Derinkuyu is the most famous of the underground cities that lie beneath the plateau south of Nevşehir, and it is one of the most extraordinary things in Turkey. Its name means deep well, and the Ministry describes it as reaching about 85 metres below the surface, with a ventilation shaft some 55 metres deep that also served as a well. Over many centuries, the soft volcanic rock was dug into a multi-level refuge where people, animals and supplies could shelter for long periods during raids and wars. Today about ten per cent of the complex is open to visitors, which is still a long, winding descent through hundreds of metres of narrow passages. On the way down you pass stables near the surface, cellars and storerooms, dining halls, wineries and a place where grape molasses was made, a church and a large room on the second floor traditionally described as a missionary school. At key points, massive round stone doors, like millstones, could be rolled across the passages from the inside to seal each level. The site opened to tourists in 1965 and is managed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. It is open every day from 08:00 to 17:00, with the ticket office closing at 16:15. Entrance prices for foreign visitors are set by the Ministry and listed in euros, and Derinkuyu is included in the regional MuseumPass Cappadocia. The official page also sells e-tickets, which can save time at the gate in busy periods.
The experience underground: once you pass the gate, you follow a one-way route marked with arrows, climbing down narrow ramps and steps that are often low enough to make adults stoop. Lighting is electric and the air is fresh thanks to the shafts, and the temperature stays cool all year, which is welcome in summer and mild in winter. The deepest open levels are reached by steep, tight staircases. It is a genuine adventure, but it is not for everyone: people with claustrophobia, heart problems or bad knees or backs should think carefully, and the narrowest sections can back up when groups are coming the other way.
Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı: Kaymaklı, about ten kilometres to the north, is the other big underground city and is often slightly less crowded. It is wider and spread over levels that feel more like a village, while Derinkuyu is deeper and more vertical. Most visitors need only one, and Derinkuyu is the better choice if you want the most dramatic descent. Local tradition says the two were once linked by a long tunnel, but no such passage is open to visitors.
Getting there and timing: Derinkuyu is about half an hour's drive south of Göreme and Nevşehir. Most visitors arrive on a Green Tour or by taxi or car; local buses run from Nevşehir. Tour groups arrive mid-morning, so come right at opening or in the last hour before the ticket office closes for a quieter visit. Allow about an hour inside. Wear flat shoes with grip, leave large bags behind and keep children close, because the passages branch and it is easy to take a wrong turn.
What to expect
The experience
A one-way self-guided descent through narrow tunnels, ramps and staircases to several underground levels, passing stables, kitchens, a church, wells and rolling stone doors.
Best time
Right at the 08:00 opening or in the final hour before the 16:15 ticket cut-off, to avoid tour groups; open every day.
How long
About an hour inside, plus the half-hour drive from Göreme each way.
Tips
Skip it if you are claustrophobic, wear flat shoes, leave big bags in the car, and hire a guide at the gate if you want the history explained.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Curious travellers who want the most dramatic of Cappadocia's underground cities.
- Families
- Children usually love the tunnels; hold hands in the narrow stretches and avoid the busiest hours.
- Couples
- Combine with a winery lunch on the way back toward Ürgüp for a day of contrasts.
- Pair with
- The Ihlara Valley on a Green Tour, or Uçhisar Castle on the drive back north.
- Time needed
- Half a day with travel.
Good questions
How deep is Derinkuyu Underground City?+
The Ministry describes it as reaching about 85 metres below ground. Only around ten per cent of the complex is open, but the visitor route still descends several levels.
What are the opening hours?+
Derinkuyu is open every day from 08:00 to 17:00, and the ticket office closes at 16:15, according to the official Ministry page.
Is Derinkuyu suitable for claustrophobic people?+
It can be difficult. Passages are low, narrow and steep in places, so people with claustrophobia, heart problems or mobility issues should consider skipping the deeper levels.
Should I visit Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı?+
One is enough for most visitors. Derinkuyu is deeper and more dramatic, while Kaymaklı is a little wider and sometimes quieter.
How do I get to Derinkuyu from Göreme?+
It is about half an hour by car or taxi. Many visitors go on a Green Tour, which includes an underground city with transport and a guide.