It will be a huge missing if you leave Kusadasi without seeing any of the magnificent historical places.

There are so many precious places around Kusadasi that you can reach by vehicle in 30 minutes. This land has witnessed many civilizations rise and fall, mysterious scenes and so much more. We truly recommend you experience and explore the historical treasures of Kusadasi and around.

Guvercinada Castle

Guvercinada Castle is the most well-known symbol of Kusadasi. It is on a small island placed at the centrum's seaside. It is made by Genoese and about seven hundred years old.  Guvercinada means Pieagion Island and as you can guess, many pigeons are living around here. Kusadasi is a warm home for many kinds of beautiful birds. With respect to that, Kusadasi owns the meaning of its name as Bird Island.   The castle is also known as the Pirate Castle because it has been used to provide security against sea pirates.  You will explore the mysterious atmosphere and definitely enjoy the magnificent view.

 

Kervansaray

This place was built for the accommodation of merchant travelers who are visiting the town for commercial purposes. Its architectural structure is similar to a castle. Surrounded by huge walls and living areas are based on the inside. It is now permitted for touristic visiting only. When you enter from the big gate, you will find yourself in the middle of a large and square garden. Don't forget to visit the upper floor and take great pictures of the garden from there.

Seven Sleepers

During the time of the Roman emperor Decius, seven young men escape from the accusations of the authorities and hide in a cave. They fall asleep at the cave and when they wake up, they figure it has been passed over three hundred years. This miracle story of a group of youths who hid in a cave outside the city of Ephesus takes place in both Islamic and Christian traditions. It is permitted to visit the mysterious grotto. There is also a small bazaar that you can shop for souvenirs and try delicious Turkish food at the traditionally designed cafes.

 

Pygela

If someone asks you about your treatment experience in Kusadasi, here a piece of interesting information to spice up your conversation. Health care is an industry that comes from ancient times in Kusadasi.   Pygela was a small town of ancient Ionia, that could be seen some of its ruins nearby Kustur beach, Kusadasi. Pygela is known as the first health city in human history. The famous commander Agamemnon and his warriors, having caught infectious disorders on the flesh of their thighs during the Trojan War, were directed by some forecasters that “the cure for their sickness existed” here.

Sirince Village

Sirince is a cute little village that will fascinate you with its nature and poetic atmosphere. This old Greek village's unique architecture has been protected over the years. It is a must-see touristic place while visiting Kusadasi, especially if you want to taste quality wine and bring it home as a present for your loved ones. Enjoy exploring historical churches and wineries hidden inside the mystical streets. It is also a good choice for a traditional Turkish breakfast.

The Temple of Artemis

The Temple of Artemis is located near Ephesus is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You can only see few ancient columns at the site of the temple today because it couldn't last till our time period and some pieces of its ruins have been moved to other museums. We definitely suggest you feel the atmosphere of The Goddess Artemis's legacy. You can visit the statute of Goddess Artemis at Ephesus Museum.

St. John the Baptist Church

St John is an important character in Christianity as he was the protector of the Holy Mary. This basilica near Ephesus is known as one of the oldest structures in Christian history. We suggest you visit Ayasuluk Castle nearby. The Castle has a fantastic look with its light surrounding its walls at night.

The House of Virgin Mary

The House of Virgin Mary is placed at the hills of Bulbul Mountain near Ephesus. This site is a favorite place for many tourists. It is a precious and divine place as spiritual. It is believed that Virgin Mary spent her last years at this place and buried in a secret place in Bulbul Mountain only known by her protector St. John. After the discovery of this sacred place in 1981, pilgrimage has started by Christian communities and continues since then.

Cave of Zeus

This fascinating cave lies near Dilek National Park in Guzelcamli, Kusadasi. Inside is shaped like a pool, filled with a mix of carbonated mineral water and spring water. The hidden cave with blue-green colored water is a great charm for tourist visiting. The cave has an Ancient Greek mythological story. It is believed this cave protected Zeus from the persecution of his brother Poseidon. It is also believed that Kings and the Queens of the Olympus are regularly travelling to this lake for swimming and annual meetings.

Isa Bey Mosque

Isa Bey Mosque is a living example of traditional Turkish architecture. The mosque was built in 1375, one of the oldest of its kind. The majestic structure and the garden furnished with ancient pieces are definitely a must-see. You can visit the small shops around for souvenir shopping and have a coffee break at the cafes nearby. The poetic atmosphere and nature will get you delighted.

The Railway Museum

This outdoor railway museum contains one of the largest steam locomotive collections in Europe. The museum is in a small and cute village called Camlik. It contains historical steam locomotives from Germany, England, America, Sweden and Czechoslovakia. It also contains one of the very rare English steam locomotives that exist only two in the world. Exploring the hallways of the historical locomotives and taking pictures is a fun activity for the guests.

The Ephesus Museum

The museum is placed at the centrum of Selcuk and it is near to the Ephesus. It contains the foundings of the precious pieces in Ephesus's archaeological excavation. The most well-known piece at the museum is the Artemis Statue. Artemis is a goddess in Greek Mythology. She was the daughter of Leto and Zeus, and the twin of Apollo. She was the guardian of children and the symbol of fertility. The great Artemis Temple was built for her honor, which is now one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You may run into a live classical music concert inside the hall of the museum during your visit if it’s your lucky day.