Pamukkale, often called the “Cotton Castle” of Turkey, is a natural wonder in Denizli Province famous for its white travertine terraces filled with thermal water. The hot springs here have been used for thousands of years for their healing properties. Next to the terraces lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, with Roman baths, a theater, and the famous Cleopatra’s Pool, where you can swim among ancient marble columns. Today, Pamukkale is one of the most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Turkey, combining natural beauty with rich history. For those staying in Antalya region, this destination is also included in many excursions such as the Side tour from Belek, making it easy for travelers to visit one of the best attractions in the country in a single day.
Cleopatra’s Pool, also known as the Antique Pool of Hierapolis, is located in the ancient city of Hierapolis within Pamukkale, Turkey. According to legend, the pool was a gift from Mark Antony to Cleopatra, which is why it carries her name. Historically, the site was part of a Roman bath complex, and after an earthquake in the 7th century, many ancient marble columns fell into the water, some of which can still be seen and touched while swimming today. Guests can swim among 2,000-year-old submerged marble columns from the Roman era. Entry to Cleopatra’s Pool requires an additional ticket beyond the general Pamukkale–Hierapolis admission. The pool area includes changing rooms, lockers, and a café, making it convenient for visitors.
Hierapolis, located right above the travertine terraces of Pamukkale in Denizli Province, was founded around the 2nd century BC by King Eumenes II of Pergamon. Its name means “Holy City” in Greek, due to the many temples and religious structures built there. Later, it became an important Roman spa city, attracting visitors who came to benefit from its thermal waters. The city was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988 along with Pamukkale.
The hot springs of Pamukkale are fed by underground geothermal activity linked to tectonic movements in the Menderes Valley of Denizli Province. Rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, bicarbonates, and sulfates, the water emerges from the earth at a temperature of 33°C to 36°C and flows down the slope, creating the famous white travertine terraces over thousands of years. As the hot mineral water cools, it deposits calcium carbonate, which solidifies into the snow-white formations Pamukkale is famous for.
The travertine terraces of Pamukkale were formed over thousands of years by the flow of mineral-rich hot spring water. As the water emerges from underground at around 33°C–36°C, it carries dissolved calcium carbonate. When it reaches the surface and cools, the calcium carbonate precipitates, hardens, and gradually builds up into white terraces and pools. This process gives Pamukkale its name, which means “Cotton Castle” in Turkish.
The Pamukkale tour from Belek price includes comfortable round-trip transfer from hotels, full insurance throughout the journey, guidance from a professional tour guide, and a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, ensuring a safe and well-organized trip with no hidden costs.
The Pamukkale tour from Belek program starts with hotel pickup and a drive in comfortable buses to Denizli, where guests enjoy a breakfast lunch box provided by the hotel. The day continues with a visit to an Onyx factory, followed by a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, the tour covers the ancient city of Hierapolis, free time to walk the travertine terraces, and the option to swim in Cleopatra’s Pool. Guests also visit the thermal springs of Karahayıt, enjoy a winery excursion with free wine tasting, stop at a textile factory, and finish the day with dinner at a restaurant before returning to their hotels.
Because we offer a full-service, smooth, and reliable day trip that combines all the must-see attractions into one worry-free schedule. We include hotel transfer, insurance, a professional licensed guide, dinner, and well-planned stops so you don’t need to arrange anything yourself. Our comfortable buses, local knowledge, and google reviews make us a top choice for travelers wanting the very best of Turkey in a single day. With Belek Travel, you get transparency (no hidden fees), online booking via WhatsApp or website, discount for children, and a team that cares about your comfort, timing, and memories.
The Pamukkale Tour from Bogazkent ( 296 km )is a full-day excursion lasting about 18 hours and running daily. It includes hotel transfers, entrance tickets to the travertine terrac
Start your morning in Kadriye and travel about 282 km to the white wonderland of Pamukkale. Spend the day walking over warm mineral terraces, swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, and wa
Looking for a perfect day trip from Serik to Pamukkale (286 km)? This 18-hour program includes everything — hotel pickup, lunch, entry to the travertine terraces, Hierapolis
Cleopatra’s Pool in Pamukkale is a perfect stop for families on vacation, offering the chance to swim together in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by ancient Roman columns. Parents can relax while children enjoy the safe and shallow sections of the pool, making it a memorable part of the day. This natural hot spring is not only fun but also known for its health benefits, adding an educational and relaxing touch to a family trip. For guests staying in Antalya, the tour to Pamukkale can be easily combined with the region’s many water activities in Belek, such as boat trips, rafting, and water parks, giving families the best mix of history, wellness, and fun during their holiday in Turkey.
Where is Pamukkale located in Türkiye?
Pamukkale is located in the Denizli Province in southwestern Türkiye, about 20 km from Denizli city center.
Belek to Pamukkale distance
The distance from Belek to Pamukkale is around 279 km. By bus or organized tour, the journey takes about 4–5 hours one way.
Water temperature of Cleopatra’s Pool
The water in Cleopatra’s Pool stays around 36 °C year-round, making it pleasantly warm for swimming in both summer and winter.
Water temperature of Pamukkale’s spring waters
The thermal spring waters of Pamukkale generally range between 35 °C and 100 °C at the source, cooling to about 36–38 °C when flowing over the travertine terraces.
How deep is Cleopatra’s Pool?
Cleopatra’s Pool is between 2 and 3 meters deep, with some shallow sections that are safer for children and non-swimmers.
How to get to Pamukkale on your own?
You can reach Pamukkale independently by renting a car, taking a bus from Antalya, Belek, or Denizli, or traveling by train to Denizli and then a minibus to Pamukkale village. Public transport is limited, so many visitors prefer organized tours with hotel transfers.
What can you see in Pamukkale?
Visitors can see the famous white travertine terraces, the ancient city of Hierapolis, Cleopatra’s Pool, the large Roman theatre, the Necropolis, the Temple of Apollo, and the Karahayıt red thermal springs nearby.
Can you swim in the travertine terraces?
Swimming is not allowed in the travertine terraces to protect them. However, visitors can walk barefoot on certain sections and swim in Cleopatra’s Pool instead.
What are the opening hours of Pamukkale?
Pamukkale is open daily, typically from 6:30 AM until 8:00 PM in summer and until 6:00 PM in winter. Hours may change slightly depending on the season.
When is the best time to visit Pamukkale?
The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild. Early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid crowds and strong sun.
Is Cleopatra’s Pool healing?
Yes. The thermal waters of Cleopatra’s Pool are rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates. Locals and visitors believe they help with skin conditions, circulation, and joint problems.
Is Pamukkale suitable for children or elderly people?
Yes. Pamukkale is family-friendly and accessible for elderly visitors. However, some areas require walking uphill and barefoot, so comfortable walking shoes (for other parts), sun protection, and caution in slippery areas are recommended.
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Ericka Hauck
Adil was an awesome guide, super knowledgeable and friendly. The whole day went smoothly and we saw some AMAZING places. Totally worth it and well organized. Highly recommend it to anyone wanting a fun and stressfree day!
Dr. Hulda Lockman I
This was amazing trip! Mustafa made it so fun and kept us all engaged, even tho we were in a rush sometimes. The spots we visited were so cool and the memories will last forever. Will do again for sure!
Mr. Geovany Nicolas V
Such a GREAT day out with Emre! He was super patient and explained everything perfectly. The spots we stopped at were fantastic and so interesting. Perfect way to spend the day and recharge. Five stars all the way!
Kareem Wisoky
The day went well, Adil was very helpful and friendly. The stops were good but felt a bit rushed. Overall, a nice outing with good value. Would recommend but maybe allow more time next visit.
Ms. Alva Russel IV
Mustafa was our guide and he did a great job explaining things. The place itself is beautiful and the weather was perfect. Felt a bit crowded at times but still worth seeing. Would give stars if timing was better managed.
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