In short
- Bring a light jacket for 15–20°C (60-70°F) tunnels.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for uneven rocks and 400 stairs.
- Pack sunscreen, water, and a small flashlight.
In this article
Visiting Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley requires preparing for two different environments in one day. The underground city is cold, dark, and cramped, while the canyon hike exposes you to the sun. Packing a compact daypack is the best way to handle both.
What to wear underground city Turkey tours?
Wear a light jacket or sweater and sturdy hiking shoes with good grip.
Derinkuyu maintains a constant 15–20°C (60-70°F) temperature year-round. This natural climate control means you will feel cool even if visiting in summer. You also need grippy shoes to safely navigate steep, uneven rocky paths and narrow stairs.
What kind of bag should I bring?
Pack a small daypack and avoid bulky backpacks.
The tunnels in Derinkuyu are very low and narrow. Large bags will get stuck and make it difficult to crouch through tight spaces. A small backpack holds everything you need without slowing you down.
What gear do I need for Ihlara Valley?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and appropriate footwear for stairs.
The main entrance to Ihlara Valley requires descending nearly 400 steep stairs. The 14-kilometer canyon has exposed sunny stretches. Sun protection is essential, especially from April to June and September to October.
Is it dark inside Derinkuyu?
While 8 levels are illuminated, bring a small flashlight or headlamp.
Derinkuyu plunges 85 meters deep into volcanic rock. Some cave areas are poorly lit. A small flashlight helps you safely step over uneven terrain and view details inside the deepest levels.
Should I bring water and cash?
Bring bottled water and small change or lira.
There are no facilities inside the underground tunnels, so carry your own water. Small change is required for parking fees (around 10-20 TL) and toilet facilities outside the sites.
Do I need to carry tickets?
Bring your Turkiye MuseumPass if you plan to visit multiple regional sites.
The Derinkuyu entry fee is €13, and Ihlara Valley is €15. Both accept the Turkiye MuseumPass. Having this pass handy speeds up your entry process at both locations. Museum Pass Value
Questions travellers ask
Is there water inside Derinkuyu?
No, there are no facilities or water sources inside the underground tunnels. You must bring your own bottled water.
What shoes are best for Ihlara Valley?
Sturdy hiking or walking shoes with good grip are required. You need to descend nearly 400 steep stairs and walk on rocky trails.
Do I need a heavy coat in winter?
Inside Derinkuyu, the temperature stays at 15–20°C (60-70°F). A light jacket is sufficient underground, but you will need warmer layers outside during winter.
