Visiting Pamukkale, Turkey
The ancient city of Hierapolis, known as the ‘sacred city,’ was a spa city built by the Romans. It was built around the world-famous warm-water spring known as Pamukkale.
Interesting Fact: Pamukkale means “Cotton Castle” in Turkish.
The town is located 18 kilometers north of Denizli in the southwest of Turkey. Pamukkale is now the center of tourism around Hierapolis’s natural springs and ancient ruins.
Pamukkale is often considered the world’s eighth wonder and has been a world heritage site since 1988.
But what is Pamukkale exactly?
It is a natural spa in the River Menderes valley; the carbonate minerals from the flowing water make an unbelievably relaxing natural bath. Many weary travelers have passed through Hierapolis for thousands of years to experience the wonders of this natural beauty and profit from the health benefits.
It is hard to believe this geological phenomenon is entirely natural, but it is!
The hot springs in this area, around 17 in total, are responsible for this phenomenon. When the water from the hot springs reaches the surface, it moves to the travertine. But what is travertine, you may ask? It is a type of limestone formed with minerals from the hot spring water. The calcium from the hot spring cools when it reaches the surface, and when mixed with the soil, it creates travertines. Travertine is a robust material that has been used for construction purposes. In fact, the Romans used travertine to build St Peter’s Basilica and Square in Vatican City!
Historical Fact: The pools have been used as a spa since the second century B.C. with a belief to have healing properties.
The modern history of Pamukkale
In the 1960s, many modern hotels were built in the area that were draining water from the hot springs into their swimming pools, causing damage to the area. The hotels were then knocked down. In 1988, UNESCO placed Pamukkale on the World Heritage Site list.
That’s one of the main reasons this area is free from modern-day buildings. Locals have taken great pride and have stopped people from walking on the travertines in shoes. So, be prepared to be barefoot! You must keep to the designated path so the travertines are not damaged. Many archaeological digs are still taking place, and many more buildings and sites are being discovered.
The best things to do in Pamukkale Turkey
There are three different entrances for the Hierapolis Archaeological Site: Pamukkale town entrance, North entrance, and South entrance. These entrances grant you access to the Pamukkale travertine thermal pools, Hierapolis Ancient City, and Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. General opening times are between 06:30 and 20:00 in the summer for an entrance fee of 200 Turkish Lira.
The Pamukkale Antique Pool (Cleopatra’s pool) is an additional fee of 100 Turkish Lira. The pool is only open in the summer, from April 15 to October 2, from 08:00 to 21:00 daily.
It’s worth it; this is one of the best things to do in Pamukkale and why you likely came here!
Bathe in the waters of Pamukkale
You can’t miss the chance to bathe in these health-boosting waters!
Because of the high level of minerals, calcium, and sodium bicarbonate in the water helps blood circulation. The hot spring helps reduce stress and help you if you are sleep-deprived. It is also said that the water can help with aches and pains such as rheumatism and arthritis, and for people with skin problems such as acne, the minerals can help clear up any issues. The full benefits of hot springs are still being investigated, but you will feel great when you get out!
Hot springs have become much more popular over the years because of their health benefits and because they are a great place to relax, destress, and take in the beautiful scenery. Just be aware that at Pamukkale, you will never be alone. Others will also enjoy the experience – this is one of Turkey’s most popular places.
To avoid crowds, we recommend walking to the bottom pools. (Few visitors make it there because it’s a bit of a walk).
Swim in the Pamukkale Antique Pool
One of the most popular attractions in Pamukkale is the Antique Pool, also known as Cleopatra’s Pool. It’s a great place to relax and one of the best things to do in the area.
The pool is located among the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and the last entrance is at 18:15, so make sure to arrive on time if you plan on visiting. The Antique Pool is constantly refreshed with water from the hot spring, making it one of the cleanest pools you’ll ever swim in. Surrounded by trees, pines, and ancient columns, you feel transported back to ancient Roman times.
Sometimes, the pool may appear a little muddy, but this is only due to the volume of foot traffic. Despite this, the water is still pleasant and warm, as it is a hot spring. There are shallower areas for children and deeper spots for adults, but the water is never too deep to stand up in.
If you plan on visiting, remember to bring your own towel, as they are not provided. However, you can purchase one on-site, and changing rooms and lockers are available to store your belongings. While the recommended time to spend in the pool is two hours, it’s not strictly enforced.
Walk up Pamukkale Plateau
The Pamukkale Plateau is where the beautiful travertine terraces have been formed over time. It’s important to note that the plateau can be challenging for small children or those who need more support on their feet, as there are no railings or steps. As an archaeological site, the paths can be uneven and rocky, so caring while walking in this area is essential.
There are three entrances you can use to get to the plateau. One is through the town entrance, about a 20 to 30 minutes’ walk away. Remember to take off your shoes to avoid damaging the travertines! You can park your car in the town area. The other two entrances have a car parking area that charges a fee. The north entrance is the best option to access the plateau and the various attractions. You can park your car and take a shuttle bus or walk for 20 to 30 minutes to reach the attractions. On the other hand, the south entrance has a large car park, but you’ll need to walk for 30 minutes under the hot sun.
Pro tip: Book a buggy service that will take you around the properties because the area is very spacious.
Marvel at the ancient theater of Hierapolis
The Hierapolis Theater is one of the major highlights of this area, and it’s in remarkable condition. It’s hard to miss and definitely worth a visit! Although you’ll need to climb a small hill to reach the entrance, it’s worth the effort. At the entrance, you’ll be at the highest point of the theater, offering a stunning view of the stage, which is still in one piece but with some damage – but that’s to be expected after so many years! The Romans constructed the theater, including Hadrian (who also built the famous wall in England) and Septimus Severus. This theater had a capacity of 15,000 people and was well-restored, making it an excellent place to visit.
Visit the area surrounding the theater
Unfortunately, not all of these areas have survived the test of time, and the Cathedral at Hierapolis is one example. Today, very little remains of it, and visitors need to use their imagination to visualize what it must have looked like in its prime. Despite this, a few visitors still make the short walk on the Roman road to view the remaining arch, recognizing its importance in history.
Interestingly, St. Philip, who once visited this area, was not so fortunate. According to legend, he was supposedly martyred for daring to challenge the snake-worshippers at the nearby temple, and his body was found buried about 40 meters away from the church, the Martyrium of St Philip the Apostle.
While tours typically don’t visit this area, you can still explore it by heading uphill from the Roman theater. Here, you’ll find the Martyrium of St Philip the Apostle, an unusual octagonal structure that is also one of the best vantage points to admire the stunning views of Hierapolis.
Visit the Hierapolis Archaeological Museum
The Hierapolis Archaeological Museum is housed inside the ancient Roman Baths. With many artifacts from ancient times remaining, it is an exciting place to visit. Walk around and remember to look up at the great ceilings, where a large sphinx guards one of the rooms.
This museum will have new items yearly as it moves in relics discovered at the dig sites. Remember to visit the beautiful garden, also located in the museum.
The museum is located in the Sümer area of the town, very close to the natural park and the amphitheater. It’s open all year round, with a small entrance fee of around 10 Turkish Lira.
Get on a Hot Air Balloon
Enrich your Pamukkale experience and book a hot air balloon ride. Looking over the fantastic stone formations and striking landscape from above gives you a different perspective of this place. We didn’t get the chance to take the ride during our visit, but we saw the balloons from the ground, which looked magical.
Take a day trip from Pamukkale
If you have extra time, take a little trip outside Pamukkale. About 10 kilometers away is the small village of Karahayit. This village houses 5-star spa hotels. A fountain in the center shows off the iron minerals, a rust-colored hot spring left behind.
Another place outside Pamukkale is Laodicea, another ancient city still being discovered. It is set in an earthquake zone and has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. This ancient city is slowly being rediscovered and becoming a place of interest.
Best time to visit Pamukkale
The best time to visit Pamukkale is during the quieter months of March to May and September to October, when temperatures are more bearable but still warm enough to enjoy a swim. It can be too cold for this in winter.
We visited in September, and it was fantastic!
Also, we recommend visiting the site as soon as it opens in the morning. The day trippers usually arrive around lunchtime, so any time before that, you will find that you can walk around with a lot more freedom and have a dip in the pools with a lot fewer people. Or, time your visit for sunset like we did.
Where to Stay in Pamukkale
In recent years, Pamukkale has become a huge tourist attraction. There are many hotels and small bed and breakfast places in the village of Pamukkale. We recommend the Doğa Thermal Health & Spa.
At Doğa Thermal Health & Spa in Karahayit, you’ll find a large garden, indoor and outdoor pools with comfortable loungers, and a physiotherapy clinic. The spa features a sauna, Turkish bath, hot spring bath, massage treatments, and a fitness center.
Where to eat in Pamukkale
Mehmet’s Heaven: This restaurant offers delicious food and great views of Pamukkale from its porch.
Traverten Pide: In this place, you can Indulge in the famous pide (Turkish flatbread) and enjoy great hospitality.
Kay’s Wine House: Offers Turkish and International cuisine, and It has a great location in the center of town, near all major hotels.
What to wear in Pamukkale
When visiting Pamukkale, there are three things you must pack.
Swimsuit if you want to dip in the pools. (No worries, there are changing rooms and showers on site).
Pair of flip-flops or sandals that you can easily place in your bag upon entrance because you will have to walk barefoot on the terraces.
Comfortable shoes for your roundabouts around Hierapolis.
The rest of your wardrobe can be upon your preference, knowing there are no dress codes.
Getting from Istanbul to Pamukkale
Many transport options between Istanbul and Pamukkale suit all travel styles.
By plane:
The closest airport to Pamukkale is Denizli-Cardak Airport, just 65 km or one hour away. Two Turkish Airlines flights run daily from and to Istanbul International Airport. Also, there is one flight daily from and to Sabiha Gokcen Airport, operated by AnadoluJet. From the airport to Pamukkale Downtown, you can get a shuttle the airline provides, which costs only 10 Turkish Lira.
Another alternative is the Menderes Airport, 252km, or a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Pamukkale. There are multiple daily flights to and from Istanbul, operated by Turkish and Pegasus Airlines. To town, you can arrive by shuttle bus or train.
By bus:
Two companies are running regular buses to Denizli; one is Pamukkale Tourism and the other is Metro Tourism. It can get very crowded during pick season in summer and spring, so booking your tickets at least one week in advance is recommended. The bus service includes water and hot drinks, as well as snacks.
The ride is about 12 hours long, but it is worth it because you can see the beauty of small Turkish towns and villages on the way.
Pro tip: No bus companies take you directly to Pamukkale. The bus will drop you in Denizli, from where you will hop on a minibus for a 20 km ride to Pamukkale.
From Istanbul to Pamukkale by Tour
If you want to take a backseat to the planning component of your Turkey trip and need more time, plenty of Turkish tour operators can organize a Pamukkale day trip from Istanbul.
GetYourGuide has plenty of options for visiting Pamukkale from Istanbul.
When choosing this option, remember that it will be a significantly long day. You’ll have to leave your hotel in Istanbul before sunrise and reach the airport late in the evening, with a total travel time of approximately 15 hours from door to door.
Spending the night in Pamukkale is a much less rushed alternative.
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Have you ever visited this breathtaking place? Please let us know in the comments below, and we do hope you enjoyed our guide for the best things to do in Pamukkale Turkey.
