2 Days South (Green tour) and North (Red tour) Cappadocia + Lunch

Discover the Best of Cappadocia in Two Days

If you’re planning a trip to Goreme, Turkey, and want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this 2-day guided tour covering both the North (Red) and South (Green) highlights is a fantastic option. For just $69 per person, you’ll enjoy the convenience of hotel pick-up, transfers, and local guides who bring the region’s history and geology alive. It’s a well-paced, small-group adventure that balances iconic sights with authentic moments, making it perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

What really stands out are the stunning panoramic views from Uçhisar Castle and the remarkable fairy chimney formations at Pasabag, both of which are perfect for photography and memorable moments. Plus, the lunches in Avanos—a town famous for its pottery—add a local flavor that brings the region’s craftsmanship into your experience.

However, keep in mind that with a packed itinerary, some stops might feel a bit rushed—especially if you love to linger and soak in the scenery. This tour suits travelers who want a broad overview of Cappadocia’s most famous sights without sacrificing comfort or guide expertise. It’s ideal for those eager to see the main attractions with insightful commentary, especially if you appreciate small-group intimacy and good value.

Key Points

Comprehensive two-day exploration of both north and south Cappadocia.
Small group size ensures a more personal experience.
Expert guides offer engaging commentary and local insights.
Includes lunch both days, adding local flavor and convenience.
Flexible pickup and transfers make logistics effortless.
Ideal for first-timers wanting to see major highlights without stress.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: The South (Green Tour)

Uçhisar Castle View Point
Starting with this elevated spot, we get our first breathtaking glimpse of Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. The view of fairy chimneys, valleys, and volcanic formations is panoramic and perfect for snapping photos. It’s a calm start that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Avanos
Next, we’re taken into the charming town of Avanos, renowned for its pottery traditions. The highlight here is the lunch, where we get to choose dishes that suit our preferences—whether vegetarian or meat-based. After eating, we jump into a hands-on pottery-making session guided by local artisans, giving us a tangible connection to Turkish craft.

Pasabag (Monks Valley)
Home to Cappadocia’s most famous fairy chimneys, Pasabag is a must-see. These towering rock formations with their unique shapes seem almost otherworldly. Our guide shares stories about their formation and significance, making the scenery more meaningful.

Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
Here, the natural rocks have been shaped into animal and mystical forms, like camels and dolphins. It’s a playground for creative photography and a delightful reminder of nature’s artistry. This site lacks ancient churches or dwellings, but its whimsical formations make it a highlight worth savoring.

Love Valley
Just a short drive from Göreme, Love Valley captivates with its phallic-shaped rock formations and lush greenery. From the viewpoint, it’s a perfect spot for panoramic shots, and many visitors find the scenery both strange and beautiful.

Zelve Open-Air Museum
This expansive site has served different civilizations over centuries, featuring rock-cut dwellings, monasteries, and churches. Walking through Zelve offers a tangible sense of the region’s historical depth and how early communities adapted to their environment.

Chez Galip Pottery & Ceramics
Our tour caps off at a renowned pottery workshop in Avanos, where Turkish ceramic traditions are alive and well. It’s a chance to see artisans at work and perhaps bring home a handcrafted souvenir.

Day 2: The North (Red Tour)

Goreme Panorama
Starting the day with sweeping vistas of fairy chimneys and valleys, the Goreme Panorama offers a stunning overview that helps contextualize the sites we’ll visit.

Pigeon Valley Viewpoint
This spot combines natural beauty with historical intrigue, as the cliffs are dotted with pigeon houses carved into the rock. It’s a peaceful place to take in the landscape and snap a few more photos.

Kaymakli Underground City
A highlight for many, this underground city reveals a complex network of tunnels and rooms used as refuges in ancient times. The architecture and ingenuity of these subterranean spaces are impressive, and it’s fascinating to think about the lives of those who hid here centuries ago.

Ihlara Valley
This lush gorge with a river running through it offers a serene hiking experience, with rock-carved churches and frescoes along the way. We walk about 4 km, enjoying the natural beauty and historical sites carved into the cliffs.

Selime Monastery
Carved directly into the rock, this monastic complex offers panoramic views and a glimpse into early Christian life. Exploring its vast cave rooms and hidden passageways underscores the ingenuity of early settlers.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

This tour is priced attractively at $69, which includes guidance, transfers, and lunch, offering excellent value for such a comprehensive experience. You’ll need to account for museum entrance fees if you wish to visit certain sites—these are not included and typically cost between 13-28 euros.

The tour operates with a maximum of 14 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere. The pickup from your hotel simplifies logistics, and the start time at 9:30 am gives you a relaxed morning to prepare. The day’s activities are well-paced but packed, so if you prefer more time at each site, you might find some stops a little rushed, as noted in reviews.

The small group size enhances interaction with guides, allowing for tailored questions and a friendlier atmosphere. The guides are described as knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience more than just ticking off sights.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes transfers between sites, which are likely by comfortable bus or van, given the distances and the guide’s mention of pickup and drop-off. Being part of a small group means less waiting and more personal attention, which greatly improves the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you want to see the major highlights of Cappadocia without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a structured, informative overview, and travelers who appreciate authentic insights from local guides. The inclusion of traditional lunch stops also highlights the region’s culinary traditions, adding to the immersive feel.

What Past Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the knowledge of guides like Inci and Emre, who are said to make the sites come alive with their storytelling. As one reviewer states, “Inci explained details about each location in a very comprehensive way,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Others mention the stunning views — “The panorama at Goreme is breathtaking,” one traveler notes, reinforcing how memorable the scenery is.

Some guests found the itinerary a little rushed, especially at certain stops, but appreciated the overall value. As one reviewer put it, “a few stops really needed more time and felt rushed,” so if you’re someone who loves to linger, you might want to plan additional time at key sites.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, guided introduction to Cappadocia, this two-day tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sights, natural beauty, and local culture. The small group size and expert guides ensure a personal touch, making it ideal for travelers who value engaging storytelling and authentic experiences.

The inclusion of lunches and transfers simplifies planning, making it a cost-effective way to see the region’s highlights in a short timeframe. While some stops may feel hurried, this is common in such comprehensive tours, and the overall value remains high.

This experience suits travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy a varied itinerary without the stress of navigation or logistics. Whether you’re visiting Cappadocia for the first time or looking to get a solid overview, this tour delivers a memorable, well-organized adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does each day last?
The tour is designed for approximately two days, starting at 9:30 am and including plenty of stops, with the group ending back at the meeting point.

Are entrance fees included?
No, museum tickets are not included. You might find some sites, like Pasabag and Zelve, require separate entry fees of around 13-28 euros.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a guided group tour, so customization isn’t typically available, but guides are often happy to share insights and answer questions.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and stair climbing at sites like underground cities and monasteries.

How much free time is there?
The itinerary is packed, but there is some time at each stop to explore or take photos; however, some may feel the stops are brief.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the scenery and activities.

This tour strikes a fine balance between structure and discovery, providing a thorough glimpse into Cappadocia’s extraordinary landscape and history. Whether you’re eager to see the fairy chimneys, explore underground cities, or just enjoy the stunning vistas, it’s a smart choice for an immersive, hassle-free experience.