Hierapolis was an ancient city perched above the travertine hillside of Pamukkale, in southwestern Turkey. Now, Hierapolis is one of the Anatolian provinces most recognizable archaeological sites. Renowned in centuries past for its healing waters, the site is steeped in mythology.

Evidence of the magnitude of this ancient spa city remain to this day, allowing visitors the chance to marvel at the grandeur of the Ancient Roman and Byzantine empires that inhabited this location in the past.

Hierapolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is within easy reach from both the Aegean coast and the Turkish Riviera. A day trip from Fethiye to Hierapolis is perfect for an immersive and memorable sightseeing experience.

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

How to get to Hierapolis from Fethiye?

Hierapolis is situated above Pamukkale in Turkey’s Anatolian province. It lies around 200 kilometers north of the Turkish Riviera city of Fethiye.

From Fethiye to Hierapolis by car

You are able to drive to Hierapolis from Fethiye directly along the E87. The trip is approximately 200 kilometers long and it will take around 3 hours to travel in normal traffic conditions.

From Fethiye to Hierapolis by public transport

You can take a bus from Fethiye to Denizli. At Denizli, you will need to catch a local minibus taxi known as dolmus, or you can book a private transfer for the remainder of the journey. Bus schedules are subject to seasonal changes and should be confirmed before traveling. Tickets can be booked online or at the terminal. This type of trip takes a minimum of 4 hours, making it a time-consuming way of reaching Hierapolis.

Guided tour to Hierapolis from Fethiye

Full day tours from Fethiye to Hierapolis are convenient and easy to book. Tours to Hierapolis typically include the neighboring attraction of Pamukkale. As well as transport and the accompanying guide, day trips may also include lunch and entrance fees – but this can be confirmed with the tour operator upon booking.

How much does the entrance ticket to Hierapolis cost?

There is an entrance fee of TL400 (approximately US$18) that allows entry to both Hierapolis and Pamukkale. The archaeology museum, ancient city of Hierapolis, and the travertine terraces and thermal pools all form part of this significant attraction.

What is the typical itinerary?

Trips from Fethiye typically include a pickup from one of the city’s main hotels. Along the route, your guide will point out sights of interest and tell you stories about the history, myths and culture of the region.

On arrival you will enjoy a guided tour of Hierapolis and Pamukkale before some free time for independent exploration.

Tours generally leave Hierapolis in the mid to late afternoon, arriving back in Fethiye in the evening.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Hierapolis?

Full day tours that visit Hierapolis and Pamukkale are the most popular type of tour offered from Fethiye.

Guided tours to Hierapolis plus Pamukkale from Fethiye

Tours to Heirapolis from Fethiye are offered on a shared basis, with a small group of participants. On this type of tour, you are collected from one of Fethiye’s main hotels and transported in comfortable minivans to Hierapolis. Your expert guide will accompany you and tell you all about how Hierapolis was built and about the ruins and landmarks that remain standing today.

In conjunction with time in Hierapolis, your tour will also include a visit to the travertine terraces of Pamukkale and you will have some to explore at your leisure. Basic tours include transport and guide services. Entrance fees, meals and refreshments will be at an additional cost payable on the day.

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

Guided tours to Hierapolis from Fethiye start from around US$55 per person. This price includes lunch, but excludes entrance fees. This 12-hour tour operates on a shared basis and children under the age of 11 years may qualify for a discounted rate.

What will you see and do?

Built above the terraces of Pamukkale, Hierapolis remains an inspiring location and you can admire the well-preserved structures and ancient artifacts recovered by archaeologists on site.

The Roman amphitheater, thermal baths, temple ruins and the expansive necropolis housing simple graves, sarcophagi and impressive mausoleums, are all landmarks of interest. A visit to Hierapolis is insightful and offers a glimpse into life in the ancient past.

In addition to these man-made structures, you can also explore the naturally formed landscape modeled by the carbonate minerals that are deposited by the hot springs nearby.

What are the opening times?

Hierapolis is open throughout the year and can be entered from one of four gates. With the exception of the South Gate, which opens at 6:30 AM, all entrances open at 8 AM. Closing times change depending on the season. In the summer, closing time is 9 PM and in winter, 6 PM. In the spring and autumn, Hierapolis closes at 8 PM.

Restoration and caretaking activities may, at times, limit access to certain areas.

When is the best time to visit Hierapolis?

The best time to tour Hierapolis is in the spring (April to June) or autumn (September and October). The weather during these periods is generally moderate, and the site is less crowded and hot than in the high summer months.

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

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

Travel tips

It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. However, to preserve the natural beauty of Pamukkale's travertine terraces, you have to tread barefoot.
To skip the crowds, consider arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Temperatures can soar during the summer, so it's crucial to keep hydrated and bring along sun protection.
Don't miss a visit to the Hierapolis Museum, which showcases a wide array of artifacts unearthed in Hierapolis.

Hierapolis: Day Trips and Tours from Fethiye