Avanos is a fantastic base for exploring Cappadocia, thanks to its central location along the Kızılırmak River and its charming pottery tradition. Whether you’re a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or someone seeking a relaxed day of sightseeing, Avanos offers a wide variety of tours that suit different interests and budgets. We particularly love tours that combine both cultural highlights and stunning landscapes, like the Cappadocia Highlights Tour, which packs a full day of must-see sights into just over seven hours. This tour is perfect for first-timers who want a rundown with local guides and comfortable transportation.
In this list, you’ll find everything from full-day excursions exploring underground cities and open-air museums to private tailored adventures. Whether you prefer a group experience or a personalized trip, each offers a unique way to experience Cappadocia’s iconic formations, ancient sites, and local crafts. Read on to discover which tour best matches your travel style.
1. Cappadocia: Highlights Tour (Red Tour & Underground City)
At number 1, the Cappadocia: Highlights Tour offers an excellent introduction to the region. With a 4.8/5 rating from 888 reviews, this full-day tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors. It covers the most important sites like the Göreme Open-Air Museum, Uçhisar Castle, and the Underground City of Özkonak. The tour is operated in small groups of no more than 15 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.
The itinerary includes numerous photo stops at popular valleys like Devrent and Love Valley, and a visit to a local bazaar for some shopping. The tour also provides hotel pick-up and drop-off, luxury air-conditioned vehicles, and a professional local guide who shares insightful stories about Cappadocia’s history and geology. Highlights include a guided tour of the underground city, which extends to eight levels deep and reaches approximately 85 meters below ground—an awe-inspiring experience. The tour finishes with a ceramics shopping stop in Avanos, offering a taste of the region’s famous pottery.
Bottom line: This tour balances a packed itinerary with comfort and expert guidance, making it ideal for travelers wanting a broad overview of Cappadocia in one day.
2. Derinkuyu Underground City Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Derinkuyu Underground City Tour, which has earned a perfect rating of 5/5 from just 7 reviews. This shorter, 4-hour excursion focuses solely on visiting the remarkable Derinkuyu underground city—the deepest and largest of Cappadocia’s subterranean complexes. Extending roughly 85 meters below surface, this underground labyrinth was used by ancient civilizations like the Hittites, Romans, and Byzantines.
The tour is ideal for those with limited time or specifically interested in underground architecture. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll explore eight floors of tunnels, chambers, and ventilation shafts. What makes Derinkuyu special is its size and complexity, allowing visitors to imagine how early inhabitants protected themselves from invaders. The guide’s commentary enhances understanding of the archeological and historical significance, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.
This tour is notably praised for its safety and the guide’s engaging storytelling. As one review states, “Mehmet is a great tour guide! He informed us about the historical context of Derinkuyu and Anatolia in general and guided us safely through the underground tunnels!”
Bottom line: Perfect for history buffs and those short on time, this tour offers a vivid glimpse into Cappadocia’s subterranean past with expert guidance.
3. Private Cappadocia Tour with Underground City
Number 3, the Private Cappadocia Tour with Underground City, provides a tailored experience for those seeking flexibility and exclusivity. With a duration of about 8 hours and a 5/5 rating from two reviews, this option is great for couples, families, or travelers who prefer a personalized itinerary.
This private tour is particularly appealing because it offers an intimate exploration of Cappadocia’s highlights, including the Valley of Love, Pasabag, and the Uçhisar Castle. The tour can be customized; you might choose to focus more on scenic viewpoints, geological formations, or hidden churches carved into rock. The guide shares local insights while you relax in a VIP vehicle, making the experience more comfortable and exclusive.
The itinerary features stops at the Van Panorama, Ortahisar, and other scenic spots, with opportunities for walking, photo-taking, and even light hikes. The underground city visit, including Özkonak, adds a sense of adventure to the day. The flexibility of this private tour means you can skip or extend certain stops based on your interests.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a bespoke experience with ample time for personal discovery, this private tour offers a relaxed and luxurious way to see Cappadocia.
4. Cappadocia Mix Tour: Underground City & Open-Air Museums
The Cappadocia Mix Tour combines underground city exploration with visits to some of the region’s most iconic open-air museums. This 7.5-hour trip is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Cappadocia’s archaeological and natural wonders.
The tour includes a guided exploration of the Kayasehir Underground City, the largest of its kind, along with stops at Uchisar Castle and the Zelve Open-Air Museum. You’ll also visit scenic valleys like Pigeon Valley and the famous fairy chimney sites of Devrent and Love Valley. Throughout the day, professional guides provide engaging commentary and help you understand the geology and history behind the formations.
The itinerary includes a scenic drive with multiple photo stops, and entrance fees are included, making it a good value for the comprehensive experience. The tour suits those who want a balanced mix of underground, open-air, and scenic sites, all within one day.
Bottom line: This tour offers a broad, well-rounded Cappadocia experience, great for travelers who want variety and depth without the need for a private guide.
5. Cappadocia: Popular Day Red Tour & Underground City
Number 5, the Popular Day Red Tour & Underground City, hits the highlights of Southern Cappadocia in just 7 hours. With a strong focus on the region’s cultural sites, this tour is suitable for travelers who want to see the main attractions without spending too much time.
The tour includes visits to Ortahisar Castle, a prominent fortress offering panoramic views, and a guided exploration of the underground city. The itinerary emphasizes discovering the local architecture and landscapes with an open buffet lunch included, so you get a taste of regional cuisine. The tour is ideal for those with limited time but still eager to experience key sites.
While the review rating isn’t specified, the detailed itinerary and focus on top sights suggest it’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a straightforward, guided day out. It’s especially suited for first-timers who want a taste of Cappadocia’s cultural and subterranean wonders.
Bottom line: A dependable, all-in-one option for travelers on a tight schedule, emphasizing must-see sites with comfort and efficiency.
6. Private Cappadocia Tour Including Underground City
Finally, the Private Cappadocia Tour Including Underground City combines flexibility, luxury, and personalized attention. At 6 hours and with a price of $246 per person, this tour is the most premium option on our list.
Focusing on a customizable route, it includes highlights like the Red Valley, Rose Valley, and the Özkonak Underground City. Designed for couples or families, this tour allows you to skip the large groups and explore at your own pace. The guide is knowledgeable about the region’s best-hidden spots, and the VIP vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day.
It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to explore the region’s breathtaking rock formations, discover lesser-known churches, or simply enjoy the scenic drives in style. The tour emphasizes relaxation and discovery over rushing through the major landmarks, making it great for those seeking an intimate experience.
Bottom line: If privacy, flexibility, and a tailored experience matter most, this private tour offers excellent value for a personalized Cappadocia adventure.
How to Choose the Best Cappadocia Tour in Avanos
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, timing, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a thorough overview, the Cappadocia Highlights Tour delivers an all-in-one experience with the convenience of small-group travel. For those more interested in history and underground cities, the Derinkuyu Underground City Tour offers an intensive underground exploration.
Travelers seeking exclusivity and flexibility should look at the Private Cappadocia Tour with Underground City, which can be customized to your pace and interests. For a varied, balanced day that covers all key sites, the Cappadocia Mix Tour is ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, and consider whether you prefer group comfort or private tailored experiences.
Final Thoughts
Avanos offers a diverse range of city tours that cater to different tastes and travel styles. For a comprehensive introduction, the Highlights Tour remains a top pick. If underground cities fascinate you, then the Derinkuyu tour is a must. Private options, like the private tour, provide flexibility for those who want to explore at their own pace. Meanwhile, the mix of open-air museums and underground sites in the combined tour delivers variety for travelers who want it all.
Ultimately, your choice depends on how much time you have, your interest in history and scenery, and whether you prefer a group or private experience. Whichever you pick, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on experiencing Cappadocia’s extraordinary landscape and history firsthand.