Urgup is a prime starting point for exploring Cappadocia’s astonishing landscape. Thanks to its central location, you can access a wide variety of tours—whether you want awe-inspiring balloon rides, historical site visits, or relaxing spa experiences. Why we love Urgup? It offers flexibility and a genuine local vibe, plus many tours include convenient hotel transfers and expert guides. For instance, a hot air balloon over fairy chimneys provides a once-in-a-lifetime view, while guided day trips like the North Cappadocia Red Tour reveal hidden valleys and ancient sites in comfort.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your taste, you’ll find options ranging from full-day private adventures to quick half-day highlights. Some tours focus on natural beauty, such as hiking in Ihlara Valley, while others offer cultural immersions like pottery workshops in Avanos. We’ve reviewed the top experiences to help you pick the right one.
1. Cappadocia Red Tour (included, lunch, guide, entrance fees)
At number 1, the Cappadocia Red Tour is a classic for good reason. This 7-hour small-group tour hits six highlights, including the Zelve Open Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and the Fairy Chimneys. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of history, geology, and local crafts, with all logistics taken care of—entrance fees, transportation, and lunch—leaving you free to enjoy. The guide shares detailed stories, making the sites come alive.
Highlights include visiting Avanos pottery workshops, exploring Love Valley’s canyons, and marveling at Derwent Valley’s moon-like surface. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide Ugur, who makes the trip both fun and educational. The value for this all-inclusive experience is excellent at $48 per person for a full day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, well-organized tour with insider stories and convenient logistics, this is a top choice.
2. Top Sites of Cappadocia: Red Tour with Underground City Visit
For those seeking a flexible, personalized experience, the Top Sites of Cappadocia offers a small or private group with air-conditioned transport, averaging 5 to 8 hours. It covers key highlights like the Goreme Open-Air Museum, Pigeon Valley, and the underground cities. This tour stands out for its ability to customize the itinerary and skip the crowded bus scene.
Guests enjoy the intimate setting and the chance to explore sites at their own pace. The guide explains the region’s history and geology in detail, making it a great value at just $21 per person. The highlight for many is visiting the labyrinth of tunnels in the Kaymakli underground city, which is both fascinating and a bit nerve-wracking.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a tailored, small-group experience with a focus on cultural and natural highlights.
3. Cappadocia Balloon Ride
No trip to Urgup is complete without a hot air balloon experience. The Cappadocia Balloon Ride offers an unforgettable 2-hour flight over the landscape’s fairy chimneys at sunrise. It’s an early start, with hotel transfers included, but what’s a better way to see Cappadocia’s stunning scenery?
Guests describe this as “a lifetime experience,” with panoramic views of the valleys and caves, and a celebratory champagne toast afterward. The price is $400, which might seem steep but is a small premium for the breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment. This tour is ideal for celebrating a special occasion or simply ticking off a bucket list item.
Bottom Line: If you’re after the quintessential Cappadocia photo op and an adrenaline rush, this is the tour to book early.
4. North Cappadocia Full-Day Guided Tour with Lunch
At number 4, the North Cappadocia Full-Day Tour is a solid choice for covering the region’s essentials. You’ll visit Devrent Valley, Pasabag, Zelve Open Air Museum, and Avanos pottery town. It’s a 8-hour tour with lunch included—designed for travelers wanting a deep dive into the northern highlights.
The trip includes sights like Uchisar Castle and Love Valley, with free time to explore or take photos. Many guests praise their guide, Mustafa, for being knowledgeable and attentive. The tour costs $75 per person, offering good value considering the comprehensive itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a full, guided overview of Cappadocia’s iconic sites in one day.
5. Full Day Private Tour in Cappadocia
If personalized attention is your priority, the Full Day Private Tour offers the flexibility to customize your route. For $160 per person, enjoy a 6-7 hour trip with a private guide, visiting the Goreme Panorama, Uchisar Castle, and Pigeon Valley.
Guests can tailor the stops to their interests, such as exploring local crafts or spending more time at favorites. Guide Gökhan’s enthusiasm and local knowledge make the experience engaging. The private format works well if you prefer a relaxed pace and personalized stories.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a customized, intimate experience in Cappadocia.
6. Cappadocia: Turkish Bath, Hammam, and Massage
Relax and recharge with the Turkish Bath, Hammam, and Massage. This 1 to 1.5-hour experience offers a soothing massage, body peeling, and facial mask in a traditional setting. Perfect after days of sightseeing, it costs $68 per person and includes access to a steam room and a full-body renewal.
Guests appreciate the friendly staff and the authentic atmosphere, often describing it as “absolute bliss.” It’s suited for travelers who want to unwind and experience a staple of Turkish culture in comfort.
Bottom Line: A wonderful way to relax, especially if your feet are sore from exploring the valleys and sites.
7. Cappadocia Private Tour | 2 Days
For those with more time, the 2-Day Private Tour offers a flexible, in-depth look at the region. It covers both north and south Cappadocia, including Goreme Open-Air Museum, Ozkonak underground city, and pottery-making in Avanos.
Guests praise the guide’s ability to adapt the schedule and the inclusion of authentic Turkish lunches. At $311 per person, it’s a higher-end option but provides a personalized, immersive experience that’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper connection.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a relaxed, personalized exploration over multiple days.
8. Cappadocia Daily Green Tour
The Daily Green Tour is ideal for nature lovers. It features a hike in Ihlara Valley, visiting Belisirma for river-side lunch, and exploring the Selime Monastery. It’s a 7-hour private experience with all fees included, priced at $89.11.
Guests love the opportunity to walk along the river and see one of the biggest underground cities. The guide provides detailed commentary on the region’s geology and landscape.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want both outdoor adventure and cultural sites.
9. Daily Cappadocia North Tour
The Daily Cappadocia North Tour offers an easy way to see the highlights in about 5-6 hours. It includes stops at Avanos pottery workshops, Uchisar Castle, and Ozkonak underground city, with a focus on both natural formations and historical sites.
Guests find it a very efficient way to cover a lot in a short time, with good value at $58 per person. It’s suitable for travelers with limited time who still want a comprehensive glimpse of the region.
Bottom Line: An efficient, well-paced tour for those on a tight schedule.
10. Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight in Goreme
The Hot Air Balloon Flight is a bucket-list experience. For around 2.5 hours, you’ll glide over Fairy Chimneys, caves, and pigeon nests at dawn. The flight includes hotel transfers, a flight certificate, and champagne toast for $142.30.
Travelers describe it as “amazing” and “the best thing in Cappadocia,” with the early morning flight providing the best light for photos. This experience is perfect for celebrating special occasions or making memories.
Bottom Line: Book early for this popular, visually spectacular adventure.
11. Cappadocia Daily Red Plus Tour
The Red Plus Tour offers an eight-hour deep dive into key sites, including Zelve Open Air Museum and Ozkonak underground city. With a focus on historical and geological features, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a full, guided day with included lunch.
Reviewers like guide Byram’s enthusiasm and the balanced itinerary. It costs $83.01 per person and is great for travelers who want a thorough overview without rushing.
Bottom Line: A detailed, guided experience for those eager to understand Cappadocia’s layers.
12. Cappadocia Shuttle: Airport Transfers to/from Kayseri & Nevsehir
Getting to and from the airports is hassle-free with the Cappadocia Shuttle. For $112.75 per group, you’ll enjoy a private transfer with 24-hour availability, ensuring you won’t miss your flight due to transportation issues. The vehicles comfortably fit up to six people, making it perfect for small groups or families.
Guests appreciate the punctuality and professionalism, with one noting, “The travel was very pleasant and efficient.” It’s a straightforward way to start or end your trip.
Bottom Line: Essential for stress-free airport transfers, especially if arriving late or early.
13. Full Day Cappadocia Green Tour
The Green Tour takes you on a full day exploring Kaymakli underground city, Ihlara Canyon, and Selime Monastery. For $96, you get a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and man-made wonders, including a scenic river lunch in Belisirma.
Guests rave about the detailed explanations and the chance to walk through ancient cave dwellings. The tour suits travelers keen on history, geology, and landscape.
Bottom Line: For a full immersion into Cappadocia’s natural and cultural sites, this tour is a top pick.
14. Cappadocia: Cat/Ihlara Valley Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
Combine the natural beauty of Ihlara Valley with a hot air balloon experience on this sunrise flight. It lasts about 3-4 hours, with hotel transfers and a champagne toast afterward. The scenic flight offers views of cave dwellings, pigeon nests, and fairy chimneys bathed in morning light.
Many travelers describe it as “amazing,” and it’s perfect for those wanting a quieter, more intimate balloon experience. It’s a fitting way to start a day exploring nearby sites.
Bottom Line: Ideal for early risers wanting a peaceful, breathtaking perspective.
15. Cappadocia Red Tour (North Tour)
This full-day tour explores the Goreme Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and Pigeon Valley. It’s a popular choice for first-timers wanting a structured day of sightseeing. The tour runs about 8 hours and is praised for its knowledgeable guides and balanced itinerary, with prices at $69 per person.
Guests mention the “excellent guide” and the opportunity to see mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and cliff houses. It’s a reliable option to cover the main sights comfortably.
Bottom Line: A dependable, comprehensive day tour—great for first visits.
16. Derinkuyu Underground City, Narli Gol, Ihlara Canyon, Belisirma Village Tour
Finally, the Derinkuyu Underground and Ihlara Canyon combines about four hours of hiking with visits to Derinkuyu Underground City, Narli Gol crater lake, and Selime Monastery. Price at $85, this tour is well-suited for active travelers wanting to see a mix of natural wonders and underground complexes.
Guests love the balance of outdoor activity and historical sites, and the guide’s expert knowledge makes the experience seamless.
Bottom Line: Best for active visitors looking for a full day of varied outdoor and underground exploration.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Urgup
Choosing the perfect tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. For comprehensive exploration with no hassle, the Cappadocia Red Tour offers great value. If a personalized experience appeals, the Full Day Private Tour is hard to beat. For extraordinary views and memories, booking the Balloon Ride early is recommended, but remember to reserve well in advance.
Budget travelers might prefer the Top Sites of Cappadocia, while those seeking relaxation can combine a Turkish Bath with sightseeing. Consider your physical fitness level for active tours like hiking in Ihlara Valley, or opt for easier, vehicle-based days if mobility is limited.
Booking early is always wise, especially for the popular balloon flights and private guides during peak seasons. Planning around your interests—history, scenery, or relaxation—will ensure you get the most from your time in Urgup.
In summary, Urgup offers a wealth of options, from stunning aerial views to detailed cultural explorations. Whether you prefer a luxury private tour, exciting hot air balloon rides, or leisurely spa days, you’ll find something to match your style. With careful planning, these tours can transform your visit into a memorable adventure. Just remember to book early, and enjoy every moment in this extraordinary landscape.