Pamukkale is often thought of as a place you can only visit on a guided tour. But actually, it’s possible to get there on your own using public transportation from major cities like Istanbul.
In this guide, we’ll explain in detail—with photos—how to reach Pamukkale and how to get around once you’re there.
Where is Pamukkale?
Pamukkale is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Denizli Province, western Turkey. It’s famous for its white travertine terraces and the ancient ruins of Hierapolis.
The unique landscape, with hot springs flowing over the white terraces next to ancient ruins, draws visitors from around the world.
The nearest city is Denizli, and you can get there from Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and other major cities.
How to Get to Pamukkale
Denizli is the main hub for visiting Pamukkale.
You can get there by bus from cities like Izmir (around 4 hours), Selçuk (about 3 hours), or Ankara (about 6 hours). Denizli also has a train station, so you can take the train from Izmir or Selçuk (around 3 hours).
From Istanbul, flying is the most convenient option.
Once you arrive in Denizli by bus or train, check the section below about getting from Denizli Bus Terminal (Otogar) to Pamukkale.
The bus terminal is right next to the train station.
Basic Route from Istanbul
The most common route is:
- Fly from Istanbul to Denizli Airport (about 1 hour)
- Take the airport shuttle to Denizli Bus Terminal (about 1 hour)
- Take a minibus (dolmuş) to Pamukkale Village (about 30 minutes)
A day trip is possible, but staying at least one night is recommended for a more relaxed visit.
Flights: Istanbul → Denizli
Flights are available from Istanbul Airport (IST) with Turkish Airlines, and from Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) with Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet.
Flight time is about 1 hour.
Flight times vary by day, so it’s best to check a site like Skyscanner in advance.
Sample flights:
- Day trip: 06:35 IST → 07:45 Denizli / 20:20 Denizli → 21:45 IST
- 1-night plan: 07:45 SAW → 08:50 Denizli / next day 19:05 Denizli → 20:15 SAW
From Denizli Airport to the City Bus Terminal (Otogar)
When you exit the airport, you’ll see shuttle buses.
These buses go to Denizli Otogar in the city center.
The ride takes about 1 hour and costs around 425 TL (as of 2024).
Several buses may be waiting outside. Make sure the destination says “Otogar” before boarding.
A staff member will collect payment after departure—just say “Denizli Otogar” and pay in cash.
The bus usually departs after most passengers have exited the airport. If you want to sit together with someone, it’s best to head out quickly and grab seats early.
From Denizli Otogar to Pamukkale & Karahayıt (Minibus / Dolmuş)
From the Basement floor of the Otogar, shared minibuses (dolmuş) run toward Pamukkale and Karahayıt.
Look for minibuses with signs like “Pamukkale Karahayıt”.
They stop at the center of Pamukkale Village, the north gate of the Pamukkale ruins, and continue to the hot spring town of Karahayıt.
- Travel time: About 30 minutes
- Fare: Around 30–50 TL (depending on the destination)
Note: The minibus departs once full. Let the driver know where you want to get off—it helps!
To board, enter the Otogar, go through the baggage check, and head one floor down by escalator. The dolmuş area is outside, opposite the entrance.
Baggage Storage & Return Shuttle
Inside Denizli Otogar, there’s a baggage storage service.
The fee is around 60–70 TL per suitcase. It’s open from early morning to late at night, so you can leave your luggage and explore the city more freely.
You can also use the return airport shuttle without a reservation when departing from the Otogar. Check departure times on the Hava Ulaşım Denizli website.
There are also direct buses from Pamukkale Village to the airport.
Tickets can be bought at the Metro company’s Pamukkale branch, where staff can also help arrange day tours or private transfers.
Some staff speak English, which is very helpful!