The province capital of Aydin is known for its fine figs. In ancient times it was known as Tralleis and was the centre of a well-known sculpture school. The remains seen today are from the 2nd century AD. After 1186, the town came under Seljuk influence. The museum has displays from many different periods of time.

Kusadasi

Kusadasi, "Bird Island," is a lovely port built along the shores of a glittering bay around a tiny islet covered with flowers. It is a terraced town overlooking the most beautiful bay of the Aegean and seems to have been created purely for the delight of the vacationer.  The Kusadasi Marina is a large, modern facility with all services.

The Menderes Valley

The valley of the Menderes River, known to the West as the Meander, has been the cradle of civilizations. Set amidst pines, olives and oleander is the magnificent Camici (Bafa) Lake. It is a lovely, peaceful place to stay whether in a guest house or camping. To the east of the lake rise the five peaks of the Besparmak Mountains. The ruins of the ancient city of Heraklia are close to the lake while the ruins of Alinda are to be found on the eastern slopes of the Besparmak Mountains. The valley has witnessed the rise and fall of several great historical cities, notably Priene, Miletos, Didyma, Aphrodisias, and Hierapolis.

Gullubahce (Priene)

Priene was one of the most active ports of the Ionian Federation. Making the site of particular interest is the system of geometric planning introduced in the 4th century BC by Hippodamos of Miletos.

Milet (Miletos)

Miletos, like Priene, was a great lonion port and the native city of several philosophers and sages. The theatre itself justifies a visit. The ruins of the Faustina baths are well preserved and there is an archaeological museum.

Didim (Didyma)

Didyma only possesses a single monument, but it is nevertheless a marvellous site. The Temple of Apollo was one of the most sacred places of antiquity. Many times looted and burned, the sanctuary is still impressive and of an elegant beauty. The colossal temple was surrounded by a portico of double colonnades. Not far from the site is the beautiful beach of Altinkum where there are many guesthouses.

Geyre - Aphrodisias

The history of this city goes back a long way but the important part of the city was built in the 1st century BC. Some of the richest art finds have come from the excavations of this city which was dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and fertility. The buildings are handsomely adorned with marble that was carved with skill, producing remarkable temples, monuments, a theatre, baths, and a magnificent stadium. Their reputation for the exquisite finesse of their statuary and marble craftsmanship soon spread to other parts of the then known world. It thus became the Centre of the greatest sculpturing school of antiquity. A highlight of any visit are the marvellous sculptures now housed in the museum.