Early Christian Tour in Cappadocia: Göreme & Church of St. Mary
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Early Christian Tour in Cappadocia: Göreme & Church of St. Mary

Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the highlights of Cappadocia on this private full-day tour, designed for travelers who want a flexible and personalized experience. Visit iconic sites such as Göreme Open-Air Museum, explore ancient rock-cut churches, and descend into the fascinating Underground City, where early civilizations once lived underground for safety.

Enjoy scenic photo stops at Uchisar Castle Panorama, Ortahisar Panorama, Pigeon Valley, and the imaginative landscapes of Devrent Valley. Throughout the tour, your private guide and vehicle allow you to travel at your own pace, with time to enjoy Cappadocia’s unique history, culture, and volcanic scenery.

An optional visit to a stone workshop or leather factory can be included upon request, offering insight into local craftsmanship. This private tour is ideal for first-time visitors and those seeking a comfortable, well-rounded Cappadocia experience.

Available options

Private Cappadocia Tour in Göreme Museum and Underground City

Pickup included

What's included

Professional local guide
Bottled water
Admission fee
Quality Services
Government Fees
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Gratuities
Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

1

Göreme Open-Air Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Cappadocia’s top highlights. It features rock-cut churches and monasteries decorated with well-preserved frescoes from the early Christian period, offering a unique insight into the region’s history and culture.

2

Kayasehir Underground City is one of the largest and most impressive underground cities in Cappadocia. Carved deep into the volcanic rock, it was used as a shelter by ancient civilizations and features tunnels, rooms, ventilation shafts, and living areas that reveal the region’s unique underground life.

3

The Church of Saint Mary is a peaceful rock-cut church reflecting Cappadocia’s early Christian heritage. Known for its simple interior and spiritual atmosphere, it offers visitors a quiet insight into the region’s religious life and traditional cave architecture.

4
Stop 4

Pigeon Valley is a scenic valley famous for its ancient pigeon houses carved into the rock cliffs. Offering beautiful panoramic views and easy walking paths, it is a perfect spot to experience Cappadocia’s unique landscape and take memorable photos.

5

Ortahisar Panorama offers stunning views of Cappadocia’s dramatic landscape, dominated by Ortahisar Castle, one of the region’s most impressive natural rock formations. It is an ideal stop for panoramic photos and a brief insight into local life.

6

Traditional Cappadocian Lunch Enjoy a delicious lunch where you will taste traditional Cappadocian dishes, prepared with authentic local flavors. A true culinary journey awaits you!

7

Avanos - Pottary Workshop
In this charming town by the river, examine skillfully crafted examples of handmade ceramics and get acquainted with the works of local artists.

Are you ready to discover Cappadocia’s ancient pottery-making tradition? Experience the art of shaping your own pottery alongside master artisans. Made with Avanos’ famous red clay, these handcrafted pieces will become a unique souvenir of your journey!

8
Stop 8

Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, is famous for its unique rock formations shaped by nature into animal-like figures. This valley offers a fun and scenic stop where visitors can use their imagination while enjoying Cappadocia’s unusual landscape.

9
Stop 9

Uchisar Castle is the highest point in Cappadocia and offers breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding valleys and fairy chimneys. This panoramic stop is perfect for photos and a quick appreciation of the region’s unique volcanic landscape.

10

During the tour, a visit to a stone workshop or a leather factory can be arranged upon request. Guests may choose their preferred option and enjoy an opportunity to experience Cappadocia’s traditional craftsmanship and local production.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Göreme

Göreme is a small town in the heart of Cappadocia, renowned for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. This enchanting region offers a blend of natural wonders, ancient history, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Göreme Open-Air Museum

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring rock-cut churches and monasteries with stunning frescoes dating back to the Byzantine era.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Approximately 50 TRY

Love Valley

A scenic valley known for its phallic-shaped rock formations and hiking trails offering panoramic views of the region.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Uçhisar Castle

A towering rock castle offering the highest panoramic view of the Cappadocia region.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Approximately 20 TRY

Derinkuyu Underground City

An ancient multi-level underground city carved into volcanic rock, used as a refuge during times of invasion.

Historical 2-3 hours Approximately 30 TRY

Hot Air Balloon Ride

A must-do experience in Cappadocia, offering breathtaking aerial views of the unique landscape.

Adventure 1-2 hours Approximately 150-250 EUR

Must-Try Local Dishes

Testi Kebab

A traditional dish cooked in a sealed clay pot, containing meat, vegetables, and spices.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Pide

Turkish flatbread with various toppings, similar to pizza.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian

Göreme Salad

A fresh salad made with local vegetables, cheese, and herbs.

Lunch Vegetarian

Manti

Small dumplings filled with spiced meat, served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon ride Hiking ATV tours Horseback riding Spa and wellness treatments Wine tasting Picnicking in the valleys Visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

The weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Turkish
  • Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Göreme is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
  • • Use reputable tour operators and guides
  • • Agree on prices before starting your journey in taxis or shared vehicles

Getting there

By air
  • Kayseri Erkilet Airport • 75 km (47 miles)
  • Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport • 35 km (22 miles)
By bus

Göreme Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are infrequent and not very reliable. They are best suited for short distances.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Göreme Town Center Uçhisar Çavuşin

Day trips

Derinkuyu Underground City
30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

Explore the fascinating underground city of Derinkuyu, a multi-level subterranean refuge dating back to ancient times.

Ihlara Valley
50 km (31 miles) • Full day

A scenic valley with lush greenery, ancient churches, and hiking trails along the Melendiz River.

Avanos
20 km (12.4 miles) • Half day

A traditional town known for its pottery workshops and pottery-making demonstrations.

Festivals

Cappadocia International Music Festival • September Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Festival • April Çavuşin Culture and Art Festival • July

Pro tips

  • Book your hot air balloon ride well in advance, as they often sell out during peak season
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the rocky terrain
  • Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Turkish to enhance your interaction with locals
  • Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
$140 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 1-90
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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