Hierapolis: Day Trips and Tours from Antalya

Cradled between the Mediterranean and the rugged Taurus Mountains, Antalya offers a blend of sun-soaked beaches, bustling bazaars, and historic remnants. With its palm-lined boulevards and picturesque old town, Antalya is a popular holiday destination.

But beyond Antalya, an array of day trips catapult travelers into Turkey's ancient past. One such excursion is a journey to the breathtaking ruins of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the southwestern Anatolian region. On a day trip from Antalya to Hierapolis, visitors can traverse centuries while exploring vestiges of Roman and Byzantine grandeur.

Here's all you need to know about Hierapolis, one of the most exciting day trips from Antalya.

How to get to Hierapolis from Antalya?

The harbor city of Antalya is located on the shores of the Mediterranean. The city itself is perched upon a travertine terrace that ends with a high perpendicular cliff around 30 meters from the shoreline.

From Antalya to Hierapolis by car

If you choose to travel to Hierapolis by car, you will drive along the E87 in a north-westerly direction. The 240-kilometer trip takes approximately 3 hours in normal traffic conditions.

From Antalya to Hierapolis by public transport

Public transport is an option if you don’t want to self-drive or join a guided tour. You can catch a bus directly from Antalya to Denizli, followed by a taxi to Hierapolis.

A bus trip takes about 3.5 hours if there are no delays or schedule changes and is a budget-friendly option if you have some flexibility.

Guided tour to Hierapolis from Antalya

A guided tour from Antalya to Hierapolis is the most hassle-free and convenient option available and includes the services of an expert guide. Group and private guided tours typically start early in the morning.

They are full-day excursions and usually include lunch. A visit to Hierapolis from Antalya generally includes time at Pamukkale, and lasts from 10 to 14 hours.

How much does the entrance ticket to Hierapolis cost?

You can purchase a ticket to enter Hierapolis for TL400 (approximately US$18). This ticket permits you to access the Hierapolis archaeological site and museum, and the Pamukkale terraces.

Tickets can be purchased online or at one of the four entrance points (North and South entrances, the Walkway, or the Antique Bath entrance).

If you self-drive, you can park your car for an additional TL20 (approximately US$1).

Tickets purchased on site are only valid on the day of purchase, and terms and conditions apply to online bookings. A museum pass can also be bought at a discounted rate for visits to multiple museums.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical day tour from Antalya to Hierapolis generally begins between 6 AM and 7 AM, when your guide and vehicle collect you directly from your hotel or a central meeting point.

From Antalya, it's approximately a three-hour journey to Hierapolis. Some tours may include a stop for breakfast or an early lunch at a local restaurant along the way.

Upon arrival in Pamukkale, you will be greeted by the surreal view of the white travertine terraces. Your guide will take you to Hierapolis, where you'll spend the day exploring.

After a day of exploration, usually around late afternoon or early evening, you will embark on the journey back to Antalya. Some tours may stop for dinner along the way, while others will bring you straight back to your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Hierapolis?

There are different tours available to go to Hierapolis. You can either choose to join a group of visitors on a tour from Alanya, or you can opt to book a private excursion. Here are some of the most popular types of tours:

Full-day Hierapolis plus Pamukkale guided tours from Antalya

On a full-day tour on a small group basis, your excursion will begin early in the morning. You will journey through the changing scenery as you travel towards the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Your guide will lead you through the archaeological sites and natural landmarks while sharing stories and insights into this ancient city. The travertine terraces of Pamukkale also typically form part of the itinerary and you may visit these before or after exploring Hierapolis.

After a full day of exploration and wonder, you can use the time on your trip back to Antalya to reflect on all you have seen and experienced.

Full-day guided tour to Hierapolis plus Pamukkale and Salda Lake from Antalya

If you would like to squeeze as much sightseeing into your day as possible, you can choose a guided tour from Antalya to Hierapolis and Pamukkale that also includes a visit to Salda Lake.

After your time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pamukkale and Hierapolis, the trip continues on to Salda Lake, the Turkish ‘Maldives.' You will enjoy the lake’s sandy white beaches and clear waters before returning to Antalya in the late afternoon.

Private tour to Hierapolis plus Pamukkale and from Antalya

For a more personalized experience, you can book a private tour to Hierapolis from Antalya. Your guide and vehicle will be available on an exclusive basis for the duration of your tour. The benefit of a private tour is that you can tailor your excursion to focus on your areas of interest.

Private tours that travel exclusively to Hierapolis and Pamukkale are popular, but you can also choose to include a visit to Salda Lake on several private tour options.

How much does a day trip to Hierapolis from Antalya cost?

A day trip to Hierapolis from Antalya varies in cost depending on the size of the group and the type of tour.

Full-day Hierapolis and Pamukkale guided tours from Antalya by coach start from €35 per person, while small group tours operating with fewer than 15 people cost around €65 per person.

Private tours cost from €500 for a group of up to 6 participants or €650 for groups of up to 10 people.

A full-day guided tour to Pamukkale and Hierapolis plus Salda Lake from Antalya will cost between €55 and €75 per person. Private tours start from €500 per group of 4 people.

What will you see and do?

Together with the ephemeral terraces of Pamukkale, you can expect to visit the following attractions at Hierapolis:

The Grand Roman Theater

The theater is one of the best-preserved areas of Hierapolis. It has an intricate design and the acoustics demonstrate the advanced architectural skills of the Romans.

The Necropolis

The Necropolis is an ancient cemetery that stretches for two kilometers and contains more than 1,200 graves. This well-preserved site contains graves ranging from simple tombs to ornate sarcophagi and grand mausoleums.

Thermal baths

The ancient thermal baths were a central part of Hierapolis and formed part of a renowned health center during the Roman era.

The remaining features of these baths indicate they were often integrated into spa complexes that included gymnasiums and libraries.

Temple of Apollo

Although not much of the Temple of Apollo remains standing, it was one of the city's most significant religious structures. It was dedicated to Apollo both as the god of light, knowledge and healing, and as a god who could send calamities to earth.

What are the opening times?

The South Gate entrance opens at 6:30 AM, while other entrances open at 8 AM. Closing times are seasonal, with a closing time of 9 PM in the summer, 8 PM in the spring and autumn, and 6 PM in the winter months.

Although Hierapolis is accessible daily, it is best to check the official website, as the archaeological site visiting hours may change if renovations or events are taking place.

When is the best time to visit Hierapolis?

The best time to visit Hierapolis is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April through June) and autumn (September and October). During these months, the weather is relatively mild, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer season.

However, if you wish to avoid tourists altogether, winter (November through March) can also be a good time, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Are there any tours to Hierapolis from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey:

• Day trips to Hierapolis from Side
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Alanya
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Izmir
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Fethiye
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Kusadasi
• Day trips to Hierapolis from Marmaris

Travel tips

• The site can get quite crowded, especially in the peak summer months. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times.
• Given the ancient and uneven terrain, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes. Also, be aware that to walk on the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, you need to be barefoot to protect the site.
• The weather can get quite hot, especially in the summer. Remember to stay hydrated and bring sun protection.
• There's an extra cost, but you can take a dip in Cleopatra's Pool, also known as the Antique Pool, filled with warm water from the thermal springs and ancient columns beneath the water.
• Visit the Hierapolis Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts found in Hierapolis and gives you a better understanding of the history and culture of the ancient city.