A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pamukkale vs. Isle of Skye for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

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 Isle of Skye can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is a striking, unique, and iconic town. Pamukkale is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Pamukkale travel costs.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. Many visitors also come to Isle of Skye because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches. See Isle of Skye travel costs.

Pamukkale and Isle of Skye: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less hiking options
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Isle of Skye than Pamukkale, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Isle of Skye is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pamukkale is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Pamukkale is well known for its natural travertine terraces, thermal springs, and ancient ruins. Isle of Skye is well known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Also, Isle of Skye is famous for The Old Man of Storr.

How is Pamukkale different from Isle of Skye?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Pamukkale is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Pamukkale specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pamukkale is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Isle of Skye has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Pamukkale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye Better for Nightlife?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find respectable options in both Pamukkale and Isle of Skye.

Pamukkale doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Isle of Skye specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You can find a place for a glass of wine of a craft beer and relax with friends.

Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye Better for Beaches?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a great island for the beach. However, Pamukkale is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Pamukkale is not a beach destination.


Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye Better for Hiking?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for hiking. Also, Pamukkale is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Pamukkale has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Pamukkale is a good destination for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Pamukkale. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye More Beautiful?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Pamukkale is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Isle of Skye because of it's amazing beauty. The stunning coastline and beautiful hikes make this a truly unique destination in Scotland.

Pamukkale is a gorgeous place to visit. 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.


Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye Better for Families?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Pamukkale is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Pamukkale is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye Better for Couples?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Both Pamukkale and Isle of Skye are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Pamukkale is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

For backpackers, both Pamukkale and Isle of Skye are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pamukkale. Food and activities are convenient and accessible around town. There are also many affordable hostels and plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.


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

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Pamukkale is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Pamukkale has some public transit options. 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Pamukkale or Isle of Skye a more walkable city?

Pamukkale
Isle of Skye

Pamukkale is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Pamukkale is very walkable. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable town. It's nice to explore on foot, but you need a vehicle to cover the long distances.

For even more information, also check out Is Pamukkale Worth Visiting? and Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Isle of Skye or Pamukkale?

How long in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

In either Pamukkale or Isle of Skye, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than Pamukkale because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Pamukkale, and 2-5 days is enough time in Isle of Skye.

Families should spend more time in Pamukkale than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pamukkale 1-2 
    Isle of Skye 2-5

One day in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

In Pamukkale, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this unique town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find food around the island of Isle of Skye. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

Pamukkale is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find food around the picturesque destination of Isle of Skye. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

You'll find shopping and food around the striking destination of Pamukkale. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find food around the diverse island of Isle of Skye. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

Pamukkale is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pamukkale $162
    Isle of Skye $187

The average daily cost (per person) in Pamukkale is $162, while the average daily cost in Isle of Skye is $187. 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 Isle of Skye in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pamukkale $44
    Isle of Skye $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pamukkale $88
    Isle of Skye $140
Compare Hotels in Pamukkale and Isle of Skye

Looking for a hotel in Pamukkale or Isle of Skye? 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 Isle of Skye


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pamukkale $28
    Isle of Skye $74

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamukkale

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

Prices for flights to both Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pamukkale $42
    Isle of Skye $26
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.

  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tours: $179
  • 6 Day Antalya, Fethiye, Pamukkale, Ephesus Tour: $325
  • Antalya: Full-Day Pamukkale Tour: $88
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Daily Guided Pamukkale Tour included Pick Up from Denizli Airport: $100
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour From Denizli Çardak Aırport: $131
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Denizli Bus station: $114
  • Experince Gyrocopter Tour over Pamaukkale & Hierapolis: $131
  • From Antalya or Kemer: Full-Day Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour: $41
  • From Antalya: Daily Pamukkale Tour with Expert Local Guide: $133
  • From Antalya: Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour with Lunch: $47
  • From Izmir: Hierapolis and Pamukkale Tour with Guide: $300

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools Day Tour leaving from Portree: $136

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pamukkale $11
    Isle of Skye $11


When comparing the travel costs between Pamukkale and Isle of Skye, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pamukkale or Isle of Skye?

Pamukkale has a larger population, and is about 0% larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Pamukkale and Isle of Skye, 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 Isle of Skye?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pamukkale or Isle of Skye in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamukkale and Isle of Skye. Many visitors come to Pamukkale in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Pamukkale is much warmer than Isle of Skye. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pamukkale in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Isle of Skye averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Pamukkale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Isle of Skye during summer. Pamukkale gets 356 hours of sunny skies, while Isle of Skye receives 150 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Pamukkale gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pamukkale 28°C (82°F) 
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Isle of Skye in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pamukkale as well as Isle of Skye. Most visitors come to Pamukkale for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pamukkale is generally much warmer than Isle of Skye. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 19°C (67°F), and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamukkale this time of the year. In the autumn, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Isle of Skye. Pamukkale gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Isle of Skye receives 82 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. Pamukkale usually gets less rain in October than Isle of Skye. Pamukkale gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pamukkale 19°C (67°F) 
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Isle of Skye in the Winter?

Both Isle of Skye and Pamukkale are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Pamukkale because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year.

It's quite cold in Isle of Skye in the winter. Pamukkale is much warmer than Isle of Skye in the winter. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Isle of Skye during winter. Pamukkale gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Isle of Skye receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. It's quite rainy in Pamukkale. In January, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Pamukkale gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pamukkale 9°C (48°F) 
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Isle of Skye in the Spring?

Both Isle of Skye and Pamukkale during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Pamukkale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pamukkale is much warmer than Isle of Skye. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pamukkale in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Isle of Skye averages at about 7°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Pamukkale. In the spring, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Isle of Skye. Pamukkale gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Isle of Skye receives 168 hours of full sun.

Pamukkale usually gets less rain in April than Isle of Skye. Pamukkale gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pamukkale 17°C (62°F) 
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Isle of Skye and Pamukkale

Pamukkale Isle of Skye
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
May 21°C (70°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 26°C (78°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 10°C (51°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)