Holidays to Kusadasi

Why Kusadasi?

Holidays to Kusadasi are a great mix of history, adventure and relaxation. Once an old fishing village, this Turkish delight is now a vibrant resort in its own right. Choose from eight gold-spun beaches, the most famous of which is Ladies Beach, popular with windsurfers and home to a bustling promenade. Just don’t be fooled by the name, all genders are welcome! As for the shopaholics among you…why not try your luck haggling at the Grand Bazaar – inhale those luscious scents of orange, rose and cinnamon – and be sure to check out the array of old-style tavernas lining the many cobbled streets. When you’re ready to move on, dust off your map and head to the ancient city of Ephesus where you can visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis (aka Diana’s house, the Greek goddess of hunting) a Roman library and just outside the city lies a house where the Virgin Mary is said to have died.

Popular areas to stay in Kusadasi

Stuck on where to go? Check out the best resorts and towns to base your holiday

Aydin

Aydin is about an hour from Kusadasi - you can travel there easily by minibus. The capital city of the province, Aydin has an ancient history and is full of historical sites . It's also famous for its mineral spas and springs, which are supposed to have health-giving properties.

Who is it for?

Couples

Have a romantic day at the mineral pools of Aydin spa or explore some of the other spas in the area.

Foodies

Aydin is famous for growing olives, strawberries and figs. Make sure you try some while you're there.

Culture Vultures

Explore the ancient sites of Miletos, Didyma, Heraklia, Aphrodisias and Priene. There are also ruins in the city that date back to the 2nd Century AD. There's a local museum too.

Davutlar

This small seaside town is a 30 minute minibus ride away from its more touristy neighbour, Kusadasi. Relax on the sandy beaches framed by olive and pine groves, and try out the town's thermal bath and hot springs.

Who is it for?

Foodies

Agriculture is important to Davutlar. Taste the tomatoes, watermelons, peaches and tangerines that grow here.

Beach Lovers

Sevgi Beach is a long stretch of sand backed by beautiful pine forested mountains. Pay a visit and you'll soon see why it's so popular with the locals.

Nature Lovers

Davutlar is close to the Dilek Peninusla National Park. This nature reserve is full of canyons and valleys to explore, with lots of opportunities for walking and climbing.

Room price from

£25

per person per night

Güzelcamli

Tourists are increasingly flocking to Güzelcamli to enjoy its beaches and bays. Plus, the canyons and valleys of the nearby Dilek Peninsula National Park are nearby. Guzelcamli means “beautiful pine trees” in Turkish and the town is indeed surrounded by them.

Who is it for?

Shoppers

Every Monday, the town hosts its weekly traditional bazaar. Browse the colourful array of textiles, fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts and jams.

Thrill Seekers

The beaches and bays offer great opportunities for windsurfing, water-skiing and diving.

Culture Vultures

The Cave of Zeus is meant to be where the king of the gods hid from his brother Poseidon, the sea god. It was a way to escape the huge waves unleashed by the angry god.

Room price from

£8

per person per night

Kirazli

Many visitors have decided to buy holiday homes in this traditional Turkish village, a short trip away from Kusadasi by car or minibus. When you visit, you'll see why. It's a peaceful, authentic village - perfect for getting a taste of the real Turkey. It's also got its fair share of cafes and restaurants.

Who is it for?

Shoppers

The Sunday market is the place to soak up the atmosphere as you browse the local produce sold here.

Foodies

Organic farming is big here, and you can taste the results in many of the village restaurants. Kiralzi means 'cherry', and in June, the village holds a festival where the fruit takes centre stage.

Nature Lovers

Take advantage of the opportunities to go hiking and trekking in the open air.

Söke

Söke is a small town, about half an hour from the centre of Kusadasi. Attractions like the olive oil museum and Iilyas Bey Kulliyesi mosque are nearby, as ancient ruins. Water parks Adaland and Aqua Fantasy are close by, as is the beautifully preserved National Park has hiking trails through the mountains.

Who is it for?

Shoppers

Shop the big brand names at the factory outlet on the road to Kusadasi or head to the Wednesday market, where you'll find fruit and vegetables, as well as clothes and toys.