Goreme is a treasure trove for travelers eager to see Cappadocia’s iconic landscapes and historic sites. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring through a variety of guided tours, whether you want to wander through underground cities, hike scenic valleys, or dive into history. We particularly enjoy tours that combine natural beauty with cultural insights, like the Green Cappadocia Underground City and Valleys Tour, which offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights in one day. During this 8-hour adventure, you’ll see Pigeon Valley, the Ihlara Valley, and explore Kaymakli Underground City, all with lunch included and in a small-group setting that encourages a personal experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the top city tours in Goreme, comparing what makes each one unique, from private explorations to full-day adventures. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly overview or an immersive, private experience, you’ll find a tour that fits your style.
1. Green Cappadocia Underground City and Valleys Tour. Lunch incl.
At number 1 on our list, the Green Cappadocia Underground City and Valleys Tour is perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire to see South Cappadocia’s key sights. This 8-hour, small-group tour (limited to 15 people) covers Pigeon Valley, the Ihlara Valley, and the Kaymakli Underground City, with round-trip transport from Goreme hotels and a included lunch. The tour is praised for its intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable guide, with reviews emphasizing how memorable and magical the experience was. Visitors love the panoramic views from Goreme Panorama and the chance to see Erciyes Mountain. The itinerary includes a stop at Kapadokya Onyx for local crafts, adding a cultural touch.
Good for travelers short on time who still want a thorough taste of Cappadocia’s natural and historic treasures. The mix of outdoor scenery, underground exploration, and local craftsmanship offers great value for around $40. Bottom line: an easy, well-organized way to experience the highlights on a tight schedule.
2. Full-Day Tour in Cappadocia with Ihlara Hiking and Underground City
At number 2, this Full-Day Tour in Cappadocia is a comprehensive way to see the region’s highlights, especially great for active travelers. For around $46, the tour includes visits to Kaymakli Underground City, a scenic hike through the Ihlara Valley, and stops at Selime Monastery and Pigeon Valley. The itinerary is flexible, with comfortable air-conditioned transport and a guide sharing insights along the way. It’s highly rated—guests mention the enjoyable walk in Ihlara Valley and the well-organized visits.
This tour suits those who want a bit of everything—history, nature, and a gentle hike—without feeling rushed. The midday lunch break adds a nice pause to enjoy local cuisine. A good choice for active explorers eager to cover a lot of ground in one day.
3. Private Cappadocia Tour with Underground City (Guide & Driver)
Number 3 features the Private Cappadocia Tour with Underground City, ideal for travelers who prefer a customized experience. For just $19 per person, you get your own guide and driver, allowing you to tailor your day to your interests—whether it’s exploring fairy chimneys, visiting the Goreme Open-Air Museum, or hiking. The flexibility is a major plus, as you can decide how long to stay at each site.
Guests love that this tour creates a personal, relaxed atmosphere, with the guide sharing local stories and insights. Plus, the private vehicle makes it easy to visit distant sites in comfort. This option is best suited for travelers who want full control over their itinerary and value personalized attention. Bottom line: a flexible, immersive way to see Cappadocia at your own pace.
4. Highlight of Cappadocia Tour ( Red Tour + Underground City)
Number 4 on our list, the Highlight of Cappadocia Tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded day. For about $29, this full-day trip includes stops at Uchisar Castle, the Goreme Open-Air Museum, and the Pigeon Valley. The tour emphasizes visiting the most important sights with a small group, guided by a licensed local expert. Guests typically appreciate the mix of historical sites and scenic viewpoints, with some saying the underground city was a clear highlight.
It’s a budget-friendly option that balances sightseeing and comfort, making it ideal for those new to Cappadocia. The tour’s strength lies in its focus on the region’s must-see landmarks, making it a good introduction or a quick overview. The main consideration: it’s a full-day commitment, but one that’s well worth the time.
5. Delight of Cappadocia Red Tour and Underground City
Coming in at number 5, the Delight of Cappadocia Red Tour offers a private, customizable experience. For around $30, you can tailor your day visiting Uchisar Castle, the Goreme Open-Air Museum, and Devrent Valley, with VIP transport and a licensed guide. Reviewers highlight the flexibility and the knowledgeable guide, with some mentioning the option to skip or extend certain stops.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized approach and the convenience of private transport. It’s a bit more expensive than group tours but offers a more exclusive experience, perfect for couples or small groups. Bottom line: a flexible, private option for those who want control and comfort.
6. Under Ground City Tour – Half Day
Number 6, the Under Ground City Tour – Half Day, is a popular choice for those with limited time or a preference for shorter excursions. For $155, the 3-4 hour tour includes visits to Kaymakli Underground City and Derinkuyu, plus panoramic views of Uchisar and Pigeon Valley. The tour emphasizes exploring the most famous underground city with an informative guide.
Guests praise the smooth logistics and the chance to learn about local underground architecture. It’s suitable for people who want a quick but thorough underground exploration or are on a tight schedule. Practical and affordable, it’s a solid pick for a half-day experience.
7. Kaymakli Underground City Tour (half day)
Number 7 is the Kaymakli Underground City Tour. For just under $92, you get a 2-3 hour tour visiting Kaymakli Underground City, plus Goreme Panorama and Pigeon Valley. This tour is highly rated for its straightforward itinerary and knowledgeable guide. Visitors comment that the underground city is the highlight, and the stop at Pigeon Valley offers a scenic view of ancient cave homes.
Ideal for travelers who want to explore one of the region’s most visited underground cities without a full-day commitment. It’s a practical tour, blending underground exploration with scenic viewpoints.
8. Cappadocia: North (Red) Tour And Underground City
Number 8 is the North (Red) Tour, which covers Pasabag, Open-Air Museum, and Uchisar Castle. Starting at around 10am, this 7-10 hour tour is a comprehensive introduction to Cappadocia’s northern highlights. It’s noted for its well-paced stops and a mix of natural and historical sites.
Guests rave about the guide’s knowledge and the chance to see distinctive fairy chimneys and rock formations. Best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing with some walking and photo stops, all in a comfortable group setting.
9. The stunning underground city and panoramas of Cappadocia
Number 9, the Underground City and Panoramas, offers a flexible, private experience. For $208, up to 4 people can explore Kaymakli, Uchisar, and panoramic viewpoints at their own pace. This tour is ideal if you prefer a more relaxed schedule or want to spend extra time at particular spots.
Reviewers mention that having a driver who “knows your personal interest” makes for a more tailored trip. Perfect for small groups wanting a personalized, more intimate visit with minimal rushing.
10. Private Red Tour + Underground City with Guide & Vehicle
Number 10 is the Private Red Tour + Underground City, offering a 6-7 hour custom experience for groups up to 14. Highlights include Ortahisar, Goreme Panorama, Avanos Pottery, and Pasabag. This tour emphasizes personalized planning with a professional guide and luxury vehicle.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, noting guides adapt to preferences and make the experience more engaging. It’s best for travelers who want to go beyond standard routes and craft a unique day. Ideal for small groups seeking exclusivity.
11. Largest Underground City Tour with Storyteller
Number 11, the Largest Underground City Tour, dives deep into Derinkuyu—the biggest underground city in Cappadocia. For $130, you’ll explore 18 levels of tunnels and chambers, with a storyteller guide sharing insights into its past. The tour also visits Pigeon Valley and local gem stone centers.
Reviewers highlight how the storytelling enhances understanding of the underground city’s significance. It’s great for history buffs who want a detailed, immersive experience. The tour’s focus on the largest subterranean network makes it stand out.
12. Private & Guided Central Cappadocia Tour With Underground City
Number 12 is the Private Guided Central Cappadocia Tour, ideal for those wanting a personalized, all-in-one day. With up to 10 people for $213, it covers Uchisar, Goreme Panorama, Devrent Valley, Fairy Chimneys, and Underground City.
Many reviewers love the customizable itinerary and guide’s expertise. Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, private experience with tailored stops and plenty of interaction.
13. Green Tour in Cappadocia with Ihlara canyon & Underground city
Number 13, the Green Tour, offers a 7.5-hour exploration combining Ihlara Canyon, Kaymakli Underground City, and scenic Goreme Panorama. It’s perfect for travelers who love outdoor adventures and want to combine cultural sites with nature walks.
Guests appreciate the variety of stops and the professional guidance. The tour is a good value at $35, especially for those seeking a balanced mix of hiking and sightseeing.
14. Cappadocia Underground City and Ihlara Valley Tour
Number 14 features a full-day Underground City and Ihlara Valley tour for around $101. It includes lunch, a one-hour trek in Ihlara, and visits to Selime Monastery. This is an excellent choice for active travelers who want to explore both the underground and outdoor scenery.
Guests mention the well-organized schedule and the fascinating underground city as highlights. Suitable for those who enjoy walking and want a full immersion into Cappadocia’s diverse landscape.
15. Underground city tour & optional wine tasting
Number 15 combines a tour of the underground city with optional wine tasting, priced at $102 per person. It offers a chance to learn about 4,000-year-old history and sample local wines at a local winery.
Ideal for travelers interested in culinary experiences and history. Reviewers mention the friendly guide Ramazan and the fun of tasting unique wines, making this tour a bit different from the standard sightseeing options. Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, engaging experience.
16. Cappadocia full day Green Tour including underground city
Finally, the Full-day Green Tour offers about 6-7 hours of sightseeing for around $64. It covers Goreme National Park, Pigeon Valley, and Kaymakli Underground City, with a focus on natural scenery and historical sites in a relaxed pace.
Guests appreciate the value for money and the opportunity to visit Ihlara Valley and see rock-cut churches. Best suited for travelers who want a balanced, manageable day exploring both nature and ancient sites.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal city tour in Goreme, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you prefer a personalized experience or traveling with a small group, private options like the Private Cappadocia Tour or Private Red Tour + Underground City are excellent choices. For those seeking an overview of the main sites, the Highlight of Cappadocia Tour offers a good balance of key landmarks.
Active travelers should look at the Cappadocia Underground City and Ihlara Valley Tour, which combines outdoor walking with underground exploration. Meanwhile, the Underground City and Panoramas provides a flexible, private way to customize your day.
Booking early helps ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. Think about what type of experience excites you most—whether it’s walking through ancient tunnels, hiking scenic valleys, or enjoying personalized service—and pick accordingly.
Goreme offers a fantastic variety of city tours to suit every traveler. From the comprehensive Green Cappadocia Tour to the intimate private excursions, there’s something to match your pace and interests. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, outdoor lover, or cultural explorer, these tours make sure you get a true feel for this extraordinary region. Book early, and enjoy discovering Cappadocia’s remarkable landscapes and stories firsthand.