Holidaying in Kusadasi
Kusadasi is a large resort town loacated on Turkey's Aeegean coast. The name Kusadasi comes from the Turkish words "Kus" meaning bird & "Ada" meaning island. Kusadasi caters for tourists arriving by flight, land and port and is a port of call to many cruiseliners.
Before You Arrive:
Tourists arriving into Kusadasi will usually fly into either Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) or Milas -Bodrum Aiport (BJV).
Tour operators flying these routes include - TUI, EasyJet, Turkish Airlines, Jet2, Pegasus, SunExpress etc.
The transfer time to Kusadasi is approximately 1 Hour 15 Minutes from Izmir (ADB) International Airport & approximately 2 Hours from Bodrum (BJV) International Airport.
As of 2020 tourists arriving from the UK & Ireland no longer require a holiday visa. However tourists must have a minimum of 6 months remaining on their passports upon arrival & 3 months remaining upon departure.
Top Things to do In Kusadasi
Visit Ephesus
No visit to Kusadasi is complete without marveling at the wonder that is Ephesus. One of the world’s best preserved civilisations, Ephesus is only a short 20 minute drive away from Kusadasi.
Most people opt to visit Ephesus as part of an organised tour, as you benefit from a guide to give you all the history of this spectacular place.
With it marble streets and well preserved ancient ruins - it’s like stepping back in time.
Walk Along Pigeon Island
A symbol of Kusadasi, Pigeon Island is one of the most famous attractions here in Kusadasi. A great way to spend an hour, walking around the island will give you some of the best views Kusadasi has to offer.
From Pigeon Island, you’ll find many of the boat trips will set sail, and there’s also a castle you can explore with a little history on Kusadasi.
On an evening, the island is lit up and the cooler temperature makes the stroll much more pleasant.
Experience a Turkish Bath
An old age tradition here in Turkey, a Hamam or Turkish Bath is a great way to kick start your holiday.
A firm favourite with Tourists, the best Hamam’s to visit are the authentic Turkish Baths such as AdaSaray.
A Turkish Bath is not only a way to start pamerpering yourself and get you into the holiday mood, but also fantastic for the skin and will allow you a much better tan that will last much longer.
Swim with the Dolphins
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Adaland is one of the biggest waterparks in Turkey and in addition to their numerous waterslides they also offer you the chance to swim the dolphins.
Priced at approx 100 Euros you’ll get to experience these wonderful mammals up close and personal. Swimming with the dolphins can only be organised once at the waterpark.
(Admission to Adaland is also required Ticket Price - 24 Euro)
Shop at a Local Market
Kusadasi has plenty of markets throughout the week, but the most popular is the Wednesday market located near the otogar (Bus Station). The Wednesday is a good place to put your bartering skills to good use.
The largest market is held on a Saturday in the town of Selcuk (appox 20mins drive from Kusadasi). Here you’ll be able to pick up a variety of items including- souvenirs, textiles, genuine fakes & much more.
Sample the Turkish Cuisine
The Turkish Cuisine is considered one of the best in the world, and Kusadasi has plenty of places to treat your taste buds.
From local vendors selling Durums, to authentic Turkish restaurants you’ll be able to find out why the Turkish Cuisine is so highly recommeneded.
One of the most popular authentic Turkish restaurant’s in Kusadasi is Erzincan located in the old town.
Take a dip at Zeus Cave
Hidden away behind the trees and flowers, Zeus Cave is located at the start of the National Park.
It’s often one of the last stops on a jeep safari as the sparkling clear and deep mineral water inside the cave makes it a perfect place to swim.
The water’s here are very cold during the summer which is always a welcome relief from the soaring heat
Taste some Turkish Delight
Nobody can visit Turkey, and not sample some Turkish Delight or Lokum as its known in Turkey.
Dating back to the 18th Century, Turkish Delight comes in various flavours & designs.
Did you know?… Turkish Delight was the inspiration for the Jelly Bean
Take a trip to Sirince
For a taste of the traditional side of Turkey, you could take a visit to the nearby village of Sirince.
Sirince is an old greek village, famous for it’s cobbled streets and wine. Along the cobbled streets you find plenty of quaint cafes and stalls selling handmade souvenirs made by the locals.
