Pamukkale Day Trip From Istanbul

Expect pickup from your European-side hotel in Istanbul in the early morning, followed by transportation to the airport. (This is an early call for a tour, but we promise it’s worth it!) After a flight to Denizli and a short drive to Pamukkale, take advantage of some time to stretch your legs and snag some caffeine before the guided portion of your tour starts.

Your tour begins with a visit to the red springs of the nearby village of Karahayit. The water in this red springs is must-see in person—not just a name, the water in these springs actually looks like it’s tinted red. Next, head to Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa town. Stroll through the ruins of this town while your guide elaborates on the history of the area. Listen to the stories of the city and its people as you pass a theatre, an ancient market, and the Necropolis, one of the biggest graveyards of its kind.

After Hierapolis, stop by the Cleopatra Antique Pool. Admire it from land, or—for an additional fee—swim in the pool’s thermal waters and over Roman columns believed to have toppled in following an earthquake. After swimming, take advantage of some free time away from your guide and group and roam around. Then, walk down the hill to the lake and park, where you rejoin your guide and the rest of your group at a restaurant for lunch. Following lunch, explore the village of Pamukkale at your leisure.

After your thorough exploration of Pamukkale, it’s time to head home. You’re transferred to the Denizli airport for a return flight back to Istanbul and dropped off at your hotel.