Aydın, Turkey – Travel

Although Aydın is the capital of Aydın Province in Turkey (Türkiye), with a population of over 250,000, it doesn't top the list of the most visited places in the region. Tourists tend to head to the charming coastal towns of Didim and Kuşadası. However, overlooking Aydın itself is a missed opportunity. Not only will visitors avoid crowds, but they will also experience a “Turkishness” sought by many travellers. The city has much to offer, and this Aydın Travel Guide will showcase its curiosities. Additionally, Aydın is an ideal starting point for visiting the nearby ancient ruins and sandy beaches of the province.

Aydın Tours

There are many things to do in Aydın. Visitors can explore its streets and markets and sample local cuisine at traditional restaurants. The city is surrounded by lush forests and the impressive Arapapıştı Canyon (Arapapıştı Kanyonu).

Aydın is well-connected by minivans to various regional attractions. Akin to Kuşadası, Didim, or Selçuk, it is a gateway for tours to some of Turkey’s most important ancient sites.

Aydın lies in the valley carved by the waterways of Asia Minor—the Great Menderes River (Büyük Menderes Nehri). Just 4 kilometres to the south flows another river, Çine. The imposing Aydın Mountains tower above the city to the north, their peaks reaching nearly two kilometres above sea level. These mountains are traversed by the E87 (031) highway, forming a vital connection between Aydın and İzmir on the Aegean coast via a state-of-the-art mountain tunnel. Eastward along the route lies the famed resort of Antalya, dubbed the “Turkish Riviera.”

Best Time to Visit Aydın

The best time to visit Aydın is late spring, between April and June, and early autumn, between September and October. Warm weather is perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring surrounding areas. Summer months, such as July and August, are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching 40 °C (104 °F).

Cold temperatures between November and March tend to keep tourists at a minimum. However, guests will enjoy fewer queues at major attractions.

Aydın Province is alive from May to September. This time of year also brings tourist swarms and high hotel rates, so booking a hotel well in advance, ideally a few months prior, is essential.

Key events and festivals:

1. Traditional Incirliova Camel Wrestling Festival (January)
2. Yenipazar Camel Wrestling Festival (February)
3. Efeler Gastronomy Festival (March)
4. Aydın Doğan International Cartoon Competition (October)
5. Alabanda Theatre Festival (October)
6. Aydın Köşk Fig and Shopping Festival (August)

History of Aydın

Aydın is the administrative seat of its namesake province in western Turkey. Historically, the ancient city was situated in the region that once belonged to the Lydian Kingdom.

Among the city’s most renowned natives were Anthemius of Tralles (Trallesli Anthemius), an esteemed ancient architect, and the mathematician Isidore of Miletus (Miletli İsidoros), both Byzantine Greeks. They co-designed the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Constantinople, one of the most significant architectural achievements of the Byzantine Empire.

Until the 14th century AD, the town was known as Tralles. Then, it was named Güzelhisar, meaning "beautiful fortress," by the emirate (beylik) of Menteşe (Menteshe), ruled by the Turks. Notably, this beylik had constituted a powerful naval fleet opposing the Order of Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem in the battle of Amorgos in 1312.

Later, following its capture by the Turkish Aydınid Dynasty, the name was changed to Aydın (lucid, enlightened).

A notable period in Aydın’s history was during the period of Emir Umur Ghazi, or Umur The Lion (Aydınoğlu Gazi Umur Bey), when the city became the centre of his naval expeditions, which his foes considered piracy. Notably, Pope Clement VI sent the Smyrniote crusades from 1343 against him. Umur Ghazi perished during a Smyrna battle in 1348.

More recently, due to the Greco-Turkish War that took place between 1919 and 1922, among others, in the early 20th century, approximately half of Aydın’s population was of Greek descent.

What to Do in Aydın?

Landmarks and Attractions in Aydın

This Aydın Travel Guide invites visitors to appreciate Aydın attractions and landmarks.

Those who want to get acquainted with the town can start walking through the busiest avenue of the Efeler district, Adnan Menderes Boulevard (Mahallesi), lined with buildings, cafes, and shops. The important landmark opposite the Town Hall is the Independence Monument (Bağımsızlık Anıtı). The highlight of the square is undoubtedly the large fountain whose water is illuminated in rainbow colours during evening shows.

Just behind the city hall, sightseers will find a two-arched historic bridge, Çavuş Köprüsü.

Built by Süleyman Çelebi or Emir Süleyman in 1683, the Süleyman Bey Mosque (Süleyman Bey Camii) is the oldest surviving mosque in Aydın.

Had it not been for the 1899 earthquake that destroyed the Ramazan Pasha Mosque (Ramazan Paşa Camii), it would have been older than the previously mentioned mosque in terms of age, as its original construction dates to 1595. The attractive speciality of the current structure, erected in 1901, is the Baroque-inspired interior décor.

A stone’s throw from the Ramazan Pasha Mosque lies the Salı Pazarı, the oldest market in Aydın.

A guest can imagine themselves as a nomad or a sultan who has found an ideal lodging for the night amid the ancient city, with its 300-year-long history, at the Nasuh Pasha Complex (Nasuh Paşa Külliyesi).

Located in downtown Aydın, the Hasan Çelebi Mosque, or Eski Yeni Camii, holds a wonderful marble pulpit and mihrab.

Finally, Kâzım Karabekir Street, named after the commander of the Eastern Army of the Ottoman Empire and dotted with multiple shops and restaurants, is a destination in its own right.

Aydın Museums

For anyone curious about the Aydın culture and history, there are at least two museums in the city and two outside Aydın.

Aydın Archaeological Museum (Aydın Arkeoloji Müzesi), next to the Forum Shopping Centre, has galleries exhibiting items from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods that can’t be found in other museums in Turkey. For example, it houses a bust of Athena from Tralles, statues of Nike and Eros, and much more, depicting the history of ancient cities in the province.

Leonardo Da Vinci’s 30 inventions, physics experiments, optical illusions, a pulley system, and a vortex experiment are just some of the interactive mathematical wonders the Tales Museum of Mathematics (Tales Matematik Müzesi) holds in store for guests. It is the only institution of its kind in Turkey. Even the most math-averse visitors will love to see numbers and various mathematical theories in action.

Many landmarks in Aydın, including Adnan Menderes University (Aydın Adnan Menderes Üniversitesi) and Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), are named after Adnan Menderes, a Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey between 1950 and 1960 and one of the founders of the Democrat Party (DP). The home where he spent his youth is now the Adnan Menderes Demokrasi Müzesi, a tribute to significant milestones in Menderes’s life. It displays documents associated with DP, his possessions, and the first tractor manufactured by Turkish Tractors and Agricultural Machinery Corporation.

A small biographical museum (Yörük Ali Efe Evi Müzesi) 30 kilometres from Aydın commemorates Yörük Ali Efe, an influential guerrilla leader in the Turkish War of Independence and one of the last zeybeks or Zeibeks, an ancient tribal population of western Anatolia, in Turkish history.

Theatres in Aydın

Theatres in Aydın embrace contemporary themes and experimental styles while maintaining a connection to the region's rich history.

Among the standout events celebrating this fusion is the annual Alabanda Theatre Festival (Alabanda Tiyatro Festivali), organised by Çine Municipality. This festival, held in the ancient city of Alabanda—a 40-minute drive from Aydın—showcases performances that merge historic settings with modern artistry. In October 2024, the festival's second edition captivated audiences with performances creating a unique dialogue between past and present.

Traditional Turkish theatre in Aydın includes traditional storytelling (meddah), improvisational comedy (orta oyunu), and village plays.

Modern theatre in Aydın incorporates experimental approaches, advanced stage techniques, and innovative themes. Contemporary performances often focus on personal struggles, gender equality, and political critique. Both professional troupes, like the Aydın State Theatre (Aydın Büyükşehir Belediyesi Şehir Tiyatrosu), and community groups, such as the Aydın Theatre Club (Aydın Amatör Tiyatrocular), contribute significantly to the city’s theatrical landscape.

Entertainment, Parks, and Shopping

Entertainment

Aydın’s entertainment scene caters to every taste. Ancient ruins around the town appeal to many tourists. And for a good reason, as highlighted in our Aydın Travel Guide. These are remnants of the oldest civilisations.

Adventures can begin by browsing Tralles, perched above the Menderes Basin, or the Ancient City of Alabanda, 35 kilometres away. Priene's well-preserved ruins, located 47 kilometres from Aydın, are considered the best examples of ancient architecture in the world. For those willing to drive farther, the striking Aphrodisias Ancient City (Afrodisias Antik Kenti) and the Magnesia Antique City (Magnesia Antik Kenti), each approximately 80 kilometres from Aydın, provide profound historical experiences.

Closer to the town, a mere 5 kilometres from downtown, Germencik is famed for its therapeutic hot springs. The hotels in this small settlement service luxurious spa treatments and soothing baths, perfect for a day of rejuvenation.

Among the things to do in Aydın in December is attending the annual Camel Wrestling Festival, a unique cultural spectacle. Koçarlı, 15 kilometres from the heart of Aydın, is one of the villages to witness this vibrant event.

Outdoor adventurers can embark on a day trip to the surreal landscapes of Pamukkale or engage in a thrilling jeep safari through Kuşadası’s rugged terrain. Though Aydın’s nightlife may not rival larger coastal towns, it still boasts several cosy clubs to unwind with a drink, enjoy live music, or dance. A simple evening stroll through the city reveals a tranquil charm, with illuminated buildings casting a warm glow across the town.

Parks of Aydın

The municipality created around two dozen parks in the city, many concentrated in its central neighbourhoods. These green spaces provide pleasant environments for active and passive recreation, catering to families with children and solo travellers alike. While most parks contain typical amenities like the cosy Nevzat Biçer Parkı, with its café near a fountain, they may not be eye-catching. Yet, Aydın is also home to standout sights worth exploring.

The Aytepe Picnic Area, perched on a forested hill, has plenty of space to roam, a restaurant, playgrounds, and picnic spots with the city’s stunning views.

A notable site is Aydın Tekstil Parkı. What once was a textile factory is now a 177-acre park with an art gallery, bike paths, and even an aqua park, among other facilities.

For those seeking a more immersive outdoor adventure, the real draw lies in the Dilek Peninsula-Büyük Menderes Delta National Park, a 40-minute drive from Aydın. Here, nature lovers will find a full range of activities, from visiting ancient ruins to sunbathing on picturesque beaches.

Additionally, Arapapisty Canyon (Arapapıştı Kanyonu), an hour’s drive from Aydın, is an impressive locale rich in historic cave tombs, including one that extends back to 2,500 years.

Shopping in Aydın

Aydin renders an impressive shopping scene that can sate every taste and budget. Many are conveniently located in the city’s largest shopping mall, Forum Aydın. For a more traditional shopping experience, a visit to Çakırbeyli Village Market (Çakırbeyli Köy Pazarı), just 11 kilometres from the city’s epicentre, is highly recommended. While Aydın’s central market, Salı Pazarı, features diverse goods, it lacks the Anatolian charm found in markets of the nearby villages.

For more substantial shopping, however, locals and visitors opt for a trip to Kuşadası, a more tourist hub about an hour's drive from Aydın.

Food in Aydın

Turkish Cuisine

After enjoying a day of adventure, here are some of the best spots for dining in Aydın.

Zincirli Han Hotel & Restaurant, a restored historical inn by Aydın Municipality, is a hotel and a restaurant today. Alongside local dishes, it serves a variety of kebabs and meat specialities. The high ceilings and authentic decorations capture the essence of the city.

Baba Şakir Restaurant is a popular meeting place in the evenings, known for its filling tandoori, accompanied by alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Bi Keyf-i Kahve Cafe Aydın Girne Kahvaltı Noktası is highly recommended for its delectable Turkish breakfasts and ambiance.

Those yearning for a tasty Italian pizza need to look no further than Venezia Italy Restaurant. Most agree Venezia’s offerings are the best in Aydın. These crispy pies are surprisingly affordable, given the high-quality ingredients involved.

The fun concept of having your car washed while you eat adds to the atmosphere of Kalyon Çöp Şiş. Though the portions of their tender çöp şiş (lamb shish kebab) are a bit small, the fresh bread, butter, and cheese, combined with fast service and complimentary tea, make it a memorable stop for tourists.

Yenipazarlı Kazım Usta is famed for its pide (bread stuffed with various toppings) and grilled dishes. While soup and döner are options, the must-try is the signature pide, followed by a tahini pide for dessert.

The locals’ picks among seafood restaurants are Aydin Et & Balik Restaurant and Balıkçı Yusuf Usta.

SARIOĞLU LOKANTASI 1953 has held a good reputation since 1953, the year it opened. Their stews and meat dishes are exceptional. Moreover, the menu includes vegetarian options like mercimek çorbası (Turkish lentil soup) and more.

Vegetarian Restaurants

Aydın may not have restaurants exclusively dedicated to vegetarian cuisine, but Turkish food culture naturally affords plenty of plant-based dishes. Many local restaurants and cafes are vegetarian-friendly, and visitors can easily enjoy delicious options by knowing which dishes to ask for.

One local favourite is kırlı kızartması, meaning “peasant fries,” a flavourful combination of aubergines, peppers, and tomatoes cooked in olive oil. Another dish is creamy black-eyed peas, or zeytinyağlı kuru börülce, made with bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, onions, celery, and olive oil.

For a unique taste, order kabak çiçeği dolması, courgette blossoms stuffed with rice and aromatic herbs, or yer elmasım, Jerusalem artichokes in olive oil—a staple during the fall and winter months.

These dishes are just a few examples of the many vegetarian delights readily available at most eateries throughout Aydın.

Coffee Houses, Bakeries, and Patisseries

With a fırın or Turkish bakery on almost every corner, the city of Aydın is home to traditional nibbles—from a caramel-like texture of kabak tatlısı (pumpkin dessert) and zerde to imported international treats like croissants and tarts. Likewise, the local patisseries lack no rustic loaf bread and flaky pastries. Here are some to check out in our Aydın Travel Guide.

Burcufirin Girne started as a small shop in İspir before expanding to Ankara and Aydın. This local artisan bakery crafts tasty bread and diverse pastries, including coffee and all sorts of juices.

A family-run bakery hidden away down on Hasan Efendi Mahallesi Street, Monet Coffee & Bakery, is a great place to stock up on freshly baked loaves, croissants, and other “afters.”

Situated in Aydın’s centre, the La Casseta Bakery is frequented for its caramel, raspberry, and blueberry cheesecakes.

City Transport in Aydın

Buses and Shuttles

Public transport in Aydın consists of the typical modes across Turkey: land, sea, rail, and air travel. Tourists prefer buses and dolmuşes (shared minibuses). Fares are paid directly upon boarding.

Taxis

Alternatively, travellers can opt for taxi services or rent a car (with a valid driver’s license) to explore the city and surroundings at their own pace. Nevertheless, most of Aydın’s attractions are easily accessible by foot, making it convenient to explore the town while walking.

Other Modes of Transport

The well-organised dolmuş routes make Aydın an ideal base for visiting the ancient ruins in the vicinity. Visitors can explore Nysa to the east, while to the south, along the Çine River valley, lie the fascinating ruins of Alinda, Alabanda, and Gerga (Gerga kutsal alanı), scattered on both sides of the road leading toward Muğla.

How to Get to Aydın?

Aydın does not have its own airport. Yet newcomers can easily access the town from other parts of Turkey due to its proximity to cities in the Aegean region. There are several daily flights from Europe to international airports in Turkey, such as İzmir Adnan Menderes International Airport (ADB).

Aydın is well connected by road and rail. The Aydın Bus Terminal outside the city operates regular bus services to nearly every city in Turkey. Additionally, high-speed train services run between İzmir, Aydın, and Denizli from the Aydın Train Terminal.

Those with a car can drive through the Aydın-Denizli and Aydın-Izmir highways. Alternatively, sea transport is available via the piers in Kuşadası and Didim.

Language Spoken in Aydın

Although Aydın is the capital of Aydin Province, it remains off the beaten path for most voyagers, who tend to favour the province’s more famous resorts like Kuşadası and Didim. English is not widely spoken in Aydın, so using a language app can be helpful when interacting with locals. One useful resource is Turkish for Tourists, a phrasebook app available on Google Play that can assist with basic Turkish communication.

Currency in Aydın

The Turkish lira is represented in Aydın using the symbol ₺ and the currency code TRY.

Travellers will find plenty of opportunities to exchange currency in Aydın, starting from the airport. Turkish ATMs are available throughout the town. Cards with Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and Plus will be accepted. It’s recommended to opt for charging in the local currency.

Tourists can convert their money for the Turkish lira at exchange offices or Turkish banks, though they may not get the best deals. Banks usually charge a commission, while most exchange boutiques do not charge a fee.

Cheques are not a good option to use in Turkey. With difficulty finding places that will cash them, visitors are better off using currency exchange offices or ATMs.

Security in Aydın

Aydın is generally a safe city for tourists, and as with many destinations, it’s essential to use common sense when travelling.

Staying informed by learning customs and laws before you travel is a good way to avoid cultural faux-pas and keep up with the travel advisories. It's helpful to have emergency numbers, embassy contact details, and a few basic phrases in Turkish stored in your phone to ease communication and be welcomed by the locals.

Like for any travel far from home, prepare for the unexpected by securing access to emergency funds. Stay vigilant in crowded areas, and secure valuables in your hotel safe. Avoid public Wi-Fi without a VPN. Consider booking an organised Aydın tour with reputable guides for added peace of mind and to fully immerse yourself in the culture of the region.

With a little preparation and awareness, Aydın can be enjoyed safely and comfortably.