A Travel Price Comparison for Turkey Pamukkale vs. Bodrum for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Pamukkale or Bodrum?

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 Bodrum can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Pamukkale or Bodrum?

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is in southeastern Aegean Turkey and is historically a spa town that has been in existence since the 2nd century BC. It is popular with tourists for its beautiful hot springs and travertines, or pools that are coated in a very unique calcium covering. The area is very rich in mineral content and the water, which has been flowing for thousands of years, has deposited calcium in each pool. This unique whiteness creates an unworldly beauty that draws visitors from around the world. If you're visiting during the summer months when the sun is out in full force, don't forget the sunscreen, as the white reflects the light and you can end up with a sunburn quite quickly. You'll also want to make sure you have sunglasses available because the glare can be quite extreme.

Bodrum

Bodrum is a city on the Bodrum Peninsula, stretching from Turkey's southwest coast into the Aegean Sea. The city features twin bays with views of Bodrum Castle. This medieval fortress was built partly with stones from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, completed in the 4th century B.C. The city is also a gateway for nearby beach towns and resorts. Although more than a million tourists flock to its beaches, boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and clubs each summer, the town of Bodrum (ancient Halicarnassus) never seems to lose its cool. More than any other Turkish seaside getaway, it has an enigmatic elegance that pervades it. The evocative castle and the ancient ruins around town also help keep Bodrum a discerning step above the rest.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Turkey, The Best Adventure Tours to Turkey, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Turkey, and The Best Cultural Tours in Turkey.


Which place is cheaper, Bodrum or Pamukkale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Pamukkale is $156, while the average daily cost in Bodrum is $92. 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 Bodrum in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pamukkale $56
    Bodrum $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pamukkale $112
    Bodrum $96
Compare Hotels in Pamukkale and Bodrum

Looking for a hotel in Pamukkale or Bodrum? 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 Bodrum


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 Bodrum Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pamukkale $35
    Bodrum $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamukkale

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

  • Antalya: Private Airport Transfer to/from Pamukkale/Denizli: $153
  • Denizli City Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $136
  • Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $109
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Karahayit Hotels: $103
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Denizli City Hotels: $103
  • Pamukkale - Karahayit Transfer from Denizli Cardak Airport: $100
  • Private Denizli Pamukkale Airport Transfer Service: $98
  • Transfer from Denizli Airport to Pamukkale Karahayit Hotels: $91
  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon w/Flight Certificates,Champagne Toast & Hotel Transfer: $90
  • Antalya: Guided Pamukkale Tour w/Lunch/Transfer: $84
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels: $81

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bodrum

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

  • Private Transfer | BODRUM - IZMIR Airport: $293
  • Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers to Kusadasi Hotels: $201
  • Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers to Marmaris Hotels: $196
  • Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers to Akyaka Hotels: $173
  • Transfer From Bodrum Milas Airport to Kusadasi: $130
  • Transfer From Bodrum Milas Airport to Soke (Söke): $125
  • Bodrum Akyarlar Hotels to Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers: $125
  • Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers to Kadikalesi Hotels: $114
  • Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers to Akyarlar Hotels: $109
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Bodrum Airport to Marmaris Hotels: $109
  • Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers to Yaliciftlik Hotels: $103
  • Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers to Yalikavak Hotels: $103

Is it cheaper to fly into Pamukkale or Bodrum?

Prices for flights to both Bodrum 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 $69
    Bodrum $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bodrum

For Bodrum, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in Authentic Etrim Village: $43
  • Christmas Dinner at Karnas Vineyards: $103
  • Farmers Market visit & Turkish Cooking Class: $125
  • Bodrum Market Visit and Cooking Class: $128
  • Bodrum Vineyard Tour with Dinner and Wine Pairing: $128
  • Food and Wine pairing Dinner at Karnas Vineyards Bodrum: $130
  • 3-Hour Private Sunset Boat Tour With Dinner in Bodrum: $184
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour in Bodrum With Dinner: $220
  • Shore Excursions - Istanbul by Night: Turkish Food Tour: $251
  • Private Vineyard Tour with Dinner Under the Stars in Karnas: $290
  • From Private Sunset Boat Tour with Dinner & Swimming: $319
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour with Dinner: $368

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pamukkale $54
    Bodrum $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pamukkale

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


  • Entrance fees Travertines & Pool
    $2.01

Tours and Activities in Pamukkale

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

  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tours: $119
  • Antalya Exclusive Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour: $11
  • Antalya: Full-Day Pamukkale Tour: $80
  • Antalya: Pamukkale Guided Tour With Optional Balloon Flight: $37
  • Aphrodisias&Pamukkale Tour with Lunch from Izmir&Kusadasi: $298
  • Best Rates Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tour : $277
  • Daily Guided Pamukkale Tour included Pick Up from Denizli Airport: $118
  • Daily Guided Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Hotel in Pamukkale.: $92
  • Daily Pamukkale Guided Tour with extra Red spring enjoyment.: $92
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour from istanbul: $639
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Denizli Airport : $109
  • Daily Pamukkale Tour with Pick up from Denizli Bus station: $103

Tours and Activities in Bodrum

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

  • 2 Hours Private Sightseeing and Walking Tour in Bodrum: $106
  • A Breathtaking Pamukkale Day Tour from Bodrum: $276
  • All Inclusive Private BODRUM to Ephesus, Mary's House, Lunch Tour: $299
  • Boat tour: Bodrum Private Boat Tour for Cruise Customers: $800
  • Bodrum ↔ Gulf of Gökova | Cabin Charter Cruise: $938
  • Bodrum Black island Tour: $26
  • Bodrum Buggy Safari Tours: $57
  • Bodrum City Sightseeing Walk: $149
  • Bodrum City Tour: 5-Hour Private Excursion with Lunch: $253
  • Bodrum City Walking Morning Sightseeing Tour: $212
  • Bodrum Fullday Private Tour with Licenced Guide & Dlx Van: $145
  • Bodrum Jeep Safari Tour: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pamukkale $15
    Bodrum $14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pamukkale and Bodrum, we can see that Pamukkale is more expensive. And not only is Bodrum much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bodrum would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bodrum and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Pamukkale would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pamukkale than you might in Bodrum.

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


Which is Bigger, Pamukkale or Bodrum?

Bodrum has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pamukkale. When comparing the sizes of Pamukkale and Bodrum, 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 Bodrum?

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 Bodrum in the Summer?

Both Bodrum and Pamukkale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities.

In July, Pamukkale is generally around the same temperature as Bodrum. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 28°C (82°F), and Bodrum fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In July, Pamukkale usually receives more rain than Bodrum. Pamukkale gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bodrum receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pamukkale 28°C (82°F) 
    Bodrum 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Bodrum in the Autumn?

Both Bodrum and Pamukkale during the autumn are popular places to visit.

Pamukkale is around the same temperature as Bodrum in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Bodrum fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Pamukkale usually gets more rain in October than Bodrum. Pamukkale gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bodrum receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Pamukkale or Bodrum in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamukkale and Bodrum.

In the winter, Pamukkale is cooler than Bodrum. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pamukkale in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Bodrum averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Bodrum receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pamukkale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Bodrum. Pamukkale gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bodrum receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pamukkale 9°C (48°F) 
    Bodrum 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Bodrum in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pamukkale as well as Bodrum.

In April, Pamukkale is generally around the same temperature as Bodrum. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 17°C (62°F), and Bodrum fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Pamukkale usually gets more rain in April than Bodrum. Pamukkale gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bodrum receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pamukkale 17°C (62°F) 
    Bodrum 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Bodrum and Pamukkale

Pamukkale Bodrum
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 149 mm (5.9 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 21°C (70°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 26°C (78°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 24°C (75°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 24°C (75°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 10°C (51°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)