Planning a trip to Kaymaklı Underground City in 2026? This sprawling, multi-level wonder in Cappadocia continues to captivate visitors with its labyrinth of tunnels, ancient living quarters and ingenious engineering. Before you go, it helps to know the current ticket price, the opening hours, and — crucially — how to actually get there.
This guide covers everything: the Kaymaklı entrance fee, what your ticket includes, the best times to visit, and the easiest transport options to a site that sits well outside the tourist villages.
What is Kaymaklı Underground City?
Kaymaklı is one of the largest and widest underground cities in Cappadocia. Thought to date back to the Hittite era and later expanded as a refuge for early Christians, it spreads across several levels of stables, communal kitchens, storage rooms and living quarters carved into the volcanic rock. Walking its low, winding passages feels like stepping back in time.
Kaymaklı Underground City ticket price (2026)
The current Kaymaklı entrance fee is shown live below so it never goes stale:
- General admission: €13 per person
- Children: reduced or free entry for younger ages (carry ID)
- Students/seniors: discounted rate with a valid ID
- Museum Pass: covered by the Museum Pass Cappadocia if you're visiting several sites
Tickets are sold at the entrance and via the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's official Müze website. Booths charge in Turkish lira at the day's rate, so bring a card.
Free entry days and discounts
Turkey occasionally offers free or discounted access on national museum days and cultural celebration weeks; details are announced annually. Free entry usually applies to Turkish citizens and residents, while students and seniors with a valid ID can get reduced rates year-round.
What's included with your ticket?
Standard entry lets you explore the open chambers at your own pace, with basic signage and maps throughout. For richer context, a guided tour or audio guide is well worth it. Many operators also offer combination tickets that pair Kaymaklı with Derinkuyu or the Göreme Open-Air Museum at a discount.
Opening hours
Kaymaklı is open year-round, with longer summer hours and earlier closing in winter; last entry is usually about an hour before closing. Hours shift seasonally, so check the current times before you set out. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) bring the most pleasant weather.
How to get to Kaymaklı Underground City
Kaymaklí sits roughly 20 km south of Nevşehir and about 30 km from Göreme, and direct public transport is limited. The simplest, most flexible way to visit is a private taxi from your hotel — you control the timing, avoid the dolmuş connections, and can easily add Derinkuyu, just 10 km away, to the same trip.
For a clear, current fare, check the Cappadocia taxi price calculator, or arrange a ride directly via our Göreme taxi page.
Tips for visiting Kaymaklı
- Wear comfortable shoes: stairs, slopes and uneven floors throughout.
- Mind the low passages: some tunnels are narrow and low — not ideal for claustrophobia.
- Go early: the site is busiest from late morning to early afternoon.
- Pair it with Derinkuyu: the two underground cities make a perfect day together.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Müzekart valid at Kaymaklı?
Yes — the Turkish Müzekart covers Kaymaklı, but it's only sold to Turkish citizens and residents. International visitors pay the standard fee of €13 or use the Museum Pass Cappadocia.
Is Kaymaklı or Derinkuyu better?
Both cost the same to enter. Kaymaklí is wider with broader chambers, while Derinkuyu is deeper and more vertical. If you have time, visit both — they're only 10 km apart and complement each other.
How long do you need at Kaymaklı?
About 1 hour is enough to explore the open levels, a bit longer with a guide.
How do I get to Kaymaklı by taxi?
A private taxi from Göreme or Ürgüp with waiting time is the easiest option, especially if you want to combine it with Derinkuyu. Check the live fare on the taxi price calculator before booking.
