City of Kuşadası

This beautiful seaside city is 95 kilometers south of Izmir and approximately 60 kilometers from Aydin. The city’s economy is heavily based on tourism, so it is a great idea to go and bask in the Turkish splendor while also supporting local tourism. 

Kusadasi is really close to the world-renowned ancient ruins of Ephesus—a wildly popular tourist spot for Turks and foreigners. With a plethora of hotels dotting the city, Kusadasi has lots of room for visitors. 
Although everyone who comes to Kusadasi always visits Ephesus, you should definitely not miss out on the city’s colorful nightlife and vibrant shopping. Oh, and of course people come to the rolling beaches for their sandy white shores and picturesque views.  
 

The city’s name actually translates to Bird Island. Kus means bird and ada(si) means island. This is because the island takes the shape of a bird’s head when seen from a bird's eye view. During the Byzantine era, the island was known as Ephesus Neopolis. It has undergone many cultural shifts throughout the history of the world, being ruled by the Genoese and the Venetians even. In fact, it only began to be called Kus Adasi at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, the natives of Kusadasi shorten the city’s name to an endearing Ada. 

Since mankind’s earliest recorded history, the town has been a booming center of art and culture. Many civilizations have passed through this region since its founding by the Leleges in 3000 B.C. initially, seamen and traders settlements alongside the sprawling coastline.

In the 2nd century B.C, the Roman Empire ruled over the coast and deemed it their provincial capital. In accordance with Roman Catholic belief, St. John the Evangelist and the Virgin Mary lived in this area.
In 1834, the ancient castle and garrison located on the island were renovated and expanded, effectively becoming the main interest point of the town.

Kusadasi was occupied during the Turkish War of Independence from 1919 to 1922 by the Italian and Greek Troops. However, these occupations did not last long and the Turks regained control of the city in 1922. The Greek population was exchanged for Turkish people as part of the 1922 population exchange between the two countries. 
 

The coastal town has a lovely Mediterranean climate, meaning summers are scorching hot and the winters are mild and pleasant. Either way, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches almost year-round except for the cooler months in the winter. No matter what time of year you visit, you will always find something to explore and revel in. 
 

In 2020
(pop. 500,000) The district of Kuşadası had a total residential population of 121.493 in 2020, though the population is relatively high in summer due to the increase of visits of domestic and international tourists. It's also a tourist place, so it endures many workers and staff to accommodate these visitors in such facilities.

The beautiful shores of Kusadasi make for lovely beaches. The primary beach is Ladies Beach and in the summer season is usually packed and bustling with tourists and locals alike. If you’re looking for a more spacious and less crowded beach, take the 15 minute drive up north to Pamucak Beach, close to Ephesus. 
Kusadasi comes alive at night with its lively nightlife scene with its local bars and jazzy clubs. Be sure to grab a cocktail at the Marina Bar in Ottoman-era Kismet Hotel, with an absolutely breathtaking view of Pigeon Island and the neighboring port.

Speaking of Pigeon Island, you should definitely give it a visit. Pigeon Island is one of the main attractions that Kusadasi has to offer. The views are out of this world, with glorious sunsets full of vibrant colors and rich hues. If you are feeling a little adventurous, you can take a hike along the sea, basking in the warm sun and stunning views. You can actually get there easily with a stroll by the seaside. If you are not up for the walk, there are a handful of buses that depart every few minutes. 

You should also explore the ruins of the St. John resting near the citadel. There you will find the grave of St. John the Apostle, marked off with a marble slab.
In addition to its beautiful beaches, lovely weather and quaint small-town feel, Kusadasi is also a popular place for shopping. Europeans especially love to come to the town to snag amazing bargains on top brands. 
 

Kurdasi’s proximity to some of Turkey’s prime cultural, religious, and natural attractions makes it one of the most attractive ports that connect to other places. The famous ancient city of Ephesus is only about half an hour away by car and is considered the best-preserved classical-era city in all of the Eastern Mediterranean. 

Just a bit past Ephesus, the town of Selçuk houses the Basilica of St. John and the House of the Virgin Mary. You can use Kuşadası as a springboard for tours of more popular sights in the region including Pamukkale and Aphrodisias, Miletus and Didyma, Priene, and İzmir.

When a cruise ship is docked at the port, the locals flock to the dock and bazaar, trying to sell you tours, carpets, shore excursions—anything you can dream of. So, be prepared for a whirlwind of people and make sure you refine your haggling skills so you get the best deal out of those merchants.

There is an extensive public transportation system within the town, connecting to nearby locations as well as faraway cities and airports in other parts of the country.