Cotton Castles

This Istanbul day trip provides an excellent opportunity to see another unique landscape in Turkey, Pamukkale, as well as visit the neighboring historical ruins of Hierapolis.

Pamukkale’s limestone terraces have been formed by layers of calcium carbonate deposits as warm mineral water cascaded down the slopes of a ridge, forming petrified pools that create the illusion of ‘cotton castles’.  These formations are unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else in Turkey.   Many of the terraces are filled with mineral water from the hot springs, forming pools that glisten in the sun.

Hierapolis was founded by the Greeks around 190BC as a ‘cure’ center because of the hot springs.  It was ceded to Rome in 133BC.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.  It was also known for its textiles, particularly wool.  Hierapolis is a treasure trove of excavated ruins, most famous for its Necropolis, which contains more than 1200 tombs from Greek, Roman, and early Christian times.  The ruins of Hierapolis are spread over a large area and include a Theater which sat 20,000, Thermal Baths, the Arch of Domitian, an Agora, the Triton Fountain, the Apollo Temple and much more.  

You will also visit Karahayit, a small village which is also known for its hot springs.

Cotton Castles

Route:  Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Apollo Temple, Red Spring Waters, Roman Baths
Tour Type: Small Group Tour
Duration: Full day

INCLUDED

• All airport transfers and pick up/ drop off from and to the hotel
• All transportation by A/C No Smoking vehicles
• Lunch
• English speaking professional tour guide
• Entrance fees for sites and museums