What to see in Pamukkale: complete guide

Updated: 2 October, 2024

Guide with everything to see in Pamukkale and the surrounding area, where to eat, all the transport alternatives there and lots of advice.

Pamukkale is one of the most visited places in Turkey for its impressive Cotton Castle, a wonder of nature.

In addition, it is located next to one of the best Hellenistic ruins in the country, Hierapolis, both places were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1988.

Although Pamukkale is somewhat far from Istanbul, 1-day visits can be made from other parts of the country.

Below I tell you everything to see in Pamukkale in one day, as well as other activities and places to visit in the surroundings in case you decide to stay one night.

What to see in Pamukkale?

1. Cotton Castle

Cotton Castle is not a castle and is not made of cotton, but is a natural formation of pure white and cotton-like appearance.

In fact, the Turkish word Pamukkale means "cotton castle."

How was Pamukkale formed?

The movements of the tectonic plates gave rise to several hot springs.

These hot springs that circulate along the side of the mountain cliff formed natural pools on terraces and petrified waterfalls known as Travertines, thanks to the high calcite content.

Some of the properties that calcite has are the white color, especially when water circulates and although the Travertine formation is hard as stone, it is soft to the touch.

👍 Fun fact: In the Hellenistic times of Pamukkale, the hot springs were also used to wash wool.

Pamukkale pools without water

Due to subsequent earthquakes, some of the pools have been running out of water.

Furthermore, before this area was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, many hotels were built that took advantage of thermal water to fill their pools due to its beneficial properties that attracted tourists.

In this way, many more of the natural pools dried up.

But since UNESCO intervened, things changed. Although hotels continue to fill their pools with thermal water, they are only allowed to do so at night.

In fact, if you walk through the town of Pamukkale you can see the canals that transport water.

During the day, water circulates through the Travertines, filling the natural pools.

Today, much of Cotton Castle is dry, but they control the water that circulates and during the day you can see many pools full, some in swimming areas and some not.

Bathing in the natural pools of Pamukkale

One of the best things to do in Pamukkale is to take a swim in its beautiful pools with water of a faint turquoise color as it fills the very white pools.

The water level is quite low, perhaps about 60 cm in the deepest areas, but it is enough to have a relaxing bath in its warm 35 degree Celsius waters full of minerals.

You can also sit in the water channeling areas, which results in a pleasant massage.

To walk through the natural pools you have to take off your shoes, because it is a unique and protected site.

👍 Friend's tip: There is an area at the top of Cotton Castle where the stone does a little damage to your feet, I recommend that you walk near the water channelAs the water circulates more through that area, the stone is softer.

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2. Hierapolis Ruins (7 things to see)

A little history

The Pamukkale baths were already known to the ancient Greeks, who established the ancient city of Hierapolis at the end of the 2nd century BC, initially as a thermal center.

Later, it was ceded to Rome and Hierapolis flourished, hence many of the most important constructions of this archaeological site are Greco-Roman.

Finally, during Constantine's empire, when Christianity was adopted, several churches were built, defensive walls were reinforced, and gates were built.

Current state and conservation

Hierapolis is in ruins as a result of the earthquakes in the area, first before the Romans arrived and then the most devastating one was in the year 1354.

Even so, you can appreciate the grandeur that this ancient city had.

Furthermore, since 1957 the Italian Archaeological Mission He has been involved in its restoration, which has not stopped since then.

What to see in Hierapolis?

Hierapolis is a very large area covering more than a thousand hectares and there are many ruins to see, but the main places to visit are these:

1. Roman theatre: It is the best preserved building in the place, it is truly impressive and is undoubtedly one of the best things to see in Pamukkale. This Roman theater has a capacity for 15,000 people and was built in several phases, the first dating back to the end of the 1st century BC. It is located near the south entrance, not far from Algodón Castle.
2. Temple of Apollo: built just above the fault where toxic gases emanated. There, bull sacrifices were made right at the entrance of the cave that was considered the access to the underworld.
3. Frontinus Gate: It is one of the monumental Roman access gates to Hierapolis that connected with the ancient city of Laodicea (which I tell you about below). Next to the door there are also remains of a building and a Roman street that leads to another door.
4. Pipelines: While Hierapolis was in operation, they had a complex system of canals through which thermal water circulated. You can still see the old canals in various areas of the city.
5. Tomb and church of San Felipe: In an area a little far from the most interesting buildings, there is a church that was built next to a tomb of great religious pilgrimage, because it was the tomb of Saint Philip. This saint was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ and was martyred in Hierapolis.

Then, outside of what was Hierapolis there are some places that are worth visiting, but that are within the archaeological site:

6. Basilica Baths: This building from the 3rd century AD was a place where people could purify and cleanse themselves before entering the city, according to the tradition of the people of Anatolia. Furthermore, Hierapolis was considered a "sacred city." The building is being restored, but you can see the immense arches.
7. Necropolis: It is the cemetery or "city of the dead" and is next to the north entrance to the site. The necropolis covers no less than 2 km and is full of grandiose tombs made of stone, some are small constructions that could house several graves.

🔝 Fun fact: One of the most incredible discoveries in the Hierapolis Necropolis is the low-relief representation from the 3rd century AD, of a double-saw hydraulic cutter that was used in ancient times to cut stones.

3. Pamukkale Museum

One of the places you can't miss visiting in Pamukkale is the museum, and I'm telling you, I'm not one to visit too many museums. 😅

The museum is also within the enclosure, very close to the Travertines, and was built where the Central Baths were, that is, the Roman baths of the 2nd century AD.

Little remains of the baths, but the museum preserves many pieces in good condition, including steles from tombs, sarcophagi, statues, friezes and capitals with beautiful reliefs.

Most of the pieces are from Roman times belonging to Hierapolis and its neighbor, Lodicea.

4. Ancient Pools of Cleopatra

Cleopatra's pools are one of the best things to visit in Pamukkale, where you can take the opportunity to bathe and enjoy the properties of the thermal waters.

They say they are ideal for treating circulatory problems, arthritis, varicose veins and some skin problems.

These ancient crystal-clear hot spring pools are filled with temple ruins and pass beneath walkways that connect to smaller pool areas.

Next to the pool there is a cafeteria and a locker room area where you can change, leave your things in the lockers and then shower.

I was there first thing in the morning, around 8 in the morning, at the end of spring and there was almost no one, it was a pleasure to swim, but from what I understand it can get quite crowded.

5. Balloon flight in Pamukkale

The hot air balloon ride at sunrise is one of the most beautiful things to do in Pamukkale, an unforgettable experience with the best views.

The good thing about balloon flights is that they take place at dawn and the colors are very beautiful. Also, since the Pamukkale site hasn't opened yet, you can see the natural pools from above without people.

6. Paragliding in Pamukkale

If stronger emotions are your thing, I recommend doing paragliding in Pamukkale, like this one in the link at a good price and it is an experience that you will always remember.

7. Whirling Dervishes Ceremony

In case you stay in Pamukkale, this Whirling dervish ceremony and Sema ritual They are very interesting.

Dervishes are a traditional ceremonial dance originating in Konya and practiced by Sufi Muslims for more than 800 years.

This experience in Pamukkale includes a drink and is a good way to learn a little about Turkish traditions.

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How much does the entrance fee to Pamukkale cost?

The entrance to Pamukkale costs 400 lira (15.58 euros). They have increased the price, now in March 2024 it costs 30 euros.

This ticket includes a visit to the entire complex, which includes Algodón Castle where you can bathe, the ruins of Hierapolis with its necropolis and the museum.

In the same area are the Cleopatra pools, where you can go in to see them, but if you want to bathe you have to pay an additional 130 liras (5.04 euros) at the entrance to Pamukkale.

Throughout the article you will see that I mention prices in liras with the exchange rate in euros, keep in mind that the country is suffering from great inflation and the currency is constantly devaluing. So, the change when you travel can be different. Plus, they are adjusting prices often. I thought the entrance price to Pamukkale was 150 lira and it turned out to be 400 lira. 😳

Access areas and Pamukkale Timetable

The entire Pamukkale complex with the ruins has 3 access areas: north, south and the central one, which is the entrance next to the town.

Both the north and south entrances They open at 6:30 and close at 9 p.m. from mid-spring and during the summer, then in winter they close earlier.

Instead, The town entrance opens at 8:30 a.m..

What else to visit near Pamukkale?

1. Laodicea

Laodicea was an ancient prosperous and commercial city dedicated to wool and cotton. It was established at the end of the 3rd century BC

In the early days of Christianity it housed a large community of believers and among its ruins is its church, which is one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse.

2. Salda Lake

Lake Salda is inside a crater, in an area known as the "lake region."

This is a very popular visiting place in the area, first for its beauty and then because the lake water has a composition that is believed to be beneficial for the skin.

On the other hand, the alkalinity of the water, which is rare, allows the growth of ancient stromatolite algae.

👍 Fun fact: NASA has done several studies on Lake Salda because its Geological composition is similar to that of Jezero Crater on Mars.

3. Aphrodisias

If you have been wanting to see ruins, those of Aphrodisias are the next most interesting after those of Hierapolis.

Both the marble quarry and the ruins of Aphrodisias that were built from the 3rd century BC were declared World Heritage Site in 2017.

Marble during the Hellenistic era and the Roman Empire was a well-appreciated material and Aphrodisias became an important artistic center specialized in carving sculptures.

The most impressive thing about the ruins of Aphrodisias is the temple of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, who gave the city its name.

Where to eat in Pamukkale?

In the town of Pamukkale you will find several restaurants, especially near the entrance to the complex.

Since I stayed for a couple of nights, I had time to try several restaurants and I can tell you that if you walk a little, inside the town, you will find much more authentic Turkish restaurants at better prices.

Although it must be taken into account that Pamukkale is a little more expensive compared to the rest of Turkey because it is such a tourist place.

These are my favorite restaurants in Pamukkale:

• Ege corba mantı salonu: my favorite, delicious homemade food and the owner is very friendly.
• Yağmur restaurant & battalbey çiğ köfte: the best place in town to eat durum and at a good price.
• Hiera Coffee & Tea House Restaurant: a varied and delicious menu, but you must reserve.

Just as in Istanbul many places will charge you for everything they put on your table, even if they are dishes that you did not order.

But in other areas of Turkey it is common for them to have the nice gesture of serving things that you have not ordered but they are an invitation, they will not charge you.

I went a couple of times to the first restaurant on the list and both times, before my food arrived, the owner served me bread and some very delicious dipping sauces.

Then at the end of the meal he invited me with a Turkish tea and some delicious lokum (Turkish delight), some establishments may take advantage.

Pamukkale map

* To check the legend for each place, click the button in the top left corner of the map. To view this map on your phone or computer, tap the star on the right side of the title. Then go to Google Maps, select "Your Places" and "Maps" from the menu.

Is Pamukkale worth visiting?

Although on your visit to Pamukkale you will find many dry pools, its visit is very worth it.

In fact, to me dry pools also look beautiful and are a unique natural formation.

Cotton Castle is a unique formation that you cannot miss and the ruins of Hierapolis are one of the best in Turkey, which is why they are a World Heritage Site.

Therefore, I think that if you have time to visit more places in Turkey than Istanbul, it is a good idea to include them.

What I do not recommend is going exclusively to Pamukkale, but it is a good idea to visit it along with other nearby places such as Ephesus in Izmir or the Turkish coast.

How long does it take to see Pamukkale?

To see Pamukkale you will need half a day, that is, with about 5 hours you will have time to enjoy seeing the Pamukkale Travertines, the ruins and take a well-deserved dip in Cleopatra's ancient pools.

If you want to take advantage of the balloon or paragliding ride, then you will need to stay at least one night in the town.

This way you can also see Pamukkale at dawn.

When to go Pamukkale? (time of the year)

The best time of year to visit Pamukkale is the months of May and October, which is when the weather is good for swimming, but not oppressively hot to visit the ruins.

Also, there are fewer people than during the summer.

However, at night it will be quite cool, with temperatures that can be below 10 degrees.

If you are going in May, I recommend checking the weather beforehand, because although it is not the rainiest month, it rains a lot.

Below you can see the average annual temperature of Pamukkale:

Then, the months of June and September are quite good, although in the middle of the day the temperatures can rise a lot.

Most tourists travel to Pamukkale in July or August, although for me they are too hot months in that area of Turkey, when temperatures can reach 40 degrees during the day. 🔥

The good thing is that you can cool off in the pools. 😄💦

What is the best time to go to Pamukkale?

Avoid overcrowding

The buses with tourists begin to arrive as soon as the doors open at 6:30 in the morning.

So seeing the Cotton Castle pools without people is almost impossible, unless you take the balloon ride and see them from above before the tourists arrive.

Likewise, during the early hours of the morning there are much fewer people than at midday, when the travertines are packed with people.

Then, to see the ruins without people is easier, if you go on your own it is just a matter of being patient and waiting for the groups to leave and you have the places to yourself.

In the photo below I had the entire Roman theater to myself. 😍

Avoid oppressive heat

Another advantage of going early in the morning is that the heat increases throughout the day and if you travel to Pamukkale in summer, it will be more pleasant in the morning.

Sunset visit

If not, another good option is to visit Pamukkale at sunset.

Because, I have to clarify that travertines do not get the sun before 8 in the morning (it depends on the time of year) and they do not look as attractive. On the other hand, at sunset the sun is on the other side and they look beautiful.

In fact this night tour to Pamukkale From Marmaris, it is a very beautiful visit with the colors of the sunset reflected in the water of the natural pools and there are much fewer people.

What to bring to Pamukkale?

• Comfortable shoes: to walk through the ruins.
• Swimsuit and towel: so you can enjoy taking a dip in the travertines and the Cleopatra pool.
• Sunglasses: The cotton castle, being white, reflects the sun poorly, so good sunglasses are essential.
• Sunscreen: The sun is very intense in Pamukkale, even if you travel in autumn and spring, don't forget to bring sunscreen.
• Cap or hat: ideal to protect you from the intense Turkish sun. If you have skin problems or want extra protection, take a umbrella for the sun like the one in the link, you will go with your own shadow and you will not feel as hot.

How to get to Pamukkale?

Pamukkale is in the Denizli region, 230 km from Izmir, 240 km from Antalya and a little over 600 km south of Istanbul.

It is an inland area of Turkey, located a short distance from the Turkish Riviera.

1. Driving

If you want to move around the area with total freedom, it is best to rent a car.

So you can also visit other places near Pamukkale such as Antalya, Izmir or the Turkish Riviera, where the most beautiful beaches are (Bodrum, Marmaris and Fethiye).

To rent a car in Türkiye I recommend this search engine that has the lowest prices.

If you are going to Pamukkale by car, please note that only There is parking at the north and south entrances, the price is 20 liras (0.78 euros) per car. If not, you can park in the town for free and enter through the town entrance.

2. Bus to Denizli and Dolmus to Pamukkale

The alternative to go to Pamukkale by public transport is with buses, first a bus to Denizli which is the capital of the province and then the minibus (dolmus) to Pamukkale.

There is no direct bus to Pamukkale.

Some of the cities best connected to Denizli by bus are: Izmir, Antalya, Bodrum, Marmaris and Fethiye.

To buy tickets you can go to the station, although I recommend doing it beforehand online on this website, where you can see bus schedules, prices and make a reservation.

If not, you can use the search engine below.

Once you arrive in Denizli, at the same station, on the ground floor, you have to go to platform 76, which is where the dolmus to Pamukkale leaves from.

The dolmus leaves more or less every 20 minutes or when it is full, it takes about 15 minutes to get to Pamukkale, it costs 14 lira (0.54 euros) and you pay the driver when you get off.

Please note that the dolmus at the rear They have very little space to put large suitcases or backpacks, only 2 or 3 fit in total. If the space is already occupied, you will have to wait for the next dolmus.

3. 1 day excursion

The most practical alternative to visiting Pamukkale is to go on an excursion, so you don't have to worry about anything because it includes transportation, a guide, lunch and in some cases the price of the tickets.

These are the most popular excursions to Pamukkale depending on where you want to leave from, click on the links to see prices, date availability and book:

• Izmir or Kusadasi, on this tour you can choose with a guide in Spanish
• Antalya or Kemer
• Bodrum
• Marmaris or you also have the option of this Pamukkale night tour
• Fethiye

4. Plane from Istanbul

Pamukkale in Turkey is a small town where buses do not go directly and there is no airport in Pamukkale, but there is one in Denizli.

Denizli airport (DNZ) is very small and within Turkey it only has flights from Istanbul, 3 times a day and they take just over 1 hour.

To see schedules, prices and book tickets I recommend this website.

5. Night bus from Istanbul

If you want to save a night in a hotel, there is an interesting alternative which is the night bus from Istanbul, you can See prices, schedules and book on this website.

6. Multi-day Turkey tour

The other alternative to visit Pamukkale from Istanbul is with a multi-day tour, so you can take advantage of visiting several places.

There is a very good option if you only have two days, it is a trip to Ephesus in Izmir and Pamukkale with Hierapolis, with flights, accommodation and some of the meals. On this tour of Türkiye you have the option to do it in Spanish.

If you have more time I recommend this other one trip to Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale. This way you will visit the most beautiful places in the country without having to worry about anything, because it includes hotels with breakfast, flights and a guide.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a cheap trip, you can opt for a All-inclusive trip to Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale by bus, which includes hotels, tickets and a guide in Spanish.

Where to stay in Pamukkale?

Pamukkale is a small town but there are quite a few hotels to choose from, below I leave you a list of the best hotels in Pamukkale for different budgets.

All of these hotels are very close to Algodón Castle so you can walk there, they have breakfast included and a swimming pool, something that is appreciated when the heat hits:

• Cheap: Venus Hotel with very clean rooms and a very generous breakfast.
• Half: Pamukkale Whiteheaven Suite Hotel It is elegant and with first-class service.

Final Thoughts

Cotton Castle and the ruins of Hierapolis are some of the most interesting places to visit in Turkey and as you have seen in this article there is a lot to see in Pamukkale.

In addition, you can complete the trip with a fabulous balloon ride, a wonderful experience that you cannot miss.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘

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