Pamukkale
Pamukkale also known as the Cotton Castle which is the translation from Turkish, is composed of terraces of white mineral-rich thermal waters that cascade down the mountainside, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. Located in ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, which was built around the hot springs for their therapeutic benefits.
Pamukkale and Hierapolis are collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are a popular destination for tourists seeking natural beauty, history, and relaxation. The unique geological features and historical significance of Pamukkale make it a must-visit destination for travelers in Turkey.
As you can see below there are hot water springs that created a pool in the necropolis also, here you can swim where Cleopatra swam. There are parts of Roman columns on the water as these fell in during an earthquake.

Is it worth visiting Pamukkale?
It is totally worth visiting, not only for the terraces of calcium which alone are incredible to visit, but for the location. Being located in the necropolis of Hierapolis, where you can also visit the amphitheatre and a museum with the rest of the historical remains of the site. All togheter make Pamukkale a worth place to visit.
After visiting Pamukkale on a hot day of Summer we left very sweaty but in owe of the place. Not everyday you get to visit where Cleopatra traveled to, in order to take a bath, which is said to give her, her famous beauty.
Take into account that Hierapolis Archaeology Museum is open from 9 in the morning until 12:30 then again in the afternoon from 1:30 until 7pm. It is closed on Mondays.
If you can, avoid visiting it in August as it is full of tourists. Try to go when the weather is still nice to have a swim in the water. It is a very touristic site, and altough you see the photos of the terraces with no one in them is beacuse it its prohibit the pass to them. There are other terraces where you can swim or at least get your feet wet.
The site is quite large, and if you want to visit everything you will need at least a couple of hours.
Pamukkale Itinerary
We recommend doing the following itinerary in Pamukkale:
- Visit the amphiteater, as it is the fardest from the main attraction which are the terraces. The amphiteater in Hierapolis is very well conservated and is worth visiting.
- Go to the pool (picture above) where you will swim with the roman pillars that were broken with an earthquake and fell in the pool.
- Museum: go visit the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum is situated within the archaeological site of Hierapolis, near the modern town of Pamukkale. Its proximity to the ancient city makes it convenient for visitors exploring the ruins.
- As the last stop, go to the terraces, take the pictures. Be careful to not slip up as the soil is very wet and slippery. Note that you will have to go barefoot and leave your shoes on the entrance of the terraces.

Cleopatra in Pamukkale
Although there are no historical records that Cleopatra visited Hierapolus. The guide told us that Cleopatra did visit the terraces and thermal water. So the city was constructed in that area becuase of the thermal waters.
The city was founded in the 2nd century BC and was known for its architectural wonders, including terraces, theaters, temples, and a necropolis. Hierapolis was also an important site for early Christianity, and it is believed that the Apostle Philip was martyred there.
The pool is also known as the Antique Pool, offers clear and warm water surrounded by the remains of a Roman Temple to Apollo, including fallen columns and other artifacts.
The pool area also has shaded sitting areas and lush gardens, and a hand-operated pump provides fresh spring water for drinking. Entrance costs TL 33 for two hours, and the best times to visit are outside the peak hours of 11 am to 4 pm. If you arrive near closing time (around 7 pm, depending on the season), you can enjoy a discounted entrance fee. Visitors not swimming can enter the garden for free. Proper swimwear is required, and a cafeteria serves drinks and snacks.
For more information make sure to visit the official website of Pamukkale: Pamukkale Thermal Pools
Other attractions in the Pamukkale area
While Pamukkale is a major attraction in the Denizli City area, it’s not the only draw in Denizli City or the broader Denizli Province. With its rich history dating back to classical times as the center of the Phrygian region, this region has always offered a variety of interesting activities and sights for visitors, whether they were first-century Roman senators or 21st-century global travelers.
Here are some highlights and unique attractions in the area:
- Countryside: The Denizli region boasts some of Turkey’s most stunning countryside, characterized by lush gardens, wildflowers, and natural herbs and bushes. In addition to modern highways connecting cities, there are serene country roads that lead through small villages in the plains and hills, providing miles of peaceful driving where you might encounter local farmers and sheep herders but few other travelers.
- Pamukkale Winery: As the third-largest winery in Turkey, Pamukkale Winery has become a renowned producer with additional facilities across the country. The original and main winery offers tours of its facilities, providing visitors with the opportunity to taste some of their finest products.
Denizli City and the Denizli Province offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring the beautiful countryside to indulging in wine tastings at a prominent winery. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culinary delights, Denizli has something to offer travelers from all eras.
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