Ihlara Valley and Derinkuyu Underground City Private Tour

Discover the hidden gems of Cappadocia on a private tour that immerses you in the region’s stunning natural beauty and ancient wonders. Explore the lush Ihlara Valley, where towering cliffs and rock-hewn churches tell tales of the past. Then, explore the multi-level marvel of Derinkuyu Underground City, an 8-floor subterranean marvel that will leave you awestruck. With skip-the-line tickets, a delicious lunch, and the expertise of a licensed guide, this comprehensive experience promises to unveil the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes that make Cappadocia a must-visit destination. Uncover the secrets that lie beneath the surface and discover why this private tour is a true highlight of any Cappadocian adventure.

Key Points

• This private tour explores the Ihlara Valley, a lush, 6-kilometer-long canyon in Cappadocia with rock-hewn churches and hidden cave dwellings.
• The tour includes a visit to the Derinkuyu Underground City, an 8-floor subterranean marvel with wells, water storage, kitchens, and a fully-functioning church.
• The Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia, is also part of the tour, featuring intricate carvings and frescoes.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, skip-the-line tickets, a licensed guide, and air-conditioned private transportation.
• Pickup is available from hotels and private residences, but not from the airport, and the tour is conducted in an air-conditioned private vehicle with a professional driver.

Tour Overview

This comprehensive 7-hour private tour allows visitors to explore the captivating natural and historical wonders of Cappadocia.

The tour includes the renowned Ihlara Valley, the ancient Derinkuyu Underground City, and the impressive Selime Monastery.

During this immersive experience, guests will enjoy skip-the-line access to museums and private transportation with a driver.

Guests will embark on a 6-kilometer walk through the longest and deepest valley in Cappadocia, taking in the stunning views alongside the Melendiz River.

Delving underground, they’ll discover the multi-level Derinkuyu City, which reaches depths of 85 meters and boasts wells, kitchens, and even a church.

Exploring Ihlara Valley

Visitors often start their exploration of Ihlara Valley by embarking on a captivating 6-kilometer walk alongside the serene Melendiz River, which winds through Cappadocia’s longest and deepest valley. As they traverse the lush, verdant landscape, they’ll be awestruck by the towering cliffs, rock-hewn churches, and hidden cave dwellings that dot the valley. The walk offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Ihlara Valley Feature	Description
Length	6 kilometers
Depth	Cappadocia’s deepest valley
Landscape	Lush, verdant with towering cliffs

Delving Into Derinkuyu

After exploring the serene surface of Ihlara Valley, the tour now takes visitors deep underground to uncover the secrets of the ancient Derinkuyu Underground City.

This multi-level subterranean marvel stretches 8 floors down, reaching depths of 85 meters below the earth’s surface.

Visitors can wander through a maze of tunnels, chambers, and rooms that were once home to an entire community, including:

• Wells and water storage systems
• Kitchens and food preparation areas
• Schoolrooms and living spaces
• An extensive winery and oil press
• A fully-functioning church and bathhouse

This well-preserved underground city offers a unique glimpse into the ingenious engineering and resilient lifestyle of Cappadocia’s ancient inhabitants.

Visiting Selime Monastery

The final stop on the tour is the Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia and a stunning example of 13th-century Anatolian architectural style.

The massive cathedral-sized church has been carved directly into the volcanic tuff, a testament to the skill and determination of the region’s early inhabitants.

Visitors can explore the intricate network of rooms, chapels, and passageways that make up this impressive complex, marveling at the ornate carvings and frescoes that adorn the walls.

With its unique blend of natural and man-made elements, the Selime Monastery is a must-see destination for anyone exploring the rich cultural heritage of Cappadocia.

Guided Tour Inclusions

The guided tour includes a range of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors exploring the marvels of Cappadocia. Guests will be treated to convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to their day.

A delicious lunch with soft drinks is provided, allowing travelers to refuel amidst their discoveries.

Skip-the-line tickets grant priority access to the museums, minimizing time spent waiting.

A licensed guide accompanies the group, offering expert insights and commentary throughout the tour.

Air-conditioned private transportation ensures a comfortable journey between the captivating sites of Ihlara Valley, Derinkuyu Underground City, and Selime Monastery.

• Hotel pickup/drop-off
• Lunch with soft drinks
• Skip-the-line tickets
• Licensed guide
• Air-conditioned transportation

Transportation and Pickup

Conveniently, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventures. Guests are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle with a professional driver. This door-to-door service eliminates the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads and finding parking, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey.

Pickup/Drop-Off	Included
Hotel	Yes
Airport	No
Private Residence	Yes

The tour’s private transportation is a key feature that enhances the overall experience, providing a hassle-free and efficient way to explore the wonders of Cappadocia.

Dining Experience

Along With the convenient transportation, the tour includes a delectable lunch with soft drinks, providing a chance to refuel and savor the local flavors of the region.

The carefully curated dining experience showcases the rich culinary heritage of Cappadocia, allowing you to indulge in:

• Freshly prepared traditional Turkish dishes, such as succulent kebabs and savory meze plates
• Seasonal produce sourced from nearby farms, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor
• Homemade breads and pastries, baked to perfection by local artisans
• Refreshing non-alcoholic beverages, including Turkish tea and fruit juices

A relaxed, convivial atmosphere that encourages you to savor the meal and connect with your fellow travelers.

Important Considerations

Notably, the tour includes several important considerations to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors.

First and foremost, the tour provides skip-the-line access to museums, allowing guests to bypass long queues and maximize their time exploring the sites.

Plus, the private transportation with a driver ensures a comfortable and efficient journey between the attractions.

Lunch with soft drinks is also included, catering to the needs of travelers.

While alcoholic drinks and personal expenses are excluded, the tour provides a comprehensive package that covers the essential elements for a memorable adventure.

Ultimately, these thoughtful inclusions and considerations contribute to an enriching and stress-free exploration of Cappadocia’s remarkable natural and historical wonders.

Recap

Set out on a captivating journey through Cappadocia’s natural wonders and ancient marvels.

Enjoy the lush Ihlara Valley, where rock-hewn churches dot the verdant landscape.

Then, explore the multi-level wonder of Derinkuyu Underground City, a well-preserved subterranean marvel that stretches 8 floors deep.

This private tour offers an unforgettable experience, complete with skip-the-line tickets, a delicious lunch, and the expertise of a licensed guide.