Denizli is about four hours from Didim by coach. Most travellers choose Denizli for Pamukkale; the travertines and the ancient city of Hierapolis are on the same site, so they fit comfortably into a single day. In this article we have gathered the practical information you need, from getting there to a plan for the day.
Getting from Didim to Denizli
Didim Seyahat's Ankara route calls at Denizli, so you can buy a direct ticket to Denizli from Didim, Soke and Aydin. The journey takes about four hours from Didim, about three hours from Soke and about two hours from Aydin. You can see the current times and fares on the Didim – Denizli page.
Denizli Bus Station is in the city centre, and this is where you continue to Pamukkale. Municipal buses and minibuses leave the bus station for Pamukkale, and the ride takes around half an hour. Departure times change throughout the day, so asking at the bus station's information desk is the quickest way to find out.
A Day in Pamukkale
The travertines, with their white calcium terraces and the thermal water flowing over them, are the symbol of the region. You walk on the terraces barefoot, so shoes you can easily take off and put back on and a small towel are handy. The ancient city of Hierapolis lies at the top of the site: the theatre, the necropolis and the ancient streets are all part of the same visit.
If you have time, you can add the Antique Pool (Cleopatra's Pool) and the ancient city of Laodicea near Denizli to your route. In summer the midday heat is tiring, so a visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon is more comfortable.
Getting Back and Where to Stay
If you plan to return the same day, allow four to five hours in Pamukkale; the travertines and Hierapolis together take about that long. Setting off back to Denizli Bus Station before sunset lets you catch an evening coach comfortably.
If you would like to stay a night in the area, there is accommodation around Pamukkale and Karahayit. If you spend the night there, you have the chance to walk the travertines the next morning before the crowds arrive.
Tips for Visiting Pamukkale
- The terraces are wet and slippery; walk carefully and do not run.
- Take a small towel, slippers and water with you.
- Entry fees and opening hours can change; check the latest information before you go.
- Choose a return coach that leaves you at least an hour for the journey between Pamukkale and Denizli.
- If you are returning to Didim the same day, book your evening departure in advance.
