Aphrodisias & Pamukkale Tour – Art, Stone & Sacred Waters

Not Rated
Duration

Daily Tour

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

99 people

Languages

Ümit

This full-day tour explores two of western Anatolia’s most significant heritage sites, combining the artistic legacy of Aphrodisias with the natural and archaeological landscape of Pamukkale and Hierapolis. Departing from Kuşadası or Selçuk, the journey moves inland through the Maeander region to reveal how art, religion, healing, and urban life intersected in antiquity. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Aphrodisias and Pamukkale together present a layered historical narrative where cultural achievement and natural forces shaped enduring sacred landscapes across classical and Roman periods.

Highlights

  • Ancient City of Aphrodisias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Renowned marble sculpture tradition and exceptionally preserved ruins
  • Temple of Aphrodite, central to the city’s identity
  • Pamukkale Travertines, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters
  • Ancient City of Hierapolis, including its Roman theater and necropolis
  • A rare combination of art, archaeology, and natural phenomena

Ancient City of Aphrodisias

The tour begins with a drive inland to Aphrodisias, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Anatolia and a major center of marble sculpture. Dedicated to Aphrodite, the city flourished as an artistic hub whose sculptors supplied works across the Roman Empire. Visitors explore key monuments such as the stadium, among the finest surviving examples of its kind, the odeon, and the Temple of Aphrodite, later adapted into a Christian basilica. The visit emphasizes Aphrodisias’ artistic and cultural significance rather than political power.

Pamukkale Travertines

Continue to Pamukkale, famous for its white terraces formed by calcium-rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside. Revered since antiquity for their healing properties, the travertines illustrate how natural phenomena became integrated into ancient religious and therapeutic practices. Guests have time to walk along designated paths and observe the unique formations at close range.

Ancient City of Hierapolis

Adjacent to Pamukkale lies Hierapolis, a Greco-Roman city founded around the thermal springs. The visit includes its well-preserved Roman theater, main streets, and necropolis, offering insight into urban life centered on health, pilgrimage, and ritual. Hierapolis provides the archaeological framework that complements Pamukkale’s natural setting, completing the historical narrative of the area.

  • Private tour with a professional, licensed, fluent English-speaking tour guide
  • Private vehicle with driver
  • Admission fees to Aphrodisias, Pamukkale, and Hierapolis
  • Guided visits according to the published itinerary
  • Hotel or port pick-up and drop-off from Kuşadası or Selçuk
  • Lunch and beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Any services not explicitly mentioned under Inclusions

Multi day

Ümit

Tour's Location

Is this a private tour?

Yes. This tour is operated as a private tour, exclusively for you and your party, accompanied by a professional, licensed tour guide.

How does transportation work during the tour?

This tour is conducted by private vehicle with a driver, as the sites are located inland and at significant distances from Kuşadası and Selçuk.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

This tour involves an estimated X.X km (approximately X.X miles) of walking over the course of the day, equivalent to roughly X,xxx–X,xxx steps. Walking includes time spent within archaeological sites and along the Pamukkale terraces. The pace is moderate, with regular stops.

Is this tour suitable for guests with limited mobility or wheelchairs?

This tour is not fully wheelchair accessible. The terrain includes uneven surfaces, slopes, and stairs, particularly at Aphrodisias and Pamukkale. Guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to contact us in advance.

How do you handle personal information and privacy?

We respect guest privacy and personal data. Any information shared with us is used solely for tour operations and communication and is not shared with third parties except where required to deliver services or by law.

Will photos or videos be taken during the tour?

Guests are welcome to take their own photos throughout the tour. We do not take photos or videos of guests for promotional purposes without clear prior consent.

Additional Information
  • All prices are quoted in USD (United States Dollar).
  • This tour involves a full-day inland drive from Kuşadası or Selçuk.
  • To ensure a smooth and efficient experience, the tour guide may adjust the order of visits depending on weather conditions, crowd levels, or operational requirements.
  • Walking on the Pamukkale travertines is subject to site regulations; shoes must be removed where required.
  • Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are strongly recommended.
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Owner

barisyenigun

Member Since 2025

41 Reviews

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