Full Day Salda + Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour from Antalya

The Full Day Salda + Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour from Antalya offers an affordable way to explore some of Turkey’s most iconic natural and historical sites. Priced at $47.89 per person, this tour spans approximately 12 to 14 hours, making it a comprehensive day trip for those eager to see the thermal waters, ancient ruins, and stunning landscapes outside Antalya. The tour is particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and scenic photography, though it’s important to keep in mind that some reviews highlight logistical issues, such as booking reliability.

This tour includes pickup services, an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English and Russian-speaking guide, ensuring comfort and clear explanations throughout the day. You’ll get to visit Pamukkale’s famous thermal pools, walk through Hierapolis, and take a dip in the Cleopatra Pools — known for their natural thermal baths. The itinerary balances sightseeing with free time for swimming and photos, making it a well-rounded experience for those wanting to maximize their time outside Antalya.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day trip from Antalya at $47.89 per person
• Highlights include Pamukkale’s thermal pools, Hierapolis, and Cleopatra Pools
• Duration spans around 12-14 hours**, with early morning pickup and late return
• Includes air-conditioned transportation, guides in English & Russian, breakfast or lunch, and dinner
• Entrance fee for Pamukkale is not included at 30 TRY per booking
• Some reviews mention potential booking issues and the need for more time at Lake Salda

Departure from Antalya at 4:00am

This tour begins early in the morning at 4:00am, perfect for maximizing your day. The group size is limited to 35 travelers, which helps maintain a comfortable environment. The pickup service is generally near public transportation points, easing access for most participants.

The long drive to Pamukkale takes about 3-4 hours, with a scheduled break at Korkuteli for breakfast or snacks. The early start is ideal for fitting in all the highlights within one day, though the long hours on the bus may test those less accustomed to extended travel.

Scenic Drive to Korkuteli for Breakfast

The journey from Antalya to Pamukkale involves a scenic drive through Turkish countryside, lasting around 3-4 hours. The first stop at Korkuteli allows travelers to stretch and enjoy breakfast or snacks without missing key highlights. This short 30-minute pause is an opportunity to refresh before the day’s sightseeing begins.

Since the stop is free of entrance fees, it’s mainly about relaxing and preparing for the day ahead. The drive itself provides scenic views of Turkey’s landscape, making the long hours more tolerable.

Exploring Hierapolis: Ancient Ruins and Historical Significance

The Hierapolis archaeological site is a core component of the tour. A professional English-speaking guide leads visitors through the ruins, providing context for the ancient city built on thermal waters. Expect to see well-preserved structures and learn about its historical importance.

The visit lasts about 1 hour, offering enough time to appreciate the ruins’ layout and take photos. Since the guide accompanies you, you gain insightful commentary about the site’s history and significance. The admission fee for Hierapolis is not included in the tour price, costing around 30 TRY per booking.

Relaxing in Cleopatra Pools: Thermal Baths with Therapeutic Properties

One of the most relaxing stops is the Cleopatra Pools in Pamukkale. These natural thermal baths are famed for their healing properties and unique setting within ancient ruins. Visitors can enjoy a 1-hour swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters, perfect for relaxation and photo opportunities.

It’s important to note that admission tickets for Cleopatra Pools are not included and cost approximately 13 EUR. The pools are a highlight for many travelers, combining history with wellness, though some might find the entrance fee an extra expense.

Swimming and Photos at Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools

The main attraction of the tour is the Pamukkale thermal pools, where visitors can swim in the mineral-rich waters. You’re allotted around 3 hours for this segment, giving ample time to relax, take stunning photos/videos, and enjoy the natural scenery.

The white travertine terraces are world-famous and offer spectacular photo opportunities from various vantage points. Since this is a free activity apart from the optional Cleopatra Pool fee, it provides great value for such a unique natural wonder.

Returning to Antalya after a Full Day of Sightseeing

After enjoying Pamukkale’s pools and exploring Hierapolis and Cleopatra Pools, the group departs back to Antalya. The return journey takes around 4 hours, returning you to the city late in the evening. The tour concludes with the vehicle dropping you at your original pickup point.

This long day ensures you see the highlights but may be tiring, especially for those sensitive to extended bus travel. The trip is designed to maximize sightseeing for a reasonable price, although some reviews suggest that extra time at Lake Salda, often a favorite, could improve the experience.

Overall Value and Considerations

The Full Day Salda + Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour offers good value for travelers wanting to see two major natural sites and one ancient city in a single day. The price point of $47.89 is competitive, especially considering the included transport, guide, and meals.

However, travelers should be aware of potential booking issues reported by some, and the fact that entrance fees (approximately 30 TRY for Pamukkale and 13 EUR for Cleopatra Pools) are not included. The long bus ride and early start might be less appealing for those with limited stamina or travel fatigue.

This tour suits adventurous visitors eager for a packed day of sightseeing and photography, provided they’re comfortable with long hours of travel and potential logistical hiccups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation from Antalya?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transportation with pickup available near public transportation points.

What is the cost of entrance fees?
Entrance fees for Pamukkale’s thermal pools are not included and cost about 30 TRY per booking. The Cleopatra Pools fee is approximately 13 EUR.

How long is the drive to Pamukkale?
The drive takes about 3-4 hours, with a break at Korkuteli for breakfast.

Is meal included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast or lunch and dinner, depending on the schedule.

What should I bring for the swimming stops?
Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen to enjoy the thermal pools and take photos.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, guides speak English and Russian to assist travelers during the sightseeing.

Can I visit Lake Salda on this tour?
While the tour promotes Salda as part of the experience, review comments suggest it needs more attention and extra time might be beneficial.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but those sensitive to long bus rides or early mornings should consider their stamina.

How do I cancel if I change my mind?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing full refund options.

This tour from Antalya provides a well-organized way to explore Pamukkale’s natural wonder, Hierapolis’ historic ruins, and enjoy thermal waters — making it a worthwhile day trip, especially for those on a budget and eager to see multiple highlights in one go.