Avanos is a standout spot in Cappadocia for travelers craving a full day of exploration. Known for its pottery traditions and central location, Avanos serves as a perfect base for discovering the region’s unique landscapes and historical sites. Whether you’re interested in soaking up history at the Goreme Open Air Museum, marveling at fairy chimneys, or trying your hand at pottery in a traditional workshop, Avanos offers a variety of full-day tours to match your interests. We particularly love tours that blend cultural experiences with scenic sightseeing—like visiting underground cities and exploring valleys—giving you a genuine taste of Cappadocia’s charm.
The tours below cover everything from private guided adventures to comprehensive regional excursions with special activities like pottery workshops and hikes. Each offers a different way to experience Cappadocia’s highlights, so you can choose what fits your style and schedule.
1. Cappadocia: Full-Day Guided Private Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Cappadocia: Full-Day Guided Private Tour provides a deeply personalized experience. For around $250 per group (up to 14 people), this 7-hour tour takes you through the region’s most iconic sites with a local guide who brings the area’s history and culture to life. The private aspect means you can customize the pace and focus on what interests you most—whether it’s exploring ancient cave churches at the Goreme Open Air Museum, descending into the Kaymakli Underground City, or wandering among the fairy chimneys in Pasabag.
What sets this tour apart is its detailed itinerary, including stops at scenic viewpoints like Pigeon Valley and Uchisar Castle. Visitors rave about the guide’s knowledge and flexibility, often citing how the private format allows for a more intimate experience. Highlights include a visit to the Avanos pottery workshop and a walk through Devrent Valley to see animal-shaped rocks. The tour ends with a visit to the Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a stunning overview of the region’s early Christian art and architecture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a tailored, hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide. It offers excellent value for a private tour, especially for families or small groups wanting personalized attention.
2. Cappadocia: Full-Day Tour with Pottery Workshop & Lunch
Coming in at number 2, this full-day tour with a hands-on pottery workshop combines sightseeing with creative fun. For roughly 8 hours, you’ll visit Uçhisar Castle for panoramic views, explore the whimsical Love Valley and Devrent Valley, and learn about Cappadocia’s fascinating history at the Open Air Museum. The highlight for many is the pottery workshop in Avanos, where you get to make your own piece using traditional techniques. This experience is perfect for those who want a tactile connection to local craft traditions and enjoy engaging activities.
The tour includes a delicious lunch with scenic views, making it a well-rounded experience. Visitors note that this tour balances iconic sights with cultural interaction, making it a favorite for families and solo travelers alike. The pottery workshop provides a memorable, hands-on aspect that you won’t find on typical sightseeing trips, and your creations can be taken home as a keepsake.
Bottom Line: Great for creative travelers or those wanting a more interactive day. It offers a good mix of views, history, and craft, all wrapped into one accessible package.
3. Full Day Green Tour with Lunch
Our third pick is the Full Day Green Tour with Lunch, designed for those interested in deeper exploration of Cappadocia’s geology and underground marvels. For $121 per person, this 7-hour expedition takes you into Derinkuyu Underground City, showcasing how early inhabitants carved extensive tunnels beneath the landscape. You’ll also visit the Selime Monastery, an impressive rock-cut complex, and take a scenic walk through the Ihlara Valley, where a gentle hike reveals lush scenery and cave churches.
This tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and man-made features, with a focus on its underground structures and monastic sites. Reviewers appreciate the informative guides and the chance to see less-visited parts of Cappadocia. The included lunch in Belisırma village adds to the experience, providing local flavors amid stunning surroundings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in geology, history, and outdoor activities. It’s a good value for an all-encompassing tour that covers many of Cappadocia’s highlights.
How to Choose
When deciding between these full-day options, think about your interests and travel style. If you prefer a private, flexible experience, the Cappadocia: Full-Day Guided Private Tour is your best bet. For those eager to get hands-on with local crafts and enjoy scenic viewpoints, the Pottery Workshop & Lunch tour offers engaging activities alongside sightseeing. Finally, if your focus is more on exploring underground cities, monasteries, and hiking along lush valleys, the Green Tour provides a comprehensive look at Cappadocia’s geological and architectural wonders.
Consider your budget, physical activity level, and what aspects of Cappadocia excite you most. Remember to book early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Cappadocia offers a full range of exciting tours in and around Avanos that cater to different interests and schedules. For a private, in-depth experience, the first tour is unmatched. If you want to combine hands-on craft making with sightseeing, the pottery workshop tour is perfect. And for those wanting a thorough exploration of underground cities, monasteries, and scenic valleys, the green tour covers it all.
Ultimately, choosing the right tour depends on what you value most—personalized attention, culture, or comprehensive sightseeing. Whatever your choice, booking early ensures you make the most of your time in this extraordinary region. Happy travels!