2 Days South (Green tour) and North (Red tour) Cappadocia + Lunch

Discover the best of Cappadocia in just two days with this well-rounded guided tour that covers both the south (Green tour) and north (Red tour) regions. Priced at $69 per person, the package offers an efficient way to see key sights like Uçhisar Castle, Pasabag fairy chimneys, Devrent Valley, Love Valley, and Ihlara Valley. With hotel pickup and transfers included, travelers enjoy a smooth experience, guided by knowledgeable local experts who explain the stories behind each site. This tour also features lunch on both days, making it a practical choice for those wanting a rundown without the hassle of planning. While the pace can be brisk at times, the focus on highlights and small-group setting make this a popular pick for first-time visitors.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a cost-effective, guided introduction to Cappadocia’s most famous sights, with convenient logistics and insightful commentary. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and eager to maximize their time exploring multiple sites over two days. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 out of 5 reflects consistent satisfaction with the guides and overall experience, though some reviews note a few stops feel a little rushed.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour covering both south (Green) and north (Red) Cappadocia
• Includes hotel pickup, transfers, and lunches on both days for convenience
• Visits top sights like Uçhisar Castle, Pasabag fairy chimneys, Devrent Valley, and Ihlara Valley
• Small group experience with a maximum of 14 travelers for a more personal atmosphere
• Affordable price of $69 per person, with most trips booked around 39 days in advance
• Guided by local experts, ensuring insightful explanations and answers

Introduction to Cappadocia’s Two-Day Green and Red Tours

This 2-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Cappadocia’s most celebrated sights, with a focus on both the south (Green tour) and north (Red tour) regions. The experience begins with hotel pickup in Goreme, streamlining the day so visitors can relax and focus on the sights. The guided tours provide in-depth commentary, helping visitors understand the geology, history, and stories behind the landscape.

At $69 per person, this tour strikes a balance between affordability and quality. The inclusion of lunch on both days and transfers to all attractions means there’s no need to worry about logistics or additional costs. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience and room for questions, which often results in a more engaging visit.

Starting Point at Uçhisar Castle Viewpoint

The first stop at Uçhisar Castle View Point offers sweeping vistas of Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. From this vantage point, visitors enjoy stunning views of fairy chimneys, valleys, and volcanic formations that define the region. The free admission makes it an easy, accessible start to the tour, and the panoramic scenery sets the tone for the days ahead.

This initial viewpoint is perfect for photo opportunities and taking in the scale of Cappadocia’s rock formations. It’s a quiet moment before the busy exploration begins, and guides typically share interesting facts about the region’s geological origins.

Exploring the Pottery Town of Avanos with Lunch and Crafts

In Avanos, the tour includes a delicious lunch in a charming setting, allowing a taste of local cuisine—whether vegetarian or meaty options. Afterward, visitors participate in a hands-on pottery-making experience with local artisans, a highlight for those interested in traditional crafts.

Avanos’s pottery scene is famous and an important part of Cappadocia’s cultural identity. The Chez Galip Pottery Workshop is another stop where visitors see craftsmen at work, learning about centuries-old techniques. This stop not only offers a chance to see local craftsmanship but also provides an opportunity to purchase souvenirs directly from artisans.

Pasabag Fair Chimneys and Fairy Tale Atmosphere

The Pasabag open-air museum is renowned for its towering fairy chimneys, some of the region’s most iconic formations. Visitors marvel at the double and triple-headed chimneys, which create a fantasy-like landscape.

While admission to Pasabag is not included, most travelers find the site worth the small extra cost. The stories behind the formations help bring the landscape to life, with guides sharing legends and geological facts. The site’s unique formations make it an ideal spot for photography.

Devrent Valley’s Imagination in Natural Formations

Devrent Valley, also called “Imagination Valley,” offers a more whimsical experience. Its fantastical rock formations resemble animals and objects, like camels, dolphins, and human shapes. The valley is free of churches or dwellings, emphasizing natural artistry.

This stop encourages visitors to use their imagination and take creative photos. Devrent Valley’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a peaceful contrast to more crowded sites, perfect for a relaxed stroll and some fun with natural sculptures.

Love Valley’s Unique Landscape and Panoramic Views

Love Valley is famous for its phallic-shaped rock formations, carved by natural erosion over millennia. The viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic shots of the valley’s spires, contrasted against the lush greenery below.

A brief 15-minute drive from Göreme makes Love Valley an accessible highlight. The scenery is especially photogenic, attracting those eager to capture the surreal beauty of Cappadocia’s landscape.

Zelve Open Air Museum’s Ancient Cave Dwellings

The Zelve Open Air Museum showcases cave dwellings, monasteries, and churches carved directly into the rock. This site reveals early Christian life and civilizations that inhabited Cappadocia over centuries.

Most visitors spend about 1 hour exploring its impressive fairy chimneys and historic structures. The admission fee is not included, but many find the cultural and historical insights worth the extra cost. Walking through centuries-old homes and religious sites provides a tangible connection to the past.

Visit to Avanos Pottery and Ceramics Center

Another highlight in Avanos is the Chez Galip Pottery & Ceramics workshop, where visitors observe traditional Turkish pottery techniques. The legendary potter Galip continues a centuries-old craft, blending art and culture in this workshop.

This 45-minute stop is free of charge, and many appreciate the chance to see artisans at work or purchase unique ceramic pieces. It’s a small but memorable part of the overall experience.

Day 2 Starts with Göreme Panorama and Pigeon Valley

The second day begins with Goreme Panorama, where visitors enjoy stunning views of the fairy chimneys and valleys. The viewpoint is ideal for photos and soaking in the landscape.

Next, the Pigeon Valley Viewpoint offers panoramic views dotted with historic pigeon houses carved into cliffs. Both stops are free and serve as perfect spots for pictures and quiet reflection amid the natural beauty.

Exploring Kaymakli Underground City

Kaymakli Underground City is a fascinating site where tunnels, rooms, and hidden passageways once provided refuge for early inhabitants. The city extends several levels underground, showcasing ingenious architecture and defense mechanisms.

Admission fees are not included, but the site remains a popular attraction. Visitors can expect guided explanations about how the city was used for protection and shelter during ancient times.

Hike Through Ihlara Valley’s Lush Gorge

The Ihlara Valley offers a serene hiking experience along the Melendiz River, surrounded by greenery and carved rock churches. The 4 km hike reveals frescoed churches and beautiful nature, making it a peaceful escape from the more crowded sites.

This stop combines natural beauty with cultural exploration, as the rock-cut churches tell stories of early Christian communities. The admission fee is not included but many find the scenic walk worthwhile.

Discovering Selime Monastery’s Ancient Complex

The Selime Monastery features large cave rooms, chapels, and hidden passageways carved into the rock. The view from the monastery provides a sweeping perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Exploring this impressive site, visitors learn about early Christian life and the monastery’s architectural ingenuity. The admission fee is not included, but many consider it a highlight for history buffs.

Practical Details and Booking Insights

This tour departs at 9:30 am from Cappadocia Visitorsali Mahallesi in Göreme, and includes pickup, transfers, and lunches. It is designed for most travelers and typically involves moderate walking. The small group size (max 14 participants) enhances interaction and personalization.

Booking in advance, about 39 days on average, is recommended to secure a spot. The full refund policy applies if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Weather considerations are also important, as cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Cappadocia Tour

This Green and Red Tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Cappadocia’s most famous sights. The inclusion of lunches and hotel pickup simplifies logistics, while local guides enrich the experience with informative commentary. The small group size fosters a more personal and engaging atmosphere.

While the pace can be brisk, especially with multiple stops in a day, the value for money and coverage of key sites make this an attractive option for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time. The glowing reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, particularly with guides like Inci and Emre, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

This tour suits those who want a manageable, well-organized introduction to Cappadocia, appreciating insightful guidance and a variety of stops that highlight geology, history, and culture. It’s a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to see the region’s top attractions without feeling rushed.