Hierapolis of Phrygia | Ancient spa city of Asia Minor
Step into the ancient world of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched above the surreal white travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Famous for its hot springs, Greco-Roman ruins, and dramatic landscapes, Hierapolis is one of Turkey’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures. Read on to learn more about Hierapolis, its highlights, ticket options, and everything you need to plan a smooth visit.
Quick overview
Trip duration: Typically 3 to 10 hours, depending on the tour or day trip
Transport options: Coach tours from Pamukkale or Denizli, private transfers, and self-guided visits
Key destinations: Hierapolis ruins, Pamukkale travertines, Cleopatra’s Pool, Archaeology Museum
Travel style: Options available for guided tours, small-group experiences, and private itineraries
Best seasons: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
What to expect on your visit to Hierapolis?
1/5
Comfortable transfers
Reach Pamukkale and Hierapolis easily with air-conditioned transport and convenient hotel pickups.
Guided insights
Learn about Hierapolis’ healing springs, temples, and history from expert local guides.
Balanced itinerary
Explore ancient ruins, enjoy leisure at Cleopatra’s Pool, and admire Pamukkale’s terraces.
Small-group comfort
Travel in relaxed groups, with time to enjoy the site at your own pace.
Optional add-ons
Upgrade with private tours, extended visits to Pamukkale, or nearby town explorations.
Things to know before booking your Hierapolis ticket
Guided tours for deeper insights: Booking a guided day trip to Hierapolis and Pamukkale is highly recommended if you want to understand the city’s history, ruins, and religious significance. Expert guides provide context to landmarks like the Roman Theater, the Necropolis, and the Temple of Apollo.
Combo experiences with Pamukkale: Many tickets and tours combine Hierapolis with Pamukkale’s Cotton Castle terraces. This allows you to walk through the surreal white travertines, soak in the thermal waters, and explore the ancient city,.
Day trips from nearby cities: Hierapolis can easily be visited on a day trip from Antalya, Marmaris, Kusadasi, or Izmir. These packages usually include round-trip transfers, guided tours, and sometimes meals, making it convenient for travelers who don’t want to arrange transport on their own.
Best time to visit: The site is busiest between mid-morning and early afternoon. Visiting early in the morning or closer to sunset offers cooler weather, fewer crowds, and magical lighting for photography.
Facilities and accessibility: Hierapolis is a large archaeological site, so expect a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are recommended. Some areas are uneven and may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Bring valid ID for entry discounts: Children, students, and certain travelers may qualify for reduced admission at the entrance with a valid ID. Always carry your passport or a government-issued ID to avail of discounts.
Not sure which tour to pick? Compare your options
Experience name
Duration
Guide
Inclusions
Tickets
Pamukkale & Hierapolis Ancient City Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
Flexible duration
Self-guided exploration
Entry to Pamukkale & Hierapolis Ancient City, audio guide (option based), hotel transfers (option based), transfers by AC bus (option based ), buffet lunch (option based)
Guided balloon tours handle transfers, tickets, and timings for you, leaving more time to marvel at travertine terraces and Hierapolis from the skies, with expert pilots turning the flight into a story you’ll never forget.
One of the most striking monuments in Hierapolis, the Roman Theatre was built in the 2nd century CE and could seat around 12,000 spectators. The theatre boasts richly decorated stage buildings, detailed reliefs, and excellent acoustics. When visiting, take time to admire the scale and craftsmanship that reflect the grandeur of Roman entertainment.
Temple of Apollo
The city’s main sanctuary, the Temple of Apollo, was central to Hierapolis’ spiritual life. Dedicated to the god of prophecy and healing, it stood above a sacred cave known as the Plutonium. This sacred complex reflects the city’s blend of religion, mythology, and natural phenomena.
The Plutonium (Gate to Hell)
Near the Temple of Apollo lies the Plutonium, a cave that emits lethal carbon dioxide gases. In ancient times, priests performed rituals here, as animals offered at the site would collapse almost instantly from the fumes. Today, it remains one of the most fascinating and eerie aspects of Hierapolis.
Necropolis
Stretching for nearly 2km, the necropolis of Hierapolis is one of the largest in Asia Minor. It includes hundreds of tombs, sarcophagi, and monumental graves from Hellenistic, Roman, and early Christian periods. This burial ground offers valuable insights into the social structures and funerary practices of the ancient city.
Antique Pool (Cleopatra’s Pool)
This ancient thermal pool, said to have been favored by Cleopatra, is filled with warm, mineral-rich waters and submerged fragments of Roman columns. Visitors today can bathe in the same pool that once drew Roman elites, combining relaxation with a tangible connection to history.
Pamukkale Travertine Terraces
Adjacent to Hierapolis lie the famous travertine terraces of Pamukkale, known as the ‘Cotton Castle.’ Formed by calcium-rich waters cascading down white limestone, the terraces create a surreal, snow-like landscape. Exploring Hierapolis and Pamukkale together offers a rare experience where history and natural wonder meet in one place.
Best time to visit Hierapolis
Weather: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer warm, pleasant days perfect for walking among the ruins and dipping into Pamukkale’s travertine pools. Summers (July–August) are very hot and dry, with midday sightseeing best avoided; winters (December–February) are cooler and can be rainy, but thermal waters make visits unique even then.
Events: Cultural festivals and open-air concerts occasionally take place in Pamukkale and Denizli during spring and summer, adding local color. Religious holidays can also bring more domestic visitors to the site.
Crowds: July and August are peak tourist months, with packed terraces and longer lines for entry. Visiting in spring or autumn means fewer crowds and easier photo opportunities at the travertines. Winter offers the quietest experience with peaceful ruins, fewer tours, and uncrowded hot springs.
Plan your visit to Hierapolis
March to August: 8am – 8pm
September to February: 8am – 5pm
Last admission: 15 minutes before closing time
Closed on: 1 January, 25 March, Easter Sunday, 25 & 26 December
Duration of visit: Plan to spend 3 to 4 hours exploring Hierapolis, including the Roman theatre, necropolis, ancient baths, and the nearby Pamukkale travertine terraces.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to October are the best months to visit Hierapolis, with pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds. If visiting in the hotter summer months (June to August), arrive early in the morning or closer to sunset for a more comfortable experience and fewer visitors. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
By car: Drive from Denizli or Izmir; parking is available near the north and south entrances.
By bus: Regular minibuses run from Denizli bus station to Pamukkale village, from where the site is a short walk.
By tour: Guided day trips from Denizli, Izmir, or even Antalya often include Hierapolis and Pamukkale in a single itinerary.
Wheelchair accessibility: Hierapolis offers partial accessibility for visitors with limited mobility. The terrain is uneven, with ancient ruins and slopes, making certain areas challenging to navigate in a wheelchair. However, some parts of the site, including pathways near the main entrance and certain sections of the travertine terraces, are more manageable. Accessible toilets are available near the entrance.
Photography: Photography is permitted throughout Hierapolis, including the travertine terraces and ancient ruins. Tripods, drones, and professional equipment may be restricted to avoid blocking pathways and disturbing other visitors.
Restrooms: Public restrooms are available near the entrances and in a few designated areas around Hierapolis. Facilities within the archaeological site itself may be limited, so it’s advisable to use the restrooms before starting your tour.
Avoid peak hours: Weekends and public holidays are the busiest. Plan your visit mid-week during spring (March–May) or autumn (September–October) for a quieter and more pleasant experience.
Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle, as there are limited refreshment stands within the archaeological site. It’s best to stock up on water before entering.
Wear sturdy footwear: Paths around Hierapolis and Pamukkale terraces can be uneven, steep, or slippery, especially near the travertines. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are highly recommended.
Respect the travertines: Walking barefoot is mandatory on the Pamukkale terraces to protect the fragile formations. Carry a bag to easily store your shoes when transitioning between the ruins and terraces.
Explore beyond the main ruins: Don’t miss the Roman Theatre, the vast necropolis, Cleopatra’s Pool (where you can swim among ancient columns), and the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum for a deeper look at the site’s history.
Frequently asked questions about Hierapolis
Can I visit both Hierapolis and Pamukkale with a single ticket?
Yes, many tours and combo tickets include both Hierapolis and Pamukkale, allowing you to explore the ancient ruins and the famous travertine terraces in one visit.
Are guided tours included with my ticket?
Some tickets are self-guided, while day-trip or package tours include an English-speaking guide. Always check the product description before booking.
How does a small-group tour improve my visit?
Small-group tours offer personalized attention, easier interaction with the guide, and more time at key sites like the Roman theater, Cleopatra’s Pool, and thermal terraces.
Are my Hierapolis tickets valid for multiple days?
Most tickets are valid for the date specified at purchase. Some day-trip packages allow flexible timings within the tour day, but multi-day access is rare.
Does the ticket include transportation?
Certain day-trip packages from Antalya, Marmaris, Kusadasi, or Izmir include round-trip transfers. Standard entry tickets do not include transportation.
Are there quieter times to visit Hierapolis and Pamukkale?
Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience and better photography opportunities.
Which entrance should I use to access Hierapolis?
Follow the main entrance near the Pamukkale terraces. For guided tours, the pickup or meeting point is usually specified in your booking confirmation.
Are there facilities on-site?
Yes, there are restrooms, seating areas, and cafes near the main entrance. Some areas of the archaeological site have uneven terrain, so wear comfortable shoes.
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Hierapolis Tickets & Tours
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Hot springs and shimmering white cliffs, Roman ruins and sacred history, see Pamukkale and Hierapolis with one ticket.
Everything you get: Entry ticket to Pamukkale & Hierapolis Ancient City, letting you wander through remarkable archaeological ruins and marvel at the surreal white travertine terraces.
Why choose this: Experience two iconic Turkish landmarks in a single trip that blend history, nature and a bit of adventure that includes a dip in the Pamukkale pools.
Upgrades: Add on a guided tour to get more insights into Pamukkale’s travertine pools and the ancient city of Hierapolis. Plus, sit back and relax with all logistics taken care of with hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned bus, open buffet lunch, or insurance all included.
Inclusions
Entry ticket to Pamukkale and Hierapolis Ancient City
Audio guide (as per option selected)
Hotel pickup and drop-off (as per option selected)
Transportation by air-conditioned bus (as per option selected)
English guide (as per option selected)
Open buffet lunch (as per option selected)
Insurance (as per option selected)
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID or passport for entry, especially for children to validate age for free admission.
Ensure your smartphone is fully charged and bring your own headphones if you plan to use the audio guide.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you will be exploring outdoor sites.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay protected and hydrated during your visit.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the site for security reasons.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the premises.
Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces.
Accessibility
The experience is not fully wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and historical site restrictions.
Additional information
Your ticket is valid throughout the opening hours of the site.
Please download the audio guide onto your phone in advance if included in your ticket.
For guests staying in Antalya old town, buses cannot access narrow streets; you will be informed of the nearest meeting point.
The distance between Antalya and Pamukkale is approximately 3 hours by bus.
Children aged 0–6 may enter for free but must present a valid passport at the entrance.
Guided tours, hotel transfers, and meals are only included with select ticket options. Check your booking confirmation for details.
The site can be busy during peak hours; consider visiting early in the day for a quieter experience.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Embark on a journey like never before with a chance to float over the Cloud City of Pamukkale in a hot air balloon.
Starting point: Hotel pickup in Pamukkale for a seamless transfer to the launch site
Everything you get: Hotel pickup and drop-off, a qualified and professional pilot, a celebratory champagne toast after landing, and a personalized flight certificate to commemorate your adventure. Enjoy a smooth, worry-free experience from start to finish.
Sights covered: The white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the ancient city of Hierapolis, and panoramic views of the Turkish countryside
Why choose this: Includes hotel transfers for total convenience—just relax and take in the breathtaking views!
Upgrades: Skip the hassle of arranging your own transport with included hotel pickup and drop-off for a smoother start and finish
Inclusions
Qualified and professional pilot
Hotel transfers (only in the Pamukkale area)
One glass of champagne
Exclusions
Meal inclusions
Tip: Avoid wearing sandals and carry along a layer since it might be chilly in the morning.
Hotel transfers are available only in the Pamukkale area.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Get picked up from your hotel for a guided tour of the gorgeous Pamukkale region and enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant.
Start your trip to Pamukkale from your hotel at Selcuk/Kusadasi, Izmir, or Pamukkale as you will be picked up in a comfortable AC vehicle and meet your English or Spanish-speaking guide.
After your lunch in Pamukkale, visit the UNESCO world heritage site of Hierapolis, an ancient city built on solidified limestone.
Explore the noteworthy sites like the Theatre, Apollo Temple, Roman Bath, Domitian Gate, Byzantium Gate, and one of the largest cemeteries in Anatolia, the Necropolis, in the holy city of Hierapolis.
Travel to the natural hot water terraces with warm, calcium-rich water that maintains an all-year-round temperature of 35-degree celsius.
Get a glimpse of the pristine white calcium-carbonate travertine terraces of Pamukkale or the Cotton Castle.
Get a chance to take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, and take a look at the traditional handcrafts of Turkey.
Inclusions
Entry Ticket for Pamukkale & Hierapolis
Guided tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis
English or Spanish-speaking guide
Hotel pickup/drop-off from Pamukkale, Selcuk/Kusadasi, and Izmir
Lunch in Pamukkale
Exclusions
Drinks at lunch
Entrance fee for Cleopatra’s Pool (This is temporarily closed.)
Entrance fee for Roman Bath
Gratuities
This ticket has the following options you can choose from:
Pick-up & drop-off from hotels in Pamukkale
Pick-up & drop-off from hotels in Selcuk/Kusadasi
Pick-up & drop-off from hotels in Izmir
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Explore Pamukkale’s dazzling white terraces and ancient Hierapolis on a well-planned day trip from Antalya/Kemer.
Full day out to: See the surreal limestone landscapes of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis - two of Turkey's most majestic UNESCO sites.
You’ll get: Round-trip hotel transfers, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned bus transport, open buffet lunch, and insurance all included.
Pamukkale: Marvel at the UNESCO-listed white travertine terraces and natural thermal pools, a true geological wonder. Take a dip in them to really soak up the experience.
Hierapolis: Step back in time exploring this ancient Greco-Roman city, famed for its grand ruins and historic significance.
Upgrades: Opt for the variant with the Hierapolis entry ticket included for seamless access to the archaeological site.
Inclusions
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transportation by air-conditioned bus
English-speaking guide
Open buffet lunch
Insurance
Entry ticket to Hierapolis (as per option selected)
Exclusions
Tips
Entry ticket to Hierapolis (based on option selected)
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID or passport for all guests, especially for children, to verify age at museum entrances.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Carry a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially during summer months.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the tour bus or at the sites.
Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
Accessibility
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Buses cannot access narrow streets in Antalya old town; guests staying in small hotels in this area must meet at the designated meeting point in front of McDonald's.
Additional information
The journey between Antalya and Pamukkale takes approximately 3 hours each way.
Children must present valid passports at museum entrances to confirm eligibility for free entry.
Entry tickets to Hierapolis are included only with select ticket options; please check your booking details.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but guests in certain old town hotels must meet at the specified location.
Open buffet lunch is provided; drinks and tips are not included.
Please arrive at the meeting point on time to avoid delays.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tickets
NEW
Pamukkale & Hierapolis Ancient City Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
Hot springs and shimmering white cliffs, Roman ruins and sacred history, see Pamukkale and Hierapolis with one ticket.
Everything you get: Entry ticket to Pamukkale & Hierapolis Ancient City, letting you wander through remarkable archaeological ruins and marvel at the surreal white travertine terraces.
Why choose this: Experience two iconic Turkish landmarks in a single trip that blend history, nature and a bit of adventure that includes a dip in the Pamukkale pools.
Upgrades: Add on a guided tour to get more insights into Pamukkale’s travertine pools and the ancient city of Hierapolis. Plus, sit back and relax with all logistics taken care of with hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned bus, open buffet lunch, or insurance all included.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
Transfers included
Hotel pickup
Meals included
Hot Air Balloon
NEW
Hot Air Balloon Flight in Pamukkale
Embark on a journey like never before with a chance to float over the Cloud City of Pamukkale in a hot air balloon.
Starting point: Hotel pickup in Pamukkale for a seamless transfer to the launch site
Everything you get: Hotel pickup and drop-off, a qualified and professional pilot, a celebratory champagne toast after landing, and a personalized flight certificate to commemorate your adventure. Enjoy a smooth, worry-free experience from start to finish.
Sights covered: The white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the ancient city of Hierapolis, and panoramic views of the Turkish countryside
Why choose this: Includes hotel transfers for total convenience—just relax and take in the breathtaking views!
Upgrades: Skip the hassle of arranging your own transport with included hotel pickup and drop-off for a smoother start and finish
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr.
Transfers included
Hotel pickup
Guided Tours
NEW
From Selcuk/Kusadasi/Izmir: Pamukkale Full-Day Tour
Get picked up from your hotel for a guided tour of the gorgeous Pamukkale region and enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant.
Start your trip to Pamukkale from your hotel at Selcuk/Kusadasi, Izmir, or Pamukkale as you will be picked up in a comfortable AC vehicle and meet your English or Spanish-speaking guide.
After your lunch in Pamukkale, visit the UNESCO world heritage site of Hierapolis, an ancient city built on solidified limestone.
Explore the noteworthy sites like the Theatre, Apollo Temple, Roman Bath, Domitian Gate, Byzantium Gate, and one of the largest cemeteries in Anatolia, the Necropolis, in the holy city of Hierapolis.
Travel to the natural hot water terraces with warm, calcium-rich water that maintains an all-year-round temperature of 35-degree celsius.
Get a glimpse of the pristine white calcium-carbonate travertine terraces of Pamukkale or the Cotton Castle.
Get a chance to take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, and take a look at the traditional handcrafts of Turkey.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
9 hr. 30 min.
Hotel pickup
Meals included
Day Trips
NaN
From Antalya/Kemer: Pamukkale & Hierapolis Day Trip With Lunch
Explore Pamukkale’s dazzling white terraces and ancient Hierapolis on a well-planned day trip from Antalya/Kemer.
Full day out to: See the surreal limestone landscapes of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis - two of Turkey's most majestic UNESCO sites.
You’ll get: Round-trip hotel transfers, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned bus transport, open buffet lunch, and insurance all included.
Pamukkale: Marvel at the UNESCO-listed white travertine terraces and natural thermal pools, a true geological wonder. Take a dip in them to really soak up the experience.
Hierapolis: Step back in time exploring this ancient Greco-Roman city, famed for its grand ruins and historic significance.
Upgrades: Opt for the variant with the Hierapolis entry ticket included for seamless access to the archaeological site.