Kusadasi

Kuşadası is a busy Aegean port town, and the main reason people stop here is Ephesus, about 20 minutes away by bus or taxi. The Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre are the standout ruins, both still impressive in scale. The Terrace Houses show how wealthy residents lived, with mosaics and frescoed walls intact. Get there early before the heat and the tour groups build up. Back in town, Pigeon Island is a small fortress surrounded by gardens with views over the harbour. The old quarter, Kaleiçi, has narrow alleys with Ottoman-era houses, carpet shops, and a few hammams. Ladies Beach, south of the centre, has sand and clear water for swimming. The Grand Bazaar sells leather, ceramics, textiles, and Turkish delight, and bargaining is expected. Dolmuş (shared minibuses) are cheap for getting to Ephesus. Fresh grilled fish at the waterfront is the standard lunch.