Exclusive Pamukkale and Aphrodisias Private Tour

13 Hours
14
Pamukkale

Embark on an extraordinary journey through history and nature with our exclusive Private Pamukkale and Aphrodisias Tour. Begin your day at the breathtaking travertine terraces of Pamukkale, where the mineral-rich thermal waters create a stunning natural spectacle. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, famous for its well-preserved ruins and historical significance, including the impressive Roman theater and the ancient baths.

Next, continue to the remarkable site of Aphrodisias, dedicated to the goddess of love. Here, you'll discover the magnificent remains of Greco-Roman architecture, including the Temple of Aphrodite, the marble stadium, and the well-preserved theater. Your knowledgeable private guide will enrich your experience with fascinating insights into the history and culture of these ancient sites.

Enjoy the flexibility of a tailored itinerary, ensuring a personalized adventure that highlights the unique beauty and heritage of Pamukkale and Aphrodisias, making this a memorable day of exploration.

Program ( 13 Hours )

Tour Itinerary

Our journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel, after which we will embark on a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive to the ancient city of Aphrodisias. This remarkable site, established in the late Hellenistic era and later expanded by the Romans, is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, including a standing temple. As we explore Aphrodisias, you'll discover the impressive theater and the monumental stadium, which once accommodated around 30,000 spectators—now one of the best-preserved stadiums following extensive archaeological excavation. Our tour will also include visits to the Bouleterion, the Agora, and an ancient gate, along with a stop at the Aphrodisias Museum, where you can appreciate artifacts that highlight the city's rich history. We'll spend approximately two and a half hours uncovering the wonders of this ancient city before proceeding to Pamukkale.

Next, we will visit Pamukkale and Hierapolis, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Pamukkale, known as the "Cotton Castle," is famous for its stunning travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. The hot springs are believed to possess healing properties, with water emerging from the ground at a temperature of 35.6°C. The unique formations are a result of a complex chemical process that precipitates calcium carbonate.

Hierapolis, adjacent to Pamukkale, has a rich historical significance, having served as a settlement for various cultures over centuries. Founded by Eumenes II, the city played a crucial role in the early spread of Christianity, being the place where Philip, one of Jesus's apostles, is believed to have died. By the 4th century AD, Hierapolis had evolved into a major religious center and eventually fell under Roman control in 395 AD, becoming a metropolitan bishopric.

During our exploration of Hierapolis, we'll visit significant sites such as the Necropolis, the Domitian Gate, Frontinus Street, the Agora, and the North Byzantine Gate. Other highlights include the Gymnasium, the Temple of Apollo, the Martyrium of St. Philip, the Column Church, the Basilica ruins, Plutonium, Latrina, and the Roman Baths. After a comprehensive tour of Hierapolis lasting about an hour and a half, you will have some free time to explore further. If you wish to swim, the Cleopatra Pool is available for an additional entrance fee of 50 lira.

At the end of our day, we will transfer you back to your hotel in Kuşadası or Selçuk, concluding a memorable exploration of these extraordinary historical sites.