Underground cities
Cappadocia’s Underground Cities
The two best-known underground cities in Cappadocia are Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı, both south of Nevşehir. Carved into soft volcanic rock, they descend several levels and once sheltered whole communities with their animals and food stores. Derinkuyu is about 59 km from the airport and Kaymaklı about 50 km.
Derinkuyu
Derinkuyu reaches about 85 m below the surface. It opened to visitors in 1965, and only around a tenth of the complex can be explored. A 55 m ventilation shaft, which also served as a well, carried air down to the lowest levels. Sources disagree on how many floors it has; what matters for visitors is that the route takes you down through narrow tunnels into living quarters, storerooms and chapels.
Kaymaklı
Kaymaklı lies beneath the hill of Kaymaklı Castle, a little closer to Nevşehir. Its passages are low and tight, and the visitable levels show storerooms, kitchens and the great rolling stone doors that could seal a corridor from the inside. Researchers estimate there may be 150 to 200 underground settlements of different sizes across the region.
Özkonak and smaller sites
Özkonak, north of Avanos, is smaller and usually less crowded — a good choice if you are staying in Avanos. Many villages have their own smaller underground complexes.
Tips for your visit
- 1
Not for the claustrophobic
Tunnels are low and narrow and sometimes require you to crouch. Skip the deepest levels if you feel uncomfortable.
- 2
Go early or late
Tour groups arrive mid-morning; the passages feel much calmer at the start or end of the day.
- 3
Wear good shoes
Steps are uneven and can be slippery. Bring a light layer: it stays cool underground all year.
- 4
Combine with Ihlara
Derinkuyu lies on the way to the Ihlara Valley; a hire car or a day tour covers both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which underground city is better, Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı?
Derinkuyu is deeper; Kaymaklı is closer to Nevşehir and has a dense network of rooms. With time for only one, most visitors choose Derinkuyu.
How deep is Derinkuyu underground city?
About 85 m. Only around a tenth of it is open to visitors.
How far is Derinkuyu from Nevşehir airport?
About 59 km by road, roughly 50 min.
Are the underground cities suitable for children?
Generally yes, with supervision; tunnels are narrow and steps uneven, so they are not suitable for pushchairs.
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