A visit to Efes (Ephesus) - once the, commercial center of the ancient world - is a highlight of any visit to Turkey. The city, whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple, once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and rebuilt several times, dates in its latest form from the third century B.C. The ruins also include a theatre, gymnasium, agora and baths, as well as the Library of Celsius.

Selcuk

The nearby town of Selcuk is dominated by a Byzantine citadel which stands close to the 6th century basilica of St. John built on the site of the Apostle's tomb. The 14th century Isa Bey Mosque, next to the basilica is accessed through its typical Seljuk portal. The Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of statues and other finds recovered during the excavations of Ephesus. The nearby Turkish Bath Museum , built in the 16th century, shows Turkish life at the hamam (bath). The Ephesus International Festival is held annually in May.
It is recorded that St. John brought the Virgin Mary to Ephesus. after the death of Christ and that she spent her last days in a small house (Meryemana Evi) built for her on Bulbuldagi (Mt Koressos). Now a popular place of pilgrimage for Christians and Muslims the house has received the official sanction of the Vatican, and Christians observe a commemoration ceremony every year on August 15th.

Kusadasi

Back along the coast, Kusadasi, or Bird Island, is a lovely port built along the shores of a glittering bay. The terraced town overlooks the most beautiful inlet of the Aegean and seems to have been created purely for the delight of the holiday-maker. Be sure to visit the famous and popular Kus shopping center in the Kaleici quarter, where there is nightlong entertainment. A large, modern marina facilitates life for visiting yachters. Tusan-Kustur Beach, north of Kusadasi lies one of the cleanest beaches and 23 km south of Kusadasi is the charming holiday-resort town of Guzelcamli. West of Guzelcamli and 30 km from Kusadasi, is the Dilek Peninsula National Park, and a visit is a must for those with the time. Here amidst incredibly beautiful surroundings are some of the most wonderful views and some of the rarest wild animals in Turkey, including the Anatolian cheetah and some of Turkey's last wild horses, The park is a wildlife preserve and a haven for many species of animals and birds.