Pamukkale: Day Trips and Tours from Bodrum

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Famous for its hot springs and ancient civilizations, Pamukkale is the perfect destination for a day trip where you can explore the world-famous Cotton Castle, marvel at panoramic vistas, ancient ruins and more. Visit Pamukkale for a day trip from Bodrum to immerse yourself in the mystery of the white mountains and hear fascinating facts about the civilizations that once thrived there. You also have the opportunity to enhance your skin's health and relax in Pamukkale's hot springs.

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Victoria Heinz

Visit Pamukkale for a day trip from Bodrum to immerse yourself in the mystery of the white mountains and hear fascinating facts about the civilizations that once thrived there. You also have the opportunity to enhance your skin's health and relax in Pamukkale's hot springs.

How to get to Pamukkale from Bodrum?

Pamukkale is a natural wonder in Turkey's Denizli Province, located approximately about 180 kilometers from Bodrum. You can reach there by driving a car or taking a bus for approximately three to five hours, depending on your choice of transport.

From Bodrum to Pamukkale by car

Pamukkale is located just northwest of Bodrum. The drive there, depending on the amount of traffic and the time of day, will take you between 3.5 and four hours by car.

The quickest way to get there is via the D330. The road is full of curves and tight bends though, so be prepared for an exciting drive and take medication if you’re prone to car sickness.

From Bodrum to Pamukkale by bus/public transport

You can take a bus to Denizil from Bodrum, which will cost you between US$9 to US$13. From Denizil, you can hop in a taxi as it is only a 16-minute drive from there to Pamukkale. The journey to Pamukkale takes around 4.5 hours and is very straightforward.

Another option is to take a bus from Bodrum to Nazilli (tickets cost between $3 to $9) and hop on a $1 train from Nazilli to Goncali, which is a 12-minute drive via taxi to Pamukkale. This option takes a bit longer than the first, making the total journey time around 5.5 hours.

Guided tour to Pamukkale from Bodrum

From Bodrum, there are a variety of day trips and excursions to Pamukkale. You can also make your way to Pamukkale by yourself and go on a guided tour on arrival.

It is, of course, possible to set up a day excursion ahead of time, most of which will include transportation, a tour guide and entrance fees.

How much does the entrance ticket to Pamukkale cost?

Both adult and children's admission tickets to Pamukkale cost TL110 (US$12). If you arrive by vehicle and park at the North or South entrances, you will be charged an additional parking fee of TL5 (US$0.30).

If you want to enter the Hierapolis Antique Pool, you will need to pay an additional TL50 (US$7), though children under six are free.

Note that it is not possible to reserve your tickets ahead of time, as all fees are paid on arrival.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Pamukkale from Bodrum?

Since most day trips to Pamukkale from Bodrum include transportation, your excursion will begin with an early-morning hotel pickup. Typically you will be transported by a minivan or bus.

Since it’s a bit of a drive, you’ll be on the road by around 7 AM and begin the almost four-hour journey to reach Pamukkale. On the drive, you will learn a bit about the history of Pamukkale and its world-famous Cotton Castle, hot springs and ancient civilizations.

You will arrive in Pamukkale, also known as the "cotton castle," which receives its name from the white minerals that have been left on the travertine rock formations. If you have time, take a soak in the natural hot spring pools that include relics of Roman ruins.

Most tours will also include travel to Hierapolis from Pamukkale to see a Roman amphitheater, a historical museum and the Cleopatra pool (which sometimes involves an extra charge).

Before reaching the neighboring town of Karahayit to witness the "Kirmizi Su" or red water natural hot springs, you will stop for the included lunch.

From there, you will begin the journey home and get dropped off back at your hotel after an exciting day trip to Pamukkale.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Pamukkale

Pamukkale is a popular tourist destination due to its history and beautiful scenery, giving you plenty of tour options that allow you to explore this natural wonder. Whether you’re looking for a more casual jaunt at the Pamukkale hot springs or a full-day excursion, there are a variety of tours available.

Guided tours to Pamukkale from Bodrum

Join a private day tour from your hotel in Bodrum and spend the day exploring the beauty of Pamukkale. You will receive transportation, an experienced tour guide and entrance fees in your ticket price — allowing you to enjoy your time without having to worry about planning your trip.

On a full-day excursion from Bodrum, see the Pamukkale hot springs and the ancient city of Hierapolis. This trip includes meals and hotel pickup and drop-off. You'll have plenty of time to soak in the natural hot springs, wander around Pamukkale's travertine rock formations and more.

2-Day tour to Pamukkale from Bodrum

Those looking for an extended stay and are interested in a more in-depth visit have the option of attending a 2-day trip from Bodrum to Pamukkale. Similar to just the day jaunts offered, these tours will pick you up from your hotel and your tickets will cover transportation, hotel stay, admission and a tour guide.

Day trip to Pamukkale plus Hierapolis from Bodrum

Aside from visiting Pamukkale, some excursions will bring you to Hierapolis to see a Roman amphitheater, a historical museum and the Cleopatra pool.

These tours include transportation and entrance fees to both Pamukkale and Hierapolis, and are an excellent option for those interested in the historical aspect of this beautiful area.

Hot air balloon experience in Pamukkale from Bodrum

Are you looking for something unique outside of just a normal day tour? Go on a sunrise hot air balloon ride in Pamukkale and experience one of Turkey's finest natural wonders from above.

It might take a while to reach the final altitude before sunrise, but the journey will be well worth it. Before touching down to see the Roman ruins of Hierapolis, soar above the cotton-white calcium terraces.

How much does a tour to Pamukkale from Bodrum cost?

Ticket prices for a day excursion from Bodrum to Pamukkale vary greatly. If you’re not looking for a full guided tour and you don't plan on getting to Pamukkale via your own transportation, you can simply purchase admission tickets on arrival.

However, if you’re just looking for a guided day trip to Pamukkale with transportation and usually one meal included, the price ranges from US$50 to US$70.

There are some other incredible excursions offered like a sunrise hot air balloon experience in Pamukkale that will cost just under $300, as well as two-day trips that range from US$130 to US$170.

Always double-check with your tour provider whether accommodation is included in the price.

What will you see and do in Pamukkale?

Pamukkale is considered one of Turkey’s most beautiful wonders and is the perfect getaway for a day trip excursion. Visit the Hierapolis and the Calcium Travertines, swim among Roman columns in Cleopatra’s pool, check out the archaeological artifacts in the Hierapolis Museum and explore the ruins of Laodicea.

With so much to see and do, your journey in Pamukkale is sure to be filled with exciting experiences and beautiful scenery.

Whether you want to appreciate historical artifacts or spend your time relaxing in the hot springs, it's the perfect place to spend a day while visiting Bodrum and a Pamukkale day trip is an absolute must-do.

When is Pamukkale open over the year?

Pamukkale is open year-round, though opening times are reduced during the winter season.

What are the opening times?

Pamukkale and Hierapolis are open to visitors every day of the year.

Spring: 6:30 AM to 8 PM
Summer: 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Winter: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Keep in mind that the last admission to the hot springs will be approximately one hour before closing, so arrive with plenty of time to spare.

When is the best time to visit Pamukkale?

Weather-wise, March to May, which is spring in Turkey, is the best time to plan your trip to Pamukkale. Temperatures will be mild and average at around 20 degrees Celsius. The main benefit of visiting during this time is that you’ll be able to avoid the rush of summer tourists.

If you’re looking for cooler temperatures and even fewer tourists, head over to the hot springs in the winter. Just be sure to keep an eye on the reduced operating hours.

Are there any tours to Pamukkale from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are other tours departing from several other cities in Turkey:

Travel tips

● Be prepared for a few hours of travel when coming to Pamukkale. Wear comfortable clothing, bring entertainment if traveling with young ones and check to see what meals are covered with your day trip tickets to Pamukkale.
● If you plan on exploring the ruins or walking around the museums, wear comfortable shoes.
● Not all places are fully accessible to those with disabilities. Be sure to check with your tour guide and company before purchasing to ensure your accessibility needs can be accommodated.
● Bring water and sunscreen especially during the summer.
● Bring a towel if you’re planning a jaunt in the Pamukkale hot springs. Visitors without one are able to purchase a towel on arrival although prices can be steep.
● If your tour does not include meals, make sure to pack food, as the day excursions can be quite long.
● Make sure to tip your tour guides, they will greatly appreciate it.