The site, the tour, and the guides are excellent! We loved hiking around the old city, feeling like Indiana Jones and looking for historical treasure. The drive from Izmir is long (4 hrs), but the knowledge the guides have to share about the area help pass the time. We took 15 min rest stops each way, and the rest stops had wonderful foods and drink. Additionally, as a small group, we enjoyed conversation with the other couple. We took a quick side trip into the garment district on our way out and the shopping was as much fun as the hiking! It’s definitely a long way to go in a van, but the site and area around it is so special, you’d hate to miss it. Supposedly, in another year, the freeway will be finished and that will cut the drive down to 3 hrs each way.

Our tour guide Muharrem was very knowledgeable about the subject of the tour and is also updated about current events. It helps that he is a local. I could not have asked for a more knowledgeable guide. If there is any disappointment, it is that I had expected him to guide us while inside Hierapolis. While he gave us information before entering Hierapolis and after, we were left on our own while inside, and I wished we didn’t have to eavesdrop on the other tour guides while there. Still, it was a good tour, and Muharrem was very kind.

I think there's not much other chance to see this wonderful place, than travel around 4-5 hours / way. It takes lot of time, you have to prepare. Is it worth to go there? You have to decide. I loved Hieropolis next to it.