Cappadocia: Green Tour with Derinkuyu, Ihlara Valley & Lunch

Summary

Walk ancient tunnels, riverside trails & stone monasteries in Cappadocia

You’ll squeeze through the cool tunnels of Derinkuyu Underground City with a local guide, walk beside the river in lush Ihlara Valley, share Turkish lunch outdoors, and climb up Selime Monastery’s ancient steps before catching sunset light over Pigeon Valley. It’s not just sights—it’s small moments that stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

"Careful with your head," our guide Murat called back as we ducked into the first tunnel of Derinkuyu Underground City. The air changed right away—cooler, a bit damp, and honestly, it smelled like old stone and something earthy I couldn’t place. We squeezed through narrow passages (I kept bumping my backpack), and Murat told us stories about people hiding here centuries ago. He had this way of pausing mid-sentence to let you picture it—families tucked behind those carved doors, cooking or maybe just waiting for quiet above.

We came out blinking at the sun and drove south to Ihlara Valley. The walk along the river was easier than I expected—just birds, water moving over rocks, wildflowers everywhere. At one point, a local woman waved from her garden and offered us apricots. Lunch was at a wooden table right by the water; grilled chicken kebab and that smoky eggplant salad Turks do so well. The guide laughed when I tried to say “teşekkürler” (thank you)—I probably mangled it but she smiled anyway.

After that we climbed up to Selime Monastery, which looks almost impossible—like someone stacked honeycomb caves into a cliff. You can still see blackened ceilings from old fires. My legs were tired by then but I didn’t want to rush; there’s something about standing where so many different people have stood—Byzantines, Ottomans—makes you feel small in a good way. Last stop was Pigeon Valley for that famous view: hundreds of little windows cut into pale rock, pigeons swooping low. Someone in our group bought an onyx trinket at the shop nearby—felt like the right kind of souvenir after a day like this.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore southern Cappadocia highlights

• Start at Göreme Panorama viewpoint
• Visit Derinkuyu Underground City
• Walk 4km in Ihlara Valley
• Have lunch by the river
• Explore Selime Monastery
• Stop at Uçhisar viewpoint
• Visit onyx stone factory

Top questions

How long is the Cappadocia Green Tour?

The tour lasts one full day including transfers between sites.

Is lunch included in the Cappadocia Green Tour?

Yes, a Turkish-style lunch at a riverside restaurant in Ihlara Valley is included.

What sites are visited on this day trip?

The tour includes Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, Pigeon Valley viewpoint, and Göreme Panorama.

Is hotel pickup provided?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

How difficult is the walking in Ihlara Valley?

The walk is about 4km on mostly easy terrain along the river.

Are entrance tickets included?

Yes, all museum entrance fees are covered in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for claustrophobic travelers?

No, Derinkuyu Underground City has narrow tunnels and may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants and small children can join using a pram or stroller.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cappadocia towns, entry tickets for every site—including Derinkuyu Underground City—and a riverside Turkish lunch before heading back in the evening with your guide leading every step.