A Cotton Castle and Ancient City: Visiting Pamukkale and Hierapolis

Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its brilliant white mineral terraces (traverses) formed by thermal hot springs. While the views are incredible, note that due to climate change, many pools are dry. Visitors can only walk and wade in a few specific, water-filled terraces.

The same ticket grants entry to the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis, which sits atop the traverses. Since the single entrance ticket allows for only one entry, plan to spend 3–5 hours to cover both the traverses and the ancient ruins.

A must-see is Cleopatra’s Pool, where for an extra fee, you can swim in the warm thermal water among submerged Roman columns.

💡 5 Essential Tips for Visitors

✔︎ Early Bird Gets the Shot: For the least crowded photos, aim to arrive right before the South Gate opens in the morning.

✔︎ One Ticket, One Entry: The combined ticket for Pamukkale and Hierapolis is valid for one entry only.

✔︎ Barefoot Mandatory: Walking on the traverses is strictly allowed only with bare feet (no shoes or socks permitted).

✔︎ Beat the Heat: There is very little shade in the ancient city (Hierapolis). Consider renting a golf cart to cover the long distances comfortably.

✔︎ Highlight: The definite highlight for many is the additional-fee Cleopatra’s Pool (Antique Pool) where you can swim among ancient ruins.

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