How to spend 1 day in Pamukkale, Turkey4 min read
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Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is located in the Denizli Province in southwestern Turkey. The area is renowned for its travertine limestone formations created by thermal spring waters. It is also home to the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis. This unique site has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting There
Denzil Cardak is the nearest airport to Pamukkale. It will take about an hour to reach Pamukkale from the airport by road. Ephesus – one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire is about a 2 hour 30 minute drive from Pamukkale.
Travertines
The travertines are formed from calcium deposits left behind by the thermal waters of nearby hot springs. Over thousands of years, these deposits have shaped the stunning terraced pools you see today. The mineral-rich water gives the travertines their striking white color, creating a beautiful contrast with the turquoise water.
Given the high volume of visitors, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind when planning your trip to Pamukkale:
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds.
- Due to heavy foot traffic, some areas of the terraces are closed to help preserve them. Be a responsible traveler by following the guidelines and avoiding restricted zones.
- Remove your footwear before entering the pools to help protect the delicate surface. The pools can be slippery, so watch your step while walking and taking photos.
Hierapolis Ancient City
The ancient city of Hierapolis is located atop the Pamukkale Springs, which have been used as a spa since the 2nd century. The site is scattered with numerous tombs, suggesting that the city may have been a popular destination for retirement and as a final resting place.
Many visitors make the mistake of visiting Pamukkale’s travertines and skipping Hierapolis, but this ancient city is an impressive site with a rich history. Don’t miss the chance to explore the ruins and learn about this significant ancient settlement.
The site is expansive, so if you’re not up for a lot of walking, it’s a good idea to rent a golf cart. These carts will take you around to key spots such as the Byzantine Gate, Apollo Temple, Roman Theater, and the Necropolis.
The Cleopatra Pool
While in Pamukkale, don’t miss the chance to swim in the same waters where Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt, is said to have bathed! The Cleopatra Pool is located just above the white travertine pools of Pamukkale.
Take a dip in the shallow waters, and you’ll notice submerged temple ruins and fallen columns scattered throughout the pool—a truly unique sight. Even if you’re not planning to swim, it’s a great spot to grab a refreshing drink and relax. And of course, don’t forget to take some stunning photos!
This wraps up a 1-day trip to Pamukkale, which promises to be a breathtaking visual experience. For more travel inspiration, check out our Turkey blog to discover other amazing destinations in this beautiful country.
FAQs
Is Pamukkale worth the trip?
Yes, definitely. In my opinion, Pamukkale is definitely worth visiting if you’re planning to explore both the travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis. However, if you’re only going for the terraces because of what you’ve seen on Instagram, you might find yourself a bit disappointed.
Can you visit Pamukkale on your own?
Yes, you can. That’s exactly what we did during our visit. A tip: If you prefer to avoid a lot of walking in Hierapolis, consider renting a golf cart.
Can you swim in Pamukkale?
Yes, you can swim in the travertine terrace pools. However, be cautious of the slippery surfaces when walking around the pools. Not all of the pools are open to the public, so make sure to follow the rules and be mindful of which ones you’re allowed to enter.
How many days do you need in Pamukkale?
From our experience, a 1-day trip is sufficient to see the main attractions in Pamukkale.However, if you want to explore the town more leisurely, 2 days would be a better option.
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