Pamukkale means "cotton castle" in Turkish, and from a distance that is exactly what it looks like: a hillside of brilliant white terraces and pools, formed over thousands of years by warm, mineral-rich spring water.
At the top lie the ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient spa city. Together, Hierapolis and Pamukkale are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top things to see in Pamukkale
The travertine terraces
Walk barefoot up the white terraces through shallow, warm pools. Shoes are not allowed on the travertines, to protect them.
Hierapolis
A Greco-Roman city with a large theatre, colonnaded streets and one of the largest ancient cemeteries in Anatolia.
The Antique Pool
Often called Cleopatra's Pool: swim in warm spring water among fallen marble columns.
Sunset on the terraces
Late afternoon is quieter and the light turns the terraces gold and pink.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Pamukkale?
You can paddle in the shallow terrace pools, and swim in the Antique Pool at the top (separate ticket).
Is Pamukkale worth an overnight stay?
Yes, if you can. Day-trip crowds arrive late morning; staying nearby lets you see it in the quiet evening and early morning.
