Green Tour in Cappadocia with Ihlara canyon & Underground city

If you’re considering a day tour in Cappadocia, the Green Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s natural and historical marvels. From panoramic views to underground hideouts, this tour packs in some of the most iconic sights, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience. While we’ve not done it ourselves, the consistent 5.0/5 star ratings and glowing reviews suggest it’s a solid pick.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sites visited—you get a good mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. Plus, the delicious Turkish lunch with views over the Melendiz River is a real highlight, adding value to the day. That said, it’s a full itinerary running approximately 7.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those ready for a travel-packed day. If you like structured, guided experiences that hit many must-see spots, this tour could be just right.

One thing to consider is the group size—a maximum of 15 travelers—which helps keep things intimate and flexible, but if you prefer private trips, this might feel a bit structured. This tour tends to suit those who want a balanced, guided exploration of Cappadocia without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone keen to tick off major landmarks, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money at around $35, especially with all entrance fees and lunch included.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share insights beyond the basic facts.
• Sites visited include essential Cappadocia landmarks like the underground city and Ihlara Valley, plus some local stops like Onyx workshops.
• Group size is small, making the experience more personal and easier to navigate.
• Stops for photos and local products add authentic touches and chances to enjoy local flavors and crafts.
• Tour duration is about 7.5 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day out.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Goreme Panorama

The first stop is the Goreme Panorama, which offers a sweeping view of Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys and unique rock formations. It’s the perfect starting point to set the scene for the day and snap some memorable photos. The view here is totally Instagram-worthy, and it’s a relaxed way to kick off the tour. Since admission is free, you’re free to soak in the scenery and get those panoramic shots without any rush.

Kaymakli Underground City

Next up is the Kaymakli Underground City, a highlight for many. Carved from soft volcanic rock, it’s an underground maze that once served as a refuge for early Christians. Exploring its tunnels, living quarters, and ventilation systems feels like stepping back in time. Visitors often comment on how impressive the engineering is—one reviewer even said, “the underground city was definitely the most impressive part of the trip.” The tour includes an hour here, which gives you enough time to appreciate the complexity without feeling rushed.

Ihlara Valley

Then, it’s off to the Ihlara Valley, a “hidden gem” carved by nature over millions of years. The canyon walls tower above the Melendiz River, and the area is dotted with ancient rock-cut churches and frescoes. It’s a lovely contrast to the rocky landscape, offering a lush, slightly greener perspective. Expect to walk or hike for about an hour, appreciating the natural beauty while glimpsing Byzantine relics along the walls. One reviewer said, “Learning about the local pottery techniques and the process of carpet making was very interesting,” which hints at the variety of experiences included.

Lunch at Belisirma

Midday, you’ll stop at Belisirma for a traditional Turkish lunch with views of the Melendiz River. This isn’t just about the food—although the Turkish dishes are delicious—but also about the setting. Sitting by the river, enjoying local flavors and fresh air, makes for a relaxing break. The lunch is included in the tour, which adds value, especially given the quality and the scenic atmosphere.

Selime Monastery

Afterwards, the Selime Monastery awaits. This ancient rock-cut complex from the 8th century features churches, chapels, and living quarters carved into the volcanic rock. It’s a fascinating window into monastic life, and the scale of the site is quite impressive. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, enough to explore the complex and take in the views without feeling hurried.

Onyx Workshop

A quick stop at the Onyx Workshop offers a chance to learn about the local stones and crafts. No purchase is required, but you’ll get some interesting insights into how these semi-precious stones are sourced and made into jewelry or ornaments. It’s a short, free visit, perfect for those curious about Turkish craftsmanship.

Pigeon Valley

The final scenic stop is Pigeon Valley, famous for its carved pigeon houses. The landscape here combines natural beauty with a hint of history—these pigeon houses were historically used by locals for fertilizer collection. The short 20-minute walk provides a chance to relax, snap photos, and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Local Products at Beyzade Kuruyemis

Lastly, you’ll visit Beyzade Kuruyemis to taste local products like pumpkin seeds, Turkish delight, rose oil, and Turkish coffee. This stop is a delightful way to experience regional flavors and pick up some souvenirs or snacks before heading back.

What We Love About This Tour

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. As one reviewer put it, “Osman was one of the best tour guides we have ever had,” emphasizing how a great guide can elevate the experience. Their insights often go beyond the basics, making history and culture more engaging.

The value for money is another big plus. At just over $35, the price includes entrance fees, lunch, and a small group size—meaning you won’t be lost in a crowd or overpaying for a comprehensive day of sightseeing.

Plus, the tour covers all the main attractions of Cappadocia’s natural and historical sides—ensuring you get a well-rounded perspective. You’ll visit iconic sites like the underground city and Ihlara Valley, plus some lesser-known gems like the Onyx workshop and Pigeon Valley.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts roughly 7.5 hours, which is a full day but not overly exhausting if you’re prepared. It begins with hotel pickup, so you don’t need to worry about transportation, and ends with drop-off at your hotel—making the logistics smooth. The group size is capped at 15, offering a friendly atmosphere and easier interaction with your guide.

The timing is structured to give each site adequate attention, though some reviews mention that the tour might run long at times. The itinerary is packed, so wear comfortable shoes, bring some water, and be ready for a day full of walking, exploring, and picture-taking.

The lunch is included, and based on reviews, it’s not only delicious but served in a scenic setting. The tour is not suitable for those uncomfortable with walking or confined spaces, especially in underground cities and rock-cut structures.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want to see the main highlights of Cappadocia without the hassle of organizing multiple sites themselves. It’s ideal for history and nature enthusiasts, curious about ancient architecture, and those who appreciate good guides who can share stories and insights. The small group size fosters a more personal experience, making it easier to ask questions and take your time.

It’s a good fit for active travelers who don’t mind a full day on their feet, and who value a well-organized, reasonably priced adventure. If you prefer private tours or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options, but for most, this offers solid value and memorable sights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from and drop-off at your hotel, which makes logistics simple.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance fees for the sites visited are included in the price.

What’s the cost? Around $35.44 per person, which is very reasonable considering the number of sites and included lunch.

Is lunch included? Yes, you get a traditional Turkish meal with scenic views during the day.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s walking involved, especially in uneven or rocky areas.

Is this tour suitable for families? While not specifically designed for children, the sites are generally suitable for active travelers. Check individual site accessibility if traveling with young kids.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour accessible in bad weather? If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out? The combination of expert guides, the variety of sites, and the included lunch and entrance fees offer great value, especially for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive Cappadocia experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, reasonably priced way to see Cappadocia’s key sights, the Green Tour from Trip Savvy Travel is worth considering. It strikes a good balance between natural beauty, historical intrigue, and local culture, all delivered through guides who know their stuff. The small group size and inclusive logistics make it a stress-free way to explore.

This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want a full, engaging day without the hassle of planning every detail, and who appreciate the comfort of a guided experience. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, you’ll walk away with great photos, new knowledge, and plenty of stories to tell.

Remember, always double-check current conditions and availability before booking. But based on what we see and hear from other travelers, this Green Tour seems like a dependable, enriching way to enjoy Cappadocia’s highlights.