Full Day Green Tour with Lunch

If you’re planning to visit Cappadocia and want a comprehensive taste of this extraordinary region, the Full Day Green Tour with Lunch could be just what you need. This guided experience covers many of the area’s must-see sights, from underground cities and ancient monasteries to scenic valleys and local crafts. It’s an excellent way to get a broad overview without the hassle of organizing each stop yourself.

What really draws us in about this tour are a couple of standout features. First, the visit to Derinkuyu Underground City offers a peek into what life was like living beneath the surface, complete with wine production facilities—a quirky touch that makes it more than just a historical site. Second, the lunch in Belisrma Village is often praised, providing not just good food but a chance to relax by the Melendiz River after a busy morning of sightseeing.

That said, there are a few points to consider. The tour involves quite a bit of walking and narrow underground tunnels, which may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers. Also, since it’s a group experience, the pace might feel rushed at times, especially if you like to linger at certain sights or explore independently.

All in all, this tour is well-suited for travelers who want a full day of diverse experiences—history, nature, local culture—without the hassle of planning each detail. If you’re after a balanced day with a guide to share insights and stories, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Covers major highlights like Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
• Value for money: At $121, it includes transportation, guide, and a nice lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one option.
• Cultural insights: Learn about local rock formations, pigeon keeping, and traditional wine production.
• Physical activity: Expect some walking, hiking, and narrow tunnels—good for active travelers but not ideal for everyone.
• Family considerations: Not specifically tailored for children, and some stops involve uneven terrain.
• Flexibility: Includes free cancellation, so you can plan with some peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting with the Göreme Panorama and Pigeon Valley

The day kicks off early with hotel pickup, leading to the Göreme Panorama, where you’ll get sweeping views of fairy chimneys and the volcanic landscape. This spot is perfect for snapping photos and getting your first impression of Cappadocia’s surreal scenery. Our experience here was quiet and awe-inspiring, setting the tone for the rest of the day.

Next, you’ll stroll through Pigeon Valley, a lush, tranquil area famous for its many dovecotes carved into rocks. The guide explained how pigeons were historically used for communication and even fertilizer, which added some local flavor to the scenery. Feeding the pigeons is a gentle, calming activity that many in our group enjoyed—it’s a good moment to appreciate the natural surroundings and learn a bit of local history.

Visiting Onyx Show Factory

From natural beauty to craftsmanship, the Onyx Show Factory is a highlight. Here, you’ll spend some time with experts who showcase stones from all over Turkey, especially the zultanite—an intriguing, color-changing stone. The guides and staff are keen to teach about the different stones and their uses, making it a little crash course in Turkish gem craftsmanship. For jewelry lovers or those interested in local crafts, this is quite engaging.

Exploring Derinkuyu Underground City

The underground city is undeniably the star of this tour. Walking through its narrow tunnels and multi-level chambers, you’ll see how ancient civilizations built vast subterranean complexes to escape invasions. The underground wine production facilities are a fun detail, revealing how versatile these spaces were—used for both defense and daily life. Some travelers told us that the tunnels can feel tight but are manageable if you’re prepared for confined spaces.

More Great Tours Nearby

Narl Lake and Belisrma Village Lunch

Narl Lake, with its shifting hues, adds a scenic pause. It’s a volcanic lake that reflects the sky differently depending on the season and weather—an unusual and beautiful sight. Then, it’s time for a well-deserved break at Belisrma Village, where a hearty, local-style lunch awaits. The restaurant offers views of the Melendiz River, and many found the food satisfying and fresh. It’s a relaxing spot to recharge after the busy morning.

Hiking in Ihlara Valley and Visiting Selime Monastery

Post-lunch, a walk through Ihlara Valley offers stunning greenery and river views. It’s an enjoyable hike that isn’t overly strenuous but enough to feel like a real outdoor experience. The valley is dotted with small churches and rock-cut dwellings, adding layers to the landscape.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Selime Monastery, an impressive rock-built structure with a large kitchen, church, and stables. The scale of the monastery is worth marveling at, and the surrounding scenery makes for great photos. The guide shared some insights into the lifestyle of those who lived there, giving a sense of the troglodyte way of life.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, typically from central locations in Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, or Çavusin. The transportation is usually comfortable, considering it’s a full-day trip, but expect to be on the bus for several hours with a group of other travelers. Group sizes tend to be manageable, and guides are friendly and informative.

Duration and Pacing

The entire day lasts about 7 hours, which is quite full. The itinerary is structured with designated times at each stop, so don’t expect much free roaming—mostly guided visits and short walks. If you’re someone who enjoys a relaxed pace or more free time, this might feel a bit rushed, especially at the underground city and monastery.

Cost and Value

At $121 per person, the tour covers transportation, a professional guide, and lunch, which is a good deal considering the number of sites visited. Entry fees for Selime Monastery are not included, so be prepared for that expense if you want to explore inside. The value is high for the diversity you get—history, nature, local culture—and the convenience of having everything organized.

Suitability and Restrictions

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, most travelers with moderate mobility and fitness levels will find this manageable. However, those with mobility impairments, pregnant women, or anyone uncomfortable with confined spaces should consider alternative options or be aware of the physical demands.

Our Honest Take

This Full Day Green Tour offers a solid overview of Cappadocia’s highlights. We appreciated the variety—history, natural beauty, local crafts—and the fact that it’s guided means you can learn a lot without having to do much planning yourself. The lunch spot is a highlight for many, giving a taste of local cuisine in a picturesque setting.

On the downside, the day is quite packed, and the underground tunnels can feel tight if you’re claustrophobic. The tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mixture of walking and sightseeing and who are comfortable with group activities.

For anyone looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day that hits many of Cappadocia’s key sights, this tour is a reliable choice. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or private explorations, you might want to consider other options, but for most visitors, it’s a good way to see a lot in one day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from designated locations like Ürgüp, Göreme, Avanos, and Çavusin.

How long is the tour?
The full tour lasts around 7 hours, with a schedule that includes visiting multiple sites and a lunch break.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring water or purchase beverages during the stops.

Do I need to pay entry fees?
Entry fees for Selime Monastery are not included, so be prepared for that expense if you wish to go inside.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically designed for children, active families comfortable with walking and confined spaces may enjoy it, but consider your children’s mobility and comfort.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

In the end, this full-day tour packs a lot of the best of Cappadocia into one smooth, guided experience. Whether you’re into history, scenic views, or local crafts, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and come prepared for a busy, adventure-filled day.

You can check availability for your dates here: