History of Kuşadası extends back to ancient times. It was once under the control of the Venetians and Genoese and was conquered by the Ionians in the 11th century BC. It encountered the Roman civilization in the 2nd century BC and came under Turkish rule in 1086 with the movement of I. Süleyman Şah. In 1413, Mehmet Çelebi annexed it to the Ottoman Empire.
Climate and Cuisine
The road goes to Pigeon Island in Kusadasi.
Kuşadası has a milder climate compared to surrounding districts and cities. The average annual temperature is around 19 degrees Celsius, making it a comfortable destination for travel and vacation plans throughout the year.
Kuşadası’s cuisine is rich in olive oil-based vegetables, fresh fruits, and varieties of fish. Figs and grapes from Kuşadası are especially noteworthy. Local dishes include chickpea with meat, spicy stew, vine leaves, and kedirgen sauté, tandır kebab, arapsaçı, olive oil black-eyed peas, ayran böreği, and yuvalama. Salads often use herbs picked locally. Local desserts like pelvize, zerde, and fig dessert are very popular.
Kuşadası Harbour
Places to Visit
The town is known for its beautiful beaches and coves. It’s centrally located, making it possible to make day trips to many significant tourism cities and districts.
- Güvercinada: A symbol of Kuşadası, this small island, enclosed by 3-meter-high walls, is integrated into the mainland by a small road.
- Öküz Mehmet Paşa Caravanserai: Located next to the pier on the island, this caravanserai was built in 1618 and is known for its large courtyard and numerous rooms.
- Ephesus Ancient City: One of Turkey’s most significant tourism attractions, Ephesus was founded in 6000 BC. It is located in the Selçuk district of İzmir and is just 19 kilometers from Kuşadası.
- House of the Virgin Mary: Located near Ephesus, this 19th-century structure is a popular site for Christian religious tourism. The surrounding plants and green texture create a pleasant atmosphere, especially in summer.
- Şirince: Although it is a village connected to Selçuk, it is very close to Kuşadası and attracts attention. It is a beautiful village where you can make day trips and buy natural products like homemade wines and pomegranate molasses.
- Kuşadası Beaches: Including the famous Ladies Beach, there are many significant beaches around Kuşadası, almost all featuring beautiful white sandy shores.
- Old Doğanbey Village: A Greek village with a history dating back to the 7th century BC.
- Miletus: The ancient city of Miletus is 62 kilometers from Kuşadası.
- Lake Bafa.
Kuşadası beaches are waiting for you to discover
Festivals
The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Motor Festival in May, the Theater Festival in August, and the Youth Festival in July.
How to Get There
Located 90 kilometers from İzmir and 71 kilometers from Aydın, Kuşadası is accessible by road. If you prefer air travel, the town is 65 kilometers from İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport, and transfer services are available.
