The popular Aegean resort of Kusadasi has an excellent international reputation. There are many unique things to do in this region of Turkey during your holiday. Kusadasi is a major cruising port, where cruise ships from all over the world dock to see the nearby historic ruins of Ephesus.
Cruise ships offer the opportunity to book excursions and trips for their passengers. Not far from the central part of the Kusadasi port is an old caravanserai dating back to 1618, which has an original atmosphere despite intensive modernization in the 60s. The caravanserai is now used as a comfortable hotel, but used to be a lodging for traveling salesmen during the Ottoman Empire.
The port area and the Scala Nuova shopping centre are lined with upmarket shops like Starbucks and Diesel, and offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Prices are generally lower here, but be sure to haggle for bargains on carpets, leather or gold.
If shopping is not your thing, turn right as you leave the port area and follow the circular road. Here you will see the harbour and the boats that leave daily for cruises along the coast. Further down the promenade is Pigeon Island. This is the perfect place for a relaxing, quiet holiday in the shade with the opportunity to admire the amazing views of the surrounding area. The island was once used by the Ottomans as a strategic point of defence, but little remains of the old Byzantine castle. Today the gardens are in very good condition and are ideal for romantic strolls.
The ancient city of Ephesus is the sole reason why Kusadasi is considered a popular cruise ship port. The similarity to the famous Greco-Roman ruins in countries such as Greece and Italy has made the ancient remains of Ephesus one of the top visited attractions in Turkey.
The restored ruins of the ancient city include the Terrace House, the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre and the Temple. If you are in Kusadasi, be sure to take a guided tour of Ephesus.
Selcuk is ignored by many tourist guides and websites, but it is very interesting to explore. The place is famous for its ancient aqueduct, baptismal pool, church and tomb. Just a five-minute walk away is the Isa Bey Mosque with excellent architecture, built during the Seljuk era.
On the outskirts is the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, which stands on a small marshy field. Almost nothing remains of the landmark. Only one column stands between scattered carved stones.
High in the green Seljuk hills, the small village of Sirince produces wine. Old Greek houses, an abandoned church and the breathtaking view of the surrounding area are still a joy to behold.
The village's long winding road leads to a winery where you can do wine tasting, explore the cobbled streets and throw a coin into the fountain at St Mary's Church for luck before dining in a traditional Turkish restaurant.
In the Selcuk Mountains, a small stone house is a place of pilgrimage for Catholics and Muslims around the world. The peaceful gardens and atmosphere of the House of the Virgin Mary, run by monks and nuns, leave a lasting impression even on the non-religious. It is suspected that this is where the woman spent her last days. Urban legends say that three water sources bring an abundance of luck, health, wealth and fertility. Church services are held at the House of the Virgin Mary on certain days of the week.
There are many other things to explore in Kusadasi. However, don't forget to visit the tea gardens, have a Turkish bath, and taste the local food. Turkish food is fantastic, and the restaurants in Kusadasi will give you an insight into one of the world's best cuisines.
