The Red Tour in Cappadocia explores the northern part of the region, showcasing natural and historical wonders like unique cone-shaped houses carved into volcanic rocks, famous mushroom-shaped mountains, and early Christian churches and monasteries.
Organized Red Tour in Cappadocia
- An organized guided tour in Cappadocia usually lasts up to 7.5 hours and includes lunch.
- These can be booked online or through local tour operators in the region. Hotels you stay in can also help you book tours through a third party.
- It features transportation, entry fees to attractions wherever applicable, pick-up and drop-off at the hotel, and exploration of six of the most famous sites in the North Cappadocia Region.
- Any six of the mentioned sites may be included in your Red Tour Package: Goreme Open-air Museum, Pasabag Valley, Devrent Valley, Avanos, Love Valley, Zelve Open-Air Museum, and Uchisar Castle.
- These tours help you plan a hassle-free trip with knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Tours in multiple languages are also available. The tours accommodate 2 to 18 people.
Starting cost of an organized Red Tour: EUR 55 Onwards
Usual Timings: 9:30 AM -5:00 PM
Places Included in Cappadocia Red Tour
1. Goreme Open-Air Museum
The tour often starts with a visit to the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This museum is home to a vast collection of rock-cut churches and monasteries with well-preserved frescoes dating back to the 10th-12th centuries. The unique architectural and artistic features make it a must-visit site in Cappadocia.
2. Pasabag (Monks Valley)
Pasabag, known as Monks Valley, is famous for its unique fairy chimneys with multiple stems and caps. These distinct rock formations, shaped by volcanic activity and erosion, create a surreal landscape. You can explore the valley and witness the remarkable geological formations.
3. Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
Devrent Valley, also called Imagination Valley, is known for its rock formations resembling various animals and shapes. The landscape here sparks creativity and imagination, and visitors often enjoy identifying different figures in the rock formations.
4. Uchisar Castle
Uchisar Castle is a prominent landmark in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Carved into the natural rock, the castle provides a glimpse into the historical significance of such structures in the region.
5. Love Valley
Love Valley is characterized by its tall, cone-shaped rock formations, creating a romantic and picturesque setting. The valley gets its name from the unique shapes of the rocks, and visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery during a leisurely walk.
6. Cavusin Village
Cavusin Village is an ancient settlement with rock-cut dwellings and churches. The tour may include a visit to the village, allowing participants to explore the historical architecture and gain insights into the daily life of the inhabitants. Free to visit.
7. Pottery Workshops In Avanos Town
During the Red Tour, you can explore the renowned craft of Avanos pottery. Avanos, located 8 km from Goreme, sits by the Red River. The red clay used in pottery comes from this river. In the region, you'll find art districts and pottery shops where you can try your hand at pottery-making. Many shops have demonstration areas where you can learn the art from experts and get hands-on experience. An organized tour can be booked separately for an in-depth exploration if not traveling with a guided Red tour.
8. Zelve Open Air Museum
Located about 10 km from Göreme and 5 km from Avanos, Zelve Open Air Museum is renowned for its rock-cut dwellings, churches, and monasteries carved into the soft volcanic tuff. It features numerous cave dwellings, churches with simple frescoes, and vast hiking opportunities.
Self-Guided Red Tour in Cappadocia
Apart from booking an organised tour you also go on a self guided tour through North Cappadoccia. A self-guided tour to North Cappadocia can be planned to explore the region at your own pace without feeling rushed to complete a pre-decided itinerary. You can choose what you want to prioritize and spend time of your choice on each attraction. A DIY Red tour can be done by renting a car for one or two days. If you have more time to explore the region, you can also opt to buy Cappadocia Museum Pass, which costs EUR 65 and offers 3 days of access to some 13 attractions in the region.
| Attraction | Entry Ticket Cost | Included in Cappadocia Museum Pass | Parking Cost | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Göreme Open Air Museum | EUR 20 | Yes | - | - |
| Pasabag Valley | EUR 12 | Yes | - | Valid for Zelve Open-Air Museum |
| Uchisar Castle | 250 TL | No | 20 TL | Public toilets: 5 TL per use |
| Love Valley | Free | - | 30 TL | - |
| Devrent Valley | Free | - | - | - |
| Zelve Open Air Museum | Included with Pasabag | Yes | 25 TL | - |
Red Tour Vs Green Tour
When considering the Red Tour versus the Green Tour in Cappadocia, it's crucial to weigh the unique experiences each offers. The Red Tour typically encompasses iconic attractions known for surreal rock formations and are the region's natural wonders. On the other hand, the Green Tour often includes off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Ihlara Valley, home to scenic hikes along a lush canyon with ancient cave churches, the Selime Monastery with its stunning cliff-side architecture, and the charming village of Derinkuyu with its underground city.
The Red Tour may be the preferred choice due to its focus on the most renowned landmarks of Cappadocia. It offers a comprehensive glimpse into the region's rich history and natural beauty within a shorter timeframe. However, suppose you have more time to spare and seek a deeper exploration of lesser-known gems. In that case, the Green Tour provides a unique opportunity to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden treasures that showcase Cappadocia's diverse landscape and cultural heritage.
Cappadocia Red Tour Tips
- Organized Red Tour is ideal for those facing mobility challenges or having young children.
- The attractions are conveniently close to Goreme, minimizing the need for extensive walking or hiking.
- Organized tour provides transportation to each location, allowing you to decide the movement level you're comfortable with at each stop. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed pace during their exploration of Cappadocia.