A UNESCO site of white travertine terraces and the ruins of Hierapolis, including a necropolis and thermal Antique Pool.
Pamukkale's travertine terraces are formed by calcium-rich thermal water. Visitors walk barefoot on the terraces, and the Hierapolis ruins include a theatre, a vast necropolis, and the Martyrium of St. Philip. Entry is about 700 TRY (15 USD), and the Antique Pool costs an additional 400-600 TRY (9-13 USD). The trip is long: tours leave around 6:00 AM and return after 10:00 PM. An overnight is far more relaxed.
| Distance | About 220 km northwest of central Antalya |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 3.5-4 hours each way by car or coach |
| Getting there | Tour operators run long day trips by coach, while independent travelers can take a coach to Denizli then a Dolmuş to Pamukkale |
| Address | Pamukkale Antik Kenti, Pamukkale, 20280 Denizli |
How to get there
- Guided day tour: about 2,300-3,800 TRY (49-81 USD) per person
- Coach to Denizli then Dolmuş to Pamukkale: about 500-800 TRY (11-17 USD) each way
- Rental car: about 3.5 hours via Burdur and Denizli
- Overnight stay: highly recommended for a relaxed visit
Location
Pamukkale Antik Kenti, Pamukkale, 20280 Denizli
37.9203, 29.1211 View on map
Highlights
- White travertine terraces
- Hierapolis theatre and necropolis
- Antique Pool thermal swim
- Martyrium of St. Philip
- Sunset over the terraces
Tips for visiting
- Consider staying overnight to avoid the 8-hour round trip drive
- Wear swimwear under clothing for the Antique Pool
- Walk barefoot on the terraces, as required
- Bring sun protection
Frequently asked questions
Can Pamukkale be done in a day from Antalya?
Yes, but it is about 7-8 hours of driving; an overnight stay is more comfortable.
Is swimming allowed in the Antique Pool?
Yes, for an additional fee.