2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul: Fairy Chimneys & Underground City

Summary

Cappadocia Overnight Adventure: Fairy Chimneys & Ancient Caves

You’ll wander ancient cave cities, climb castles carved from rock, and see landscapes that honestly don’t look real—all with local guides who know every shortcut and story. If you want to see Cappadocia’s highlights without rushing or missing out on those little moments (like fresh bread smells drifting through Avanos), this trip covers it all.

What’s the experience like?

It’s hard to forget the first time you step off the overnight bus in Cappadocia—there’s this cool morning air and a faint smell of dust and wild herbs. Our guide, Emre, met us right at the station with a sleepy grin and strong Turkish tea. We kicked things off at Devrent Valley, where the rocks twist into shapes that look like animals if you squint just right. It really does feel like another planet out there. Pasabaglari was next—those “fairy chimneys” are taller than they look in photos, and you can hear doves cooing from inside some of them.

By midday, we’d made it to Avanos for a pottery demo. The clay was cold and sticky—one of those things that looks easy until you try it yourself. Lunch was quick but tasty; I grabbed a gözleme from a tiny stand near the river. Uchisar Castle loomed over us as we climbed up for views across Goreme Valley—windy up top, but worth it for the panorama. The afternoon light made the stone glow pinkish-gold at Esentepe before we wandered through the Goreme Open-Air Museum. Those old frescoes inside the rock-cut churches are faded but still colorful if you look close.

The next morning started early with Kaymakli Underground City—a maze of tunnels where it’s cool even when it’s hot outside (bring a jacket). It’s wild to think people lived down there for months at a time. Red Valley looked almost painted in the sunrise; our guide pointed out wildflowers growing between the rocks. Cavusin Cave Village felt quiet except for a few roosters crowing somewhere nearby. We finished up at Ortahisar, where locals still hang laundry outside old stone houses and kids wave as you pass by.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Devrent, Pasabaglari, Avanos & Uchisar

• Turista Travel
• Visit Goreme Open-Air Museum
• Visit Uchisar Castle

Day 2 — Kaymakli, Red Valley & Ortahisar

• Explore Kaymakli Underground City
• Visit Red Valley
• Visit Ortahisar

Top questions

Is this Cappadocia tour suitable for older travelers?

Yes, most walks are gentle and there are plenty of breaks. The underground city has some stairs but is manageable for most fitness levels.

What kind of hotel do we stay in?

You’ll spend the night at Hotel Asia Minor in Urgup—a comfortable spot with friendly staff and good breakfast options.

Are meals included on this tour?

Meals aren’t included, but there are lots of local cafés and food stands along the way where you can try regional dishes.

Do I need to bring anything special?

A light jacket is handy for underground sites or early mornings; comfy shoes are a must since some paths are rocky or uneven.

What’s included

Your overnight stay in Urgup is covered, plus all entrance fees to national parks and museums. Local guides lead each stop, and transport is by air-conditioned vehicle—so you can just relax and enjoy the ride.