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Affordable Turkey

Budget Travel to Pamukkale 2024

Pamakkale-water-pools

Welcome to Pamukkale!

Pamukkale, also known as “Cotton Castle,” is a stunning natural wonder in the Aegean region of Turkey. It’s famous for its white terraced pools filled with mineral-rich thermal water.

 

The format of this budget-friendly travel guide is slightly different from the others guides. So many people had questions about visiting this destination that I decided to write it in a question and answer format.  

 

The travel guide still aims to give you all the essential travel information you need to plan an unforgettable and affordable trip to Pamukkale and it will cover all the must-see attractions, help you find the best affordable accommodation and food choices, as well as giving you helpful tips on transportation to help you cut your travel costs. 

Key Takeaways

  • Pamukkale is an extremely popular destination in Turkey, with millions of visitors every year. 
  • Most people come to the destination on a day trip, but there is so much to see and do in and around Pamukkale that you can spend several days here without getting bored.
  • The main attractions in Pamukkale are the travertine terraces,(the natural water pools), The ancient city of Hierapolis and Cleopatra’s Pool.
  • There are also other Roman cities, Cave and thermal pools to visit in the area around Pamukkale.  
  • Pamukkale is fairly isolated area and can take several hours to get there from the coastal resorts of the Aegean and Mediterranean. 
  • Pamukkale is often part of a tour to Turkey including Ephesus, Cappadocia and Istanbul. 
  • There is budget accommodation and inexpensive dining options in Pamukkale. 
  • Choosing the right time of year to visit Pamukkale is essential. 

Map of Pamukkale

map-of-pamukkale-turkey

1: Why is Pamukkale So Famous?

It´s famous for its unique travertine terraces, which can be described as shallow limestone rock pools that have been formed over thousands of years and are filled with mineral-rich powder-blue water. The ancient Greeks and Romans originally came here because of the healing properties of its thermal waters.  

 

There are 17 pools in total, but not all of them are accessible to the public. From the distance, these pools look like they are made of ice or cotton wool. For that reason, the Turkish named it Pamukkale, which can be translated into English as “Cotton Castle.”

 

2: Where is Pamukkale?

The town of Pamukkale is situated approximately 20 kilometres from the city of Denizli in the inland region of the Aegean in south-west Turkey. It is located about 235 kilometres from both Izmir (Ephesus) and Antalya.

 

However, Pamukkale is quite far from other important destinations; for example, the distance by road from Istanbul is approximately 570 km.

3: Is Pamukkale close to Cappadocia?

After visiting Cappadocia, many tourists want to travel to Pamukkale.  However, Goreme, the main tourist town of Cappadocia, is situated about 600km away, and it takes about 11 hours to get there by bus. 

If you rent a car, the road trip may be a little faster (9–10 hours with no major breaks), but it is exhausting.  There are also speed radars and police controls along the way.

 

There are no direct flights from the Cappadocia region to Pamukkale. You would need to fly to Istanbul and then fly from there to Denizli. This would be very expensive, and it wouldn´t save you much time anyway.

4: Are the Pools Empty?

In recent years, a lot of water from the springs has been diverted to the nearby town to satisfy local demand. As a result, many of natural pools in Pamukkale are now empty. 

 

This is one of the main complaints that people have when visiting the site. However, you can still enjoy the spectacular views of the white terraces and the valley below, with or without water, and it is definitely worth visiting.

 

Most visitors are unaware that the Travertines of Pamukkale are located next to the ancient ruins of Hierapolis. The ancient city is a fascinating place to visit with its breath-taking amphitheatre, defensive gates, necropolis, and a wonderful archaeological museum that was once a Roman bathhouse. 

A visit to the natural beauty of the Pamukkale pools, together with a visit to the historical gem of Hierapolis, makes a great destination for a day trip or a longer stay. 

5: Is 1 Day Enough to See Pamukkale?

It´s possible to see Pamukkale and Hierapolis on a full day tour. Some people visit the landmark as part of a guided bus tour on a trip to Turkey, while others go there on a day excursion from a holiday resort on the Aegean or Mediterranean coast, such as Antalya, Kusadasi, or Fethiye. 

 

Trips normally include 7-8 hours of road travel and about 3-4 hours in Pamukkale to visit the site. They cost around 50 to 60 euros per person and include a tour guide. These tours can be purchased online or from local travel agencies in the coastal resorts where you are staying. 

However, if you are travelling independently around Turkey, you should try to spend more than one day in Pamukkale. A couple of days is probably enough time to really experience this amazing place. 

 

If you choose to stay for longer than a day, there are several other fascinating natural and historical landmarks nearby that you can also visit. These include the ancient city of Laodikeia, Karahayit Red Thermal Springs, and the wonderful caves at Kalkilk.

view-of-pamakkale-pools
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woman-bathing-in-pamukkale-pool

6: When is the Best Time of Day to Visit Pamukkale?

In the summer months, the place is packed with tourists on day excursions. In July and August, the air temperature can reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius at midday. 

 

If you’re going on an organised excursion in the summer, you will normally arrive between 10 and noon. So you need to take care of the heat and sun. 

If you are not on an excursion in the summer, you should try to go the pools either early in the morning, just after sunrise, or in the early evening, as the sun is setting.

 

These times are great for taking photos because the light is softer and the place is almost empty. In the summertime, the South entrance (the one at the top of the hill) opens at 6.30 a.m., while the other entrances don´t open until 8 a.m.

In the winter months, there are very few tourists, and midday is actually the best time of the day to visit. The early mornings and late afternoons can be very cool. 

 

7: Can I swim in the Pool Terraces at Pamukkale?

There are certain pools in Pamukkale, where visitors are allowed to bathe. However, the water is very shallow, and you can only lie down in the water. In the summer, when it´s full of people, perhaps the water is not clean enough to bathe in.

If you try to go to the water-filled pools that are not open to the public, the security guards will warn you.  However, it is possible to swim in Cleapatra’s pool. So, don´t forget to take your swimsuit.

 

Most people just choose to walk in the water up to their knees. You are also not allowed to wear shoes when walking on the terraces; this helps to avoid damage to the surface. If you wear shoes, the guards will tell you to take them off.  

The surface of the pool terraces can sometimes be a little slippy and sometimes a bit rough on your feet. So, take it easy when you´re walking around.  It may be a good idea to take an extra pair of shorts with you in case you fall into the water and get wet. 

10: Where is Cleopatra's Pool?

The pool is located just a few minutes on foot from the travertine pools, where you can find Cleopatra’s Pool, which is also known as the Ancient Pool.

This is truly a unique place because the thermal pool is surrounded and filled with ancient pillars and ruins. The mineral-rich waters are crystal clear and filled with fallen Roman columns. 


It is like something out of a movie set. According to legend, Cleopatra bathed here after it was gifted to her by Marc Anthony. This story adds to the mystery and interest in this wonderful attraction. 

Cleopatra-pool-pamukkale

11: Can I swim in Cleopatra´s Pool?

You can swim in the Antique pool; the water is about 35 degrees Celsius and is very soft on your skin.  It almost feels a little fizzy due to the high level of minerals in the water. The pool isn´t very deep, so even children can enjoy it safely. 

 

Also, take a swimsuit, a towel, and a hat. You can buy all these in the shop nearby the limestone pools in Pamukkale, but they are quite expensive. There are toilets and a changing area nearby if you want to put on and take off your swimming suit. 

12 - How much does it cost to Swim in Cleopatra's Pool?

Swimming in the pool is not included in the Pamukkale entrance ticket or museum pass. You have to pay about 10 euros to swim in the pool and there is an additional small fee to use the changing room and store your gear in a locker. 

 

You must use a bathing suit to swim, so make sure to take one with you, along with a towel. You can stay in the pool for a maximum of two hours. Paying 10 euros to swim in a pool isn´t cheap, yet it is a once-in-a lifetime experience. If you are on a tight budget, there is always the possibility of walking around the pool and taking some photos; it´s free. 

 

There is also a cafe next to the pool where you can sit down, relax, and have a delicious Turkish coffee. You should expect to pay a little more than you would in town, but again, the views from your coffee table are unforgettable. 

13: What are the Opening Times of Cleopatra's Pool?

The pool opens every day from 8.00 – 19.45 during the summer and from 8.00 to 17.00 in the cooler months.

panarama-cleopatra-pool-pamukkale

14 - What should I take with me to Pamukkale?

Remember to take a small rucksack or shoulder bag. You will need this for your shoes, and other travel gear.

 

Take some snacks and water with you, as you will spend a few hours walking around, and it is cheaper to buy these items outside Pamukkale and take them with you. Don´t forget to take a hat, sun protection. Sun protection cream is expensive in Turkey, so try to take some with you to Turkey and save money.

 

Sunglasses are essential, as the reflection of the sun on the white limestone terraces can be very uncomfortable without sunglasses. 

A comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential. You will probably want to walk around the nearby Greek-Roman ruins, and it´s a big area, covering several kilometres, so it´s better not to wear sandals. 

 

In the cooler months, take a warm jacket, as it can get quite cold and windy. You can enter the warm water, but remember that the floor is very cold to walk on barefoot.

15: Is Hierapolis worth Visiting?

This well-preserved archaeological site gives you the chance to appreciate the splendour of this ancient city. You will see a huge amphitheatre, Roman bathhouses, and a vast necropolis.

 

The site covers a large area, and you can spend up to a couple of hours wandering around in awe of its architecture and cultural relics. 

Don´t forget to take comfortable walking shoes with you because the stone-paved streets of the ancient city can be difficult to walk on at times.

If you have mobility issues, you can rent a gulf buggy to get around the site more easily. The pathway will even allow you to get a good view of the travertines from the top of the hill. 

 

Hierapolis-roman-ruins-Turkey

16: How old is Hierapolis?

The city was founded in the 2nd century BC by the Greek King of Pergamon as a thermal water health resort and religious centre. However, it´s believed that the settlement is much older. 

 

The health spa attracted those people who were looking for a cure to their illnesses, as well as pilgrims who worshipped the god Pluto. 

Later, Hierapolis grew under the rule of the Roman Empire. During its peak, it was an important cultural and trading  centre.

 

During the reign of the Byzantines, the city continued to be an important religious centre until the Seljuk Turks invaded it in 1190. The city was eventually abandoned and fell into ruin. 

17: What is There to See in Hierapolis?

There are many interesting landmarks in the ancient city of Hierapolis. Here are some of the most interesting ones.

 

The Roman Theatre

Probably the most spectacular site in the ancient city is the theatre. It is an extremely well-preserved and stunning amphitheatre that was built in the 2nd century BC. 

It is a huge place that accommodated more than 15,000 people and was used for all types of artistic performances. 

It is one of the main attractions of the ancient city and gives you the opportunity to sit down and imagine what it must have been like to be a spectator in ancient times.

It is also a great place to take some amazing panoramic photos. The price of entry is included in your ticket, and there is no extra charge.

 

The Necropolis of Hierapolis

Necropolis is translated from ancient Greek as “Cemetery.”.  There are over 12,000 ancient tombs located in the Necropolis of Hierapolis, and it is one of the biggest in Turkey.

It is possible that many of the rich Greek and Roman people who came to this health resort and religious centre actually chose to die here. 

As you walk along the 1.5-kilometer Roman road that stretches across the ancient city,. You can see many of these tombs; some of them are better preserved than others 

 

The Gate of Domitian / Frontinius Gate

This gate is another nice landmark to visit. It is the well-preserved remains of a Byzantine defensive gate that mark the entrance to Frontinius Street. The street was once filled with shops, houses, columns, and latrines (public toilets). 

The entrance gate has three arches and two round side towers and was built in 86 AD. The gate has two names: Frontinius, who was the local ruler who built it, and Domitian, who was the Roman emperor who it was built to honour. 

 

The Gates of Hell

Apart from being a health resort, Hierapolis was also a religious centre that attracted pilgrims.  In early times, it was an important site for the worship of Pluto (the god of the underworld). Situated in Hierapolis is the entrance of a cave filled with sulphurous gas, known as “Ploutoniun” or the “Gates of Hell.”.  Ancient priests sacrificed animals to Pluto here, and people came to worship. You can´t go inside the cave, but you can still see the entrance.

During the Byzantine era, Hierapolis became an important site of pilgrimage for Christians because it was the place where the Apostle Philip became a martyr.

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city-gate-hierapolis-turkey

18: Is the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum Worth Visiting?

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum is a must. This museum is housed inside an ancient Roman bathhouse and has a remarkable collection of artefacts that were found in the site during excavation.

 

The exhibits show the rich history and culture of the region and allow you to appreciate the beauty of artwork created by ancient civilizations..

Among the items on display are ancient sculptures, pottery, and other archaeological treasures that provide insight into the daily lives of the ancient inhabitants of Hierapolis. It will take you between 20 and 30 minutes to see the museum. 

 

Entry to the museum is already included in the price of the Pamukkale ticket, so you don´t need to pay anything extra to get in, and it is really worth visiting, even if you don´t like history much.

19: What Are the Opening Times of the Hierapolis Museum?

The museum is open every day of the week.

08:00 and 19:00 from 15 April to 30 September

08:00 and 17:00 from 1 October until 14 April.

20. How many entrance gates are there in Pamukkale?

There are three entrances at Pamukkale: the Town entrance, the North entrance and the South entrance. The Town entrance is located at the bottom of the hill, near the town, after passing through the gates, you need to walk up the hill for about 20 minutes to get to the pools. The panorama of the pools is great as you walk up, but in the heat of summer, it may be challenging for some people.

 

The South entrance is the one that is located at the top of the hill, near the pools. This is the busiest one because bus tours go to it because there is a big car park.  If you have mobility issues, you should also get a taxi to the South gate, as it will be easier for you to get to the pool viewing point.

The North entrance is located on the other side of the town and is nearer to the Hierapolis archaeological site. Minibuses that go to Denizli pass by this gate. 

 

21. What are the Opening Times for Pamukkale / Hierapolis?

April 1st till October 1st (summertime): 06:30 to 20:00 every day.   South Entrance

April 1st till October 1st (summertime): 08:00 to 20:00 every day. Town and North Entrance

October 1st  till April 1st (wintertime): 08:00 to 18:00 every day. All entrances.

22. How Much Does It Cost to Enter Pamukkale in 2024?

You can buy tickets at the ticket office; they cost about 30 euros per person. The entrance price has increased a lot in the last few years. The entry price includes the Travertines, the ancient city of Hierapolis, and the Museum of Hierapolis. However, it doesn´t include entrance to Cleopatra’s / Antique pool. 

 

 

If you buy a day ticket, you can only use it once, which means if you go in the early morning, you can´t go back again in the early evening to see sunset. If you are travelling on an organised excursion the entrance fee should be included in the price, but double check with the tour agency to be sure.  

Sunset-at-pamukkale

23. What is the Aegean Museum Pass / Türkiye Museum Pass?

If you are an independent traveller who has travelled many hours in the summer heat to get to this amazing destination, Pamukkale, you deserve to see the place at the two best times of day (early morning and late afternoon).

 

The best way to do this is by buying an Aegean Museum Pass (7 days, 70 euros) or a Turkey Museum Pass (15 days, 130 euros).  If you are planning to go to Ephesus as well as Pamukkale, it may be worth buying the Aegean card. However, if you are touring Turkey and are a history lover, it makes sense to buy the Turkey pass to help you save money and avoid waiting in ticket lines. 

24. What are the Top Things to Do in Pamukkale in 1 Full Day?

When visiting Pamukkale, there are plenty of exciting attractions and activities that can be included in your itinerary.  

1: Travertines of Pamukkale 

2: Cleopatra’s Pool /Antique Pool

3: Hierapolis Amphitheatre

4: Hierapolis Archaeology Museum

5: The Necropolis: Ancient Tombs

If you want to extend your itinerary for Pamukkale to two days, then you can add some of the following ideas for day trips and activities to make your stay even more memorable. 

25: Are There Other Attractions near Pamukkale?

While Pamukkale itself offers plenty of attractions, there are also several day and half day trips that you can take from the town. So if you decide to stay there for two days, these attractions can be added to your itinerary.


1 – Karahayit Thermal Springs

You can also experience the therapeutic benefits of the hot thermal springs at Karahayit. This place is also known for its healing properties and has mineral-rich muddy red water. It is kind of a mini-Pamukkale, but without the high price tag.  These springs are located about 5km from Pamukkale and you can get to the village of Karahayit by dolmus minibus for about a euro each way. It takes about 20 minutes to get there, and there is no fee to enter the springs. 


2 – Ancient City of Laodicea

This ancient Greek-Roman city of Laodicea is huge and covers an area of about 5 square kilometres. It is known for its well-preserved ruins and archaeological sites, and there is just about everything that you could hope to see: theatres, stadiums, bathhouses, and even the ruins of some of the early Byzantium churches and basilicas. You need about 2 to 3 hours to explore the city, so make sure you take a hat and plenty of water with you. You can buy a ticket for Pamukkale / Hierapolis that includes entry to Laodicea.  You can get there in about 15 minutes by taxi for about five euros each way, and there are usually taxis waiting to take people back in the summer. 


3 – Caves at Kalkilk

Another option for a day trip is to explore the caves at Kalkilk. These caves offer a unique underground experience that is fascinating. It is like a mini-Pamukkale, but underground.  There is a wooden pathway that runs through the caves; you’ll be amazed by the stunning rock formations and the atmosphere. The cave is not very deep, so there is plenty of light inside. There is mineral water running through the cave.  Not many visitors come here, and it costs just a few euros to enter. and it´s worth every penny, but the caves are not easy to get to without a car.  However, there is an excursion that includes both Laodicea and Kalkilk Cave that you can buy from travel agencies in Pamukkale Town, This is probably a good combination for a pleasant day trip.

Karahayit-caves-turkey
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26: Are There Hot Air Balloon Rides in Pamukkale?

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For a more unique experience, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the travertines and ancient ruins of Hierapolis at sunrise. 

 

You should look for balloon company that will pick you up from your hotel, normally at about 5.30 am in the summer. The excursion should last for at least an hour and include insurance. Some companies also offer breakfast, which is an nice bonus.  In general, the balloon rides here are a cheaper than in Cappadocia, starting from about 100 euros.  

 

You can buy tickets from a Pamukkale travel agency or online. Most hotels will also offer such excursions. You should shop around for the best price. 

 

The balloon rides always depend on the weather; if it is too windy, the excursion will be cancelled. This usually happens more often during the colder months of the year. 

27: Is There Paragliding in Pamukkale?

For adrenaline junkies, paragliding over the travertines and Hierapolis is an exhilarating experience. You can soar through the sky and enjoy the panoramic views of the stunning landscape below. 

 

You don´t have to wake up early for this one, but it lasts for 15–30 minutes.  There are many tours and activities in Pamukkale, but perhaps this is the most exciting one. Again, check with a local travel agent or online with Pamukkale flights.. Prices start at about 70 euros for a short flight. 

 

28: Are There Budget-Friendly Hotels in Pamukkale?

Accommodation is an important part of any travel budget, and when you visit Pamukkale, you’ll find that there are a variety of different options available.  If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay in Pamukkale, there are several budget-friendly hotels that offer quality accommodations at a reasonable price. 

 

Remember that this part of Turkey gets very hot in the summer. If you don´t have air conditioning in your room, you probably won´t sleep much. 

The best Pamukkale budget hotels are:

 

Aspawa Hotel:  A clean and friendly budget hotel with a small pool and a good breakfast. The Denizli minibus will drop you off and pick you up in front of the hotel

 

Bellamaritimo Hotel: A simple, clean hotel located 400m from the town centre that also has a pool and offers breakfast. 

Ozbay Hotel: It isn´t a hostel, but it offers the possibility of shared rooms instead of dorms. It can be cheap in the summer when prices are generally high, but there is a fan instead of air conditioning, and there is no breakfast. 

29: Are there Apartment Rental and Apartment Sharing in Pamukkale?

Another option for saving on accommodation in Pamukkale is apartment rentals or sharing with a local Turkish host. It´s important to check how far from the town the flat is located, and the amenities it offers, such as a washing machine, air conditioning, Turkish or western-style toilet, etc.

 

Airbnb offers several entire flats for rent in the area, but many of them work out at the same price as staying in a hotel. So, always compare the differences. Renting a room in an apartment with a local host is one of the cheapest options, and it´s especially good for solo travellers.

 

It also gives you the chance to learn about Turkish culture and get lots of local insights. Many hosts on Airbnb speak a little English in tourist destinations. However, you should always check the location of the apartment and the comments left by previous guests.

30: Are There Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Pamukkale?

Good food in Pamukkale doesn´t have to be expensive.  Here is a list of several budget-friendly restaurants offering delicious food. 

  • Traverten Pide: Delicious Turkish-style pizza. Pide is also a good option to fill you up on the cheap
  • Gurme Restaurant:  Nice chicken, kofte, and meat, as well as other typical Turkish dishes, at reasonable prices. 
  • Ege Corba Manti Salonu: Great soup and Turkish dumplings. One of the best cheap eats in the town.
  • Harman Restaurant: Tasty inexpensive dishes, served in a nice garden atmospher

31: Is There Nightlife in Pamukkale?

Keep in mind that Pamukkale is a small town that is more laid-back and relaxed compared to other tourist hotspots like Istanbul or Antalya.  Most bars are located inside hotels, and drinks are quite expensive. Many restaurants in the town offer alcoholic drinks such as wine and beer.  

 

If you are looking for something a little more cultural than a bar, you can always go to see an hour-long whirling dervish performance. These take place in the village of Karahayit and are sold as a tour.

 

You are picked up from your hotel and taken to the hypnotising event of Muslim Sufi Culture. During the summer months, it starts at 20.30 and costs around 25 euros. You can find most tours in Pamukkale on offer at your hotel, or in a local travel agency.

 

32: What Can I buy in Pamukkale?

Pamukkale is a small town that does´t have a lot to offer in the way of shopping.  Several streets in the town sell souvenirs, but they are very low-key and not particularly interesting. Cotton products and leather goods seem to be the most popular items on offer. 

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Hanging-rugs-pamukkale-turkey

33: How do I get to Pamukkale by Plane?

Denizli Airport is the nearest one to Pamukkale. However, it is a small airport that is located about an hour away from Denizli city and even further away from Pamukkale. Flights to the city are very limited, with just a few daily flights from Istanbul.  Turkish Airways offer the most flights, and they leave from Istanbul International Airport, If you want to take a cheaper flight, you should fly with Pegasus Airlines from Istanbul SAW airport, situated on the Asian side of the city.  

  • Istanbul (IST) – Denizli 1h.20m Turkish Airlines
  • Istanbul (SAW) – Denizli  1h.05m Pegasus Airlines.

If you are flying to Turkey from a European destination, you could look for a cheap flight to Antalya and then get the bus from there to Denizli. This would be the cheapest option.  

 

Getting from the Denizli airport to Pamukkale can be quite expensive if you take a taxi or arrange a private airport transfer, as the distance is quite far. It is only an affordable option if you are travelling in a small group and can split the cost. A cheaper alternative is to take one of the Havaş airport shuttle buses that connect the airport to the centre of Denizli for under 5 euros. They run regularly, and you can pay on the bus with a card or cash. 

34: How Do I get to Pamukkale by Intercity Bus?

Intercity buses are a popular and affordable choice for travelling within Turkey. Denizli is well-connected, and you can find direct buses from many major cities, like Istanbul, Ankara, and even Goreme in Cappadocia. 

 

There are also plenty of intercity buses that you can take from holiday resorts on the west coast of Turkey, such as Kusadasi, Fethiye and Antalya. The duration of the journey and ticket prices depend on the distance travelled, but it can be a comfortable and cost-effective way of travelling (see the  guide to travelling by bus in Turkey).

 

  • Istanbul – Denizli: approximately 11 hours  
  • Antalya – Denizli: 3h.30m
  • Kusadasi – Denizli;  3h.45m
  • Fethiye – Denizli:  3h.30m
  • Goreme (Cappadocia) – Denizli: 11h.30m
  • Selcuk / Ephesus – Denizli: 3h20m

The price of a one-way ticket from Istanbul to Pamukkale is around 30 euros per person each way. Koç Kamil / Flix Bus, Metro and the Pamukkale bus company are all good choices, offering luxury buses with wi-fi and charging plugs. If you are taking the bus from Istanbul or Cappadocia, it’s best to take a night bus to help you save on the cost of travel.  There are drinks and snakes included in the price, and there are several stops for the toilet along the way. You can buy your tickets safely online to make it easier on apps such as Busbud

35: How do I Get to Pamukkale by Train?

If you prefer train travel, Denizli also has a train station that is part of the Turkish rail network. You can catch a train from various cities in Turkey, including Istanbul or Ankara.

 

The train journey can be a scenic and enjoyable way to reach Denizli, especially if you have more time to spare. However, it is only a good option if you are a train lover, as it can be very slow compared to other forms of public transport.  The train will take you to Denizli and from there you will have to travel another 20 kilometres by another form of transport, such as minibus or taxi. 

36: How do I Get from Denizli to Pamukkale?

Once you arrive in Denizli, you need to get to Pamukkale. There are two options for the 20-minute journey.  The first is to take a taxi; make sure you ask the driver to use his metre. Expect to pay about 12–15 euros.

 

A cheaper option is to take a public bus to the Denizli bus station and then take a minibus, also known as a dolmuş, to Pamukkale. These are like a shared taxi that operates between Denizli and Pamukkale and picks up and drops off people on the way. The journey takes around 25–30 minutes and offers beautiful views along the way. 

 

You can find the minibus to Pamukkale parked in the lower level of the bus station, you can pay the driver cash for the ticket. They leave every 15-20 minutes and run all day until late in the evening. The ticket to Pamukkale should cost around a couple of euros. 

37: How Can I Get around Pamukkale?

Transportation within Pamukkale is relatively simple, as the town is compact and walkable. The main attractions, such as the travertine pools and Hierapolis, are within a short distance from each other.

 

You can explore the area on foot and take your time to enjoy the natural beauty. Additionally, there are local taxis, and dolmus minibuses are another convenient way to get around, especially if you want to travel to places outside the town.

Panarama-of-pamukkale

38: When is the Best Time of Year to visit Pamukkale?

When you´re planning your vacation in Pamukkale, it’s important to consider what the best months are to visit.

 

The peak tourist season is during the summertime, when the weather in Pamukkale is extremely hot, the attractions are crowded, and the prices of hotels are highest. 

During the shoulder months (April–June and September–November), there are far fewer people visiting the sights of Pamukkale, and it is much more comfortable to walk around, bathe, and take photos. 

 

During the wintertime, you can find cheaper accommodation rates, but some attractions may be closed. If you are thinking of taking a Pamukkale day tour from a coastal resort during the winter, there may not be many options available. 

 

39: Do I need Travel Insurance to Visit Pamukkale?you

Many British and EU tourists believe that they don´t need to have insurance if they want to visit Turkey, and they are covered if they have any medical problems.  This is completely wrong, and you should always buy travel insurance when visiting Turkey. Alianz and wintertur are probably the bes. 

Organise tours and excursions should already have basic insurance included in the price, but it is always a good idea to double check. 

40: Is Pamukkale Worth Visiting?

All in all, Pamukkale offers a wide range of attractions, accommodation options, dining choices, and transportation for travellers looking to explore this beautiful destination without overspending. 

 

Some people may say that it has become a tourist trap and feel disappointed by the fact that not all of the pools are filled with water.  However, it´s still a place with both natural beauty and historical interest and is definitely worth visiting. 

 

For budget travellers, the key is to visit outside the peak season. When the weather is cooler, there are fewer visitors, and the prices of hotels and flights are lower.

Affordable Turkey