Pamukkale Hierapolis Cleopatra Pool Tour with Lunch from Antalya

Travel to the breathtaking site of Pamukkale and the historic city of Hierapolis with this comprehensive day tour departing from Antalya. Priced at $46.44 per person, the tour offers a full-day experience that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and a buffet lunch. Its popularity is clear, with an average booking window of 26 days in advance and consistently high ratings, currently standing at 5.0 out of 5 stars from 53 reviews.

While the famous Cleopatra Pool is closed for visitors until September, the tour still covers the stunning travertines at Pamukkale, the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, and a lunch stop in Denizli. This tour is ideal for those eager to explore Turkey’s UNESCO World Heritage Site with a knowledgeable guide at a reasonable price. The 12-hour duration makes for a long but rewarding day, perfect for travelers who enjoy history, natural wonders, and cultural highlights.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day tour from Antalya at $46.44 including lunch.
• Visits to Pamukkale’s travertines, the Hierapolis ancient city, and the hot mineral pools.
• Tour duration is approximately 12 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• The Cleopatra Pool is closed until September, so check availability before booking.
• Small-group travel, with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensures a more personal experience.
• The guide is licensed and professional, providing insight into the sites visited.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis: A Natural Wonder and Ancient City

Pamukkale, known as the Cotton Castle, features impressive travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich hot springs. During the tour, visitors get up close to these spectacular cascades and enjoy the unique landscape that has attracted visitors since the 2nd century B.C. The hot springs create a striking visual, and the thermal waters are renowned for their soothing properties.

Adjacent to the travertines sits Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city. The site includes notable ruins such as a large necropolis filled with sarcophagi, a main street with gates and latrines, a cathedral, a theatre, and St. Philip’s tomb. While the admission to Hierapolis is not included in the ticket price, the guide explains the historical significance of these structures during the visit.

Exploring Pamukkale’s Travertines

The tour begins with a 2-hour stop at Pamukkale to marvel at its white mineral terraces. This stretch allows ample time to walk on the cascading pools and appreciate the natural formations that have made Pamukkale famous worldwide. Since entrance to the travertines is free, visitors can freely explore these unique formations at their own pace.

This stop offers a fantastic opportunity for photos and personal reflection amid the stunning landscape. Remember, the hot springs are the main feature here, and the water is mineral-rich, contributing to the vibrant white terraces.

Visiting Hierapolis’ Ruins and Ancient Theater

Next, the tour includes a 1-hour visit to Hierapolis, where the guide provides insights into the history and architecture of the ancient city. While entrance fees are not included, the focus remains on understanding the significance of the ruins, such as the theatre and St. Philip’s tomb.

The main street with its historic gates and latrines gives visitors a glimpse into daily life during Roman times. The site’s proximity to the travertines makes it easy to explore both the archaeological remains and the natural surroundings in a single visit.

Cleopatra Pools: Mineral Hot Water Experience (Closed until September)

The famous Cleopatra Pools are not accessible for visitors until September, but this stop is typically the highlight for many. The pools are known for their mineral-rich hot water, which has historically been thought to have healing properties.

While the pools are closed during this period, the tour still offers a view of the area and an opportunity to learn about the thermal springs’ significance. Once reopened, visitors can enjoy swimming in the mineral pools, which are set amid ancient ruins, making for a memorable experience.

Lunch at Denizli: A Rest and Refreshment Break

A 45-minute stop in Denizli, right next to Pamukkale, provides a chance to refuel with a buffet lunch. The meal includes vegetarian options and is designed to cater to various dietary preferences. The lunch break helps balance the long morning of sightseeing with a relaxed pause for local cuisine.

The location next to Pamukkale ensures that travelers can enjoy their meal with a view of the travertine terraces in the distance, adding to the overall experience of the day.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off within Antalya and nearby areas, making logistics straightforward. The small group size — maximum 16 travelers — ensures a more personalized and comfortable experience, avoiding large, crowded tours. The air-conditioned vehicle used for transport adds comfort, especially considering the approximately 3.5-hour drive each way.

Travelers should note that pick-up times may vary if staying outside the city center, and additional transfer fees may apply for hotels in Belek, Kemer, or Side.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the Cleopatra Pool is closed until September, travelers should plan accordingly if visiting during this period. It’s advisable to bring an extra shirt, t-shirt, and towel if planning to swim in thermal pools when open. The tour duration of about 12 hours means long travel times, so comfortable clothing and patience are recommended.

The tour operates most days of the week, with confirmation received at booking. Travelers should be aware that entrance fees for Cleopatra Pools and Hierapolis are not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly if they wish to visit these sites directly.

Final Thoughts on the Pamukkale Hierapolis Tour

This tour offers a cost-effective way to experience Pamukkale’s natural beauty and Hierapolis’ archaeological sites from Antalya. The high ratings and positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, good value, and well-organized logistics.

While the closure of Cleopatra Pools until September is a notable limitation, the tour still provides plenty of memorable sights. It suits history buffs, nature lovers, and those interested in Turkey’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. The full-day schedule is ideal for travelers with a day to spare and an interest in thermal springs and ancient ruins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cleopatra Pool open during this tour?
No, the Cleopatra Pools are closed for visitors until September, so this stop will be replaced with other activities or views of the pools.

How long is the drive from Antalya to Pamukkale?
The journey takes about 3.5 hours each way, making the total duration approximately 12 hours including stops and lunch.

What is included in the tour price?
The price of $46.44 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch with vegetarian options, a licensed guide, small-group transportation, and traffic insurance.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Hierapolis and the travertines are not included in the ticket price.

What should I bring for the trip?
Travelers are advised to bring an extra shirt, t-shirt, and towel if planning to swim or bathe in thermal pools when available.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, as most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long travel times and the physical activity involved at the sites.

How many people will be on this tour?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and comfortable experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is operated by SOLYMOS TRAVEL, known for reliable service and professional guides.

Is there any special advice for visiting during the summer?
Given the long hours outside, dress comfortably, stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen to handle the daylong exposure to the sun.