Situated on Turkey’s Aegean coast, Kusadasi boasts long, sandy beaches and a large marina. It is favoured by visitors seeking a relaxing holiday, as well as those looking for a base to explore the region. Indeed, the resort’s close proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus makes it the main port for the many cruise ships that tour the Aegean Sea.
The nearest international airport to Kusadasi is Izmir Adnan Menderes, which is 75km away. Several scheduled and charter flights arrive here from cities across Europe and Asia.
Frequent buses pass by on the highways near to the airport which will take you to Kusadasi, but they do not enter the airport grounds. This means you either have to walk a few kilometres to get to a bus stop, or more conveniently jump in a taxi. Even more convienient would be to book a private transfer in advance.
Kusadasi enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild weather all year round. The summer season is long, hot and dry with up to 13 to 14 hours of sunshine per day in the peak months of June to August.
Spring and autumn days offer 8-9 hours of sun, with average temperatures of 25C. Rainfall in the summer months is rare, though a fairly common occurrence in winter, despite the generally mild weather.
Kusadasi's clean, sandy beaches are a major attraction for visitors, whether simply for sunbathing and swimming, or for indulging in one of the various watersports on offer. The turquoise Aegean waters are particularly popular for scuba diving and snorkelling.
A variety of boat trips are available from Kusadasi, and families with children will benefit from the presence of three excellent aqua-parks within easy distance of the resort.
Away from the water, visitors can enjoy both horse-back and jeep safaris to explore the region’s nature trails. There are also several historical and archaeological sites within reach of Kusadasi, including the ancient city of Ephesus, with excursions available from outlets throughout the resort.
The best shopping in Kusadasi can be found in the Grand Bazaar, located near the harbour, which is one of Turkey's largest markets. Bring your best haggling skills as bargaining for your items is all part of the experience.
Dining out in Kusadasi offers visitors the chance to enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine or international favourites. Considered one of the best seafood restaurants in the region, the Cinar Fish Restaurant allows guests to watch their meal prepared in the open kitchen and dine with a view of the sea. For top class Turkish specialities the Konyali Restaurant opposite the marina, and the Erzincan near the post office, are also excellent choices.
Nightlife in Kusadasi is superb, with Bar Street in the old town centre at the hub of the action. One of the favourite venues is the huge open air disco, Ecstasy Bar, featuring top European DJs. Jimmy's Irish Bar is also a popular gathering place, while those looking for something more sedate will find cabaret bars, Turkish folk taverns, or cosy jazz clubs scattered throughout the resort.