Where to stay in Denizli [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Denizli is a thriving city located in the southeastern Aegean Region of Turkey. Denizli boasts a flourishing textile industry and is also a popular area for tourists due to its beautiful and diverse landscape, seventeen thermal springs, and fascinating historic sites just waiting to be explored.

Hot air balloons and Natural travertine pools at sunset in Pamukkale, Turkey.

When it comes to where to stay in Denizli we have you covered with this comprehensive guide but first, let’s learn a little more about this captivating region. Denizli is probably most famous for the Denizli Rooster which has been the symbol of the city for over 1000 years.

Raised only in Denizli, the rooster has certain unique characteristics specifically the ability to crow with an extraordinary level of pitch for more than twenty seconds at a time. 

Denizli is the perfect destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and caving and also for those who want to learn firsthand about the culture and history of this part of Turkey. 

In a hurry and need help quick?

Making last-minute plans for your Denizli itinerary. We’ve got you covered. Our recommended hotels and tours for a getaway are listed below.

Recommended hotels:

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Denizli City – Where to stay in Denizli for First Timers 

Denizli is a lively city with a population of around half a million.

Why stay in Denizli City?

Denizli City is conveniently located just 17 kilometers from the busier and more tourist-heavy city of Pamukkale where prices tend to be higher.

There are regular mini shuttles from Denizli to Pamukkale throughout the day making traveling to enjoy all the local sights convenient and stress-free.

The most popular Denizli hotels tend to be located near to the transport terminals, and this is particularly good if you are new to the city as it keeps your travel plans simple. 

Things to do in Denizli City

Regular Turkish bazaars take place in the heart of the city, which is an absolute must for visitors to the area to sample traditional street food, browse the stunning tapestries from local traders, and generally embrace the culture.

Denizli City has a rich history and you don’t need to have a particular interest in times gone by to really appreciate the superb awe-inspiring archaeological sites located in Denizli. 

Another must-do in Denizli is to spend a day being wowed at Mount Honaz National Park. Here you can walk barefoot up a calcium mountain and dip in Cleopatra’s pool amongst other unique and amazing experiences. 

Best places to stay in Denizli City

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Denizli City

Budget accommodation in Denizli City

Mid range accommodation in Denizli City

Family Friendly accommodation in Denizli City

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Denizli City

Denizli, Turkey -  Cable car riding down to Bagbasi plateau from Denizli city center

Akhan – Where to stay in Denizli like a local 

The region of Akhan in Denizli City is a great spot to stay if you want to really embrace the local life and culture. 

Why Stay in Akhan?

When visiting foreign places many people choose to stay in the busier, more tourist- areas to ensure they have easy access to everything, and the comfort of other people doing a similar thing can be a draw too.

However, some people prefer to throw themselves into the local life and culture of their destination by staying in a more traditional area.

Akhan is an area of Denizli that has not been altered to accommodate tourists and so staying here is a much more authentic experience. 

Things to do in Akhan

The best way to spend your time in Akhan is to embrace the local life. Shop and eat like a local and really immerse yourself into their daily routine. 

While in the area be sure to head over to visit the Akhan Caravanserai. This fascinating place was originally built in the 13 century AD to host camel caravans making the journey from the Aegean Sea with their various produce.

It has been sympathetically restored for visitors to the area to admire while showcasing the original imprints of the diverse range of people who lived in the region over the past 2000 years. 

Mid range accommodation in Akhan

Family Friendly accommodation in Akhan

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Akhan

Roman amphitheater in ruins Hierapolis, in Pamukkale, Turkey. UNESCO World Heritage in Turkey. Ruined ancient city in Europe. Popular tourist destination in Turkey against blue sky

Pamukkale – where to stay in Denizli for Tourists 

Pamukkale is a stunning area located in the region of Denizli and is packed full of authentic attractions. 

Why Stay in Pamukkale?

Famous for its thermal pools, thermal hotel experiences, and incredibly Instagram-able bright white travertines, Pamukkale is a popular place for tourists to base themselves during their stay in Denizli.

It is a super popular place with people from all over the globe so you are bound to connect with others if you desire and the area has been geared up to cater to foreign visitor and their various needs.

Hotels in Pamukkale are a little more expensive than other parts of Denizli but also tend to offer better facilities for travelers. 

Things to do in Pamukkale

By far the most popular thing to do while in Pamukkale is to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the name of which translates to “White Cotton Castle” in English. Bright blue mineral pools sit within dazzling white walls of limestone resulting in a stunning vision.

Many of the pools are available to swim in and it is said that due to the rich mineral content of the water, they offer incredible healing powers. 

Another must-see in Pamukkale is the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis. Believe to date back to the 2nd century, this is a magnificent example of an archaeological find from that time.

Amongst many other amazing things here, you will observe two Roman baths, an impressive amphitheater, and the largest necropoleis in the country.

Another great attraction near Pamukkale is the Kaklik Cave. An easy and short drive from the centre this is a much lesser-known place of interest than the Pamukkale thermal pools and Hieraplois City but is certainly worth a visit.

The cave is like an underground version of the Cotton Castle showcasing white walls with stunning waterfalls cascading down them.

Best places to stay in Pamukkale

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Pamukkale

Budget accommodation in Pamukkale

Mid range accommodation in Pamukkale

Family Friendly accommodation in Pamukkale

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Pamukkale

Natural Travertine Pools and Terraces, Pamukkale Denizli, Turkey

Karahayit – Where to Stay near Denizli for Relaxation 

Many people choose to stay in the area of Karahayit, which is around 25 km from Denizli, to embrace the cleansing and healing properties believed to enrich the area. 

Why Stay in Karahayit?

People travel from around the globe to visit Karahayit, a charming Turkish village near the Denizli region. Many choose to stay here as opposed to a more central Denizli resort due to the quieter and more relaxing atmosphere.

It is home to a rare phenomenon, red water hot springs which come about due to the level of iron and calcium which are particularly concentrated in the area.

It is believed by many that the natural red springs have the ability to cure illness and ailments and promote happiness and well-being. Many choose to visit this place as part of their spiritual journey too. 

Things to do in Karahayit

In addition to visiting the red water springs in the area, Karahayit is a brilliant destination for those wishing to partake in yoga retreats.

There is also a wealth of historic sites in the location and so there are museums and sites of archaeological interest for those who are interested in times gone by in the area.

There are also some super restaurants serving authentic Turkish cuisine in the village. 

Best places to stay in Karahayit

Budget accommodation in Karahayit

Mid range accommodation in Karahayit

Family Friendly accommodation in Karahayit

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Karahayit

Karahayit Red Spring in Denizli Province of Turkey

Added Extra: Areas to Avoid in Denizli

Generally, all parts of Denizli are considered to be mostly safe for visitors and tourists. The crime rate is moderate to low and almost all people who have traveled there recently have claimed to have felt safe and comfortable.

The busier, more built up, and highly populated parts of the area are considered to have poor air quality and this should be considered when thinking about booking to travel to Denizli, particularly if you suffer from any respiratory health challenges.

Those traveling on a tight budget should avoid staying and eating in the centre of Denizli Cty or Pamukkale as prices are higher here, especially in peak season. 

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Author

  • Samantha King

    Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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