Kusadasi is the Turkish city to discover between heavenly beaches and memories of other times

It is one of the most important historical and scenic locations in Turkey , with historic sites to explore, heavenly beaches and glimpses of modernity, right there where time seems to slow down to almost a stop. Kusadasi ( Kuşadası , also known as Scala Nova or Scalanova in Italian), which in Turkish means “Bird Island”, is the city that is definitely worth a visit on a trip along the Turkish coast of the Aegean Sea .

Here you can breathe the whole atmosphere of seaside life and historical traditions, but also of fun, in a perfect balance between ancient and modern . For a long time an important commercial center and crossroads between East and West, Kusadasi has a long history to tell, which blends between Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese and Ottomans who settled here.

Today, Kusadasi is an excellent tourist destination to enjoy the splendid sea (where you can dive pleasantly between May and October), its historical sites and the lively nightlife with pubs and clubs of all kinds. Its strategic position also makes it an ideal starting point to explore some of the most fascinating archaeological sites in western Turkey, such as the ruins of Ephesus (nearby) and the Dilek National Park. Are you ready for your next beach holiday?

Where is Kusadasi located

Kuşadası is a city in western Turkey on the Aegean coast, in the province of Aydın, about 85 km south of Izmir . It is possible to land by plane in Izmir, since Kusadasi does not have its own airport.

Most beautiful beaches in Kusadasi

The main attraction of Kusadasi is its beautiful beaches, which have been awarded the Blue Flag for many years due to the beauty of the water and the cleanliness. The artificial beach in front of the city center is certainly easier to reach, even if it is not the most suggestive and is quickly crowded with tourists.

The most spectacular beaches are located a short distance away, both north and south of the town: among the most beautiful is the famous Kadinlar Denizi , the so-called “ Ladies’ Beach ” about 3 kilometers from Kusadasi. This splendid expanse of sand is one of the most sought-after on the entire coast and the best way to be sure of finding a good spot is to get there early in the morning, before the organized tour buses arrive.

Other very suggestive beaches are Paradise Beach and Long Beach , where sea turtles are often spotted looking for a suitable place to lay their eggs. Long Beach, in particular, stretches for several kilometers south of Kusadasi and is easily accessible. Suitable for families, with clear waters that lap a light sand, is also Kustur Beach, about 5 km north of the city.

Not just beaches and sea. To spend a day having fun in the water you can also reach Adaland or Aquafantasy , two enormous water amusement parks that compete for the title of the largest amusement park in Turkey, or even in Europe. Slides, waterfalls and adventure courses are just some of the countless attractions that can be found in the parks.

Those looking for adventures at sea can go to the Aquaventure Diving Center where you can rent diving equipment or find all kinds of courses to practice water sports in the spectacular waters of Kusadasi Bay.

What to see in Kusadasi Kusadasi Castle, a picturesque fortress on a small island

To immerse yourself in the history of Kusadasi and take a dip into the past, you cannot miss the spectacular castle on the picturesque “Pigeon Island” , connected to the mainland by a long panoramic causeway that was once the main defense of the city’s harbor. The fortress on the island was built by the Venetians in the 16th century and today represents one of the city’s most important cultural destinations. Originally intended as a military base, today you can admire both its outer walls, which enclose beautiful gardens, and the inner castle, which also hosts exhibitions of local art and crafts.

From the top of the walls you can enjoy a wonderful view of Kusadasi Bay and the little harbour just beyond, where you can admire the boats swaying in the wind, a romantic spectacle that is at its best at sunset .

Historic buildings, mosque and characteristic bazaars

Remaining in the historic centre, you can visit the Öküz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai , an Ottoman-era building with imposing architecture built in 1600 in honour of a general of the army of the Sublime Porte – today partially transformed into a luxury hotel –, and the great mosque of Kaleiçi Camii , which with its white minaret dominates the entire urban area.

To visit a monument that celebrates modern Turkey, instead, you can climb the mountain just southwest of the old town to find the large memorial of Kamal Ataturk and from that position admire the panorama to the north. In the area just south of the city you can reach the Grand Bazaar , the heart of Kusadasi's shopping and a renowned center for shopping. Here you can buy all kinds of goods, from typical products of the area to local handicrafts.

The House of the Virgin Mary

About 35 minutes by car from the old town of Kusadasi, stands one of the most symbolic places in the area , a short distance from Ephesus: the House of St. Mary , where it is believed that the mother of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, spent her last days. Discovered in the 19th century, it has attracted many visitors and pilgrims, for the waters of the spring that flows under the stone house. It is believed that the flow of water has healing powers.

Dilek National Park, to immerse yourself in nature

Another ideal destination for those who love trekking and nature walks is the Dilek Peninsula and Büyük Menderes Delta National Park, located about 30 km south of Kusadasi. A vast, uncontaminated green lung, with a particular biological richness enriched by Mediterranean vegetation. The destination to reach to alternate days of sea and fun with physical activity in a spectacular natural setting, among secret coves, panoramic paths, unique fauna and flora, and the beautiful Zeus Cave ( Zeus Mağarası ), a surprising natural cavity.

Archaeological areas

Kusadasi is also a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, as it is close to some of Turkey’s most spectacular archaeological sites , includingEphesus , Priene, Miletus and the stunning Pamukkale , where ancient structures sit atop incredible limestone formations. Kusadasi tour operators run archaeological tours throughout the area, and joining them is the easiest and most practical way to get there, but getting your own vehicle and venturing inland is definitely the best way to explore this stunning corner of Turkey.