Sightseeing & traditions in Kusadasi

Kusadasi - Aqua Fantasy Waterpark with Transport

If it's thrills and spills you're after, Aqua Fantasy waterpark promises plenty. The biggest of its kind in Turkey, there are slides, rides, chutes and pools for all the family.

Izmir - Adaland Waterpark with Transfers

It's fast, it's furious and it's one of Kusadasi's top waterparks. Adaland is so exciting that you'll be running from one attraction to the other. There are themed areas, slides for the kids and even rafting. And for the fearless, there's the chance to defy gravity on Freefall and Kamikaze.

Kusadasi - Ottoman culture in Kusadasi city exploration game

Discover Ottoman Culture in Kusadasi by solving challenges and unlocking stories on your phone, which lead to new places and amazing stories.

Izmir - Pamukkale sunrise hot air balloon ride from Kusadasi

The cotton-white calcium terraces of Pamukkale have such a dream-like quality that, at first glance, you'd think you're drifting over snowy hills and frozen waterfalls. There's no better way to see one of Turkey's top treasures – and a UNESCO-protected site to boot – than from above in a hot air balloon. You'll need to rise and shine well before sunrise, but it's all worth it. Soar over the shimmering thermal pools before touching down for a post-flight buffet breakfast.

Kusadasi - Kusadasi deluxe Turkish bath with transport

Ready to chill and unwind? Get pampered with a traditional Turkish Hamam experience – think full-body scrub, foam massage on marble tiles, plus a soothing 30-minute oil massage and face mask. If you're not at a participating hotel, no worries – transport's included to take you to the spa. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ultimate self-care day.

Kusadasi - Bodrum Airport VIP Lounge & Service for Kusadasi hotels

Enjoy a more relaxed way to end your holiday with the Bodrum Airport VIP Lounge. You'll have up to two hours to enjoy all-inclusive hot and cold snacks, drinks and Wi-Fi. This will help ensure you'll keep the post-holiday blues at bay until the very last moment.On arrival at Bodrum Airport, you'll be greeted and assisted with check-in, security clearance and passport control. Then, once you're in departures, you'll be able to take advantage of the VIP lounge.Make use of the free Wi-Fi and let the children play in the kids' corner – it's a great way to pass the time before your flight. What's more, depending on the time of day, there's breakfast, hot and cold starters, or soup, bread and salads. And with a selection of drinks available too, you're sure to feel those holiday vibes until the moment you take off.

Kusadasi - 2-Days Exploring Ephesus and Pamukkale Marvels from Istanbul

Explore the rich history of Ephesus, from the Library of Celsus to the grand amphitheater and enjoy a hassle-free and curated 2-day tour, ensuring a safe and joyful trip.

Kusadasi - Pamukkale sunrise hot air balloon ride and Hierapolis tour

The terraced, vanilla-white pools of Pamukkale, one of Turkey's most recognisable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is a looker from any angle on the ground. But, they hardly come close to the views of the area from above. That's what this guided outing is all about, seeing Pamukkale in all its glory with a bird's-eye view from a hot air balloon. Aydin, one of our local guides says "the thermal springs at Pamukkale are spread across four square miles, so it can be really tricky on the ground seeing them in one go. When you're up in a hot air balloon, you get to see every inch of them."Your hot air balloon ride is scheduled at sunrise, to make sure you get the most dramatic view of Pamukkale possible – be prepared for a very early start to the day. The early wake-up call is well worth it, though, because the pools really sparkle and shine when the morning light hits them. You'll be in the air for about 45 minutes, so there's plenty of time to take in the view and snap some pictures while you're soaring. When you come back down, you'll head to a restaurant for a buffet breakfast. When you're fuelled up, you'll head with your guide to the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis, whose ruins now serve as an open-air museum. Artifacts have been found here that date back to the Iron Age over 3,000 years ago, but it's most famous for its Greco-Roman remnants, including what's left of the Temple of Apollo, a 15,000-seater amphitheatre and one of the largest necropolises in Turkey. After your visit, you'll stop for lunch before driving back to your accommodation.

Kusadasi - Kusadası Buggy Safari

Strap on your seatbelt for a rip-roaring adventure in the Kusadasi countryside. Driving your own off-road buggy, you'll roar through wild landscapes, swamps and scenery. And after tearing it up on Turkey's tracks and trails, you'll head back to base for a few laughs looking at photos and video from the safari.

Kusadasi - Kusadasi Private Boat Tour

Cruising Kusadasi's coastline is a real Turkish delight. Spend a full day swimming, snorkelling and savouring the scenery with your very own private boat tour exclusively for you and your party. There'll be plenty of tanning time and lunch on board, plus a chance to explore a selection of beautiful bays.Board your luxury vessel at Kusadasi harbour in the morning and push out into the sparkling Aegean Sea, gliding past the coastline's sand-laced coves and rugged cliffs. Head to the stunning northern bays, where you'll swim in the clear, turquoise waters from the boat – or maybe just sunbathe on the ample deck.Enjoy views of nearby beaches – at one of the stops, you can even swim to shore – and, after some peaceful swimming in secluded spots, you'll head back to the boat for lunch. Relax and refuel with relax on deck on deck with a drink in your hand, as your sun-soaked cruise continues.

Kusadasi - Kusadasi open-water scuba diving in the sea

Clear, warm and teeming with marine life, the sheltered waters that surround Kusadasi are perfect for a scuba diving experience. This beginner-level scuba diving tour will give you expert instruction in scuba diving and its equipment before you plunge beneath the waves to experience the wonders of subaquatic life.Let your PADI-certified instructor teach you all you'll need to know about scuba principles and equipment in the safe environment of one of Kusadasi's premier dive schools. Then it's off to a local dive site, renowned for the quality of its marine life. Non-divers can join in the cruise and enjoy time swimming and sunbathing instead of diving.With your instructor guiding you all the way, you'll explore the best of undersea life. Glide with shoals of silvery fish darting through the water, and maybe even shyer species, like eels and octopus.

Kusadasi - Private Pamukkale and Hierapolis guided tour

A natural masterpiece combines with an ancient one on this private tour. Discover Pamukkale and Hierapolis, bathing in calcium-rich waters before journeying back in time to one of the world's oldest health spas.First up is in Pamukkale, which means Cotton Castle. It's a spectacle of terraces formed over thousands of years that look like a cascading snowy waterfall but are filled with calcium carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. On arrival, you'll have lunch at the Pam Hotel and hit its thermal pools there before heading to the thermal pools of Pamukkale.The waters have always been said to bring health benefits, which is why the Romans built the nearby spa town of Hierapolis. You'll enjoy a guided tour of its ancient streets, a 13,000-seat theatre and, of course, thermal baths. A dip is extra but well worth forking out for the experience of bathing in an oasis scattered with Roman ruins.

Izmir - Private tour of Ancient Ephesus with pottery demonstration

Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the world. So well-preserved that it's not difficult to imagine the roar of the crowd at the Great Theatre, or the hubbub of the busy main street in its heyday 2,000 years ago. Defne, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Temple of Artemis – Ephesus was a beacon of power and wealth at that time. It was also an important hub of trade, culture and religion. It's influence spread far and wide, and it played a particularly important part in the story of early Christianity.'You'll step back in time as you travel through sun-soaked hills and olive groves to explore Ephesus with your private guide. This extensive archaeological site encompasses marble-paved streets, mosaics in ancient Roman houses and epoch-defining buildings such as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Great Theatre. Your personal guide will explain the historical context and point out the most interesting features as you roam the site.After your tour, we'll round things off with a visit to a ceramics factory to see how Turkish pottery is made. The Seljuks, who ruled much of Anatolia in the 11th century, are credited with bringing the art of pottery to Turkey from Central Asia. Marvel at the precision of the master potter – working only by eye – as he decorates and paints traditional pieces. It's one of the best places to snap up some authentic souvenirs and support local livelihoods.

Kusadasi - Ancient Ephesus guided tour with House of the Virgin Mary

The hills around Kuşadası are home to two of Turkey's most popular historical sites – the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. You'll be whisked through centuries of history at Ephesus, see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and visit an important pilgrimage site on Mount Koressos – all in one afternoon. Esra, one of our expert local guides, says, "The Library of Celsus is one of the most impressive landmarks of Ephesus. It once held over 12,000 scrolls and was the third-largest library in the ancient world."Kick off with a drive into the sun-soaked hills to visit the House of the Virgin Mary. According to popular belief, St John the Evangelist brought Mary to Ephesus after the crucifixion of Jesus, and she lived here until her death. Next, it's time to head to the ancient city of Ephesus, where a journey through history awaits. Your guide will lead you around the sprawling archaeological site and point out its highlights while regaling you with fascinating historic tales of this once-powerful city. While you're here, you'll also walk through the museum, where digital exhibits help to bring the place to life by showcasing what Ephesus could've looked like in its heyday. You'll stroll down marble-paved streets where mosaics and frescoes still decorate the walls of ancient Roman houses, gaze at the Temples of Artemis and Hadrian, and be blown away by the Library of Celsus. Esra says "I love to imagine the Great Theatre filled with 25,000 spectators. They would come to watch gladiator clashes, political rallies and performances in this theatre, a hub of city life. You can almost hear the roar of the crowd."

Izmir - Sites & Bites: Sirince tour, St John’s Basilica and Turkish meze

History fans and foodies, listen up! This guided tour to Sirince is all about getting to grips with the area's main landmarks, as well as sampling some of the local cuisine. This activity ticks off everything from castles and temples to meze and ice-cream. Plus, you'll have a guide with you throughout the trip, so expect lots of insider info and stories on top of the sightseeing and food tasting.You'll be picked up from your hotel and driven to your first stop, St John's Basilica in Selcuk. On the way, you'll get a glimpse of other big-name attractions in this part of Turkey, including the Temple of Artemis and Isa Bey Mosque. You might have a chance to hop off the coach and snap some pics. If not, you'll get a good look at them from the window as you drive by. Your guide will be on board, too, and they'll share stories and info related to everything you'll see. After some time to look around the exterior of the basilica, you'll wind your way through countryside lanes to Sirince.When you arrive in the village, you'll sit down for breakfast. You'll have a chance to try some authentic Turkish meze dishes, like stuffed vine leaves, gozleme pancakes and bazlama round bread. Then, it's time for a guided walk through the city. Your guide will tell you what life's like here, and they'll point out all the leading landmarks. It's a laidback walk, so you'll have plenty of time to shop for souvenirs, as well, and you'll also be treated to some ice-cream. After your walk, you'll wrap things up at the restaurant you had breakfast in for a fruit wine-tasting.

Kusadasi - Kusadasi Turkish Bath with Transport

Turkish baths are all about relaxation. Visit one of Kusadasi's finest Turkish bath houses, where you'll be treated to a steam room session, an invigorating body scrub and soothing foam massage. There's also the option of a traditional oil massage.

Kusadasi - Kusadasi shopping trip

Turkey is renowned for its shopping and for being a haggler's paradise, and on this morning out from Kusadasi, you'll see exactly why. With visits to a gold centre, a Turkish shopping centre and the bustling stalls of a local market, even the most ardent shopper will be satisfied.First up on this guided shopping morning is a trip to a renowned gold jewellery centre, where something shiny might well catch your eye. Then it's time to practise your haggling skills amid the heaving stalls of Selçuk or Kusadasi market – and don't be shy about it, the vendors expect it. The rest of this shopping tour includes some free time to peruse the teeming shops and stalls of the bazaar and a pit stop at a superstore – perfect for Turkish presents, souvenirs, and – of course – Turkish delight.

Izmir - Day Trip to Greek Island of Samos

A quick hop over the sea from Kusadasi, and you'll find yourself on the Greek Island of Samos. Spend a day at your own pace in Pythagoreio or make your way to another part of the island such as Vathy, with your return ferry, taxes and round trip transfers in Kusadasi covered.You'll dock in Pythagoreio where you can relax on the nearby pebble beach, wander around the quaint harbour or head up to the rooftop pool at Samos Hotel – the choice is yours. Vathy is around 20 minutes in a taxi and here, you can visit the famous Archaeological Museum, browse for souvenirs at the main square,or amble along its cobblestone streets and relax into the island pace of life. Set around a horseshoe bay, you'll be able to stroll along the bustling quayside filled with tavernas and cafés, where you can watch the world go by.After a busy day exploring, you'll head back to Kusadasi by ferry in the early evening.

Kusadasi - Kusadasi Quad Safari Tour

Off-road quad bikes are the ultimate way to explore remote spots. You'll blaze a trail on this quad excursion to nearby swamps and dirt trails. Your expert guides will give you a safety briefing, and a quick driving demonstration and test, before leading you into the countryside. From here, you're on the home stretch – a high-speed run back to the camp that splashes through streams and bounces over hills.

Izmir - Full-day guided tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis with lunch

A natural masterpiece combines with ancient ruins for this full day tour. You'll head to Pamukkale – which means 'cotton castle' in Turkish – as well as the adjacent city of Hierapolis. Both are UNESCO-listed, so it's a two-for-one deal on Turkey's historical gems. Muzaffer, one of our local guides, says, ‘Pamukkale is like something out of a fairytale – a spectacle of terraces formed over thousands of years that look like a cascading snowy waterfall. Legend has it, the hot thermal springs here have healing properties'.On arrival, you'll stop by the Pam Hotel for a spot of lunch, before soaking in their thermal pools. Next, prepare for a sight to behold, Pamukkale's natural springs solidified into chalk-white stalactites and cliffs long ago, resulting in a winter-like wonderland of petrified tiers and pools. People have bathed here for thousands of years, including Roman emperors. Follow in their footsteps and bathe in one of the thermal pools or simply make your way to the top and drink in the magnificent views.Next up is the ancient spa town of Hierapolis. You'll have free time to explore its well-preserved ruins, including ancient streets and an epic 13,000-seat theatre. What's more, for every sale of this experience, there's a donation to the TUI Care Foundation.