Bodrum: Pamukkale Cotton Castle & Hierapolis Day Trip w/Lunch
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Non smoking
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Reservations
History
Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich hot springs over thousands of years. The area has been a place of healing and relaxation since ancient times, attracting visitors to its therapeutic waters. Hierapolis, the ancient Greco-Roman city above Pamukkale, was founded in the 2nd century BC and flourished as a spa and religious center, with its well-preserved ruins showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture.
This day trip from Bodrum immerses you in the natural and historical wonders of Pamukkale and Hierapolis. You’ll explore the geological marvels of the terraces and the cultural significance of the ancient city, connecting with a legacy that spans centuries.
Highlights
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Pamukkale travertine terraces
- Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Hierapolis, including the Necropolis
- Enjoy a scenic 3.5-hour drive in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Marvel at the mineral-rich pools and stunning natural landscapes
- Savor an open buffet lunch included in the tour
Full Description
Embark on a 12-hour day trip from Bodrum to the breathtaking Pamukkale and Hierapolis, a journey blending natural beauty and ancient history. Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Bodrum, followed by a comfortable 3.5-hour drive in an air-conditioned vehicle to Pamukkale, where you’ll meet your professional guide. At Pamukkale, marvel at the dazzling white travertine terraces, formed by calcium-rich hot springs cascading down the hillside, creating a surreal “Cotton Castle” against the rugged mountains. You’ll have free time to explore the terraces and can opt to dip in Cleopatra’s Pools (additional fee), so bring a swimsuit if you wish to soak in these historic waters.
Next, your guide will lead you through the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you’ll walk among remarkable Roman ruins, including the grand theater that once seated over 12,000 spectators, the expansive Necropolis with its ancient tombs, and the sacred St. Philippe Martyrion. Learn about the city’s history as a thriving spa and religious center while soaking in the archaeological richness. After an open buffet lunch to recharge, you’ll return to Bodrum in the air-conditioned vehicle, arriving back at your hotel with memories of a day filled with natural splendor and historical discovery.
This tour, guided in English, ensures a seamless experience with skip-the-line access and moderate walking suitable for most travelers. The combination of Pamukkale’s geological wonders and Hierapolis’s ancient ruins makes this an unforgettable journey into Turkey’s natural and cultural heritage.
Why Choose This Experience?
This day trip offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical exploration, taking you from Bodrum to the UNESCO-listed Pamukkale and Hierapolis in a single day. With a professional guide, comfortable transport, and an included lunch, it’s a hassle-free way to discover two of Turkey’s most iconic sites.
The tour’s thoughtful itinerary allows time to explore the stunning travertine terraces and ancient ruins at a leisurely pace, with opportunities to swim in mineral pools for a unique experience. Ideal for history buffs and nature lovers alike, this trip delivers lasting memories of Turkey’s diverse heritage.
What’s Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Bodrum
- Open buffet lunch
- Professional guiding service (English)
- Air-conditioned vehicle for 3.5-hour transfers
- Skip-the-line access to Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Itinerary
- Pickup from Bodrum hotel or designated meeting point
- 3.5-hour drive to Pamukkale in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Guided tour of Pamukkale’s travertine terraces with free time to explore
- Optional swim in Cleopatra’s Pools (additional fee)
- Guided walking tour of Hierapolis, including the Roman theater, Necropolis, and St. Philippe Martyrion
- Open buffet lunch
- 3.5-hour return drive to Bodrum
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point
Pricing
From $42 per person
Meeting Point
Pickup is included from your Bodrum hotel or the nearest designated meeting point, depending on road conditions and hotel policies. Please provide accurate hotel details when booking, and be ready at the scheduled pickup time, which will be confirmed in advance. If directed to a meeting point, it will be the closest accessible location to your accommodation.
How to Get There
- Arrange pickup from your Bodrum hotel or a designated meeting point
- Be ready at the confirmed pickup time, provided after booking
- Provide precise hotel details during booking for smooth coordination
- If directed to a meeting point, follow instructions to the nearest accessible location
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Swimwear
- Change of clothes
- Towel
- Sunscreen
Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable attire and sturdy shoes for moderate walking at historical sites
- Bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim in Cleopatra’s Pools (additional fee)
- The tour involves moderate walking; consider your mobility needs
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended for sun protection
- Personal expenses, including drinks and souvenirs, are not included
- For balloon flight programs, pickup times may adjust based on hotel location and sunrise times
Reviews
- Our guide Mat was fantastic, making the trip both informative and enjoyable. The service was excellent, with breakfast and lunch included, and Pamukkale’s terraces were stunning. Highly recommend this experience!
- We had an incredible day with our guide Nur, who made the tour unforgettable. The activities were well-organized, and the natural and historical sites were breathtaking. Couldn’t have asked for a better day!
- This trip exceeded expectations with even more highlights than anticipated. Our guide Nur was warm and attentive, creating a wonderful atmosphere. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Bodrum!
Maps
Video
FAQ's
What does the Pamukkale and Hierapolis day trip include?
This 12-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Bodrum, a 3.5-hour air-conditioned drive to Pamukkale, and a professional English-speaking guide. You’ll explore Pamukkale’s UNESCO-listed travertine terraces and Hierapolis’s ancient Roman ruins, including the theater, Necropolis, and St. Philippe Martyrion. An open buffet lunch is provided to keep you energized. The itinerary offers free time to explore the terraces and an optional swim in Cleopatra’s Pools (additional fee). It’s a comprehensive experience combining natural beauty and historical discovery.
How does the pickup and drop-off process work?
Pickup is included from your Bodrum hotel or the nearest designated meeting point, depending on road conditions and hotel policies. You’ll be informed of the pickup time and location after booking, so be ready at the scheduled time. The 3.5-hour drive to Pamukkale is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with the same for the return. Providing accurate hotel details during booking ensures a seamless process. If directed to a meeting point, it will be the closest accessible location to your accommodation.
Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves moderate walking across Pamukkale’s terraces and Hierapolis’s ruins, so it’s suitable for most travelers with average mobility. Sturdy shoes are recommended for uneven terrain at the historical sites. The itinerary includes leisurely exploration and free time, allowing you to pace yourself. If you have mobility concerns, inform the operator in advance to discuss accommodations. The tour is designed to be accessible, with air-conditioned transport ensuring comfort during the long drives.
What is the cancellation policy for this tour?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans. Contact the operator via the booking platform or provided details to process your cancellation. The “reserve now, pay later” option allows you to secure your spot without upfront payment, adding convenience. This policy ensures peace of mind for travelers with uncertain schedules. Always review your booking confirmation for specific instructions to ensure a smooth cancellation process.
Can I swim in the mineral pools, and what do I need to bring?
Yes, you can swim in Cleopatra’s Pools at Pamukkale for an additional fee, offering a unique chance to soak in mineral-rich hot springs. Bring a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes if you plan to swim, as these are not provided. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat are also recommended for sun protection during the outdoor portions of the tour. The pools are a highlight, but swimming is optional, so you can still enjoy the terraces without entering the water. Inform the guide if you plan to swim to manage time effectively.
