Things to Do in Kusadasi

This tour delights historians, travellers, photographers and novices alike. An immersion in history, culture and theology, skillfully aided by our expert guide… You will receive a private guided sightseeing tour with air-conditioned private transport. Your guide will meet you at the arrival’s gate of Kusadasi port with a sign your name is written on, then be driven to the sites. Your opportunity to enjoy a guided excursion from Kusadasi port to ancient Ephesus, the richest and most excavated classical city in Turkey. Highlights: Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World Explore the amazing history with the House of Virgin Mary and ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus. Understand why it is significant to Christians and hear about the historical figures who passed through its streets. See the breathtaking Celsus Library. You will be collected and returned to Kusadasi port. Ephesus was created by the Ionians in the 11th-Century BC and later expanded by the Romans. It is now considered one of the grandest reconstructed sites in the ancient world. The region also hosted the likes of Cleopatra, Mark Antony, the Virgin Mary and John the Apostle. The ruins of Ephesus are the biggest open-air museum in Turkey and you will get to explore them on this half-day tour from Kusadasi port. Your route will take you past the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan, the Great Theater and the spectacular Celsus Library, one of the best-preserved buildings among the ruins and possibly the most photographed.. After your excursion your guide will take you to port. Inclusions: Local Expert Assistance Exclusions: Drinks Meal Hotel pick-up and drop-off for selected hotels Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Explore with Ferry to Samos the beautifull island of Greece from Kusadasi. Samos is an island which combines history and tradition with natural beauty. Here, everywhere provides an invitation to the visitor, because what ever his/her interests are, they will be catered for. For that reason, without wishing to be accused of excessive local patriotism, we can say in all seriousness that Samos is truly an ideal place for holidays. Samos is the birth place of great mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras, whose theories had such a decisive effect on world-wide-mathematical thought. In ancient times a major culture developed on the island and it was the home of distinguished figures in the world of the arts, of literature, of philosophy. The Greek island Samos lies in the heart of Central Aegean, 1200 meters from the shore of Asia Minor. It is shaped like a peninsula, and according to the geologists who have studied its rock formation, among the other things, their conclusion is that the various geological upheavals which occurred in the course of the centuries cut off this piece of what had been the Asia Minor coast. In tradition, Hera, the goddess of fertility and child birth was generous in the blessing which she bestowed here at every level. Mythology also claims Samos as the home of Poseidon, god of the sea, of Dionysus, and of Apollo. Although small in size, this island is known throughout the world for its wine. You will also find nowhere else in the Aegean with higher mountains than Samos. Mount Kerkis is ideal for climbing, and so this somewhat limits the number of those who are able to enjoy its wild beauty, while Mount Karvounis, which is more accessible, can be visited by young and old alike. The island has a temperate climate, cool in summer and mild in winter, while its fine beaches are bathed in sunlight eight months of the year. It would be difficult to find anywhere else in the world with a historical and social heritage of such influence as that of Samos! Inclusions: Ferry Exclusions: port Transportation between sites Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Your trip will start with a pick-up from your hotel in Kusadasi. Meet your guide and drive to Pamukkale , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as Cotton Castle in Turkish, this is a natural wonder to behold. The rock formations contain hot springs with terraces of carbonate minerals, which you can bathe in. If you feel like it, you can take a dip in one of the many pools or simply admire their unique beauty and be sure to take some photos. From Pamukkale, travel to the ancient city of Hierapolis , where you can visit the Roman Amphitheatre, an authentic historical centre, the Basilica of St Philip, the Necropolis and Cleopatra's Pool (ticket not included). Refuel with a delicious buffet lunch before the return journey to Kusadasi. Inclusions: Guide Buffet lunch Hotel pick-up and drop-off Exclusions: Wheelchair access Breakfast Pamukkale ticket Ruins of Hierapolis ticket Entrance fee to Cleopatra’s pool Important Info: Not suitable for pregnant women. ;Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process.;We recommend bringing spending money. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes, camera, swimwear, towel, sun cream and a cap. Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Once the commercial centre of the ancient world, a visit to Ephesus is a highlight of any visit to Turkey. The city, whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Today, it is one of the best-preserved antique cities. The great theatre with a capacity of 24, 000 people and the Celcus Library are just some of the features that draw people here along with Hadrian’s Temple and many other wells preserved and restored ruins. It is recorded that St John brought the Virgin Mary to Ephesus and that she spent her last days in a small house on Mt Koressos nearby. This is now a popular place of pilgrimage and has received official sanctification from the Vatican. After visiting Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary, the tour stops off at Isa Bey Mosque . Constructed in the 14th century, this impressive mosque which was planned on the Great Mosque of Damascus, is situated on the outskirts of Selcuk. Inclusions: Lunch Hotel pick-up and drop-off Exclusions: Drinks Tickets Important Info: We suggest you wear comfortable clothes and shoes for the time of the year Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

We'll pick you up at the lodging in Kusadasi and take to the visit begin point which is fair 20 minutes absent. After a brief training, your important off-street experience will begin. All bicycles are safe and simple to drive. No permit, no uncommon aptitudes are required. You'll be able to start your bike slowly or make it drive quick. Quad safari implies 90 minutes of extraordinary fun and unadulterated adrenaline. You'll pass sloppy streams and get damp and dirty. You can expand your aptitudes driving up and down the small slopes. Make your claim off-street involvement or take after the caravan of the other quads. Inclusions: Guide Hotel pick-up and drop-off Helmet Exclusions: Photos Drinks Lunch Important Info: Minimum Age: 16 years old. Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Kusadasi Scuba Diving is suitable for novice and experienced divers, discover the underwater beauty of Kusadasi… The crystal clear waters and rich underwater life off Kusadasi make it a desirable area for Scuba Diving, whatever your experience. First beginners are given an onboard theoretical instruction about the equipment, safety and underwater sign-language. Then the practical training and the breathing exercises are taught on the surface, beginners are taken underwater by hand. A gradual descent with long enough pauses at each meter allows the beginner to feel confident and comfortable. At the third meter you reach the bottom and can feed the fish while the second instructor takes your pictures and videos (purchase optional). Now you are feeling relaxed, confident and prepared to swim around the island at a deeper level (max. depth for beginners is 6 metres). Your instructor adjusts the air in your suit precisely so that you stay suspended at the required depth. No gravity, no worries, just admire the beautiful world embracing you. Certified Divers escorted by their buddy-instructors, can enjoy deeper levels depending on their individual certificates. Kusadasi boasts various excellent diving opportunities including underwater caves, reefs and wrecks for experienced divers. Inclusions: A professional instructor Roll/Sandwich Hotel pick-up and drop-off for selected hotels Diving equipment Exclusions: Drinks Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Before you can decide whether you hate or love going to a Turkish bath or Turkish Hamam, you need to experience it at least once. If its your first visit to a hamam, entering a Turkish bath can be a daunting experience. You will get a nice impression of the Turkish Bath process and customs, so you know what to expect. First you need to decide whether you want to visit a historical hamam or a hotel Turkish bath. Traditional Style – if you want the real Turkish bath experience. you don’t have to bring any of the equipment. Other Styles – The have several other services such as aromatherapy oil massage, reflexology, Indian head massage, and facial clay mask. (Additional options to be selected and paid on the spot) Regardless of the service you choose, you are allowed to use the facilities for as long as you wish. Inclusions: Bath soap massage Hotel pick-up and drop-off for selected hotels towels Changing rooms Exclusions: Oil massage Extra massages Important Info: We recommend bringing spending money. Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

The guests will be greeted on the Kusadası pier depending on your cruise arrival by an expert guide who will be holding a sign with the guests’ names, for departure by air-conditioned private vehicle to the remarkable Greco-Roman archaeological site of ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11th century BC, it has been painstakingly excavated and restored to be one of the world’s most fascinating ancient sites today. Ephesus Ancient City You will start your tour here, dating back to the 11th century B. C., it has been painstakingly excavated and restored and is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 B. C. and 500 A. D. You will begin our private walking tour along Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, a 4th-century white marble chariot thoroughfare whose most striking sight is the two-story Library of Celsus. Virgin Mary In addition to the historic monuments, their excursion will also include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely little chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus believed by some to be the site of Mary’s last home. Following the tour, there is the option of returning to the ship by approximately 4 pm or spending time in Kusadasi for independent shopping. Basilica of St John The monumental basilica was in the shape of a cross and was covered with six domes. Its construction, being of stone and brick, is an extremely rare find amongst the architecture of its time. Raised by two steps and covered with marble, the tomb of St John was under the central dome, that was once carried by the four columns at the corners. The columns in the courtyard reveal the monograms of Emperor Justinian and his wife Theodora. Constructed in the 5th century AD, the baptistery is north of the nave, with its keyhole shape. Rampart walls around the church were constructed for protection from the Arabian attracts in the 7th- 8th centuries AD. The impressive 10th-century AD frescoes representing St John, Jesus, and a Saint, ornament the chapel. With the invasion of Turks, the chapel was used as a mosque in the 14th century; unfortunately, the Basilica of Saint John became unusable due to a serious earthquake in the same century. Temple of Artemis The Temple of Artemis, or Artemision, was originally known as the Temple of Diana and was a Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. The ruins of the temple are located in Ephesus. The ancient city of Ephesus is one of the oldest structures in the world that can survive with the least deterioration rate. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the temple was completely rebuilt three times before its final destruction in 401 AD. Sirince Village Its traditional Ottoman houses probably date from the 19th century rather than the 15th, but are nevertheless very picturesque amid the winding lanes and overhanging vines. Despite being fairly busy during the daytime, Şirince is quiet and sleepy in the mornings and evenings and is a lovely place to relax. The area is known for its olive oil, fruit, and wine production, and it's possible to visit a vineyard or olive oil factory or go walking in the countryside from Sirince. Inclusions: Guide Transport Parking fees Exclusions: Lunch Tickets Drinks Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Do not miss the opportunity to explore Kusadasi´s crystal-clear waters on this underwater scuba adventure. Suitable for both beginners and seasoned divers alike , the warm azure waters offer exotic marine life, and fascinating hidden caves to explore! Before diving in, you will receive an in-depth briefing from a professional instructor who will tell you the must-know information, diving laws and regulations of the area as well as instruct you how to safely use the diving equipment. After a few try-dives and skill tests, you can progress further to experience the amazing and colourful underwater life. Your tour includes 2 dives , so you will have ample time to discover the marine flora and fauna that call the Aegean Sea their home. What´s more, recharge your batteries with a tasty lunch onboard.

Day 1| Arrival in Istanbul and leisure time Upon arrival at the airport, you´ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and settling into your room, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Take this opportunity to explore the vibrant surroundings of your hotel, soak in the local atmosphere or simply relax and unwind in preparation for the exciting day ahead. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in İstanbul. Day 2| Highlights of Istanbul After breakfast, embark on a half-day guided tour of Istanbul´s historic heart . Highlights include an exterior visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia , followed by stops at the stunning Blue Mosque and the ancient Hippodrome , where you´ll see the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpentine Column and the German Fountain of Wilhelm II. The tour concludes at the bustling Grand covered Bazaar , a treasure trove of local crafts, textils and souvenirs. After that, we'll have lunch at a Turkish restaurant. Then, we'll venture to the magnificent Topkapi Palace , a stunning representation of Ottoman imperial grandeur. Situated on the historic penninsula of Istanbul , the palace offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. As you stroll through the palace´s courtyards and gardens, you´ll learn about the Ottoman Empire´s history , its rulers and its lavish court life. The highlights include the imperial treasury, where you´ll fins priceless artifacts such as the Tokapi Dagger and numerous dazzling jewels. You´ll also visit the Sacred Relics Room , which contains revered Islamic relics, including items believed to have belonged to the Prophet Muhammed. The palace´s exquisite tiles, decorative arts, and architecture showcase the fusionof Ottoman and Islamic design, with intricate craftsmanship and elegant interiors. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in İstanbul. Included: Lunch Day 3| Exploration through the heart of Istanbul Get a bird's-eye view of the Golden Horn from the bus, the arm of the Bosphorus and a natural harbour of the historical peninsula separating the old and the new parts of Şehir where the first colonies settled during the Byzantines. This area was home to Byzantine Jews, Italian traders and other non-Muslim minorities. Then, as you drive along the traces of history in Balat, you'll get to see the incredible Metal Church of St. Stephen the Bulgarian, the Jewish Hospital (Or-Ahayim), the Fener Orthodox Patriarchate and the 22 km-long Byzantine City Walls , the strongest fortification of the Middle Ages! After the scenic drive, your morning begins with a visit to the vibrant Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar), one of Istanbul´smost colourful and aromatic markets. Wander through the lively stalls filled with exotic spices, herbs, Turkish delights, dried fruits and local handicrafts. The rich scents and bustling energy offer an unforgettable sensory experience. Next, you´ll head to the Bosphorus for a scenic cruise along the strait that separates Europe and Asia. As you glide through the water, take in the breathtaking views of historic palaces, Ottoman mansions and charming villages lining both shores. A highlight of the cruise is the sight of the Rumeli Fortress , a mafnificent 15th-century structure built by Sultan Mehmed II before his conquest of Constantinople. The fortress, with its imposing towers and strategic location, stands as a powerful reminder of the city´s storied past. We will visit a leather showroom if time permits and the stop for lunch at a Turkish Restaurant. Welcome to the awe-inspiring Dolmabahçe Palace , the opulent residence of the Ottoman Sultans! Built by the renowned architects Karabet and Nikogos Balyan, this magnificent complex spans an impressive 110, 000 m². Once the bustling administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire, this palace is a true testament to the rich history and cultural splendour of Istanbul. The palace is home to an awe-inspiring collection of European antiquities, furniture and a whopping

4. 5 tons chandelier. With 285 rooms and 46 halls, it's a true architectural marvel. And just wait until you experience the Bosphorus Bridge, a unique opportunity to transition from one continent (Europe) to another (Asia) in the blink of an eye! On Camlıca Hill , you can experience the most breathtaking sunset and the widest bird's eye panoramic view of İstanbul from Marmara Sea to the Black Sea . Get ready for the experience of a lifetime as you soar high above the city, witnessing the majestic Bosphorus and Golden Horn from one of the highest and most appealing places of the city. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in Istanbul. Included: Lunch Day 4| Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia We start the day early, check out of the hotel and depart for the airport to continue our adventure in Ankara, the capital of the Republic of Turkey. Arriving in Ankara in the morning, we have some time to explore the city before visiting the Atatürk Mausoleum , built between 1944-1953 to honour the leader of the Turkish War of Independence and Revolution and founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. In addition to the mausoleum, the complex consists of various structures and monuments, as well as a wooded area commonly known as the Peace Park. We then head south through rolling Anatolian plains, dotted with small villages, farmlands and occasional rocky hills. As we approach Nevşehir , the landscape gradually transforms – flat terrain gives way to surreal rock formations and valleys carved by centuries of wind and water erosion. Entering Cappadocia, the scenery becomes truly magical. You´ll witness fairy chimneys, underground cities and ancient cave dwellings carved into soft volcanic rock. We make our way to our selected accommodation for the night where you can settle in, enjoy dinner and prepare for the day ahead. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in Cappadocia. Included: Dinner. Day 5| Exploring Cappadocia We start the day with breakfast at the hotel, preparing us for an exciting day ahead of exploring all that Cappadocia has to offer. Our first stop will be the UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring rock-cut churches, frescoes and ancient monastic complexes nestled in the surreal landscape. We then make our way to the highest point in Cappadocia for panoramic views. Walk through the quaint village of Uçhisar and learn about the troglodyte dwellings carved into the rock. Next, we visit Ortahisar, with a slightly less touristic charm, known for its stone castle and authentic village feel. Then, to Ürgüp to see the famous fairy chimneys . Enjoy the iconic, mushroom shaped rock formations and learn about their volcanic rock origins. We will visit a local stone craft centre where you will see stones with traditional and imperial designs made from the Cappadocia´s volcanic rock. We continue to the village of Avanos , famous for its pottery and ceramics and which sits on the banks of the Kizlirmak river . Finally, we conclude the day at a local carpet cooperative, where you´ll see how traditional Turkish carpets are woven by hand. You´ll learn about the different regional styles, natural dyes and symbolic patterns. We make our way back to the hotel for dinner with unforgettable memories. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in Cappadocia. Included: Breakfast and dinner. Day 6| A Seljuk Caravanserai en route to Pamukkale We will enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading towards Pamukkale, stopping en route at the majestic Seljuk Caravanserai, renowned for its magnificent architecture. The high stone walls and elaborate main portal were designed to accommodate the caravans and their freight. These structures were not only secure stops for caravans transporting goods between Europe and Asia, but also vibrant exchange points for diverse cultural practices. Here we will explore the great complex, made up of bedrooms, stables and refractories, used by the merchants that were passing through the area. After we finish our visit to the great caravan pousada, we make our way to Pamukkale , which is where we will spend the night. Enjoy a relaxing dinner, and recharge your batteries for the day ahead. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in Pamukkale. Included: Breakfast and dinner. Day 7| Pamukkale - Ephesus - Kusadasi or Izmir Enjoy breakfast at the hotel to start the day off right! Pamukkale, which translates as Cotton Castle, is where we begin today's itinerary, it´s renowned for its travertine limestone terraces deposited by hot springs and is adjacent to Hieropolis. Famous for its natural mineral-rich thermal pools formed over the centuries, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 . The hot springs have been used as a spa since the 2nd century BC during the Seleucid Empire. We then head to Kudasi, home to the House of the Virgin Mary , discovered in the 19th century and believed to be the last home of the mother of Jesus. We then visit a leather factory where you can see the famous leather fabrics of the Egea region before continuing on to the ancient city of Ephesus on the western coast of Asia Minor. During the first and second centuries it had a population of over 250, 000 inhabitants and monopolised the wealth of half the east. We will visit the Temple of Hadrian and witness the grandeur of the architecture and explore the remains of the temple. You will see the Roman Baths, which have been restored many times, and the Odeon, also known as the Bouleuterion, which was used both as a theatre and as a place where the Ephesian aristocracy met to discuss the affairs of the city. After a full day of exploring we will return to the hotel for the night. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in Kusadasi or Izmir. Included: Breakfast and dinner. Day 8| Back to Istanbul After an unforgettable journey through Turkey´s rich history, culture and stunning landscapes , your final morning in this region begins with breakfast at the hotel. Depending on the flight schedule, you may have some free time to wander the surroundings areas a little bit more before your departure. Later, you will be transferred to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul and head back to your chosen hotel where you can unwind for the night and soak in your final moments of your Turkish journey. Accommodation: Overnight at your selected hotel in İstanbul. Included: Breakfast. Day 9| Departure day Enjoy your final Turkish breakfast at the hotel, taking in the vibrant energy of Istanbul one last time. After check-out, we´ll take you on a short shopping tour at one of I stanbul´s popular outlet centers - perfect for picking up souvenirs, gifts, or a little something for yourself before heading home. Following the shopping trip, you´ll be transferred back to Istanbul Airport for your departure flight. As your unforgettable journey through Turkey comes to a close, we wish you safe travels and hope to welcome you again on another adventure! Included: Breakfast. Accommodation options: Istanbul - 4-star: Ramada Sultanahmet or similar. 5-star: Eresin Topkapı or similar. Cappadocia - 4-star: Dinler or similar. 5-star: Yunak Evleri / Solem Cave or similar. Pamukkale - 4-star: Lycus River or similar. 5-star: Colossae Thermal or similar. Kudasi - 4-star: Palmin / Faustina or similar. 5-star: Korumar / Adakule or similar. Izmir - 4-star: Kaya Prestige or similar . 5-star: Movenpick / Swissotel or similar.

This is a memorable adventure for young and old, couples, families and groups, fun and exciting… Following an introduction and safety briefing, the quads and buggies line up for a convoy that is lead and tailed by expert guides and experience a half hour familiarization session on smooth trails of the flat terrain. Experience the thrill of mastering a quad bike or buggy in a safe environment. Once we are confident that you have mastered the controls and know the ropes, a more challenging ride awaits you. This terrain will have you splashing through streams, riding on dust and dirt tracks to our private land of 40 acres where you can put your skills to the test on our purpose built jumps, slopes and mud trenches. Inclusions: Local Expert Assistance Hotel pick-up and drop-off for selected hotels Exclusions: Meal Drinks Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.