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Hollywood movies that are filmed in Istanbul
There are quite many Hollywood movies that are filmed in Istanbul. Especially Istanbul was scened in 3 major Hollywood films in 2012. We recommend watching these before coming to Istanbul. In our walking tours of Istanbul we will take you to the areas that are scened in the following movies:
FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE - 1963
From Russia with Love is the second spy film in the James Bond series, and the second to star Sean Connery as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. In the film, James Bond is sent to assist in the defection of Soviet consulate clerk Tatiana Romanova in Istanbul.
TOPKAPI - 1964
Elizabeth Lipp (Melina Mercouri) visits Istanbul. In Topkapi Palace, she was fascinated by Topkapi dagger. She plans to steal the original dagger from Topkapi Palace in Istanbul.
The World is not enough -1999
The nineteenth spy film in the James Bond series, and the third to star Pierce Brosnan as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. The film's plot revolves around the assassination of billionaire Sir Robert King by the terrorist Renard and Bond's subsequent assignment to protect King's daughter, Elektra, who had previously been held for ransom by Renard. During his assignment, Bond unravels a scheme to increase petroleum prices by triggering a nuclear meltdown in the waters of Istanbul..
The nineteenth spy film in the James Bond series, and the third to star Pierce Brosnan as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. The film's plot revolves around the assassination of billionaire Sir Robert King by the terrorist Renard and Bond's subsequent assignment to protect King's daughter, Elektra, who had previously been held for ransom by Renard. During his assignment, Bond unravels a scheme to increase petroleum prices by triggering a nuclear meltdown in the waters of Istanbul..
Taken 2 - 2012
After the events in Paris in Taken, relatives of the criminals whom Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson) killed while searching for his daughter,start searching for Bryan Mills (an CIA agent) Bryan`s ex wife having relationship problems with her new husband. Bryan suggests that Kim (daughter) and ex-wife to join him in Istanbul after he has finished a work assignment there.
After the events in Paris in Taken, relatives of the criminals whom Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson) killed while searching for his daughter,start searching for Bryan Mills (an CIA agent) Bryan`s ex wife having relationship problems with her new husband. Bryan suggests that Kim (daughter) and ex-wife to join him in Istanbul after he has finished a work assignment there.
Argo -2012
Militants storm the U.S. embassy in Tehran on November 4, 1979. More than 50 of the embassy staff are taken as hostages, but six escape and hide in the home of the Canadian ambassador. With the escapees' situation kept secret, the US State Department begins to explore options for "exfiltrating" them from Iran. Tony Mendez (Ben Affleck), a CIA specialist is assigned to abduct them from Tehran. He meets a CIA agent at Istanbul's Hagia Sophia before going to Iran.
Militants storm the U.S. embassy in Tehran on November 4, 1979. More than 50 of the embassy staff are taken as hostages, but six escape and hide in the home of the Canadian ambassador. With the escapees' situation kept secret, the US State Department begins to explore options for "exfiltrating" them from Iran. Tony Mendez (Ben Affleck), a CIA specialist is assigned to abduct them from Tehran. He meets a CIA agent at Istanbul's Hagia Sophia before going to Iran.
Skyfall - 2012
Skyfall is the twenty-third James Bond film. In Istanbul, MI6 agents James Bond and Eve chase a mercenary, Patrice, who has stolen a computer hard drive containing details of undercover agents placed in terrorist organisations by NATO states.
Skyfall is the twenty-third James Bond film. In Istanbul, MI6 agents James Bond and Eve chase a mercenary, Patrice, who has stolen a computer hard drive containing details of undercover agents placed in terrorist organisations by NATO states.
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New York Times article about Kusadasi in 1966
New York Times had an article about Kusadasi on November 06, 1966 By ANNE LAMBTON.
I truly enjoyed reading about it. It is so funny to hear there is hardly to see someone. It is totaly different than how it is today. Writer says Kusadasi is awating an Immenent Discovery:
KUSADASI BEFORE TOURISM ARRIVES; Turkish Village on the Aegean Coast Is Awaiting Imminent 'Discovery'
KUSADASI, Turkey The Aegean coast of Turkey is one of the few remaining corners of Europe little known by tourists. It is possible to spend an entire day in this wild, unspoiled countryside without seeing another living soul, except perhaps a shepherd tending his flock, or boys fishing off the rocky coast in a boat.
The below pictures will also show you the big change:
I truly enjoyed reading about it. It is so funny to hear there is hardly to see someone. It is totaly different than how it is today. Writer says Kusadasi is awating an Immenent Discovery:
KUSADASI BEFORE TOURISM ARRIVES; Turkish Village on the Aegean Coast Is Awaiting Imminent 'Discovery'
KUSADASI, Turkey The Aegean coast of Turkey is one of the few remaining corners of Europe little known by tourists. It is possible to spend an entire day in this wild, unspoiled countryside without seeing another living soul, except perhaps a shepherd tending his flock, or boys fishing off the rocky coast in a boat.
The below pictures will also show you the big change:
Kusadasi Port 1966
Kusadasi Port Today
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Istanbul Walking Tour Highlight: MV Savarona
During the walking tours of Istanbul, if requested we also do a 1.5 hours cruise on the Bosphorus. One of the highlights during this cruise is MV Savarona.
Savorona is a luxury yacht. She was the largest in the world in 1931, having a length of 136 meters.
Savarona is the name of an African swan living in the Indian Ocean. The ship was designed in USA for Emily Roebling Cadwallader, the grand daughter of the architect (John Roebling) who build Brooklyn Bridge. Built in Hamburg and costed US$4 million. Due to high taxes by US government. Ms. Robeling decided to sell the yacht.
In 1938, Turkish Government purchased the yacht for the founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Ataturk spent only 6 weeks before he passed away few months later. After Ataturk's death, the Savarona passed to the Turkish Naval Authorities and used as a training ship. In 1989, the yacht was rented by Mr. Kahraman Sadikoglu for 49 years. After restorations the boat is available for charters.
During the Bsphorus cruises, guests may see this Istanbul highlight moored by the shores of Bosphorus. Bosphorus cruise is a must to do in Istanbul if you have time. For suggested tour programs of Istanbul please click here.
Savorona is a luxury yacht. She was the largest in the world in 1931, having a length of 136 meters.
Savarona is the name of an African swan living in the Indian Ocean. The ship was designed in USA for Emily Roebling Cadwallader, the grand daughter of the architect (John Roebling) who build Brooklyn Bridge. Built in Hamburg and costed US$4 million. Due to high taxes by US government. Ms. Robeling decided to sell the yacht.
In 1938, Turkish Government purchased the yacht for the founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Ataturk spent only 6 weeks before he passed away few months later. After Ataturk's death, the Savarona passed to the Turkish Naval Authorities and used as a training ship. In 1989, the yacht was rented by Mr. Kahraman Sadikoglu for 49 years. After restorations the boat is available for charters.
During the Bsphorus cruises, guests may see this Istanbul highlight moored by the shores of Bosphorus. Bosphorus cruise is a must to do in Istanbul if you have time. For suggested tour programs of Istanbul please click here.
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Overnight Trip to Akyaka from Kusadasi
This week we went to Akyaka with my wife. We had an overnight trip from Kusadasi. Due to our tours, the only time we had was early November. Early November is a great time of the year since it is not very hot and not cold. The weather was 20 degrees. We had wonderful time and weather.
It took us approximately 2.5 hours drive from Kusadasi. We drove through Aydin and Mugla City centers. There was a small ancient settlement here which was known as Idyma. But only few remains are visible today. It was a small fishing village until 1970s. Now a small but unspoiled resort town. Like all the ancient cities this settlement was also founded by a stream. Azmak stream formed a delta and this marsh land provides a living area for many kinds of birds and animals. There is a beautiful walkway by this river bed, we enjoyed great walks through the bamboo bushes.
It took us approximately 2.5 hours drive from Kusadasi. We drove through Aydin and Mugla City centers. There was a small ancient settlement here which was known as Idyma. But only few remains are visible today. It was a small fishing village until 1970s. Now a small but unspoiled resort town. Like all the ancient cities this settlement was also founded by a stream. Azmak stream formed a delta and this marsh land provides a living area for many kinds of birds and animals. There is a beautiful walkway by this river bed, we enjoyed great walks through the bamboo bushes.
kyaka not only has natural beauties but beautiful architecture.There are great works of wooden houses which are pioneered by Nail Cakirhan the famous architect. Today there is a construction code in Akyaka which makes Akyaka a spectacular location. We truly enjoyed walking through the streets of Akyaka and vieving the examples of Nail Cakirhan architecture.
Akyaka is located at the end of Gokova Gulf, by the fertile lands of Gökova plain. Once driving down the hill to Akyaka, you will have the spectacular views of the gulf of Gokova and the plain, approximately 20 minutes after Mugla city center at Sakar Pass. This area is also favorite by paragliders.
Right by the town center there is a protected forest area which provides camping opportunities in the summer times. We enjoyed great walks with great views. There is a small restaurant by the Aegean sea which is run by the local association we enjoyed great lunches here. No dinners because there is not much light here at night. They do not serve any dinners in the off season time.
We assume Akyaka becoming so crowded in the summer times. There are numerous boutique hotels to stay. We stayed in Portofino Hotel which is 2 minutes walking distance to town center. If you enjoy quiteness our recommendation is to go to Akyaka in April, May, October or November. You may enjoy renting a bike and cycling through the forests and Azmak stream. In the summertime there are boat tours through the Azmak and there are also boat trips to nearby bays for swimming. What a great location! Azmak stream and bamboos reminded us our Dalyan visit which was 2 years ago.
Akyaka is located at the end of Gokova Gulf, by the fertile lands of Gökova plain. Once driving down the hill to Akyaka, you will have the spectacular views of the gulf of Gokova and the plain, approximately 20 minutes after Mugla city center at Sakar Pass. This area is also favorite by paragliders.
Right by the town center there is a protected forest area which provides camping opportunities in the summer times. We enjoyed great walks with great views. There is a small restaurant by the Aegean sea which is run by the local association we enjoyed great lunches here. No dinners because there is not much light here at night. They do not serve any dinners in the off season time.
We assume Akyaka becoming so crowded in the summer times. There are numerous boutique hotels to stay. We stayed in Portofino Hotel which is 2 minutes walking distance to town center. If you enjoy quiteness our recommendation is to go to Akyaka in April, May, October or November. You may enjoy renting a bike and cycling through the forests and Azmak stream. In the summertime there are boat tours through the Azmak and there are also boat trips to nearby bays for swimming. What a great location! Azmak stream and bamboos reminded us our Dalyan visit which was 2 years ago.
What we enjoyed in Akyaka:
- Beautiful wooden architecture.
- Fresh air.
- Walking through the forest and by the Azmak stream.
- Putting the feet in the cold waters of Azmak stream.
- Quiteness, Akyaka is one of the cittaslow cities.
- Great views.
- Having coffee with the sounds of running water by Azmak stream.
We recommend staying in Akyaka. In the summertime there are more opportunities to have more activities. There are so many beaches in the area, that you may enjoy swimming in the clear waters of the Aegean. For us one overnight was enough. We had 2 great days. We relaxed a lot.
Below we wanted to share some pictures of our trip. If you have any questions about Akyaka and how to go there, please do not hesitate to e-mail us.
Below we wanted to share some pictures of our trip. If you have any questions about Akyaka and how to go there, please do not hesitate to e-mail us.
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Istanbul Walking Tour Highlight: Galata
Today with my wife. We had a walk through Galata neighbourhood on our own. Once again we were impressed with the beauty of 19th century NeoBaroque and NeoRenaissance style buildings. Once the richest in Istanbul lived. Noble Greeks, Jews, Armenians and Turks lived together happily. Each building has an individual story. Unfortunately so many of them are not in good condition. Some are turned into trendy cafes, restaurants and designer stores.
First settlement to Galata is made by Genoese trade colonies representing Republic of Genoa in 1273 during the Byzantine Era of the city. The Genoese built the famous Galata tower in 1348. After the city, conquered by the Ottomans, Latin and Catholic population continued living in the neighbourhood. Greeks and Jews started moving to the area. In the 19th century Galata and Karakoy became major business center. Gatala became a finance center with its bankers and stock exchange. Karakoy harbor was one of the busiest harbors of Europe.
There are 3 theories regarding the origin of Galata word. According to Italian historians the word is derived from Calata meaning downward slope. According to Greek Historians, the word is derived from Galaktos meaning milk. There is a possibility that the area might be used by the ancient shepherds in the ancient times. According to the last theory Celtic tribe, Galatians may have camped here in the Hellenistic period.
The nearby Grand Rue de Pera (today known as Istiklal Avenue) became a shopping center second only to the Grand Bazaar. An entertainment center with its cafes, theaters, bars, restaurants and pastry shops.
Galata had a cosmopolitan population. Mainly French, but also almost all other European languages were spoken there. Italians , Germans, French, British, Armenians, Greeks, Jews, Hungarians, Poles and Russians had their own communities. Each community had its own places of worship, not only based on its religion but also based on its different sects. Therefore, many churches and synagouges of different groups were located close to each other. There were quite many Muslim structures at Galata such as Galata Mevlevi Convent, Arab Mosque, Asmali Mosque, and Aga Mosque.
There were many foreign schools in Galata. French, British, Italians, Germans and Austrians opened high schools in
Galata. All these schools are still running. The rich and noble muslim families also send their children to these schools. Most of the Ottoman and Turkish scholars were educated in these schools.
Below please find some of the must see highlights of the area. During your visit to Istanbul make sure you see these sites besides the historical highlights like Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia, Grand Bazaar... Let us organize you a private walking tour of Istanbul.
First settlement to Galata is made by Genoese trade colonies representing Republic of Genoa in 1273 during the Byzantine Era of the city. The Genoese built the famous Galata tower in 1348. After the city, conquered by the Ottomans, Latin and Catholic population continued living in the neighbourhood. Greeks and Jews started moving to the area. In the 19th century Galata and Karakoy became major business center. Gatala became a finance center with its bankers and stock exchange. Karakoy harbor was one of the busiest harbors of Europe.
There are 3 theories regarding the origin of Galata word. According to Italian historians the word is derived from Calata meaning downward slope. According to Greek Historians, the word is derived from Galaktos meaning milk. There is a possibility that the area might be used by the ancient shepherds in the ancient times. According to the last theory Celtic tribe, Galatians may have camped here in the Hellenistic period.
The nearby Grand Rue de Pera (today known as Istiklal Avenue) became a shopping center second only to the Grand Bazaar. An entertainment center with its cafes, theaters, bars, restaurants and pastry shops.
Galata had a cosmopolitan population. Mainly French, but also almost all other European languages were spoken there. Italians , Germans, French, British, Armenians, Greeks, Jews, Hungarians, Poles and Russians had their own communities. Each community had its own places of worship, not only based on its religion but also based on its different sects. Therefore, many churches and synagouges of different groups were located close to each other. There were quite many Muslim structures at Galata such as Galata Mevlevi Convent, Arab Mosque, Asmali Mosque, and Aga Mosque.
There were many foreign schools in Galata. French, British, Italians, Germans and Austrians opened high schools in
Galata. All these schools are still running. The rich and noble muslim families also send their children to these schools. Most of the Ottoman and Turkish scholars were educated in these schools.
Below please find some of the must see highlights of the area. During your visit to Istanbul make sure you see these sites besides the historical highlights like Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, St. Sophia, Grand Bazaar... Let us organize you a private walking tour of Istanbul.
Galata Tower
Original name is Christea Turris, meaning Tower of Christ. Built by the Genoese in 1348. Galata Tower was the tallest building in the city at that time. Used as an observation tower for spotting fires. According to the legend in the 17th century an Ottoman genius Hazarfen Ahmet Celebi flew from this tower with artificial wings over the Bosphorus. Today the tower is running as a night club with Turkish Belly Dance shows. It is possible to see great views of Istanbul from the top balcony. There is an elevator. The cost to take this elevator is 10 Turkish Liras.
Original name is Christea Turris, meaning Tower of Christ. Built by the Genoese in 1348. Galata Tower was the tallest building in the city at that time. Used as an observation tower for spotting fires. According to the legend in the 17th century an Ottoman genius Hazarfen Ahmet Celebi flew from this tower with artificial wings over the Bosphorus. Today the tower is running as a night club with Turkish Belly Dance shows. It is possible to see great views of Istanbul from the top balcony. There is an elevator. The cost to take this elevator is 10 Turkish Liras.
Bereketzade Mosque
First mosque built in Istanbul in 1453 right after the conquest of the city. Named after Bereketzade Ali Efendi who is assigned as the governor of Galata by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet the Conquorer. In the premises there is a small cemetery.
First mosque built in Istanbul in 1453 right after the conquest of the city. Named after Bereketzade Ali Efendi who is assigned as the governor of Galata by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet the Conquorer. In the premises there is a small cemetery.
Camondo Stairs
Donated by the wealthy Sephardic Jewish banker Abraham Camondo in 1785. Built in baroque style for his children to easily climb the hill from the Banker Street up to the
fashionable 19th century neighbourhoods. Banker Street at that time was named after Camondo Family as Rue de Camondo. Camondo family at that time was among the wealthiest in the city. Abraham Salomon Camondo founded Ottoman Imperial Bank in Karakoy. Unfortunately there is no descendants left from this famous family. Abraham Salomon Camondo died in Paris at the age of 88 and buried at Haskoy, Istanbul. His last descendants were deported and murdered in Auschwitz Concentration Camps during WW2.
Donated by the wealthy Sephardic Jewish banker Abraham Camondo in 1785. Built in baroque style for his children to easily climb the hill from the Banker Street up to the
fashionable 19th century neighbourhoods. Banker Street at that time was named after Camondo Family as Rue de Camondo. Camondo family at that time was among the wealthiest in the city. Abraham Salomon Camondo founded Ottoman Imperial Bank in Karakoy. Unfortunately there is no descendants left from this famous family. Abraham Salomon Camondo died in Paris at the age of 88 and buried at Haskoy, Istanbul. His last descendants were deported and murdered in Auschwitz Concentration Camps during WW2.
British Seamen Hospital
It was built by a British artchitect as a quarantine hospital for British sailors during the Crimean War. Looks like a fort and having a tower which can be noticed in a far distance. Today runing by the Turkish government as an Eye Hospital.
It was built by a British artchitect as a quarantine hospital for British sailors during the Crimean War. Looks like a fort and having a tower which can be noticed in a far distance. Today runing by the Turkish government as an Eye Hospital.
Serdar-i Ekrem Street
The busiest, liveliest and the most popular street in Galata. Has many fancy designer boutiques, vintage shops, cafes, jewelry stores...
Named after a pasha of Ottoman Empire who has an Austrian origin, served as an high ranking officer for Ottoman State in the 19th century.
Famous Dogan Apartment (built 1895) is also located in this street. Many Turkish celebrities live here. The u shape building has breathtaking views of Istanbul.
The busiest, liveliest and the most popular street in Galata. Has many fancy designer boutiques, vintage shops, cafes, jewelry stores...
Named after a pasha of Ottoman Empire who has an Austrian origin, served as an high ranking officer for Ottoman State in the 19th century.
Famous Dogan Apartment (built 1895) is also located in this street. Many Turkish celebrities live here. The u shape building has breathtaking views of Istanbul.
Crimea Memorial Church
Built in 1858 in the memory of British soldiers who had participated in the Crimean War. All the stones are supplied from the island of Malta. It is the largest active protestant chuch in Istanbul. Weekly mass services on sundays are provided in this magnificent neo-gothic structure.
Built in 1858 in the memory of British soldiers who had participated in the Crimean War. All the stones are supplied from the island of Malta. It is the largest active protestant chuch in Istanbul. Weekly mass services on sundays are provided in this magnificent neo-gothic structure.
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Birgi is located at western part of Turkey. A town founded on the slopes of Mt. Bozdag.
It takes approx. 2 hours to drive from Kusadasi to Birgi. Travellers feel like being in an open air museum during their walks through the historical streets of Birgi.
First inhabitance dates back to 2000BC, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Aydinogullari Emirate and Ottomans ruled the town. The town had many names. During the Roman period the name of the town was Pyrigion (meaning fort in Ancient Greek). The word Birgi is derived from this name.
In the 14th century, Birgi became the capital of Aydinogullari emirate. During this time many mosques, baths and schools were built in the town. Majority of these builidngs were made of local stone and still standing.
The most attractive building in the town is Cakiraga Konagi. 250 years old mansion with ornate wall paintings. This house is one of the highlights to be visited in Birgi.
Travellers may enjoy walking through the streets of Birgi. A lunch at a local restaurant which serves home-made Turkish food can also be enjoyed.
Since 1996, Birgi is under preservation of Turkish Government and also a candidate to be a Unesco Heritage site.
Visit to Birgi town can be combined with Ancient City of Sardis. Sardis is an hour drive from Birgi or if it is tuesday, Tire Farmers Market can be visited.
For custom private tours of Birgi, Sardis and Tire, please contact us.
First inhabitance dates back to 2000BC, Phrygians, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, Aydinogullari Emirate and Ottomans ruled the town. The town had many names. During the Roman period the name of the town was Pyrigion (meaning fort in Ancient Greek). The word Birgi is derived from this name.
In the 14th century, Birgi became the capital of Aydinogullari emirate. During this time many mosques, baths and schools were built in the town. Majority of these builidngs were made of local stone and still standing.
The most attractive building in the town is Cakiraga Konagi. 250 years old mansion with ornate wall paintings. This house is one of the highlights to be visited in Birgi.
Travellers may enjoy walking through the streets of Birgi. A lunch at a local restaurant which serves home-made Turkish food can also be enjoyed.
Since 1996, Birgi is under preservation of Turkish Government and also a candidate to be a Unesco Heritage site.
Visit to Birgi town can be combined with Ancient City of Sardis. Sardis is an hour drive from Birgi or if it is tuesday, Tire Farmers Market can be visited.
For custom private tours of Birgi, Sardis and Tire, please contact us.
Touring Cakiraga Mansion in Birgi
Cakiraga Mansion in Birgi
Enjoy home-made Turkish lunch at a local restaurant.
Ornate decorations of Cakiraga Mansion
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Trip from Kusadasi to Dalyan
This week with my wife Ezgi we spent two wonderful days in Dalyan. It takes 3.5 hours one way from Kusadasi to Dalyan driving through Aydin City Center, Cine, Gokova Bay, Koycegiz...
Dalyan is a unique site. You do not really feel like being in Turkey but somewhere in Amazons. Breathtaking king tombs of Royal Lycian Kings carved into rocky hills. Dalyan houses the ancient Lycian city of Kaunos. Today Dalyan is a popular tourist town but not spoiled unlike many others like Kusadasi. You may enjoy great walks by the lake. It is located between two popular resort towns Marmaris and Fethiye. Nearby Iztuzu beach is a protected area for caretta caretta turtles (loggerhead sea turtle). Turtles are the symbols for Dalyan. With the river boats it is possible to see the turtles. On the way to Iztuzu beach your river boat will meander through bushes and 4th century BC Lycian King tombs.
Recommended for travellers:
- Lunch by one of the riverside restaurants. The area is known with blue crabs.
- Visit the ancient city of Kaunos. From town center there are shared river boats which will take you to the ancient city of Kaunos.
- Visit Iztuzu beach. Enjoy a great swim at the clear waters of this beach. Watchout turtle eggs and crabs.
- There is a mud bath opportunity but I do not really recommend it. It is stinky. It is the same mud thousands of people go in.
Recommended Hotel to Stay in Dalyan:
We stayed in BC Spa Hotel in Dalyan. We made our hotel booking throughbooking.com. We truely enjoyed our stay in BC Spa Hotel which is in walking distance to Dalyan town center. Right outside the hotel there is a beautiful walking track where we enjoyed a walk at knight by the Koycegiz river. We recommend BC Spa Hotel for travellers.
Make sure you add Dalyan stop during your tour to Turkey. This is a must see site. For more information, hotel recommendations and transport enquiries please do not hesitate contact me
Below please find some pictures of our trip to Dalyan:
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Salep is a Traditional Turkish Hot Drink
If you are travelling to Turkey in winter time you should try Salep. In some places it is also known as Sahlep. Tastes like melted white chocolate with cinnamon shavings on top.
Salep is made out of dried powdered root of Orcid. It is a traditional Turkish winter HOT drink. Have been served since the reign of Ottoman Empire. The starch is mixed with hot milk and some cinnamon on top.
Best place to have Salep is Ozsut Patiserie shops.
Salep, like Turkish Delight and Turkish coffee is a must to be experienced drink during your travel to Turkey. But it is only available in winter time.
Salep is also used for ice cream making in Turkey. A region called Maras is known with their sticky ice cream made out of Salep. Best to experience is Mado Patiserie pistacio ice cream.
Salep is made out of dried powdered root of Orcid. It is a traditional Turkish winter HOT drink. Have been served since the reign of Ottoman Empire. The starch is mixed with hot milk and some cinnamon on top.
Best place to have Salep is Ozsut Patiserie shops.
Salep, like Turkish Delight and Turkish coffee is a must to be experienced drink during your travel to Turkey. But it is only available in winter time.
Salep is also used for ice cream making in Turkey. A region called Maras is known with their sticky ice cream made out of Salep. Best to experience is Mado Patiserie pistacio ice cream.
Sahlep - Turkish Winter Drink
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Kusadasi town has been attracting cruise ships since 1950s.
Due to the prximity to the ancient city of Ephesus. A lot of cruise ships prefer to call to the Port of Kusadasi. Cruise ships has a major impact in the growth of Kusadasi. In 1950s Kusadasi was a small, agricultural town having couple of thousand inhabitants. Today we are talking almost 1000 cruise ship calls with thousands of tourists. For you to see the diffrence below please take a look at the below photos. Both of themare taken at the parking area of Kusadasi Port. One was taken in 1956 and the other was taken in 2011. Pictures talk
Kusadasi Port - 1956
Kusadasi Port Parking Area -2011
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A visit to Ephesus can take from 1 to 4 hours
Ephesus is a large ancient city. The city covers an area of 550 acres (224 hectares). It is the most excavated archaeological site of Turkey. A visit here can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours depending on your interest and pace. The site has two gates named as the Upper Gate, also known as the South Gate and the lower gate, also known as the North Gate. During the visit to the Ancient City of Ephesus, some guests also tour the Terrace Houses. Terrace Houses visit generally takes approximately 30 minutes.
You can travel back in time by walking through the preserved streets of Ephesus. Some spends an entire day visiting the site, but the average time needed once inside is about two to three hours. Like most Roman-built cities, Touring Ephesus is not difficult, but to avoid wasting time or in the summer days getting cooked under the sun, we recommend the guests to hire a private tour guide.
In our Private Ephesus Tours, we generally start the tour from the Upper Gate and end at the Lower Gate. If there is a driver waiting for us. This way saves us a lot of energy and time. For solo travelers who want to do this way, there are taxis that charge approximately 5 Euros to take you back to the Upper Gate.
Bring a hat and sunscreen no matter what season it is, and you can even ask for an umbrella in the summer. There is very little shelter from the sun, and two to three hours outside will make you feel more like exhausted than your healthy state. You'll also want snacks and plenty of water for all these walks. Inside, close to the Close to Celsus Library, there is one small convenience stand. Right outside the site there are numerous vendors who may help you with these necessities. There is no water fountains at the site that you can use to fill your water bottles. In Turkey, we do not drink tap water.
Ephesus was once an entire port city and the site now is huge! If you visit Ephesus with a tour guide, your itinerary will be well planned, so you won't have to worry. If not, plan ahead and come prepared to ensure you have a successful trip. For travelers who need a Ephesus tour guide, we do provide tour guide and private tour services. For more information, contact us.
You can travel back in time by walking through the preserved streets of Ephesus. Some spends an entire day visiting the site, but the average time needed once inside is about two to three hours. Like most Roman-built cities, Touring Ephesus is not difficult, but to avoid wasting time or in the summer days getting cooked under the sun, we recommend the guests to hire a private tour guide.
In our Private Ephesus Tours, we generally start the tour from the Upper Gate and end at the Lower Gate. If there is a driver waiting for us. This way saves us a lot of energy and time. For solo travelers who want to do this way, there are taxis that charge approximately 5 Euros to take you back to the Upper Gate.
Bring a hat and sunscreen no matter what season it is, and you can even ask for an umbrella in the summer. There is very little shelter from the sun, and two to three hours outside will make you feel more like exhausted than your healthy state. You'll also want snacks and plenty of water for all these walks. Inside, close to the Close to Celsus Library, there is one small convenience stand. Right outside the site there are numerous vendors who may help you with these necessities. There is no water fountains at the site that you can use to fill your water bottles. In Turkey, we do not drink tap water.
Ephesus was once an entire port city and the site now is huge! If you visit Ephesus with a tour guide, your itinerary will be well planned, so you won't have to worry. If not, plan ahead and come prepared to ensure you have a successful trip. For travelers who need a Ephesus tour guide, we do provide tour guide and private tour services. For more information, contact us.
Tour Ephesus and the surrounding area with a professional local guide
