Priene

Sightseeing on wheels

Discover the historic sites of Turkey on a full-day trip from Kusadasi. Marvel at the ancient city of Miletus, visit the Temple of Athena in Priene, and admire the immense Temple of Apollo in Didyma. Begin with a convenient pickup from Kusadasi port, where your private guide and driver will be awaiting your arrival. Receive a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the day's itinerary. Sit back, relax, and soak in the scenic views as you journey through the picturesque Turkish countryside. Arrive in Priene to be greeted by the captivating ruins of this ancient Ionian city. Enjoy architectural wonders that date back to the 4th century BC. Go on a guided tour to see the Temple of Athena, the Bouleuterion, and the impressive theater. Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and imagine the bustling life that once thrived within these walls. Next, refuel with some local flavors with the included Turkish lunch. Continue to the ancient city of Miletus. Renowned as the birthplace of several renowned philosophers and thinkers, Miletus holds a special place in the annals of history. Here, witness the grandeur of the Theater, the majestic Faustina Baths, and the intricate mosaic floors of the Delphinium. Listen as your guide shares captivating tales and historical insights, let your imagination transport you back to the thriving metropolis that Miletus once was. Make your way to Didyma, the site of the Temple of Apollo, one of the most sacred sanctuaries of the ancient world. Marvel at the colossal columns that remain standing and explore the ruins that reveal the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of the Hellenistic era. Your guide will enlighten you with stories about the oracle and the mystical rituals that took place within these sacred walls. Bid farewell to the ancient cities and embark on your return journey to Kusadasi port. Reflect on the awe-inspiring sights you've encountered and the stories that have come alive during your private tour.

Our adventure begins in Priene, a jewel of classical Greek town planning. Stroll through the well-preserved streets that were once home to philosophers and scholars. Admire the Temple of Athena, a testament to architectural precision. Priene's unique blend of intellectual pursuits and urban design offers a glimpse into the intellectual heartbeat of ancient Greece. We then journey to Miletus, an ancient centre where trade routes intersected with intellectual exchange. The Great Theatre, an amphitheatre on a grand scale, reveals stories of entertainment and social gatherings. With its cultural richness, Miletus reveals the interconnected layers of trade and philosophy that shaped its glorious past. Our expedition ends in Didyma, home to the enigmatic Temple of Apollo. Explore the colossal columns and intricate architecture surrounding the sanctuary of the once revered Oracle. Feel the mystical energy of this sanctuary where guidance seekers once flocked. The splendour of the Didyma temple and the whispers of ancient prophecies bring a powerful end to our journey through these remarkable ancient wonders. An unforgettable journey awaits you!

Begin your day at the Kusadasi port, and enjoy a comfortable drive in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide and driver. Considered to be one of the most spectacular open-air museums in the world, the ancient city of Ephesus is a must-see for all visitors to Turkey. Walk the city's ancient marble streets, and envision the Romans bustling through thousands of years ago. Visit the stunning Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the spectacular Fountains of Trajan an Polio. Then make your way to the vast Great Theatre, whose 24,000 seat capacity was impressive especially during those ancient times. Continue the tour with a drive Priene, an ancient Ionian city dramatically overlooking the fertile plains of the Meander Valley. Afterwards, make your way to the ancient city of Miletus and that of Didyma, the setting for one of the most colossal temples in the Hellenic World, venerating the God Apollo. End the day back at the Kusadasi port.

Kicking off from your port or hotel in Kusadasi, the tour begins in the city of Priene. This 2,500-year-old Ionian city was among the first to be planned with a grid system of streets. Set dramatically at the foot of a mountain side, Priene overlooks the Meander River.  The tour then moves onto the ruins of Miletos, near the Aegean Sea. Here you can explore the ancient theatre, built around the 4th century BC, which once accommodated more than 15,000 spectators. Here you can visit the well-preserved Bath of Faustina, named after the wife of Marcus Aurelius who ordered its construction.  Finally the tour moves to Didyma, which was once connected to Miletos by a sacred road during the antiquity period. Here you will visit the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, one of the largest temples from the Hellenistic Period, before being transferred back to your cruise ship or hotel.

Day 1: Ancient Wonders of Ephesus Your journey begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring ancient city of Ephesus, where you'll walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans. Explore the remarkably preserved ruins, including the magnificent Library of Celsus, the colossal Grand Theater, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Discover the spiritual significance of the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence. A delightful lunch awaits, allowing you to savor local flavors while surrounded by the rich history of Ephesus. Day 2: Pamukkale's Natural Treasures Prepare to be enchanted by Pamukkale, often referred to as the "Cotton Castle." Witness the surreal terraces formed by calcium deposits from thermal waters, creating a cascading landscape of white pools. Your exploration continues in the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can wander through remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins, visit the impressive amphitheater, and take a dip in the rejuvenating hot springs. A delectable lunch complements the experience, offering a taste of local cuisine amidst the natural beauty of Pamukkale. Day 3: Discovering Priene, Miletos, and Didyma Venture into history as you explore the ancient cities of Priene, Miletos, and Didyma, each with its unique charm. Begin in Priene, where well-planned streets and structures reveal the city's former glory. In Miletos, the grand theater stands as a testament to ancient engineering, while Didyma boasts the awe-inspiring Temple of Apollo. Enjoy a flavorsome lunch, immersing yourself in the architectural marvels and historical significance of these ancient sites. Day 4: Pergamon's Historical Marvels Your final day of exploration takes you to Pergamon, another ancient gem. Ascend to the Acropolis, where you'll encounter remarkable ruins, including the Library of Pergamon and the Temple of Trajan. Explore the renowned Asclepion, an ancient medical center dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing. Conclude your journey through time with a fulfilling lunch, providing a moment to reflect on the wonders you've uncovered. Throughout your four-day adventure, each lunch is a delightful culinary experience, complementing your exploration of historical sites and architectural wonders. As you delve into the rich history and culture of these captivating destinations, you'll create lasting memories and gain a deeper appreciation for Turkey's ancient heritage.

Priene The ancient city Priene was important in the byzantine era, situated north of Miletus and south of Ephesus. The most important building in Priene is the temple of Athina on top of the hill .Also the theatre from Priene is worth a visit , with its 5 king chairs on the front row. The theatre could store 6500 people and it was constructed in the hellenistic era, it is the only theatre that is not being renewed by the romans.The acoustic is realy great in the theatre.Priene had a harbour and was based on the sea , and was one of the 12 city’s bonded with each other in ionic era.Priene was a rich city with luxe houses almost 33 procent of the citizens had their own bathroom with toilet , with is realy a high number in those years Miletus Miletus is located north of Didyma and south of Priene.Miletus was a coastel city and had 4 ports and was because of that one of the most important settlements in the ionian era. Its golden age was in the 6th and 7th centuries bc. In the hellenistic era a theatre was build for 5300 persons and it is enlarged by the romans to a capacity of 15000 persons. Near Miletus there is the Ilyas bey mosque from the year 1404 witch was used to pray but also used as a school. And also there is the miletus museum where jewelry and other foundings have been stored . Didyma Didyma was the centre of prophetic oracles The temple of Apollon in Didyma was planned as a dipteros witch means two rows of columns but it was never finished. It is a small ancient city but worth a visit.