Thinking of taking a day trip from Alanya to explore Pamukkale? This tour promises a blend of stunning natural formations, ancient ruins, and the chance to relax in thermal waters. We’ve looked into what this experience offers and what it might mean for travelers curious about Turkey’s iconic sights.

What we appreciate about this tour is the chance to visit Hierapolis, a site bursting with history, and the opportunity to swim in the famous Cleopatra Pool. Plus, the optional hot air balloon ride, available only on certain days, adds a dash of adventure. On the flip side, the long travel time and mixed reviews about communication and organization suggest it’s best suited for hardy explorers with patience. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about ancient sites and appreciates the chance to relax in thermal waters, this trip could be a good fit — just keep your expectations grounded.

Key Points

  • Historical significance: Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis with its well-preserved ruins.
  • Natural beauty: Experience the unique travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the Red Water Travertines.
  • Thermal waters: Swim in Cleopatra Pool, with optional entry at an extra cost.
  • Shopping and local culture: Opportunities to buy onyx, leather, and textiles.
  • Travel time: Expect roughly 6 hours each way, with breaks along the route.
  • Tour ratings: Mixed reviews highlight some organizational challenges but also genuine highlights.
You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

Antalya/Alanya: Pamukkale With Hot Air Balloon Option - What’s Included and What’s Not

This day trip, offered by Yükay Turizm, covers the essentials: roundtrip transfers from Alanya, a guide, entrance fees to Hierapolis, and a stop for breakfast in Korkuteli. If you opt for the meal package, you’ll enjoy a local breakfast to start the day, which sets a friendly tone for the long journey ahead.

The tour also includes shopping stops at the Onyx Stone Store and a leather/textile shop — which can be interesting if you’re into souvenirs, but might feel more like a sales pitch for some travelers. Not included are personal expenses, swimming in the Cleopatra Pool (which costs extra), and the hot air balloon option, only available on Mondays and Fridays for an additional €145.

The Itinerary in Detail

Antalya/Alanya: Pamukkale With Hot Air Balloon Option - The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Journey

The day begins with a pick-up in Alanya, and from there, it’s about a 6-hour drive to Pamukkale, with scheduled breaks. This long haul is a key consideration — travelers should be prepared for a full-day commitment, and some might find the journey tiring.

Breakfast in Korkuteli

The first stop is in Korkuteli, a town famous for its resilience — it’s noted as the only place in Anatolia that wasn’t conquered. Here, you’ll have a chance to enjoy breakfast, a nice way to fuel up before exploring the ancient and natural wonders.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Hierapolis

The core of the trip is the guided tour of Hierapolis, which will likely include seeing:

  • Streets, gates, baths, and the agora
  • The St. Philippe Martyrion Church
  • The ancient theater, which once hosted performances and gatherings
  • The Temple of Apollo
  • The Hierapolis Archaeology Museum, offering insights into the site’s history

While the ruins may not be as intact as you’d hope, they still tell stories of a 2,500-year-old city that once thrived as a spa and religious center. Some reviews note that the tour can feel rushed, with little time at each monument, but if you’re fascinated by ancient ruins, you’ll find plenty to appreciate.

Pamukkale and Travertines

Next comes the highlight: the natural travertine terraces of Pamukkale. These stunning white formations, built by mineral-rich thermal waters, are unique globally. We loved the way the terraces look like a giant, natural starry sky on the ground. You’ll also see Red Water Travertines — a less-visited but visually striking red-hued mineral deposit.

You might find the thermal waters soothing — they’ve been used for healing purposes for centuries — but swimming in the Cleopatra Pool is optional and incurs an extra fee. It’s filled with warm spring waters and ancient artifacts, giving a feeling of bathing in history. One reviewer mentioned that swimming is “at an additional cost,” so plan accordingly.

Shopping Stops and Cultural Touches

The tour makes stops at the Onyx Stone Store and a leather/textile shop**, giving you the chance to buy souvenirs or simply browse. While these stops can be interesting, some travelers feel they are more about sales than authentic cultural experiences. Still, if you’re in the market for high-quality onyx or Turkish textiles, these are good opportunities.

Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride

The hot air balloon option, available only on specific days, promises a breathtaking view of Pamukkale’s terraces from above. At €145, it’s a significant add-on but turns the trip into an unforgettable adventure. Keep in mind, availability is limited, and weather conditions can affect the flight.

The Return Journey and Reflection

After a busy day, you’ll head back to Alanya, stopping for dinner en route. The entire experience lasts approximately 20 hours, so be prepared for a very full day. The drive back means arriving late in the evening, likely just in time for dinner at your hotel.

The Realities from Traveler Feedback

Antalya/Alanya: Pamukkale With Hot Air Balloon Option - The Realities from Traveler Feedback

Reviewers give this trip a low overall rating of 2.3 out of 5, citing issues like poor communication and organization. One traveler bluntly stated, “The whole long day from start to finish was horrendous,” highlighting that the long travel time and logistical hiccups can overshadow the sights. Others appreciated the chance to see Hierapolis and the travertines but noted the tour felt rushed, with little time to truly soak in each spot.

Some liked the natural beauty and historical significance of the site, but the overall experience was marred by disorganized logistics and long gaps in explanation. The optional swimming in Cleopatra Pool is mentioned as a “cost at an additional price” — a good tip for those planning their budget.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Antalya/Alanya: Pamukkale With Hot Air Balloon Option - Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who:

  • Are comfortable with a long, full-day tour and a 6-hour drive each way
  • Enjoy exploring both natural formations and ancient ruins
  • Don’t mind shopping stops that may feel more commercial
  • Are interested in optional experiences like hot air ballooning, if the schedule aligns
  • Are open-minded about some organizational quirks, given the potential for a rushed experience

It’s less ideal for those looking for a relaxed pace or expecting a perfectly organized tour. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users, as noted in the activity details.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Antalya/Alanya: Pamukkale With Hot Air Balloon Option - Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $57, this tour offers a lot — history, natural beauty, and cultural stops — all packed into one long day. But it’s important to weigh the long travel hours and mixed reviews about organization. If you’re someone who loves big, busy days and can handle a bit of chaos, this trip can give you a snapshot of one of Turkey’s most famous sites.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely experience, with less rushing and more time at each stop, you might want to consider other options or perhaps spend a couple of days exploring Pamukkale at your own pace. The hot air balloon option adds a memorable touch but is only available on select days and at a higher cost.

In essence, this tour could be a good value if you’re eager to see Pamukkale, Hierapolis, and enjoy the natural thermal waters, but go in with realistic expectations about organization and timing.

FAQ

Antalya/Alanya: Pamukkale With Hot Air Balloon Option - FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is generally suitable for adults and teenagers but is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those in a wheelchair due to the long bus ride and walking involved.

How long is the drive from Alanya to Pamukkale?
The journey takes approximately 6 hours each way, with scheduled breaks. It’s a long day, so patience and comfort during travel are important.

Can I swim in Cleopatra Pool?
Swimming is optional and costs extra. It’s a thermal pool filled with spring waters and ancient artifacts, offering a unique experience.

Is the hot air balloon ride included?
No, the balloon ride is an optional extra available only on Mondays and Fridays, costing about €145.

What is included in the tour price?
Roundtrip transfer, insurance, guide, entrance fees, and breakfast are included. Shopping stops are part of the itinerary, but purchases are at your own expense.

Are meals included?
Breakfast in Korkuteli is included. Lunch is available if you select the meal package, but dinner is not included.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, your camera, and swimwear if you plan to swim.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, as a group activity, but be prepared for a large group and some organizational quirks.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Turkish.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re eager to check off a key highlight of Turkey with a manageable price tag and don’t mind a long day, this trip offers a solid introduction. Just approach with an open mind, and prepare for a busy but memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: