Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu are the best-known underground cities included in Cappadocia's UNESCO World Heritage setting. Both reveal connected spaces built for protected communal life, but the visit involves stairs, low or narrow passages and enclosed rooms. Choose the city that fits your route and comfort level rather than trying to collect both in one rushed day.
Written and reviewed by the Hereke Travel team in Göreme
Quick answers
- UNESCO listing
- Kaymaklı · Derinkuyu
- Expect
- Stairs · tunnels · low passages
- Allow for
- Crowds and one-way flow
- Tell your guide
- Mobility · balance · claustrophobia
What an underground city actually is
These are not single caves or isolated rooms. They are connected systems containing spaces associated with storage, ventilation, communal activity and protected movement below ground. Their value comes from understanding how the spaces work together.
UNESCO's Göreme National Park and Rock Sites of Cappadocia listing specifically includes the subterranean cities of Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu within the wider cultural landscape.
Kaymaklı or Derinkuyu?
Kaymaklı spreads through interconnected rooms and passages, while Derinkuyu is widely known for its vertical depth. The practical choice usually depends on the rest of your route, current access and how comfortable you are in enclosed spaces.
A first visit does not require both. One well-explained underground city, combined with a landscape or monastery stop above ground, creates a more balanced day.
Who should think carefully before entering?
Some passages are narrow, low, steep or crowded. Visitors with claustrophobia, balance concerns, knee or back problems, heart or respiratory conditions, or limited mobility should discuss the route before entering.
- Wear stable closed shoes
- Keep both hands available on steep sections
- Follow the signed direction and guide instructions
- Do not force the visit if enclosed spaces feel unsafe
How the underground city fits a full day
Underground cities sit away from many central Cappadocia stops. They fit naturally into the Green Tour direction with Ihlara Valley and Selime Monastery, or into a Mix Tour that returns to central landscapes. Check the exact city and route in writing before booking.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which underground city is better, Kaymaklı or Derinkuyu?
Neither is universally better. Derinkuyu is known for vertical depth; Kaymaklı for its spread of connected spaces. Route, crowd conditions and personal comfort are more useful deciding factors.
Are Cappadocia underground cities suitable for children?
Many families visit, but children must be comfortable with stairs, low passages and crowds and should remain closely supervised throughout.
Can I visit if I am claustrophobic?
The enclosed and narrow sections can be difficult. Speak with your guide before entry and do not continue if the environment feels unsafe or distressing.
Sources
We use official sources for historical context and visit conditions that may change.
UNESCO · Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of CappadociaGoTürkiye · Cappadocia underground cities