Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Turkey / Aegean Coast / Kusadasi
 |  | Destination Guide : Kusadasi |
|
| | | Lively Turkish resort |  | Why go on holiday to Kusadasi?
To combine a stay in a lively holiday resort with excursions to some of Turkey's top historical sites. To laze on the town's sandy beaches and revel in hectic nightlife.
How much does it cost?
As a rough guide, expect to pay from about £250 for one week's bed and breakfast. Flights from £89. Hotels start at around £20, but at larger hotels most beds are taken up by package holidaymakers; independent travellers will do better to try small hotels.
When should I go?
Early and late summer is best. Temperatures in July and August often top 90F (32C). Winter is much cooler, although daytime temperatures are rarely below 50F (10C).
|
|
|
|
| | | Historic legacy | | What should I do when I'm there?
Kusadasi has the lot - from inflatable banana boats and waterskiing to hundreds of bars, restaurants and discos. There's no risk of anyone being bored here but it's not the place for those looking for a quiet break. The nightlife is particularly noisy.
Where's the local colour?
Kusadasi's role as a major port began in medieval times when it was used by Venetian and Genovese traders. A mosque and city walls were built in the 17th century to improve the town's prospects as a trading port with Europe and Africa.
Tourism took off in the 1980s. Kusadasi's old quarter is crammed with souvenir shops, but the maze of alleyways still throws up a traditional Turkish atmosphere.
Bartering is the norm and you may well be offered a cup of apple tea while haggling over the price with the shop owner. Recover from the shopping by relaxing in a Turkish bath.
Where are the best beaches?
The best beach is Ladies Beach, about two miles south of the town, but it gets very crowded in summer and is not restricted to women.
Worth trying are Yilanci Burnu, nearer the town, and the northern beach near the yacht marina. Further afield is Pamucak, nine miles north of Kusadasi.
What about excursions?
The most popular excursions are to the magnificent ruins of ancient Ephesus and the spectacular mineral spring terraces of Pamukkale.
Other historic sites within easy reach of Kusadasi include Didyma and Miletus. There are also daily ferry services in peak season to the Greek island of Samos.
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Hectic nights | | Where's good for nightlife?
There's a wide selection of English-style pubs and clubs; prices are reasonable so you can afford to let your hair down. For those who like to party less, there are some quieter, classier courtyard bars in Kaleici's narrow streets.
Or sample a raki at sunset out at Guvercin Adasi fort. Most hotels will also organise a traditional Turkish night with music and dancing.
What's the food like?
Turkey is one of only a handful of countries in the world to produce a surplus of food - so most dishes are made with the freshest of ingredients. Try pide (Turkish pizza), borek (cheese pastries) and kofte (minced lamb patties).
Also good are seafood, chicken, fruit and sweet pastries. That's if you can get away from the fish and chips and "full English breakfast" eateries, of which there are plenty.
What should I buy?
Kusadasi's bazaar is a treasure trove of Turkish souvenirs such as onyx, leather clothing and accessories, brass, carpets and jewellery. But prices there are high compared to other Turkish towns and climb even higher when the cruise ships are in port.
What is there for children to do?
The beach is what keeps most kids happy. There's a man-made beach near the marina which offers watersports, and at Ladies Beach there are pedalos.
Tourist office
Turkish Tourist Office, 170-173 Piccadilly, London, W1V 9DD. Tel. 020 7629 7771. Brochure line: 09001 887755.
|
|
|
|
|
| | Available rental properties in Kusadasi |
|
| |  | | Dolphin Penthouse
Beautiful Penthouse situated in the scenic area of Ozdere,Turkey.Stunning Location, 5 minutes walk to the superb beach. All main rooms have air-con.
|  | | The Aegean Penthouse
Superb Duplex situated near the beach, Ozdere,Turkey.Stunning Location,less than a minute walk to the superb beach. All main rooms have air-con.
|  | | Kusadsi Villa Long Beach
New 3 Bed Villa with sea views and shared pool. Short walk to the beach and shops. 5 Min ride to main town for many shops/ bars/ restaurants.
|  | | Barboros Villa, Ladies Beach
4 bedroom Villa with 2 bathrooms, large roof terrace, shared Pool, Great location at Ladies Beach close to all amenities, 5 mins to town centre.
|  | | Sleep 4 Apartment overlooking Snake Island
A spacious well-appointed apartment with amazing sea views. Set in beautiful grounds with pool. 24 hour on-site service. Option to include breakfast.
| | Click here for more properties... |
|
|
|
|
|
|
