Urgup is a fantastic base for exploring Cappadocia’s surreal landscape and historic sites. Unlike some larger towns, Urgup offers a more relaxed vibe and convenient access to many of the region’s most iconic attractions. If you’re looking to experience underground cities like Derinkuyu, hike through Ihlara Valley, or enjoy personalized private tours, Urgup’s tour options won’t disappoint. We especially appreciate tours that combine history, scenic landscapes, and authentic local experiences—like the Derinkuyu Underground City, Narli Gol Ihlara Canyon, Belisirma Village Selime Tour From Cappadocia, which offers a full day of exploration with comfort and convenience.
A quick look at the tours: Whether you’re after a comprehensive private experience, an active day hiking and exploring underground, or a guided tour that hits all the highlights, Urgup has it covered. From small-group adventures to luxury private trips, each offers something special. Below, we review the five best options to help you pick the right one.
1. Derinkuyu Underground City, Narli Gol Ihlara Canyon, Belisirma Village Selime Tour From Cappadocia
At number one, this 8-hour guided tour combines Derinkuyu Underground City, a marvel of ancient engineering, with a scenic hike in Ihlara Canyon and stops at Narli Gol crater lake and Selime Monastery. This tour is perfect for those who want a well-rounded day without the hassle of logistics outside of a guided experience. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, and all entrance fees are paid upfront, so you won’t have to wait in line.
The hike through Ihlara Canyon—roughly four hours—is a highlight. It’s an easy walk along the river with plenty of opportunities for photos of the lush landscape. Lunch is included and served at the charming Belisirma village, giving you a taste of local life. The stops at Derinkuyu and Selime are rich in history, but what we love about this tour is the seamless blend of outdoor activity and cultural insight. All entry fees are covered, making it a stress-free day.
Bottom line: This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, history, and convenience, suitable for travelers who want to see the region’s highlights confidently in a day.
2. PRIVATE Cappadocia Tour & Underground City Combined with TICKETS
Number two on our list is the private, all-inclusive Cappadocia tour, lasting around 7 to 8 hours. This experience emphasizes flexibility and personalized attention. Starting with the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock-cut churches, the tour then ventures into the Kaymakli Underground City, notable for its extensive tunnels and chambers.
What makes this tour stand out is its private nature—your guide will tailor visits based on your interests, and you skip the crowds. You also get to visit Uchisar Castle for panoramic views and the Matis pottery and carpet weaving villages for a taste of local craftsmanship. All entry fees are included, and a traditional Turkish lunch is part of the package. Guests often comment that the guide’s local knowledge and flexibility make for a memorable experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, comfortable tour with the ability to customize stops. It’s excellent value considering its all-inclusive nature and private service.
3. Cappadocia Daily South Tour (Red Valley + Kaymakli Underground City)
This 7-hour guided tour explores the Red Valley, Ortahisar Castle, and Kaymakli Underground City. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to combine outdoor hiking with sightseeing. The Red Valley hike takes around 2.5 hours and is a favorite for its dramatic rock formations and striking colors—perfect for photography.
Following the hike, you’ll visit Ortahisar Castle, a tall volcanic outcrop with sweeping views. The Kaymakli Underground City is the deepest and most extensive underground city in Cappadocia, offering a fascinating glimpse into regional defense strategies. The tour also includes a scenic viewpoint in Uchisar, where Pigeon Valley spreads out before you.
Reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the well-paced itinerary. The tour includes lunch and all entrance fees, making it a good value. It suits active travelers who want a mix of hiking and cultural sites without a full day commitment.
Bottom line: Great for those who enjoy outdoor walking and want a comprehensive look at Cappadocia’s underground marvels and landscape.
4. Private Cappadocia Tour
Number four is a private, personalized 7.5-hour experience that emphasizes deep exploration of key sites like Goreme Open-Air Museum, Pasabag Fairy Chimneys, and Uchisar Castle. This tour is perfect for travelers who value flexibility and a tailored itinerary. The guide is committed to offering a smooth experience with minimal disruptions.
This tour includes admission tickets to major sites and offers a more relaxed pace compared to group options. The Pasabag Valley is particularly striking with its mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys, and the Uchisar Castle provides excellent panoramic views. The guide’s focus on local history and architecture makes it especially appealing to those interested in the region’s geology and culture.
Guests note the quality of service and the focus on personal interests, making it a good pick for families or those seeking a more intimate experience. One potential downside is the price—it’s a bit higher than group tours, but the private service justifies the cost.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking exclusivity and customized attention, especially if you want to focus on specific sites or need flexibility.
5. Cappadocia: Luxury Private Sacred Churches Tour
Finally, the Luxury Private Sacred Churches Tour offers a deep dive into Cappadocia’s religious art and architecture, including stops at Mustafapaşa, Sobessos, Soğanli Valley, and Keslik Monastery. This 8-hour tour is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in Byzantine frescoes and ancient sites.
The highlight is the hike through Soğanli Valley, where you see frescoed churches accessible only by torchlight. The tour also includes a visit to Mustafapaşa, a town with Greek architecture, and the Roman settlement of Sobessos—discovered only recently by treasure hunters. The guided walk is rich in detail, and the private nature ensures you can focus on your interests.
This option is more expensive, but the focus on sacred sites and personalized service make it worth considering for cultural history buffs. Reviews note the knowledgeable guide and the exclusive access to certain sites as major positives.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want an in-depth, culturally focused experience with the comfort of private service.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your perfect tour in Urgup, consider your budget, interests, and physical fitness. If outdoor hiking and natural scenery appeal, Tours 1 or 3 are excellent choices. For a more private, customizable experience, Tours 2 or 4 shine. History lovers eager to see religious frescoes and ancient churches should lean toward Tour 5.
It’s wise to book early, especially during peak season, to ensure your preferred tour and time slot. For a balanced mix of outdoor activity and culture, look for tours that include all entrance fees and meals—like Tours 1 and 2. Those seeking a more relaxed pace might prefer private options, which also offer more flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Urgup’s variety of tours makes it easy to match your interests and travel style. For story-rich exploration, the Derinkuyu and Ihlara Canyon tour offers a full day of adventure with comfort. If you value privacy and customization, the private tours provide tailored experiences that won’t disappoint. For those keen on cultural sites and sacred art, the luxury sacred churches tour offers a deep dive into Cappadocia’s spiritual heritage.
No matter what you choose, booking in advance is the best way to lock in your plans. Each tour offers a unique way to see Cappadocia’s highlights, so pick the one that fits your curiosity, pace, and budget. Happy travels!