What it's like
Pigeon Island, called Güvercinada in Turkish, is a small island at the edge of Kuşadası, joined to the mainland by a pier. Its 16th-century castle was built by the Ottoman admiral Barbaros Hayrettin, and the castle has since been restored as a museum.
A visit is a gentle one. You climb the castle stairs, walk among olive trees, look out for peacocks, and watch the town and harbor from above. Those who want to swim or dive can head to the marine park offshore.
Good to know
- Castle entrance is free, and the museum is open during daylight hours only.
- Atatürk Statue on the hill above town is recommended for the best view of the town for photos.
Pigeon Island
Pigeon Island, known locally as Güvercinada, is a small island joined to the mainland by a pier and crowned by a 16th-century castle.
Tours that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Kusadasi waters
Kusadasi waters are the open sea around the town, where boats take divers and snorkelers to reefs off the Aegean coast. The water is clear and the sea life is varied, with sea turtles among the animals found here.
Doğanbey
Doğanbey is a Greek-style Aegean town inside Dilek Peninsula National Park, with old Greek houses, Şorlak Waterfall and a Fauna Museum. It makes a slower half day than the big sites near Kuşadası.
Adabanko Reef
Adabanko Reef is a dive site off Kusadasi on the Aegean, where divers descend a wall past an ancient wreck. It is reached by boat and suits divers at every level.
Ephesus Ancient City
Most people come for the ruins and the long walk through them.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Sightseeing and scenic rides
