Denizli

Denizli is the main gateway city for Pamukkale, the UNESCO-listed mineral-terraced hillside and hot springs that draw visitors from across Turkey and beyond. The ancient ruined cities of Hierapolis and Laodicea on the Lycus lie nearby, as does the 1st-century site of Colossae. The city itself is a major textile-producing centre and hosts a large university population, with a walkable centre and a lively café and restaurant scene. Most travellers pass through en route to Pamukkale, though the surrounding region offers enough ancient sites to reward a longer stay.

• Population313,238
• Nearest water1.6 km
• Nearest mountain10.0 km
• UNESCO within 50 km3