Cappadocia Green Tour

Turkey is one of my favorite countries; there are a number of things to see and do here, but nothing quite impressed me like the historical region of Cappadocia. When I travel, I rarely like to return to the same place, but Cappadocia is so great, I’d consider it. I visited in the beginning of March, which I found to be the perfect time; tourist numbers are low and the temperature is warm during the day but cold at night, which is ideal for me.

While many recommend 3 days in Cappadocia, I believe 2 days is enough time, especially if you start the day early. For the first day, I booked the “Natural and Cultural Wonders (Green Line) Tour” at my hotel. This tour can be booked at pretty much any hotel or tourist center. The tour begins around 9:00 ish and ends at 6.

Here is the itinerary for the Green Tour.

1) Goreme Panorama

After breakfast, you’ll first head to Goreme to explore the valley and take pictures. This is one of the best places to take photos in my opinion, so take advantage of the time you have here. You’ll spend about 30 minutes before moving on to your next destination.

2) Derinkuyu Underground City

Your next stop will be Derinkuyu Underground City, a place which served as a safe haven for Christians looking to escape persecution thousands of years ago. This city is said to have accommodated around 20,000 people, including their food and livestock! These numbers are even more impressive when you visit and see how small and narrow the caves are, it’s impossible for any person of average height to stand up straight in many places here.

3) Lunch

You’ll enjoy a nice lunch by the river, all paid for of course. The only thing you need to pay for are alcoholic beverages.

4) Ihlara Valley

This valley is one of the longest, deepest, and largest canyons in the world. The road getting there is very scenic! You’ll hike a few kilometers until you reach the cave churches.

5) Selime Monastery

This was my absolute favorite stop of the day. Selime is one of the largest religious buildings in Cappadocia completely carved out of rocks. The entire site is like a giant playground. This is your opportunity to go through narrow passageways, climb structures, and explore. Be careful up here and wear comfortable shoes!

6) Pigeon Valley

Your last stop for the day will be Pigeon Valley. This place is named after the pigeon houses kept in the valley, which were used as message carriers. Stunning views here, make sure you have enough life in your camera by this point! You won’t stay here too long as most people in your group will likely be tired and ready to head back to their hotels.

Day 2 in Cappadocia

For the second day, I decided to explore the city by myself, which was a terrible idea when I look back. The map did not help and there was a general lack of English proficiency among the locals. I ended up taking the bus to a random location I still don’t know the name of.

Along the way, I did make a friend. He spoke very little English, but he was tremendously helpful in getting me where I wanted to go (Love Valley). The bus in this particular place didn’t run very frequently, so I had some time to spare. My friend took me out to eat to try a real doner.

After a hour or so, my friend walked me to the bus stop and I was off to Love Valley. Upon arriving, I could see why it was called Love Valley. Funny how nature works sometimes.

Love Valley is probably the most relaxing place in Cappadocia, not only are the views great, but there aren’t too many tourists here. I climbed to the highest point I could find and sat for an hour just enjoying the atmosphere.

I had no idea how to get back to my hotel. There were no public buses running nor any taxis in the area. I was isolated in the middle of nowhere. When I asked locals for directions back to my hotel, they just pointed north along this highway. I walked along this road for about 30 minutes until I found a taxi. It was then I realized how far I really was! Word of advice if you’re alone in Cappadocia, study that map, know the bus routes, and learn a bit of Turkish.

Despite all the stress getting to and from Love Valley, I had an incredible day. Cappadocia is one place I highly recommend if you’re in Turkey. It’s an absolute must see and will leave long-lasting memories.