Priene, Miletos and Didyma Tour from Kusadasi International Port
Priene, Miletos and Didyma are three important ancient Greek cities located in the western coast of modern-day Turkey, which are historically and culturally significant for the Ionian civilization. Each city has unique features that offer a glimpse into the lives of ancient Greeks and their architectural, religious and philosophical achievements.
Priene was a member of the Ionian League, an alliance of twelve Greek city-states founded in the early 7th century BCE. Although it never had a significant political influence, it was a prosperous port city with a central shrine of the Ionian League. Due to natural disasters, it was rebuilt three times, leaving behind impressive Hellenic art examples such as Bouleuterion, the Theater and the Temple of Athena, which are still visible today.
Miletos, located 20 kilometers south of Priene, was once the largest city in Anatolia and home to famous philosophers like Thales, Anaximander and Anaximenes. Its strategic location made it a vital commercial hub, and the symbol of the Olympic games is believed to have originated from the lighthouse of its biggest harbor. The city’s remains include the theater and Faustina Baths, which offer insights into the lifestyle and artistic achievements of the ancient Greeks.
Didyma, situated 20 kilometers further south of Miletos, was not a city, but a place of oracles and a center of the cult center for Miletus. The most famous attraction in Didyma is the Apollon Temple, one of the largest and most impressive temples in the Hellenic world, with its famous Medusa head. The oracle in Didyma was well-known in ancient times, and the temple complex attracted pilgrims from all over the Mediterranean world
Tour Program
- Upon your arrival, we can meet you at either Kusadasi Port or Kusadasi Marina.
- Our first stop will be at the ancient city of Priene, where we will have the opportunity to explore the ruins and learn about its rich history.
- From there, we will continue on to the ancient city of Didyma, where we will marvel at the grandeur of the Temple of Apollo.
- During our tour, we will break for lunch at a local Turkish restaurant, where you can savor some delicious traditional cuisine.
- Our final stop will be at the ancient city of Miletus, where we can wander through the streets and take in the impressive theater.
- At the conclusion of our tour, we will provide transportation back to either Kusadasi Port or Kusadasi Marina
PS:We can customize the schedule of this tour to align with your ship’s arrival and departure times. To ensure that we create the optimal itinerary for you, please provide us with the details of your ship’s schedule. We want to ensure that you have ample time to explore each of the ancient cities we will be visiting while also allowing sufficient time for you to return to your ship.
What’s Included?
- Entrance fees of the ancient cities
- Pick up & Drop off to Port
- Professional tour guide
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
What’s Not Included?
- Personal expenses
- Tips (optional)
- Drinks on lunch