Selime is a standout destination in Cappadocia, offering a rich mix of ancient sites, dramatic landscapes, and authentic experiences. Its unique location makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s highlights, and the variety of tours available ensures there’s something for all. We particularly enjoy the All-Included Mixed Cappadocia Tour without Shopping Spots for its comprehensive itinerary and balanced mix of history, nature, and local culture. Plus, it avoids unnecessary shopping stops, focusing instead on authentic sights like the Mazi underground city and Ihlara Valley. For a deeper dive into the region’s underground marvels, check out the Cappadocia Underground City Guided Green Tour & Lunch.
If you’re planning your visit, here’s a quick overview: from full-day excursions that cover underground cities and scenic valleys, to specialized tours with included lunch and museum tickets, the options are diverse. Each tour offers different highlights, durations, and unique touches, ensuring you find the right fit.
1. All-Included Mixed Cappadocia Tour without Shopping Spots
At number 1, this All-Included Mixed Cappadocia Tour offers a well-rounded day exploring key landmarks like the Mazi underground city, Damsa Lake, and Soganli Valley. Priced at $49 per person for 8-9 hours, it’s an excellent value considering the breadth of sights covered. What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic experiences without the typical shopping stops—you won’t find the usual tourist traps but instead enjoy visits to Soğanlı Valley, Sinasos, and Derinkuyu Underground City.
The tour kicks off with flexible pickup options from 12 locations, including Göreme and Nevşehir, making it convenient regardless of where you stay. Highlights include the Derinkuyu Underground City, where the guide shares stories of early inhabitants hiding from invaders, and the Selime Monastery, with panoramic views after a 75-minute guided walk. The day also features a scenic stop at Narlıgöl Crater, a fantastic photo opportunity, and a traditional lunch in Ihlara Valley.
Guests often praise the knowledgeable guides and the smooth logistics. One reviewer noted, “Kamil was an outstanding guide, making the history come alive with stories and local insights.” The tour ends with convenient drop-offs at various locations, making it flexible and easy to fit into your schedule.
Bottom Line: If you want a full day of varied sights and natural beauty without the shopping pressure, this tour offers excellent value and a natural, unhurried experience.
2. Cappadocia Green Tour (Includes lunch and museum tickets)
This Cappadocia Green Tour ranks high for its immersive experience of the southern region, for just $49 per person and lasting around 7.5-8 hours. It’s perfect if you want to see the Kaymakli underground city, the largest of its kind, and walk through the Ihlara Valley, known for its dramatic cliffs and ancient churches. The tour also includes a visit to Selime Monastery, offering insights into monastic life.
What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of lunch and museum tickets, making it a great option for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one experience. The itinerary is thoughtfully paced, with stops at the Goreme Panorama and Pigeon Valley, giving plenty of photo opportunities, guided explanations, and free time. The Kaymakli Underground City tour is particularly well-received, with visitors describing the underground labyrinth as “fascinating and a little spooky.”
One reviewer even called their guide “incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic,” which amplified the entire day’s enjoyment. For those interested in the region’s geology, history, and natural beauty, this tour delivers a comprehensive picture.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a well-rounded, culturally enriching day that includes a hearty regional lunch, this tour provides good value and a full dose of Cappadocia’s highlights.
3. Cappadocia :Underground City Guided Green Tour & Lunch
This Green Tour with a focus on underground cities and lunch costs $70 per person for about 8.5 hours. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to explore the most famous underground city of Cappadocia, along with visits to Ihlara Valley and Selime Monastery. The inclusion of a guided walk through the Ihlara Valley, with its lush scenery and historic churches, makes this tour stand out.
What makes this experience unique is the focus on learning about natural history and monastic life in the area. The guide shares stories about the region’s rock formations and the lives of monks who once inhabited the caves. The walk through the Ihlara Valley is leisurely but packed with interesting sights, making it ideal for those who enjoy a blend of outdoor activity and cultural education.
Guests comment positively on the depth of information, with one noting: “The guide made the history come alive, especially at Selime Monastery, which was truly impressive.” The tour concludes with a satisfying lunch and an opportunity to explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: If you want an in-depth look at underground cities and monastic sites, combined with a scenic hike, this guided tour offers a meaningful experience.
$70 per person
4. Cappadocia Green Tour (Guide + Lunch + Transfer)
This Green Tour with guide, lunch, and transfer priced at $90 per person provides a comprehensive 8-hour exploration of Cappadocia’s highlights. It covers Ihlara Valley, Kaymakli underground city, and Selime Monastery, with the convenience of included transportation. The tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience, with the logistics handled for you.
What makes this tour appealing is the focus on the largest canyon in the region, the Ihlara Valley, and the opportunity to learn about ancient civilizations that thrived here. The itinerary features a scenic walk in Ihlara, with guided explanations about the geology and history, and visits to Selime Monastery—a site that reveals the monks’ way of life. Guests typically appreciate the smooth transfer service, making it easier to relax and enjoy the day.
A reviewer shared, “The guide’s insights into the region’s history and geology made the trip memorable,” emphasizing the value of having expert commentary. The extra time at each stop allows for more in-depth exploration.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a guided, all-inclusive day with minimal planning, this tour offers excellent convenience and educational value.
$90 per person
5. Cappadocia’s Green Tour
Rounding out the list, this Cappadocia Green Tour is rated at 5/5, with a price of $120 per person for an 8-hour day. This tour emphasizes exploring the fairy chimneys, underground cities, and Ihlara Valley, with a focus on scenic lunch by the river. It’s geared toward travelers who want a more curated experience with expert guides leading the way.
Highlights include visits to iconic sites like Uçhisar, Çavuşin, and Goreme, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning about the region’s geological and historical significance. The trek in Ihlara Valley is a key feature, offering a manageable walk through one of the world’s largest canyons, with stunning views and ancient churches carved into the rocks.
Scenic stops, combined with culturally rich visits, make this an excellent choice for those who wish to immerse themselves more deeply. The tour’s reputation for attentive guiding and well-balanced itinerary justifies the slightly higher price point.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a premium experience with personalized attention, this Green Tour provides a comprehensive and scenic overview of Cappadocia.
$120 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time, and what interests you most. If you want a full-day experience without shopping distractions, the All-Included Mixed Cappadocia Tour is excellent. For those eager to explore underground cities and scenic hikes with meals included, the Cappadocia Green Tour (including the guided version) offers great value. If you prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience with transfers, the Cappadocia Green Tour (Guide + Lunch + Transfer) is ideal.
Think about your physical activity level—if you’re comfortable walking and hiking, tours like the Ihlara Valley walk are rewarding. If you prefer a more relaxed experience with transportation taken care of, the more comprehensive guided tours will suit you best. Booking early, especially in peak seasons, helps ensure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Selime and the greater Cappadocia region offer a variety of tours catering to different interests and budgets. Whether you want a full-day exploration of underground cities and valleys, or a more curated, scenic experience with guided commentary, the options above are among the best. The All-Included Mixed Cappadocia Tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced, no-hassle day, while the Green Tour with guide and transfer provides convenience and depth.
If you’re planning a trip, consider what sights intrigue you most—whether it’s the underground cities, expansive valleys, or ancient monasteries—and pick a tour that matches your interests. Remember, booking early can secure your spot on these popular excursions. Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscape deserves an attentive, well-planned visit, and these tours will help you make the most of your time there.
Happy exploring!