Aphrodisias and Pamukkale Discovery
Start the tour by visiting the most interesting points of Aphrodisias: the Big Stadium, the Odeon, the Monumental Gateway, and the Temple of Aphrodite. Aphrodisias is on the way to Pamukkale, only 80 km away. The ruins at Ephesus generally get most of the attention when it comes to the ancient sites of Turkey, but in many ways, Aphrodisias is far superior. The site stretches out over a large area, has been extremely well preserved or restored, and it is easy to lose yourself in the moment because it does not have the large tourist crowds it probably deserves. Imagining life in the Aphrodisias of old is not difficult.
Arrive at Pamukkale and see well-preserved parts of ancient Hierapolis, including the theatre and Necropolis, one of the biggest ancient graveyards. Pamukkale, a miracle of nature, is famous for its white thermal pools. Truly spectacular in its own right, the geological phenomenon of Pamukkale means "Cotton Castle" in Turkish. With such a unique combination of natural and man-made wonders, there is little doubt that Pamukkale-Hierapolis has been made a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Return to Kuşadası or Izmir after spending all day in Aphrodisias and Pamukkale.
