Pamukkale

Turkey, Europe

Pamukkale, known as the 'Cotton Castle', is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning terraced pools filled with mineral-rich thermal waters. The dazzling white travertine formations are not just a natural wonder; they offer a unique opportunity for visitors to bathe in their warm, healing waters while enjoying breathtaking views. In addition to its natural beauty, Pamukkale is near the ancient city of Hierapolis, where visitors can explore historical ruins, including a magnificent amphitheater and fascinating ancient baths.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Cultural Site

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Cardak

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Pamukkale

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Soak in the thermal pools

Relax in Pamukkale's stunning white travertine terraces.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Hierapolis Ancient City

Discover ancient ruins alongside thermal springs.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Swim in Cleopatra's Pool

Bathtub-like hot springs surrounded by ancient ruins.

No booking required
4

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the ancient theater

Marvel at the well-preserved Roman theater.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander the travertine terraces

Stroll along the stunning white thermal formations.

No booking required
6

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Necropolis

Visit one of the largest ancient cemeteries.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy sunset views

Witness stunning sunsets over the terraces.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Pamukkale Museum

Learn about the history and culture of the region.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Turkish Lira

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Turkish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Lamb

Tender meat from lamb, often grilled. (National dish)

Kebap

Grilled meat skewers, popular in Turkey.

Baklava

V

Sweet pastry filled with nuts and syrup.

Meze

VE

A variety of small dishes served as appetizers.

Turkish Delight (Lokum)

VE

Gel-like sweet made with starch and sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

Turkish

Hello

Merhaba

(Mehr-hah-bah)

Yes/No

Evet / Hayir

(Eh-vet / Hai-uhr)

Thank you

Teşekkür

(Teh-she-kyoor)

Excuse me

Affedersiniz

(Ah-feh-dehr-seen-ez)

How much?

Ne kadar?

(Neh kah-dar)