Things To Do
in Derinkuyu
Derinkuyu is an ancient underground city in Cappadocia, central Turkey, famous for its multi-level subterranean complex carved from soft volcanic rock. The site reveals narrow passages, communal rooms, and sophisticated ventilation that sheltered communities for centuries. Above ground the surrounding region features dramatic fairy chimneys, orchards and small villages that give a quiet, rural contrast to the underground tour.
Derinkuyu is a gateway to wider Cappadocia attractions like Göreme, Uchisar and the hiking valleys that draw photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Derinkuyu and check into your accommodation. After freshening up, enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and cheeses. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to soak in the local culture and history.
Visit the Derinkuyu Underground City, one of the largest and deepest of its kind, where you can marvel at the intricate tunnels and chambers used by ancient civilizations. Guided tours reveal fascinating stories about the city's construction and its significance throughout history. After the tour, grab lunch at a nearby traditional restaurant featuring regional dishes.
As night falls, explore the charming streets of Derinkuyu, filled with quaint shops and local market stalls. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local eatery where you can try traditional Cappadocian dishes, such as manti (Turkish dumplings). End your day by relaxing at your accommodation or taking in the serenity of the starry sky over the unique rock formations.
Wake up early for a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. As you ascend, witness the stunning sunrise illuminating the valleys, enhancing the surreal landscape with hues of orange and pink. Enjoy panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, creating unforgettable memories.
After the balloon ride, enjoy a hearty brunch at a café with views of the valleys. Spend your afternoon visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum, where you can explore ancient rock-cut churches adorned with beautiful frescoes. Take a leisurely hike through the nearby Rose Valley, admiring the unique geology and flora.
Return to Derinkuyu for a relaxed evening, enjoying the ambiance of a local hotspot. Taste regional wines at a cozy wine bar while listening to traditional Turkish music. Conclude your day with a comforting Turkish tea or coffee as you mingle with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1.50-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi or dolmuş ride | $1-6 |
| 🎫Museum/attraction entrance | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique, world-famous underground architecture and fairy chimneys
- Excellent photographic opportunities and dramatic landscapes
- Authentic rural atmosphere with close access to Cappadocia highlights
- Good selection of cave restaurants and local cultural experiences
- Narrow, steep spaces in the underground city can be challenging for those with mobility issues
- Peak seasons can be crowded, especially for balloons and main viewpoints
- Limited nightlife and services within Derinkuyu village itself
- Weather extremes (hot summers, snowy winters) can affect plans
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much?
- "Tuvalet nerede?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hesap lütfen" - The check, please
- "Yardım edin" - Help (please)
- "Güle güle" - Goodbye (said to someone leaving)
- "Afiyet olsun" - Enjoy your meal
Places to Visit in Derinkuyu
Visit one of these nice places.
Atmospheric shots of narrow tunnels, round stone doors, stairways and chambers—use a wide-angle lens and bring a flashlight or higher-ISO settings for low light.
Iconic aerial scene of dozens of balloons drifting over rock formations at sunrise—plan ahead and book early for best light and altitude.
Highest natural viewpoint in the area offering sweeping views of valleys, fairy chimneys and neighboring towns—excellent at golden hour.
Dramatic rock textures and colored strata ideal for hiking-and-shooting; sunrise and sunset emphasize warm hues.
Carved pigeon houses, cave churches with frescoes and layered rock formations provide varied close-up and wide compositions.
Food in Derinkuyu
Derinkuyu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature Cappadocia dish of meat and vegetables slow-cooked sealed in a clay pot (testi) and cracked open at the table; best found in cave restaurants across Göreme and Ürgüp.
Must-Try!
Tiny Turkish dumplings filled with spiced meat, served with yoghurt and garlic sauce—comfort food available in local eateries.
Thin flatbread stuffed with cheese, spinach, potato or meat and cooked on a griddle; a common street or market snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A regional farmers’ market (pazar) where you can buy fresh fruit, cheeses, olives and pastries—great for sampling local produce and handicrafts (check the weekday when it runs).
Street vendors and small stalls near tourist hubs sell gözleme, simit (sesame bagels), roasted corn and fresh-squeezed pomegranate juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting mosques and rural villages—cover shoulders and knees, and women may be asked to cover hair in some mosques (carry a scarf).
Remove shoes when entering mosques and some homes, accept offered tea as a polite gesture, and ask permission before photographing people, especially elders.
Handshakes are common; it’s polite to use both hands or the right hand when giving or receiving items. Avoid public criticism of religion and sensitive historical topics in casual conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Derinkuyu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated: 5–10% in restaurants if service is not included, a few lira for café staff, and small tips for guides and drivers; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Turkish lira (TRY) is the local currency; cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in tourist towns and larger restaurants/hotels, but carry cash for markets, small shops and village vendors. ATMs are available in Nevşehir, Göreme and Ürgüp.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often in the high 20s–30s °C (80s–90s °F); good for long daylight photography but carry water, sun protection and avoid midday heat in the valleys.
One of the best times to visit—mild days, blooming wildflowers, comfortable hiking conditions and fewer crowds than peak summer.
Cooler temperatures and vivid late-season light make this another excellent season for hiking and photography; evenings can be chilly.
Cold with possible snow that creates beautiful contrasts on the rock formations; some services slow down, but underground sites remain open and offer a unique atmosphere—dress warmly for outdoor activities.
Derinkuyu at Night
Hiking in Derinkuyu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate trails among tall, phallic-shaped fairy chimneys—good for sunrise or sunset photography and short hikes.
Connected trails offering colorful rock strata, caves and cliffside viewpoints—excellent for longer afternoon hikes and golden-hour photos.
Walks between Göreme and Uçhisar with carved pigeon houses and scenic overlooks; trails vary from easy to moderate.
A longer drive from Derinkuyu but a lush, river-cut canyon with a shaded trail, rock-cut churches and riverside rest spots—ideal for full-day hiking.
Less-visited valley south of the main Cappadocia cluster with distinctive rock formations, walking paths and traditional village scenery.
Airports
How to reach Derinkuyu by plane.
The closest airport (about 30–40 km from Derinkuyu) with seasonal and domestic flights; convenient transfer times to Cappadocia towns by shuttle or taxi.
Larger airport (~70–90 km) with more frequent domestic flights and some international connections; popular alternative to Nevşehir with good shuttle and car rental options.
Major international airport farther away (~300 km); serves as an alternative for combined Ankara–Cappadocia trips or when flight options are limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term residents work in agriculture, small businesses and tourism services; communities tend to be close-knit and family-oriented.
Guides, hoteliers, restaurateurs and artisans from the region and beyond who cater to international visitors, especially in Göreme and Ürgüp.
A diverse mix of travelers from Europe, Asia and the Americas drawn to Cappadocia’s landscapes, history and ballooning—numbers fluctuate seasonally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular spectator and participant sport across Turkey, with local amateur teams and community matches in towns.
A regionally prominent activity tied to tourism—horse treks through valleys are both recreational and a nod to Cappadocia’s equestrian history.
Common among visitors and locals thanks to the accessible valley trails and varied terrain.
Road and mountain biking are growing in popularity for exploring wide-open landscapes and quieter rural roads.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Derinkuyu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available (meze plates, stuffed vegetables, salads, gözleme, and yoghurt dishes) but choices may be limited in small village restaurants—ask the cook and point to ingredients if language is a barrier.
Vegan options exist mainly among salads, vegetable stews and mezes; gluten-free travelers should note that breads and bulgur are common—communicate needs early and choose restaurants in tourist towns for better accommodation.
Most meat served is halal by default in Turkey; alcohol is available in tourist areas but not ubiquitous in small villages.