Aegean Coast attractions

In Roman times, the Bergama Asklepion (Pergamon Asclepeion) was one of the world’s most important medical centers, built in honor of the Asklepios, the Greek god of healing. Situated in the ancient city of Pergamon, it dates back to the 4th century BC and is one of the most visited ruins of the Pergamon archeological site.

According to a third-century story of the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, several Christian men in Ephesus (present-day Selcuk, Turkey) sought sanctuary in a nearby cave to escape persecution by the Roman Emperor Trajan Decius. They fell asleep, waking some 250 years later and discovering that Christianity had become widely accepted in Ephesus. After natural deaths, the “seven sleepers” were buried in the same cave, which quickly became a pilgrimage site.

The storied past of Izmir—once the ancient Greek city of Smyrna—takes center stage at the Agora Open Air Museum (Izmir Agora. Dating back to the fourth century BC and rebuilt by Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius in 178, the Agora is one of the best-preserved sites of its kind in Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye).

Featuring walls hewn from natural rock and a stunning 130-foot-long hallway adorned with 5th-century mosaics, the Baths of Varius underwent several renovations over the centuries to become the one-of-a-kind structure we see today. Boasting separate rooms for cold, warm, and hot water, private chambers for wealthy citizens of Ephesus, and possibly even a gymnasium, the baths covered an expansive area and provided a luxurious and functional hub for ancient Turkish society. A visit to the Baths of Varius is not only a memorable experience but also a valuable opportunity to learn about Ephesus’ unique history.

Dominating Izmir’s busy Konak Square, the Izmir Clock Tower (İzmir Saat Kulesi has been a city landmark since 1901. Standing 82 feet (25 meters tall, with a fountain on each corner, its lacy tower and Arabesque arches have a distinctively Ottoman feel. The German Emperor Wilhelm II gave the 4-faced clock to the sultan as a gift.

The Izmir Archaeology Museum (İzmir Arkeoloji Müzesi), located near Konak Square and the Ethnography Museum, lets you explore an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age as well as the Greek and Roman periods. Originally opened in 1927, the museum relocated to its current location in 1984 and offers a diverse selection of historical treasures waiting to be discovered. With over 5,000 square meters of exhibition halls, laboratories, libraries, and conference spaces arranged across multiple floors, it’s one of the most important museums on Turkey’s coast.

Part of the Ephesus Archaeological Complex, the Ephesian public latrine offers a glimpse into the daily life of the city's inhabitants. This well-preserved ruin served as a communal toilet during the Roman period, providing a unique perspective on the city's history. While landmarks such as the Library of Celsus showcase Ephesus' grandeur, this intact facility humanizes the ancient city.

On a hill with a strategic view of the Gulf of Izmir, the co-called Velvet Castle was built in the 4th century BC under Alexander the Great. Remnants of successive occupants, including Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans, may be found though not much remains of the fortified castle, except for towering ramparts, ruins of a 14th-century mosque—and the wonderful vista.

One of Ephesus’ most important fountains, the Fountain of Trajan (Nymphaeum Traiani) stands proud on Curetes Street. Built sometime between 102–114 AD to honor Emperor Trajan, it once stood more than 30 feet (9.5 meters) high and featured around 15 statues, including a vast sculpture of Trajan, of which only one foot remains.

Built in 1625, St. Polycarp Church is the oldest Christian house of worship in Izmir. Dedicated to St. Polycarp, who had been converted by John the Apostle and martyred by the Romans, the barrelled-shaped church features colorful murals, remarkably restored by a Frenchman who infamously inserted his likeness.

Studded with palm trees and presided over by the 82-foot-tall (25-meter-tall) Izmir Clock Tower, Konak Square (Konak Meydanı) is the navigational and social heart of the city. A popular meeting place, it’s home to important civic buildings and is located near Izmir’s historic ferry terminal and Kermeralti Grand Bazaar.

Akyaka is a charming village nestled in Turkey’s Mugla province along Gokova Bay. The town—often overlooked by foreign visitors—is famous for its clear waters, rich culture, and outdoor sports opportunities. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful or adventurous getaway without noise or aggressive salespeople.

Selimiye is a quaint coastal town in the Mugla province of Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye). Situated between Marmaris and Datca, it boasts a picturesque harbor with locally crafted fishing boats, a quiet seaside, and a handful of ancient ruins. Selimiye offers travelers an opportunity to experience authentic Turkish life away from the bustle of more touristy cities nearby.

One of Kusadasi’s best water parks, Adaland Aquapark boasts slides for every age and pace, from leisurely 6-person family jaunts through to freefall and boomerang rides. A wave pool, lazy river, jacuzzi, little kids’ zone, rafting course, and lively poolside disco make it a great space to while away the day.

Aqua Fantasy Aquapark is a haven for thrillseekers in Selçuk, Turkey. With water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a dedicated kids area, this destination offers something to visitors of any age. Enjoy the luxuries of soaking up the sun poolside or spend an exhilarating day hitting the slides—it's up to you.

As one of Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) largest ports, Izmir Cruise Port welcomes international cruise liners from around the world. As well as boasting a prime location on the Aegean Coast, Izmir also serves as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ephesus and Pergamon.

Jutting out of the southern coast of the Datça Peninsula and into the Mediterranean Sea, the mountainous Bozburun Peninsula is renowned for its tranquil sandy beaches, ancient cities, and lively nightlife, making it a popular stop for yacht cruises and jeep safaris from Bodrum or Fethiye.

Izmir Ethnography Museum illustrates the history of how common people have lived in Izmir, through their daily arts, crafts, and customs. Interesting artifacts include weaponry, pottery, clothing, manuscripts, pottery, photographs, and a nice collection of Bergama and Gordes carpets. Displays and dioramas showcase various activities and pastimes such as glassblowing, blue bead and felt production, and camel wrestling.

Originally founded in the 18th century as a roadside resting place for travelers, this covered Ottoman structure is now a bustling marketplace—and one of Izmir’s top historic attractions. A smaller version of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, Kizlaragasi Han has everything from fresh produce and cheeses to ceramic plates and leather bags. You’ll also find traditional restaurants serving a variety of local dishes.

Built in the early 16th century, this formidable hilltop fortress is Cesme’s most recognizable attraction. Its vantage point once allowed the Ottomans to watch the seas for signs of pirate ships or enemy invasions; today, it means that the castle boasts incredible bird’s-eye views stretching along the Aegean coastline. The building also houses the small but worthwhile Cesme Museum.

In the heart of Cesme, this vibrant port is an unmissable stop on any visit to Turkey’s lively Aegean coastal town. The sight of dozens of motorboats and yachts bobbing in the water makes for one of Cesme’s most distinctive photographs. The area is filled with restaurants, cafés, fast-food joints, and ice cream shops, making it tempting to linger here for hours.

Running from east of Izmir to Turkey’s (officially the Republic of Türkiye) western Anatolian Plateau, the Boz Mountains (Bozdag) are one of the country’s most beautiful mountain ranges. Centered on the mountain town of Bozdag and capped with snow from December to March, the mountains are a year-round paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Only a short drive from the beach resorts of Cesme, Alacati Pazaryeri Camii is a small mosque in the town of Alacati. The historic landmark testifies to the region’s Greek and Turkish-Muslim heritage. Originally built as an Orthodox church in the 19th century, the building was converted into a mosque after the population transfer between Greece and Turkey following World War I.