Pamukkale, which translates to “Cotton Castle,” is aptly named once you see its stunning pictures. Situated in western Turkey, Pamukkale is renowned for its white travertine terraces that resemble soft cotton or clouds. While legend suggests that these formations are solidified cotton left out to dry by giants, they are actually composed of rocks deposited by mineral-rich waters from the hot springs flowing down the mountainside. The area is part of the UNESCO world heritage and worth to include within your Turkey itinerary.
Best time to visit Pamukkale
It’s best to avoid visiting during the hot summer months from May to August when temperatures soar to 30-40 degrees Celsius and tourist crowds are at their peak. To enjoy a more comfortable and less crowded experience, plan your trip outside these months. Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are ideal times to visit with milder temperatures and fewer tourists. These seasons are also perfect for exploring other destinations like Cappadocia or Istanbul! For more information on planning your trip to Cappadocia, check out the full Cappadocia Travel Guide here.
How many days to stay in Pamukkale?
Including Pamukkale in your Turkey trip is straightforward, as all the main attractions are within walking distance and can be easily visited in a day. Although we stayed for 1.5 days due to inconvenient flight schedules, a single day is generally sufficient to explore the area.
How to get to Pamukkale?
From Istanbul
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Pamukkale, with an hour-long flight. There are many direct flights daily from both Istanbul Airports (IST) and (SAW) to Denizli-Cardak Airport. Upon landing, you’ll find numerous taxi drivers waiting, but keep in mind that a one-hour drive to Pamukkale might make taxis a costly option.
Instead, look for a shuttle bus once you arrive. A one-way ticket costs around €7 or $8 and will take you directly to your hotel. The shuttle bus schedules are coordinated with arrival times from Istanbul, so there is no need to book in advance.
From Izmir / Selcuk / Camlik
There are busses operating from Izmir, Selcuk and Camlik but the fastest way to reach Pamukkale is by train. Once you arrive at the Denizli train station you can again jump into one oft he shuttle busses that will bring you to Pamukkale. You can check out the train station here.
Guided Tours to Pamukkale
Below you will find some great organized day tours from the most popular locations in Turkiye.
Guided Tour from Antalya / Kemer
Guided Tour from Izmir
Where to stay in Pamukkale?
Pamukkale has a limited selection of hotels due to its small size, so there’s no particular “best” place to stay. It’s best to find a hotel near the travertines since most restaurants are also nearby. We stayed at a comfortable family-owned hotel, called Hotel Pamukkale. The owners were very helpful and made our stay enjoyable. This hotel is located right across from the travertines and has a rooftop with a beautiful view. Some rooms even have balconies overlooking this natural site and the hot air balloons in the morning.
4 things to do in Pamukkale
1. Warm up in the thermal pools
The number one thing to do in Pamukkale! The travertine are filled with aquamarine water that are rich in mineral and therefore have healing properties that have been attracting people for more than 3000 years. According to many, the healing waters can have a positive effect on asthma and rheumatism.
2. Take a dip into Cleopatra Pool
Ever wanted to feel like Cleopatra? Now you can take a dip into a pool that is said to be visited by Cleopatra herself. This pool is located right above Pamukkale’s famous travertines. It is surrounded by antique columns from greco-roman times that were fallen from an earthquake back in the days. The weather is comfortably warm with 37 Degree Celsius / 100 Degree Fahrenheit. You’ll eventually get to the pool once you have reached the top of the travertines but the entrance to the pool costs you another 10€ / $11 USD.
3. Visit the ruins of Hierapolis & Amphitheater
Hierapolis was an ancient city located on top of the travertines, overlooking the area with its beautiful landscape. Even in ancient times, Hierapolis was famously known for its spa and thermal waters, attracting visitors up until in 60 AD when the earthquake left the city in ruins. Today you can visit the remains on your visit or learn even more in the Hierpolis Aechaelogy Museum that is also located within the area.
If you keep walking up the hill you will be eventually awared with a breakthtaking view from the top and another sight-seeing stop: The Amphitheater, an ancient open-air venue built by the Romans for entertainment and can situ p to 12.000 people.
4. Take a hot air balloon ride
Did you know that you can also ride the hot air balloons at sunrise in Pamukkale? With 45€ /$47USD vs 100€ /$105USD prices in Pamukkale are a lot cheaper compared to Cappadocia and a great alternative if you are either on a budget or on a tight timing schedule.
You can easily ask your hotel to book the ride for you a day before or once you arrive and don’t have to book in advance.
What to pack for Pamukkale
Sandals or Slippers
When visiting the travertines, you won’t be allowed to wear shoes to protect the delicate formations. Therefore, bring slippers or shoes that are easy to take on and off.
Sunscreen
Pamukkales weather is rather dry and hot, with temperature rising up to 40 degrees. Sunscreen are a must to protect your skin.
Want more inspiration for your next Turkey trip?
Then make sure to check out my Cappadocia Guide!
