Hierapolis is a Greco-Roman thermal spa city built above the dazzling white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, inscribed together with the terraces as the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Hierapolis-Pamukkale' in 1988. On the white hillside you can still see a vast Roman theatre, the Temple of Apollo with its Ploutonion 'Gate to Hell', the octagonal Martyrium of the Apostle Philip, and one of Turkey's largest necropolises with over 1,200 tombs. As of 2026 the ruins and travertines are open as normal, and the famous Cleopatra Antique Pool reopened in May 2026 after a 16-month restoration. It is best enjoyed as a half- to full-day outing combining the ancient city with a barefoot walk across the white terraces.
The iconic barefoot walk across Pamukkale's white, cascading travertine thermal terraces
The large Roman theatre (2nd century) climbing the hillside, with an imperial box and finely carved stage reliefs
The Ploutonion ('Gate to Hell') beside the Temple of Apollo, an ancient shrine over a fissure that still vents toxic gas
The octagonal Martyrium of St. Philip crowning the hilltop, with sweeping views over the ruins
The huge necropolis of more than 1,200 Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian tombs, and the colonnaded Frontinus Street
Good to know
RulesYou may only walk on the travertines barefoot; shoes must be removed. Carry them by hand or in your bag and move slowly on the wet, flowing sections.
SafetyThe travertine surfaces are slippery, uneven and often cold and watery. Watch your footing; grippy water shoes or sandals you can carry make it easier.
SafetyThe Ploutonion ('Gate to Hell') still sits over a fissure that releases toxic carbon dioxide. Only view it from behind the installed railings and safety lines.
SeasonJuly and August are very hot with almost no shade among the ruins. Aim for early morning or late afternoon and bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
MannersThe Martyrium of St. Philip and the tombs are religious and archaeological monuments. Do not climb on fallen columns or graves, and respect ropes and signage.
CautionAround the village and ticket gates, watch for overpriced on-the-spot tours, unofficial 'guides' and taxi overcharging. Agree a fare in advance or insist on the meter.
Practical info
Reach the site from Denizli Çardak Airport (about 65–70 km, roughly 1 hour) or from Denizli's otogar (bus terminal), where dolmuş minibuses run to Pamukkale every 15–20 minutes. There are two entrances: the South Gate from Pamukkale village and the upper North Gate. Summer opening is roughly 06:30/08:00–21:00 and winter about 08:00–18:00. The 2026 combined ticket (travertines + Hierapolis ruins + Archaeology Museum) is reported at €30, with swimming in Cleopatra's Pool an extra ~€6, but always confirm the latest prices, hours and pool availability on the official site (muze.gov.tr) before your visit.
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