Attractions — Aydın

Kazikli Koyu offers a tranquil escape with its focus on fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors praise the delicious fish and the quiet, authentic village feel, making it a good option for those seeking a peaceful meal away from bustling tourist centers.

Alabanda Ruins offer a glimpse into an ancient city, primarily featuring a large theater on a hillside and recently uncovered sections of the agora. Visitors should be prepared for a site that requires imagination to appreciate its former grandeur, as many structures are not fully excavated or restored.

The Yörük Ali Efe Museum offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of a significant local historical figure. Visitors often combine a visit here with exploring the surrounding Yenipazar area, enjoying local cuisine like 'hukul pita pita' and the scenic atmosphere.

The sandy Long Beach is 6 km from the centre and stretches about 15 km to the Milli Park. It is the city's main public beach. The entry into the sea is gentle and you must walk far to reach deep water — ideal for families with children. Sunbeds are available for rent, but you can also sunbathe on a towel.

Here stood the Heraion — the temple of the goddess Hera, which Herodotus considered one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. In the village of Ireon you can see its ruins: foundations and column bases.

In the centre, near the 'Hand' monument, is the city beach. In season you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. The bay is small, but suitable for a quick swim.

A monastery located in a cave.

A preserved monastery.

The fortress gate is the only thing left of a 17th‑century Ottoman castle. Locals believe that whoever passes through these gates and drinks water from the Emine Hatun fountain will never leave Kuşadası. Today the gate tower houses the Museum of Microminiatures, which contains more than 40 works by Turkish artist and micro-sculptor Nekati Korkmaz — the only practitioner of this art form in Turkey. Exhibits include the smallest Quran and a chess set made on a pinhead, and an acrobat made from a s

At Öküz Mehmet Pasha's complex a mosque was built from brick, stone and marble with a 20‑metre minaret. A huge mother-of-pearl‑decorated door leads to a hall that holds 500 people.

The Koçarlı Cihanoğlu Külliyesi is a historical complex in Aydın, Turkey, built by the influential Cihanoğlu family who governed the region for centuries. It showcases Ottoman-era architecture and the philanthropic efforts of a powerful local dynasty, including mosques and charitable institutions.

A well-preserved Carian city with a striking Temple of Zeus, showcasing Hellenistic architecture amid olive groves.

A caravanserai and resting place for merchants and travelers was built in the early 17th century during the time of the statesman Mehmed Pasha, who was nicknamed "the ox" (Turkish: "öküz") because his father shod oxen. He served in various cities of the Ottoman Empire and oversaw construction of mosques and fortresses. The building also had a defensive function, so the façades' ground floors were constructed without windows. Today festivals and musical concerts are held here.

Ruins of a Carian city with Hellenistic walls and inscriptions, nestled in the pine-covered hills of Aydın Province.

Kursunlu Monastery offers a glimpse into Byzantine history with its ruined structures, though visitors often find it challenging to access and lacking in detailed information. It's a quiet spot for those seeking solitude and historical imagination, but don't expect extensive preservation or modern amenities.

Ancient Carian city with Byzantine ruins and Roman stadium remnants, near modern Aydın Province.

Alinda is an ancient Carian city in Turkey, known for its Hellenistic ruins and historical significance as a regional stronghold.

A preserved monastery.

Monastery located in the Green Gorge.

Some historic architecture has survived here.