Our Cappadocia adventure was a whirlwind of exploration, starting with planning the Red and Green Tours to discover this Turkish wonderland's hidden gems.
The day before our tour, we checked market prices for the Red and Green Tours. We got our Cappadocia Red Tour tickets for about 50 Euros from the hotel and grabbed Green Tour tickets for 45 Euros from a local market stall.
The tours started at 9 AM and promised a full day of fun, including:
- Entrance fees
- Tour Guide
- Transport
- Lunch
Cappadocia Red Tour
Our Red Tour began at 9:30 AM when the tour van picked us up. The itinerary was packed with fascinating spots:
- Uchisar Rock Castle
- Goreme Open Air Museum
- Love Valley
- The pottery workshops in Avanos Town
- Pasabag Valley & Devrent Valley
Our day began with an ascent to the imposing Uçhisar Rock Castle. Soaring above the valleys, it offered a 360-degree panorama that stole our breath. The sun painted the volcanic landscape in shades of gold and apricot, a breathtaking introduction to the magic of Cappadocia.
Next was the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a place filled with ancient monasteries and caves. Walking through, it felt like going back to a very old time when people lived in caves. The paintings on the walls were so well-kept; it was like peeking into the past. Our guide, a passionate storyteller, brought these stone walls to life, weaving narratives of monks, artisans, and hidden chapels.
Then, we went to Love Valley, known for its huge rock formations that look like giant mushrooms. It's a popular spot for couples because it's so romantic. There's even a wish tree where you can make a wish!
A delicious lunch in a charming restaurant refueled us for the afternoon's adventures. The spread boasted local flavors and generous portions, a delightful ode to Turkish cuisine.
After lunch, we headed to Avanos Town, famous for its pottery. We saw how the red clay from the nearby river is turned into beautiful pottery. We even tried making some ourselves!
Our tour continued to Pasabag Valley & Devrent Valley. Pasabag had these amazing rock formations that looked like chimneys. And in Devrent Valley, the rocks looked like animals! It felt like we were in a magical sculpture zoo.
Cappadocia's Red Tour was like a journey through time and imagination. Each place we visited had something special that made us appreciate Cappadocia even more.
All of the attractions are situated at most a 15-minute drive from Goreme. Many of these attractions, such as Avanos, Uchisar Castle, and Cavusin, are accessible from public transport.
While the Red Tour packed in plenty of sights, it also packed in plenty of walking. We learned the invaluable skill of strategically placing rest stops in sun-drenched cafes and shady pathways. Packing water and snacks was a game-changer, and don't forget comfy shoes – your feet will thank you later.
Cappadocia Green Tour
Next day, our green tour began at 9:30 AM when the tour van picked us up.
- Pigeon Valley
- Derinkuyu Underground City
- Selime Monastery
- Ihlara Valley
- Onyx Jewelry Factory
The Cappadocia Green Tour took us through fascinating historical sites and natural wonders that left us in awe.
Our journey commenced with the breathtaking Pigeon Valley, surrounded by stunning landscapes and an abundance of pigeon homes carved into the rocks. It was a serene and picturesque start to our day.
Next was the Derinkuyu Underground City, an incredible underground complex that captured our imaginations. It's a place filled with history, art, and a deep spiritual aura. This underground city was a standout experience for us, holding a special place in our hearts.
Moving forward, we visited the Selime Monastery, a historic site carved into the rocky cliffs. The monastery's unique architectural design and serene ambiance were truly captivating.
Ihlara Valley was like finding a hidden oasis in the desert. A river carved this lush, green valley, and we hiked along paths, crossed bridges, and soaked in the beauty of nature.
Our tour concluded with a visit to an Onyx Jewelry Factory, where we admired exquisite craftsmanship and learned about the artistry behind onyx jewelry-making. It was a fascinating glimpse into the local craftsmanship and art.
Tips for your Cappadocia Red Tour:
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially for Love Valley.
- Don't hesitate to try pottery making in Avanos!
- Leave time for exploration and photo opportunities at each sight.
CAPPADOCIA RED AND GREEN TOURS ARE WORTH?
Whether the Cappadocia Red and Green Tours are worth it for you depends on your individual interests and travel style. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
Pros:
- Extensive coverage: Both tours take you to a variety of sites in Cappadocia, including iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and natural wonders. You'll experience the lunar landscapes of Red Valley, hike through the lush Ihlara Valley, explore underground cities, visit ancient churches and monasteries, and enjoy panoramic views.
- Efficiency: The tours provide a convenient way to see many key attractions in a short amount of time, especially if you're on a tight schedule. You don't need to research and transport yourself to each location individually.
- Guided experience: You'll benefit from the knowledge and insights of a local guide who can explain the history, culture, and geology of the region.
- Value for money: Compared to renting your own transport and hiring individual guides, the tours can be quite cost-effective, especially considering the number of places you visit.
- Variety: Both tours offer options for different activity levels and interests. The Red Tour is typically easier for people with mobility limitations, while the Green Tour includes more hiking and exploring.
Cons:
- Limited time at each site: Due to the packed itinerary, you might not have as much time as you'd like to spend at each individual location. This can be frustrating if you're particularly interested in a specific site.
- Less flexibility: Tours follow a predetermined route and schedule, which might not be ideal if you prefer a more independent travel experience.
- Potential for crowds: These tours are popular, so you might find yourself sharing the experience with a large group of people.
- Price: Although cheaper than individual arrangements, the tours can still be expensive, especially considering the time spent on each site.
Ultimately, the decision of whether the tours are worth it comes down to your priorities. If you value efficiency, variety, and affordability, and don't mind a less immersive experience, then the tours could be a good option. However, if you prefer more time at each location, a slower pace, and more flexibility, you might be better off exploring Cappadocia independently.
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