers who want a structured, informative experience that balances history, nature, and local culture.

We particularly appreciate the inclusion of entry tickets and lunch, which simplifies the logistics and offers good value. But, as with any guided tour, it’s worth considering the group size and walking requirements—some stops involve narrow passages and steep climbs. This tour suits those who enjoy learning from a knowledgeable guide and don’t mind a packed schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, wandering day, you might prefer a more flexible, independent approach.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to underground cities, valleys, monasteries, and villages.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed guides provide engaging, informative commentary.
• All-inclusive value: Entrance fees and lunch included in the price of $28 make it a good deal.
• Active day: Expect about 4-5 hours of walking, hiking, and exploring.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, though not for those with mobility issues.
• Authentic experiences: Focus on natural landscapes and historical sites rather than touristy workshops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the Cappadocia Green Tour?

This tour is a full immersion into the natural and historical marvels of South Cappadocia, without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The price point—around $28 per person—is incredibly reasonable for a full-day experience that covers the region’s highlights. When you consider that entrance fees are included, and you’ll enjoy a homemade-style lunch in a village setting, it offers excellent value.

The tour’s structure allows you to see more than you could on your own in a day. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a rich, curated experience. Plus, the small group size (as some reviews hint) helps keep the experience personal and interactive.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

You’re getting a lot for your money: hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned van, a licensed guide, and all the entrance tickets if you select that option. Lunch is included—a generous addition that showcases local cuisine—plus the convenience of skipping lines at popular sites.

What’s not included? Personal expenses, drinks, and any souvenirs you decide to buy. This keeps the overall cost transparent and helps you budget accordingly.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at the Day

Pickup and Morning Drive

Starting with your hotel pickup from one of seven designated locations (Uçhisar, Göreme, Avanos, Ürgüp, Mustafapaa, Ortahisar, or Çavusin), the journey begins early. The group size is managed to avoid feeling crowded, and guides typically confirm pickup times the night before, adding to the smooth start.

More Great Tours Nearby

Goreme Panorama

The first photo stop at Goreme Panorama offers sweeping views of Cappadocia’s lunar-like terrain. It’s a perfect introduction—great for selfies and getting your bearings as the landscape unfolds before you.

Goreme Onyx & Local Workshops

Next, you’ll visit Goreme Onyx, where some time is allocated for shopping or watching artisans at work. Some reviews mention this stop as a brief but interesting cultural peek, though others suggest it could be skipped to spend more time at favorite sites.

Derinkuyu Underground City

The highlight for many is Derinkuyu Underground City, the largest excavated underground city in Turkey. At 85 meters deep, it’s a vast labyrinth of tunnels, rooms, and chapels. You’ll walk through narrow passages, some just 3.5-4 feet high—so be prepared to stoop—and see how thousands of people once lived underground for protection.

Reviews consistently mention how surprisingly well-ventilated and cool Derinkuyu is, especially for a subterranean site. One reviewer noted, “It is definitely scary if you’re claustrophobic,” which is a good heads-up. But overall, it’s a mesmerizing step back into ancient ingenuity.

Selime Monastery

From underground to the sky, the group visits Selime Monastery, one of the largest rock-cut monasteries in Cappadocia. The site features towering cliffs, church ruins, and a sense of grandeur. Expect about 45 minutes for a guided tour, which many find worthwhile. Some visitors mention steep climbing here, so it’s less suitable for those with mobility limitations.

Lunch in Belisirma Village

Then, you’ll stop in Belisirma, a typical Anatolian village, for a home-style lunch. The food is generally well-reviewed, with some praising the regional meatballs and the scenic setting—dining in a traditional restaurant overlooking the river. This break is appreciated not only for the meal but also for the chance to soak in local village life.

Ihlara Valley Hike

Post-lunch, the group hikes about 4 kilometers through Ihlara Valley—a lush, peaceful gorge dotted with cave churches. Many reviews highlight how this hike offers a refreshing change from the arid landscape, with the sound of running water and greenery all around. Some cave churches are from the 7th-11th centuries, adorned with colorful frescoes, although renovations might limit access at times.

Pigeon Valley & Return

The final stops include Pigeon Valley, famous for its dovecotes carved into the cliffs, and a scenic drive back to your hotel. The entire day wraps up with a sense of awe at the area’s natural beauty and historical depth.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive with stories and context. One mentions, “Melissa was great! She spoke English well and was very knowledgeable,” while others highlight guides like Deniz, Eda, and Melisa for their friendly, engaging approach.

The landscapes get many compliments—stunning rock formations, expansive vistas, and the thrill of exploring underground tunnels. Several mention that Derinkuyu exceeded expectations, “It looked exactly like in photos—absolutely fantastic,” as one review put it.

Food also scores high; many appreciate the local, home-cooked style lunch, often mentioning the meatballs or regional sweets as highlights. The included lunch represents a real benefit, saving time and money while offering an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Some reviews note the small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and stay engaged. The transportation gets praise for comfort and punctuality—a key consideration for a long day.

On the downside, some sites involve steep climbing or narrow passages, making it less suited for travelers with mobility challenges. The tour’s schedule is tight, so those hoping for a leisurely exploration may find it a bit rushed—yet, many viewers appreciate the efficiency.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many stops involve walking on uneven or steep terrain.
• Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during hikes and in the sun.
• Be prepared for some narrow, low passages if exploring underground cities; stooping and crawling might be necessary.
• If you’re claustrophobic, ask your guide about the underground city, as it can be quite enclosed.
• Consider how much time you want at each stop; some reviews note that a little flexibility could enhance your experience.
• Keep in mind that some churches and sites might be under renovation, limiting access at certain times.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Green Tour offers a compelling glimpse into Cappadocia’s natural beauty and historic sites, all packed into a manageable, well-organized day. It really shines for travelers who want an informative, value-packed experience with a friendly guide leading the way.

If you’re interested in exploring underground cities, hiking in lush valleys, and enjoying regional cuisine, this tour delivers in spades. It’s especially ideal if you prefer guided navigation—saving you time and effort—without sacrificing authenticity.

That said, those with mobility issues or a preference for a more relaxed pace might find parts of the day challenging. Also, if you’re not keen on tight spaces or steep climbs, some sites could be less enjoyable.

This tour is a fantastic introduction to the best of South Cappadocia, combining natural landscapes, ancient history, and local culture—all at a price that makes it hard to beat. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip to this remarkable region, it’s a day packed with memorable sights and stories.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with pick-up and drop-off from your hotel included.

What are the starting times?
Check availability for specific start times, as they vary.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional regional meal is part of the package, served in Belisirma village.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, if you select the relevant options, entrance tickets to sites like Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley are included.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s generally suitable for most, but not for those with mobility issues or who cannot handle stairs or steep climbs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and water are essential. A hat and sunscreen are also recommended during sunny days.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I be in a small or large group?
The group size is managed for a more personal experience, with many reviews suggesting a comfortable size that encourages interaction.

Enjoy your adventure in Cappadocia—an unforgettable blend of nature, history, and Turkish hospitality awaits!

You can check availability for your dates here: