Cappadocia, a breathtaking region in central Turkey, is renowned for its unique rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. With so much to see, and for many people limited time, the best way to experience Cappadocia's highlights is through a guided tour. The two most popular options in Cappadocia are the Red Tour and the Green Tour, each offering a different perspective of the area.
For those with limited time, the Red Tour is perfect for a quick, yet excellent introduction to Cappadocia's main sites near Göreme. On the other hand, if you prefer nature and adventure, go for the Green Tour, which offers more of an off-the-beaten-path experience with hiking (albeit a very short 30-minute hike) and underground city exploration.
If you have the time, consider doing both tours! Each offers something completely different, and together, you will get a well-rounded view of Cappadocia's natural beauty and history. I had the opportunity to experience both tours, and I really enjoyed both of them. Some operators offer a combined red and green tour for those on limited time, but that felt a bit rushed for me, and fortunately, I had time on my side.
The Red Tour is ideal for those wanting to explore historical sites and Cappadocia's iconic fairy chimneys without travelling too far from Göreme. It's still a full day out, though, lasting around seven hours and includes pick-up from your hotel. Highlights of the Red Tour include Goreme or Zelve Open Air Museum.
Both museums were interesting, featuring rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes dating back to the 10th century. They provide a glimpse into Cappadocia's Christian heritage. I preferred Zelve as there were fewer tourists, probably because it required more effort to get to and felt more authentic. The one in Goreme was good too, but more manicured and seemed to attract the larger tour groups.
Uçhisar Castle Area is another highlight of the Red Tour. It's a natural rock citadel that's the highest point in Cappadocia. This natural rock fortress was carved into a volcanic hill and has been used as a strategic defence point and a residential area throughout history. However, the Red Tour only points out the castle to you and gives you some free time to explore the area at its base.
The reason is it's 275 steps to the top and would take too much time for everyone. I ran out of time to visit independently, but apparently, it's easy to get there by bus from Goreme; it's not that far and then you can explore at leisure. Walking back to Göreme through Pigeon Valley is meant to be excellent as well.
Love Valley is famous for its unique rock formations, it's one of Cappadocia's most photogenic spots, with striking "fairy chimney" rock structures that look rather phallic! Avanos Pottery Village is situated by the Kızılırmak River and is known for its pottery, a craft that dates back thousands of years. Here, you can watch the artisans and even try making pottery yourself.
The pottery is lovely but very much priced for international tour groups. A lady from Istanbul in our group was quoted 40% less than everyone else. Pasabagi (Monk's Valley) is famous for its fairy chimneys and unique rock formations. This area once served as a secluded retreat for monks, including followers of St. Simeon, who carved homes and chapels into the rocks.
Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) is where natural rock formations take on shapes like animals. It's a quick, fun stop where you can let your imagination run wild! The rocks all looked like camels to me. Can you see the camel rock formation behind me?
The Red Tour offers visits to the main historical and cultural sites near Göreme, is perfect for travellers with limited time, easygoing and less strenuous, suitable for all ages. The included buffet lunch was surprisingly good. The guide provides information about a place and enough free time to explore and take photos.
However, most sites on the Red Tour are popular and will get crowded, especially during the peak season. I visited in November, but it wasn't that bad apart from Goreme Viewpoint. The tour takes you to the sites close to town, so you won't see the underground cities.
The Green Tour is perfect for those interested in exploring Cappadocia's hidden underground cities, hiking (albeit short) through valleys, and seeing landscapes farther from the main town. The tour lasts around nine hours and includes pick-up from your hotel.
Highlights of the Green Tour include Göreme Panorama, which offers fantastic views over Göreme and its surrounding valleys. It's a great spot to take photos and admire the unique landscape. Pigeon Valley gets its name from the numerous man-made pigeon houses carved into the region’s soft volcanic tuff.
In ancient times, pigeons played a vital role in Cappadocia, providing food and fertilizer to enrich the area's barren soil. Selime Monastery is a large monastery carved into the rocks, offering insight into the life of Cappadocia's early Christian communities. It’s a bit of a steep climb to reach the top, but worth it.
Ihlara Valley is famous for its lush landscapes and canyon views, beginning with a quick stop at a historic rock church and a nearby site once used for producing linseed oil. The trail through the valley begins with a 25-minute downhill walk, leading to a riverside path along the Melendiz River that takes you to the chilled Belisirma restaurant for lunch.
Lunch on the river at Belisirma is included in the tour and features soup, salad, and a choice of chicken, meat, or vegetarian dishes. If you prefer, you can skip the walk and take the tour bus instead. Derinkuyu Underground City is one of Cappadocia's largest and most renowned underground cities, extending several levels below the surface.
Early Christians once used it as a refuge, and exploring its narrow tunnels was an adventure on its own. It was a fascinating place to visit, but some corridors are very narrow with low ceilings, so it can be a tad claustrophobic. When we stopped at a sweet and spice shop on the way back, I thought, oh no, here comes the hard sale again, but it was actually quite fun and rather lovely to sample the different varieties of Turkish Delight.
Prices seemed reasonable too. For both tours, wearing comfortable shoes is necessary due to walking on uneven terrain. Dressing in layers can also be beneficial as Cappadocia's weather can vary, especially when entering cooler underground cities or shaded valleys.
Don't forget your phone or camera as both tours offer plenty of photo opportunities. Whether you choose the Red Tour, the Green Tour, or both, you'll have a great time. Cappadocia is an incredible place. Let me know in the comments how you got on. Disclaimer: Some of the links on this website are "affiliate links", meaning that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost.
