Goreme to North Cappadocia Tour. Guide, Lunch and Transfers Incl.

The Goreme to North Cappadocia Tour offers a chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia with the guidance of knowledgeable local experts. From visiting the captivating Zelve Open-Air Museum to discovering the unique geological formations in Devrent Valley, this small-group excursion promises an enriching cultural experience. But the highlight just might be the opportunity to savor the flavors of the region’s renowned wines during a tasting session in Ürgup. What surprises await those who embark on this captivating journey?

Key Points

• An 8-hour small-group tour from Goreme that explores the highlights of North Cappadocia, including Zelve Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and Pasabag Valley.
• Includes professional guiding, transportation, and a delicious lunch, offering an immersive cultural and scenic experience in the region.
• Tour starts at 9:30 AM with hotel pickup and visits a pottery workshop, 5th-century Church of St. John the Baptist, and Devrent Valley.
• Highly-rated tour with a 99% recommendation rate, praised for knowledgeable guides, quality of included lunch, and overall organization.
• Guests note minor issues with transportation and rushed stops at some attractions, but the tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes and cultural attractions.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Goreme to North Cappadocia Tour is an 8-hour small-group excursion that takes travelers on a comprehensive exploration of the region’s breathtaking landscapes and historical sites.

With a maximum of 15 people, this highly-rated tour (99% recommended) showcases the highlights of North Cappadocia, including the Zelve Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and Pasabag Valley.

Lunch, professional guiding, and transportation are all included, allowing guests to simply sit back and enjoy the experience.

Whether admiring the unique rock formations or witnessing a pottery demonstration, this tour offers an immersive cultural and scenic journey through the heart of Cappadocia.

Itinerary Details

The tour starts at 9:30 AM with pickup from guests’ hotel lobbies in Goreme.

The first stop is Avanos for a pottery workshop lasting an hour.

Next, the group visits Çavusin’s 5th-century Church of St. John the Baptist for 30 minutes.

They then spend 20 minutes at the otherworldly Devrent Valley.

The tour continues to the Zelve Open-Air Museum for an hour-long exploration of historical caves.

In Pasabag Valley, guests admire the fairy chimneys for 1 hour.

The final stops are Uchisar Castle for panoramic views and an Ürgup winery for a 30-minute wine tasting.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Guests have generally praised the tour guides for their extensive knowledge and engaging presentation of the sites.

Many reviewers highlighted the quality of the included lunch, noting it was delicious and exceeded expectations.

The tour’s organization also received high marks, with guests appreciating the sufficient time allotted at each location.

However, some travelers found the bus used for transportation to be uncomfortable.

A few guests mentioned excessive shopping stops and felt rushed at certain attractions, such as Uchisar Castle, indicating a desire for more time to fully explore specific sites.

Accessibility and Additional Information

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the journey.

Despite these limitations, the tour provides ample opportunities for travelers to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural attractions of Cappadocia.

Key booking details include:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
2. Prices starting from $47.93 per person.
3. Confirmation received at the time of booking.
4. Most travelers are able to participate in the tour.

Summary of Highlights

The tour boasts an impressive 4.9 rating based on over 1,030 reviews.

It provides unique cultural experiences through pottery and wine tasting, as well as scenic landscapes and historical sites. The tour is strongly recommended for travelers with limited time in Turkey who want to explore Cappadocia’s highlights in a single day.

Guests praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, high-quality lunch, and well-organized itinerary.

While some mention minor issues like uncomfortable bus rides and rushed stops, the tour overall delivers an immersive and memorable journey through North Cappadocia’s stunning natural and cultural wonders.

Exploring Zelve Open-Air Museum

As visitors explore the Zelve Open-Air Museum, they discover a captivating glimpse into Cappadocia’s rich history.

This unique site features:

1. Carved cave dwellings and churches dating back to the 5th century.
2. Impressive rock formations sculpted by wind and water erosion.
3. Remnants of a once-thriving Byzantine monastic community.
4. Insight into the daily lives and religious practices of early inhabitants.

Wandering through the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Cappadocia’s remarkable history.

The Zelve Open-Air Museum offers a fascinating window into the region’s resilient past.

Discovering Devrent Valley’s Unique Landscapes

The Devrent Valley, also known as "Imaginary Valley," enchants visitors with its otherworldly landscape. Unique rock formations, sculpted by wind and water over millennia, dot the valley.

Visitors can explore the strange shapes, which resemble animals, mythical creatures, and even human figures. The surreal environment transports them to another world, evoking a sense of wonder and imagination.

This geological marvel is a highlight of the North Cappadocia tour, providing a glimpse into the region’s remarkable natural beauty. Guests spend around 20 minutes exploring the captivating lunar-like landscapes of the Devrent Valley.

Tasting Local Wines in Ürgup

The Ürgup Winery, nestled among the rolling hills of Cappadocia, offers visitors a chance to savor the region’s renowned wines.

During the tour, guests spend 30 minutes at the winery, where they can:

1. Discover the unique terroir that gives Cappadocian wines their distinct flavors.
2. Sample a variety of red, white, and rosé wines produced using traditional methods.
3. Learn about the winemaking process from knowledgeable staff.
4. Purchase bottles to take home and share with friends and family.

This wine tasting experience provides a delightful respite from the day’s adventurous itinerary, allowing travelers to appreciate Cappadocia’s rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to your preferences. Many tour operators allow guests to adjust the itinerary within reason to fit their interests and schedule, though some sites may have set visiting times.

What Should I Bring on the Tour to Make the Most of It?

To make the most of the tour, it’s recommended to bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, and any necessary medications. Plus, bringing a refillable water bottle can be helpful.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Optional Activities During the Tour?

The tour generally includes lunch, tastings, and transportation, but travelers may encounter additional costs for optional experiences like purchasing local pottery or wine. It’s best to budget for any personal purchases or activities not explicitly covered in the tour package.

How Physically Demanding Is the Tour, and What Level of Fitness Is Required?

The tour involves moderate physical activity, with walking over uneven terrain at historical sites. Guests should have a moderate level of mobility and fitness. Those with limited mobility may find certain aspects challenging but can generally participate with some assistance.

Are There Any Restrictions or Recommendations for Photography During the Tour?

The tour is photography-friendly, with ample opportunities to capture the stunning landscapes and historical sites. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras, though tripods may be restricted at certain locations. Flash photography is generally allowed.

The Sum Up

The Goreme to North Cappadocia Tour offers an enriching 8-hour experience, featuring a small group for personalized attention. Highlights include visits to Zelve Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and Pasabag Valley, complemented by a pottery workshop and wine tasting. Guests enjoy a delicious lunch and benefit from knowledgeable guides, ensuring an engaging and memorable exploration of Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.