PLAN YOUR CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN AEGEAN COAST TRAVEL
The Aegean coast is one of Turkey's most visited and most grown regions, for good understanding: The Aegean coast is home to some of Turkey's most captivating wealth, from superb white-sand shores to the ancient remains of Ephesus.
The Roman city of Ephesus is the big picture for tourists, and truly so Bodrum. and its around beach towns attract sun seekers from around the world and spoil them with modern hotels, a buzzing nightlife view, and remarkably unspoiled historic sites. Even Izmir., Turkey’s third-largest city and no stranger to concrete sprawl, will surprise travelers with a beautiful collection of museums, bustling bazaars, and cheerful seaside promenades. Then there are the many places in between these major stops: beautiful hill towns like Sirince. The mysterious white cliffs and thermal springs at Pamukkale; the seaside charms of the sleepy Gümüşlük village, near snazzy Bodrum. The ancient cities of Priene, Miletus, Didyma., and Laodicea; and long, sandy beaches at Altinkum and elsewhere along the coast.
TOP REASONS TO GO
FEAST ON LOCAL FRESH MEZES AND SEAFOOD Enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the many seafood restaurants.
WINDSURF, SWIM, AND SCUBA DIVE Some of the clearest and bluest waters in the Aegean region surround the modern coastal towns of Çeşme and Bodrum.
TAKE A BLUE CRUISE A gulet is a perfect vehicle for traveling the Aegean coast, visiting hidden coves sprinkled along pristine clear waters.
VISIT EPHESUS For a look into the Roman, Hellenistic, and Byzantine periods take a walk through the ruins of Ephesus, lined with the relics of temples, houses, shops, and the famed Library of Celsus.
WANDER THROUGH SIRINCE This picturesque winemaking village is surrounded by lovely restored houses; the hills are perfect for hiking.
CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN AEGEAN COAST
WHEN TO GO
- July and August are the peak seasons, and Ephesus gets lots of tourists, especially those coming in from the cruise ship port at Kusadasi.
In June and September, you’ll have the beaches pretty much to yourself although the water is cooler to swim. If you want to visit the historical sites in mild weather, organize your trip between October and May—traveling at this time also guarantees fewer crowds and more affordable comforts. The winter periods can be rainy, but if you don’t mind a chill in the air, it’s an off-season treat to stroll into windy, deserted ancient monuments, then duck into a toasty kebab restaurant for lunch. Some restaurants and hotels close for the winter, but almost all sites and museums stay open.