A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pamukkale vs. Imperia for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Pamukkale or Imperia?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pamukkale and Imperia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is a iconic, striking, and unique town. Pamukkale offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and hiking. See Pamukkale travel costs.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. Imperia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Imperia travel costs.

Pamukkale and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Pamukkale or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pamukkale. Although Pamukkale and Imperia are popular destinations, Pamukkale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pamukkale is very popular for its hiking, while Imperia attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Pamukkale is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its natural travertine terraces, thermal springs, and ancient ruins. It is also well known for the travertine terraces. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Pamukkale different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Imperia and Pamukkale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pamukkale or Imperia?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Imperia is very good for its historical sights. However, Pamukkale is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Pamukkale offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Hierapolis Archaeology Museum is located within the ancient city of Hierapolis. It's housed in a former Roman bathhouse and displays an impressive collection of artifacts, including statues, sarcophagi, and other relics from Hierapolis, Laodicea, and other nearby ancient cities.


Is the Food Better in Pamukkale or Imperia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Pamukkale and Imperia can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Pamukkale is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has a number of restaurants and cafes that serve dishes like kebabs, meze platters, and pide (Turkish flatbread). Gözleme (a savory stuffed pancake) is a popular street food in the area, but there are also many of the most popular Turkish dishes available.

Imperia offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Pamukkale or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Imperia is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pamukkale is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Imperia has a few options to choose from. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Most people don't head to Pamukkale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a quiet town in the evening. Some hotels host small social gatherings or cultural evenings which lets you connect with other travelers. For a more lively experience, nearby Denizli has a broader range of bars and clubs, but it requires a short trip.

Is Pamukkale or Imperia Better for Hiking?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Pamukkale is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Pamukkale is a good destination for hiking. The most popular trail leads through the travertine terraces, where visitors can walk barefoot across the warm, calcium-rich pools. You can also explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, which has pathways winding through the theater, necropolis, and other historical sites. For something a little more challenging, the surrounding countryside has trails through the hills that lead to impressive viewpoints.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Pamukkale or Imperia?

Pamukkale
Imperia

If you're looking to go shopping, Pamukkale and Imperia both offer plenty of nice spots.

Pamukkale has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of souvenir shops around town where you can buy local crafts or trinkets. You'll find Turkish towels and carpets, dried spices, herbs, and teas. Many shops also sell Diorama stones and miniature travertine sculptures.

Imperia is a great destination for shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Pamukkale or Imperia More Beautiful?

Pamukkale
Imperia

You'll find a similar quality of nice scenery and beauty in both Pamukkale and Imperia.

Pamukkale offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It is considered to be one of Turkey's most unique natural wonders. The white travertine terraces, which are filled with turquoise thermal waters, create an other-worldly landscape.

Imperia is a gorgeous place to visit. There are beautiful views and breathtaking countryside in the area.

Is Pamukkale or Imperia Better for Families?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Pamukkale is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Pamukkale is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will enjoy visiting the unique Travertine Terraces. Taking a dip in Cleopatra's Pool, with its sunken Roman columns, is also a highlight, and fans of the Percy Jackson series will appreciate visiting the ancient ruins at Hierapolis.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Pamukkale or Imperia Better for Couples?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Pamukkale is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Pamukkale is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy many romantic settings, such as wandering through the impressive white travertine terraces, swimming in Cleopatra's Pool surrounded by ancient Roman columns, and exploring the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Pamukkale or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Pamukkale is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pamukkale is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. Food and activities are convenient and accessible around town. There are also many affordable hostels and plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Pamukkale or Imperia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Pamukkale and Imperia both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Pamukkale offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Minibuses (dolmuş) are the primary mode of local transportation, connecting Pamukkale to nearby towns like Denizli, where the main bus and train stations are located. From Denizli, frequent minibuses run to Pamukkale.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Pamukkale or Imperia a more walkable city?

Pamukkale
Imperia

Pamukkale is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Pamukkale is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and very walkable, especially within the main tourist areas. The travertine terraces and the adjacent ancient city of Hierapolis are easy to explore on foot as well.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Pamukkale Worth Visiting? and Is Imperia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Pamukkale?

How long in Pamukkale or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pamukkale or Imperia to fill your time. In our opinion, Pamukkale has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pamukkale than Imperia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Pamukkale than Imperia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Pamukkale, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Pamukkale than Imperia. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Pamukkale that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamukkale than Imperia if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pamukkale.


  • How many days in Pamukkale or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pamukkale 1-2 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Pamukkale or Imperia?

In Pamukkale, you'll find food and shopping. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Imperia. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Imperia has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Pamukkale or Imperia?

In Pamukkale, you'll find shopping and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pamukkale has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Imperia. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Pamukkale or Imperia?

Pamukkale is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic town of Imperia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Pamukkale or Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamukkale. Many people enjoy the shopping and food when visiting Pamukkale. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Imperia is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Pamukkale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Pamukkale Prices
    Turkey Prices
    Imperia Prices
    Italy Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pamukkale $162
    Imperia $156

The average daily cost (per person) in Pamukkale is $162, while the average daily cost in Imperia is $156. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Pamukkale and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pamukkale $44
    Imperia $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pamukkale $88
    Imperia $120
Compare Hotels in Pamukkale and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Pamukkale or Imperia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Pamukkale


Hotels in Imperia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Pamukkale Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pamukkale $28
    Imperia $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamukkale

Also for Pamukkale, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Antalya/Belek/Lara: Land Of legends Night Show Transfer: $20
  • Gumbet Turkish Bath with hotel transfer and Oil massage: $38
  • Paragliding Tour w/ Scenic Views & Hotel Transfer: $73
  • Pamukkale - Karahayit Transfer from Denizli Cardak Airport: $78
  • Private Denizli Pamukkale Airport Transfer Service: $108
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels: $114
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Denizli City Hotels: $114
  • Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $119
  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon w/Flight Certificates,Champagne Toast & Hotel Transfer: $121
  • Denizli Airport Transfer to Pamukkale (Private): $141
  • Denizli City Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $149
  • City of Pamukkale/Denizli: Antalya Center Private Transfer: $244

Is it cheaper to fly into Pamukkale or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Pamukkale change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Pamukkale $94
    Imperia $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pamukkale $42
    Imperia $15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pamukkale

For Pamukkale, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance fees Travertines & Pool
    $1.57

Tours and Activities in Pamukkale

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pamukkale.

  • From Antalya or Kemer: Full-Day Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour: $41
  • Full Day Pamukkale City Tour From Pamukkale And Karahayit Hotels: $45
  • From Antalya: Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour with Lunch: $47
  • Pamukkale&Hierapolis Small Group Tour (Entrance Tickets Extra): $50
  • Pamukkale and Hierapolis Skip-the-Line Tickets and Audio Guide: $51
  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Experience Including Pickup: $59
  • Pamukkale Paragliding Experience By Local Expert Pilots: $64
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Pamukkale Paragliding Tour : $70
  • Pamukkale & Hierapolis Ancient City Tour from Antalya: $80
  • Natural Pamukkale Tour From Pamukkale - Small Group : $82
  • Izmir: Ephesus, House of Mary Tour w/Entry Tickets & Lunch: $84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pamukkale $11
    Imperia $8.80


When comparing the travel costs between Pamukkale and Imperia, we can see that Pamukkale is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Pamukkale Expensive? and Is Imperia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pamukkale or Imperia?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pamukkale. When comparing the sizes of Pamukkale and Imperia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Pamukkale or Imperia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pamukkale or Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Pamukkale during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pamukkale for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Imperia because of the family-friendly experiences.

Pamukkale is a little warmer than Imperia in the summer. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pamukkale. In the summer, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Pamukkale gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Pamukkale usually gets less rain in July than Imperia. Pamukkale gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pamukkale 28°C (82°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamukkale and Imperia. The autumn months attract visitors to Pamukkale because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In the autumn, Pamukkale is around the same temperature as Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pamukkale in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Pamukkale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during autumn. Pamukkale gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Imperia. Pamukkale gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pamukkale 19°C (67°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pamukkale as well as Imperia. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamukkale this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Pamukkale is generally cooler than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 9°C (48°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Pamukkale gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Pamukkale receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pamukkale usually gets more rain in January than Imperia. Pamukkale gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pamukkale 9°C (48°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Pamukkale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pamukkale for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the spring for the natural beauty.

Pamukkale is a little warmer than Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pamukkale. Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during spring. Pamukkale gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Imperia. Pamukkale gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pamukkale 17°C (62°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Pamukkale

Pamukkale Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 21°C (70°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 26°C (78°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 10°C (51°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)