Kusadasi

Kusadasi is a gorgeous coastal town located on Turkey's western Aegean coast situated south of Selcuk and north of Didim whilst also facing the Greek Island of Samos. Its name means ‘Birds Island’ and was once used as a naturally formed harbour for trading among many colonies. Today, Kusadasi is a major cruise port in the province of Aydin with a luxurious marina and many anchorage spots, opening visitors up to discover a town full of many treasures. With ancient ruins, historic architecture, spectacular beaches, shopping opportunities, eateries, bars and night entertainment, this bay is a perfect destination for a family summer holiday. Whether it's water sports activities, sunbathing on the beach, discovering the town's many archeological sites or adventurous fun at its many aquaparks, this town has it all for all.

Things To Do In Kusadasi

Kusadasi is one of the most popular ports in the whole of Turkey with a town full of sun, sea, history and breathtaking architecture that starts right from its harbour. A short stroll on a causeway from the harbour leads out to Pigeon Island, where on a cliff lies the remains of the 13th century Kusadasi Castle, a Byzantine fortress and home to the regional Kusadasi Tulusa flower. Behind the harbour lies Kusadasi Old Town, also referred to as ‘Kaleici’ where many historic cultural architectural buildings and remains of the southern gates of the city wall lie. The Caravanserai is a beloved local attraction that was originally built in 1618 and once served as a hotel but today has an exquisite interior for visitors to view and also enjoy many cultural events that occasionally take place. The Kaleici Camii, also known as the ‘Old Town Mosque’, is the most impressive 17th century mosque in the whole region where up to 550 worshipers can pray at one singular time. Haci Ibrahim Camii is another historic mosque with fabulous Ottoman architecture to appreciate. Kaleici is also the main bazaar area of Kusadasi with many leather, jewellery and souvenir shops at Grand Bazaar and Orient Bazaar. Visitors can also dine and enjoy an eventful night at the Old Town’s many clubs, bars and pubs. Above the town on Gazi Begendi Hill is the gigantic statue of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the national hero of Turkey which also contemplates the vistas of the town, its seas, Pigeon Island and beyond. For those that love strolling, Kudadasi has a long well-tendered promenade where all amenities can be found from shops and cafes to upscale restaurants and bars.

Adventurers can take a short trip to Dilek Peninsula - Buyuk Menderes Delta National Park, a lush coastline with many hidden coves and beaches across 27,500 hectares which also houses the famous Cave of Zeus and dazzling biodiversity of over 800 different fauna and flora. Many visitors who stop at Kusadasi also do so to visit many ancient cities including the renowned 10th century BC UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ephesus, where remaining ruins from its Greco-Roman classical era lie. The House of Virgin Mary, believed to be the home of the Virgin Mary after the death of Jesus and the archaeological sites of the Hellenistic city of Priene and remaining ruins of Miletus are also worth visiting.

Waters, Anchorage and Beaches and Water Parks

Kusadasi is a summer paradise for boaters to cruise, dock and anchor to relax and swim at its magnificent beaches whilst also partaking in water sports activities in its heavenly crystal-clear waters. The town offers several beaches to visit, the most famous being Ladies Beach with shallow waters, water sports activities and a palm tree-lined promenade with shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. Other beloved beaches are Downtown Beach between the harbour and marina, the 18 kilometre shore of Long Beach, Diamond Beach, Silver Sand Beach, Paradise Beach and Love Beach. Whilst most beaches are sandy, some can be rocky and contain large pebbles therefore sea shoes are recommended.

Kusadasi's coastline is an ideal destination during the summer season from June to September when temperatures reach a high of 100°F (38°C). The town features the Setur Kusadasi Marina which provides excellent facilities for boaters, alongside many anchorage spots both north and south of the marina. It is sheltered from most winds and has calm waters with very little waves during the summer where sea temperatures reach a high of 82°F (28°C). Kusadasi is perfect for swimming and snorkelling whilst observing the range of marine life. Whilst its shoreline is shallow with scenic views of greenery and the town, the waters gradually deepen, inviting many divers to explore its more exotic underwater sea life. For visitors looking for something more adventurous, the Adaland and Tortuga Pirate Island Theme & Water Park are perfect destinations to enjoy plenty of water rides and fun activities.

Nightlife

Whilst Kusadasi is renowned for its dozens of splendid beaches, shopping amenities and Ottoman-era architectural buildings, it is also famous for its unending nightlife and is believed to be one of the best in the whole of Turkey. The town has many venues including bars, discos, pubs and nightclubs that offer a variety of entertainment ranging from a relaxed environment to sipping on drinks and dancing the night away till the early hours of the morning. Many restaurants also entertain with live music, themed nights and fire shows. The hotspot of all nightlife takes place on Bar Street with a venue to meet each taste. For a more relaxed night, visitors head over to Ladies Beach or Kaleici, where on the narrow labyrinth-like streets are many restaurants and bars that play live music and attract a more gentle crowd.