Hierapolis: Day Trips and Tours from Kuşadası

The thriving city of Hierapolis in modern-day Turkey was a renowned spa destination in the ancient world. Today, its grandeur is still evident in the well-preserved remnants that stand above the terraces of Pamukkale. As one meanders through its streets, the remains of temples, baths, and houses offer glimpses into the daily lives of those who once inhabited this vibrant locale.

Today, Hierapolis stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is easily accessible to visitors who are staying in Kusadasi, an Aegean resort town that also welcomes cruise ships to its busy port. A day trip from Kusadasi to Hierapolis should be on the to-do list of anyone looking to explore and immerse themselves in the culture and history of this captivating Mediterranean  country.

Here's all you need to know about Hierapolis, one of the most exciting day trips from Kusadasi.

How to get to Hierapolis from Kusadasi?

The Aegean resort town of Kusadasi is located around 95 kilometers from Ízmir, the province’s metropolitan center. The archaeological site of Hierapolis is situated less than 200 kilometers away to the west, in Turkey’s Anatolian province.

From Kusadasi to Hierapolis by car

If you are self-driving, you can travel along the E87 from Kusadasi to Pamukkale and Hierapolis. The route is about 190 kilometers each way and goes via Denizli. Excluding any stops, the journey takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes outside of peak traffic hours.

From Kusadasi to Hierapolis by public transport

You can use public transport to reach Hierapolis. Trips from Kusadasi’s intercity bus terminal operate daily. Bus schedules differ seasonally and are best checked in advance. You can book tickets to Hierapolis online or at the Kusadasi bus terminal. Traveling by bus can take between 3 and 5 hours, making it the most time-consuming transport option.

Guided tour to Hierapolis from Kusadasi

There are a variety of guided tours available from Kusadasi to Hierapolis. These tours are a hassle-free and convenient way to tour the Turkish countryside. Day tours to Hierapolis also include the travertine terraces at Pamukkale and you can choose between joining a small group tour or booking a private excursion. Some tours also include a visit to the site of the ancient city of Laodicea.

Basic tours may only cover the cost of transport and your guide, but in general your lunch and some entrance fees are included in the tour price. Private tours provide a professional guide and vehicle for your exclusive use. Tours typically include a hotel or cruise terminal pick-up and last from 8 to 10 hours.

How much does the entrance ticket to Hierapolis cost?

Hierapolis entrance tickets cost TL400 (approximately US$18) per person. Tickets include access to both Hierapolis and Pamukkale. You can book tickets to visit Hierapolis online or at one of the entrances. You can also pay a discounted rate by booking a ticket online that includes entrance to more than one Turkish museum.

What is the typical itinerary?

A full day itinerary begins with a morning hotel or cruise terminal collection. Your guide will accompany you as you travel to Hierapolis via Aydin and Nazilli.

The majority of your day will be spent touring the various archaeological sites at Hierapolis as well as the travertine terraces at Pamukkale. After a comprehensive overview of the site with your guide, you should have some free time to explore independently or soak in one of the warm mineral pools.

Lunch is enjoyed nearby, often in the form of a buffet meal, and you may visit Laodicea close to Denizli on your way to or from Hierapolis. Your memorable experience will end on your arrival back in Kusadasi in the evening.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Hierapolis?

Shared and private tour options exist for visitors traveling from Kusadasi. Tour operators all have slight tour variations and you can compare these before selecting your tour.

Guided tours to Hierapolis plus Pamukkale from Kusadasi

A guided tour from Kusadasi lasts between 8 and 10 hours and you have the choice of a seat on a small group shared experience or a private excursion. Your guide will make the most of your drive through the Turkish countryside to share stories of Hierapolis and other significant historical and cultural sites in the region. You can relax and enjoy the scenery as you travel and will arrive in Hierapolis refreshed and ready to explore.

Your guide will lead the way and show you the natural landmarks and archaeological sites that testify to the grandeur of this ancient city. The dazzling travertine terraces of Pamukkale are also included in the day’s itinerary and, time allowing, you may be able to take a dip in a warm thermal pool.

Tours on a private basis mean that your vehicle and guide are at your exclusive disposal and you will have some flexibility in terms of spending time focussing on specific points of interest on the trip.

Several private tour options also include a visit to the ruins of Laodicea, another remarkable ancient city, located close to Denizli.

How much does a day trip to Hierapolis from Kusadasi cost?

A guided tour from Kusadasi to Hierapolis starts from around US$60 per person on a small group basis, excluding meals and entrance fees.

A small group tour that includes meals and entrance fees can cost from US$80 to US$120 per person.

Private full day tours are priced from US$250 to US$350 per participant depending on group size.

What will you see and do?

Many monuments and structures remain for viewing at Hierapolis. Some of the most well-known features of this spa city include:

Pamukkale and the thermal baths

Thermal baths, fed by the numerous hot springs, were the central feature of Hierapolis and drew visitors from across the Roman Empire. The remaining baths suggest they were often a part of larger spa complexes that may have included gymnasiums and libraries.

Adjacent to these baths are the naturally formed travertine terraces of Pamukkale – formed by mineral deposits over thousands of years and still awe-inspiring today.

The Temple of Apollo and the Grand Roman Theater

The Temple of Apollo, which now stands mostly in ruins, was one of Hierapolis’ most significant structures and was built in honor of Apollo, as the god of light and knowledge and as the god of calamity and destruction.

In contrast, the Grand Roman Theater is one of the best-preserved structures in Hierapolis. Even now, the wonderful acoustics of this space demonstrate the advanced architectural designs of the Romans.

The Necropolis

The Necropolis provides an insightful glimpse into life and death in ancient times. Containing more than 1,200 graves, tombs, sarcophagi and mausoleums, the Necropolis stretches for over 2 kilometers.

What are the opening times?

Hierapolis is open year-round although opening hours are seasonal. The South Gate entrance is open from 6:30 AM, while all other entrances open at 8 AM. The site closes at 9 PM in the summer, 6 PM in the winter, and 8 PM in the spring and autumn months.

When is the best time to visit Hierapolis?

The best time to visit Hierapolis is in the spring (April to June) or autumn (September and October). The weather during these periods is moderate and pleasant, and the site is less crowded than in the high summer months.

If you want to skip the tourist crowds completely, the winter months (November to March) may be better. However, during this time, you'll experience cooler weather and occasional rainfall.

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

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey

• Day trips to Hierapolis from Side
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Antalya
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Izmir
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Fethiye
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Marmaris
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Alanya

Travel tips

• Due to the site's ancient terrain, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. However, to preserve the natural beauty of Pamukkale's travertine terraces, you have to go barefoot.
• To avoid the crowds, consider arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
• Temperatures can soar during the summer, so it's crucial to bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
• For an extra fee, you can enjoy a unique swimming experience in Cleopatra's Pool.
• Don't miss a visit to the Hierapolis Museum, which showcases a wide array of artifacts unearthed in Hierapolis.