G Turkiye

Category: Travel

  • What is the Blue Cruise

    What is the Blue Cruise

    1. What is the Blue Cruise?

    The Blue Cruise is a popular sailing experience along the southwestern coast of Turkey (mainly the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts). It involves cruising along the turquoise waters on traditional wooden boats, usually gulets, exploring hidden bays, secluded beaches, ancient ruins, and charming coastal towns.

    The name comes from the vivid blue color of the sea and sky combined with the relaxed, luxurious sailing lifestyle. It’s not just a cruise—it’s a cultural, historical, and nature adventure.

    2. Duration of a Blue Cruise

    • Short Cruise: 1–3 days, ideal for a weekend trip. Usually covers a few nearby bays.
    • Standard Cruise: 5–7 days, most popular for fully exploring the Turkish Riviera.
    • Extended Cruise: 10–14 days, perfect for visiting many islands, ancient cities, and remote beaches.

    3. Types of Boats

    Most Blue Cruises are done on gulets, but there are different options:

    1. Classic Gulet: Wooden, spacious, cozy, ideal for authentic experience.
    2. Modern Gulet: Wooden body with modern interior and navigation tools.
    3. Luxury Gulet: High-end gulets with deluxe cabins, jacuzzi, entertainment systems.
    4. Small Gulet / Yacht: Smaller boats for couples or small groups.

    4. Typical Blue Cruise Itinerary

    Here’s a sample 7-day Blue Cruise along the Turkish coast:

    1. Day 1: Bodrum / Marmaris
      • Board the gulet in the afternoon
      • Welcome drinks, orientation, and first dinner on board
    2. Day 2: Bozburun & Cleopatra’s Beach
      • Swim in crystal-clear waters
      • Explore local villages
    3. Day 3: Datça Peninsula & Knidos
      • Visit ancient city of Knidos
      • Anchor in hidden bays for swimming
    4. Day 4: Symi Island (Greece) or local Turkish bays
      • Explore colorful Greek or Turkish villages
      • Evening sailing under the stars
    5. Day 5: Fethiye – Ölüdeniz & Butterfly Valley
      • Swim in lagoons and scenic coves
      • Optional paragliding in Ölüdeniz
    6. Day 6: Göcek & Dalyan
      • Visit ancient Lycian tombs
      • Mud baths and river cruise in Dalyan
    7. Day 7: Return to Marmaris / Bodrum
      • Breakfast, farewell, and disembark

    Most cruises are flexible; routes can be tailored to weather, preferences, or islands to visit.

    5. Activities on a Blue Cruise

    • Swimming & Snorkeling: Explore hidden coves and crystal waters
    • Hiking: Visit ancient ruins and scenic viewpoints
    • Diving / Water Sports: Some gulets provide snorkeling and paddleboards
    • Cultural Visits: Small villages, local markets, Lycian tombs, and Greek islands
    • Relaxation: Sunbathing, reading, stargazing, and enjoying freshly cooked meals onboard

    6. What’s Included in a Typical Blue Cruise

    • Accommodation in cabins (shared or private)
    • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
    • Crew service (captain, cook, sometimes a deckhand)
    • Water, tea, and coffee
    • Some cruises include alcohol or soft drinks; check the package

    Optional costs: Excursions, diving, wine, or transfers to/from airports.

    7. Best Time for Blue Cruise

    • Peak Season: June–September (warm sea, sunny days, calm seas)
    • Shoulder Season: April–May and October (fewer crowds, mild weather)
    • Off-Season: November–March (many gulets inactive, cooler waters)

    8. Popular Starting Points

    • Bodrum – Vibrant nightlife, close to Greek islands
    • Marmaris – Marina hub with many gulets and beaches
    • Fethiye / Göcek – Scenic coves, ideal for Lycia exploration
    • Antalya / Kaş – Less crowded, more remote bays

    9. Tips for Travelers

    • Pack lightweight clothes, swimwear, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes
    • Bring cash for small local purchases
    • Internet may be limited; enjoy a digital detox
    • Respect local customs and nature
    • If prone to seasickness, take medication or acupressure bands

    10. Blue Cruise vs. Regular Cruise

    FeatureBlue CruiseRegular Cruise
    VesselWooden gulet / yachtLarge ferry / cruise ship
    FocusNature, culture, small baysEntertainment, big ports
    Passengers8–20Hundreds to thousands
    PaceSlow, flexibleScheduled, fast
    MealsHome-cooked on boardBuffet / restaurant
    DestinationHidden coves, small islandsPopular ports only

    Blue Cruises are the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, swim in turquoise bays, or simply sunbathe with a cocktail, the Blue Voyage has it all.

  • Beaches and Coves Around the Bodrum Peninsula

    Beaches and Coves Around the Bodrum Peninsula

    The Bodrum Peninsula, located on Turkey’s southwestern Aegean coast, is famous for its turquoise waters, hidden coves, sandy beaches, and charming coastal villages. Stretching along this scenic coastline are numerous bays and beaches, each offering its own unique atmosphere – from lively resort areas to untouched natural retreats.

    Below is a guide to some of the most beautiful beaches and coves around Bodrum.

    Ada Bogazi (Aquarium Cove)

    Located between Gumusluk and Bitez, Aquarium Cove (Akvaryum Koyu) is one of the most famous swimming and boating spots in the region. Stretching approximately three kilometers southward, it faces Gorecik Island, also known as “ic Island.”

    The narrow strait between the island and the Bodrum Peninsula gives the area its name – Aquarium – due to its exceptionally clear waters. On calm days, the seabed can be seen up to 30 meters below the surface with remarkable clarity.

    This cove is a popular stop for daily boat tours, and in the evenings it becomes a peaceful anchoring point for yachts and sailing boats.

    Akyarlar Cove

    Situated about 13 km from Bodrum, Akyarlar is known for its pristine beach and crystal-clear waters. The area enjoys steady winds, making it one of the best surfing and windsurfing locations in the region.

    Historically known as Arhialla, Akyarlar offers both natural beauty and strong coastal winds, making it ideal for water sports enthusiasts.

    Aspat Beach

    Aspat, historically referred to as Aspartos, is a striking coastal area rich in history and natural beauty. Frequently mentioned in Turkish folk literature and in the writings of Evliya Celebi, Aspat is dominated by a rocky hill crowned with the remains of Aspat Castle.

    The castle perimeter measures approximately 700 paces, and the surrounding area contains archaeological remains dating back to the Classical Age, reflecting continuous settlement through different civilizations.

    Bagla Beach

    Bagla is one of the most peaceful and naturally preserved coves on the Bodrum Peninsula. Located around 14 km from Bodrum, it is an excellent destination for camping, swimming, and escaping the busier tourist areas.

    Bardakci Beach

    Only about 500 meters from Bodrum center, Bardakci Beach is easily accessible, often by boat. Known for its calm, crystal-clear waters, the beach is also fed by natural freshwater springs, giving the sea a refreshing feel.

    Bitez Beach

    Located around 10 km from Bodrum, Bitez is one of the most charming and well-balanced beaches on the peninsula. It features a long sandy shoreline, warm shallow waters, and a peaceful atmosphere.

    Surrounded by olive, citrus, and pine trees, Bitez blends nature and coastal life beautifully. Its slightly cooler waters compared to other bays make it especially refreshing during the summer months.

    Gumbet Beach

    Just 3 km west of Bodrum, Gumbet is one of the most vibrant and lively beach areas on the peninsula. Its shallow waters and long sandy shore make it ideal for swimming and water sports, particularly windsurfing.

    The area is also known for its energetic nightlife and tourist-friendly environment.

    Gundogan

    Located 18 km from Bodrum, Gundogan is one of the least developed and most naturally preserved bays on the peninsula. Surrounded by tangerine orchards and green hills, it offers a calm and authentic Aegean atmosphere.

    Gumusluk

    Gumusluk is one of the oldest settlements in the region and is famous for its archaeological and underwater heritage. Remains of an ancient harbor wall connecting Tavsan Island to the mainland can still be seen beneath the sea.

    The area is also renowned for its seafood restaurants and unforgettable sunsets over the Aegean Sea.

    Guvercinlik Beach

    Located approximately 25 km from Bodrum, Guvercinlik Bay offers a stunning combination of green hills and deep blue waters. Salih Island lies just across the bay, enhancing its natural scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

    Kadikalesi

    Situated 23 km from Bodrum, Kadikalesi features sandy beaches surrounded by citrus groves. The area takes its name from the remains of a nearby Hellenistic-era castle, adding historical significance to its natural beauty.

    Karaincir Beach

    About 16 km from Bodrum, Karaincir is known for its long sandy beach and calm, shallow waters. The beach stretches for approximately 500 meters and is considered one of the best swimming areas in the region.

    Ortakent – Yahsi Beach

    Located 14 km from Bodrum, Ortakent–Yahsi is famous for its warm waters, long sandy coastline, and scenic surroundings. The area is also known for its tangerine orchards and traditional village atmosphere, offering a blend of local life and tourism.

    Torba Beach

    Only 5 km from Bodrum, Torba is a peaceful seaside village surrounded by pine forests and olive trees. Despite its calm atmosphere, it remains lively with boutique hotels and seaside restaurants.

    From Torba, boat trips are available to historical destinations such as Didim, Milet, and Priene.

    Turgutreis Beach

    Located 20 km from Bodrum, Turgutreis is one of the largest and most developed towns in the region, second only to Bodrum itself in population.

    Named after the famous Ottoman admiral Turgut Reis, the town is especially known for its breathtaking sunsets and vibrant weekly markets.

    Turkbuku Beach

    Situated near Golkoy, about 15 km from Bodrum, Turkbuku is a stylish and tranquil resort area. It is favored by visitors seeking relaxation in a refined coastal environment, with calm waters and elegant seaside venues.

    Yalikavak Beach

    Yalikavak combines traditional Aegean charm with modern luxury. Once a quiet fishing village, it has evolved into one of Bodrum’s most desirable destinations while still preserving its authentic atmosphere.

    The town is known for its marina, scenic hills, and beautiful sunsets, making it a perfect balance between old-world character and contemporary coastal living.

    The Bodrum Peninsula offers an extraordinary variety of beaches and coves, each with its own identity – from lively tourist centers to untouched natural bays. Whether you seek adventure, history, relaxation, or vibrant nightlife, Bodrum’s coastline delivers an unforgettable Aegean experience.

  • Where Should I Stay in Turkey

    Where Should I Stay in Turkey

    Turkey offers one of the most diverse accommodation landscapes in the world, catering to every type of traveler—from luxury seekers and business professionals to backpackers, families, honeymooners, and cultural explorers. Whether you dream of waking up in a cave hotel overlooking Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, relaxing at a beachfront resort on the Mediterranean coast, or staying in a beautifully restored Ottoman mansion in a historic city, Turkey has accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style.

    With a well-developed tourism infrastructure, high hospitality standards, and thousands of licensed hotels, guesthouses, resorts, and boutique properties, finding the perfect place to stay is easy throughout the country.

    Accommodation in Major Cities

    Istanbul: Where History Meets Luxury

    Istanbul

    Turkey’s largest city offers an extraordinary range of accommodations, from internationally renowned luxury hotels to stylish boutique properties and budget-friendly hostels.

    Popular areas include:

    • Sultanahmet – Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to stay near major historical attractions.
    • Beyoğlu and Taksim – Ideal for nightlife, shopping, dining, and entertainment.
    • Karaköy and Galata – Trendy neighborhoods filled with boutique hotels and cultural attractions.
    • Beşiktaş and Bosphorus districts – Home to many of Istanbul’s finest luxury hotels.

    Visitors can choose from:

    • Five-star international hotel chains
    • Boutique heritage hotels
    • Luxury Bosphorus waterfront properties
    • Modern business hotels
    • Budget hostels and guesthouses

    Ankara: Turkey’s Modern Capital

    Ankara

    As Turkey’s capital, Ankara offers numerous high-quality business and convention hotels, particularly around government districts and commercial centers.

    Accommodation options include:

    • International hotel brands
    • Business-focused hotels
    • Boutique city hotels
    • Serviced apartments

    Ankara’s hotels are particularly popular among business travelers, diplomats, and visitors exploring the city’s museums and historical sites.

    Izmir: Gateway to the Aegean

    Izmir

    Located on the Aegean coast, Izmir combines urban sophistication with a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

    Travelers can choose from:

    • Seafront luxury hotels
    • Boutique accommodations
    • Business hotels
    • Family-friendly resorts

    The city also serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions such as ancient Ephesus and the coastal towns of the Aegean region.

    Coastal Resorts and Beach Destinations

    Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean coastlines feature some of Europe’s most attractive holiday accommodations.

    Antalya

    Often referred to as the Turkish Riviera, Antalya offers:

    • Luxury all-inclusive resorts
    • Family-friendly beach hotels
    • Spa and wellness retreats
    • Golf resorts
    • Boutique accommodations in the historic old town

    The region is especially popular with families, honeymooners, and beach lovers.

    Bodrum

    Bodrum is Turkey’s premier luxury coastal destination.

    Accommodation highlights include:

    • Exclusive seaside resorts
    • Boutique luxury hotels
    • Private villa rentals
    • Stylish marina properties

    The town attracts international travelers, yacht owners, and visitors seeking upscale nightlife and dining experiences.

    Fethiye

    Fethiye combines natural beauty with diverse accommodation options.

    Visitors can choose:

    • Beach resorts
    • Boutique hotels
    • Family pensions
    • Eco-lodges
    • Yacht accommodations

    The area is famous for its turquoise waters, outdoor adventures, and scenic coastal landscapes.

    Kuşadası

    One of Turkey’s most established resort destinations, Kuşadası offers:

    • Large beachfront resorts
    • Family hotels
    • Budget-friendly accommodations
    • Cruise traveler facilities

    Its proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus makes it particularly attractive for cultural tourism.

    Cappadocia’s Unique Cave Hotels

    A Truly Unique Turkish Experience

    Cappadocia

    Perhaps nowhere else in the world offers accommodation quite like Cappadocia.

    Many hotels have been carved directly into volcanic rock formations and ancient cave dwellings, creating unforgettable lodging experiences.

    Guests can enjoy:

    • Authentic cave rooms
    • Luxury cave suites
    • Panoramic rooftop terraces
    • Balloon-view breakfasts
    • Historic architecture blended with modern comfort

    Staying in a cave hotel is often considered one of the highlights of a trip to Turkey.

    Boutique and Historic Hotels

    Turkey’s rich architectural heritage has inspired the restoration of numerous historic buildings into charming boutique accommodations.

    Examples include:

    • Ottoman mansions
    • Traditional stone houses
    • Historic merchant residences
    • Restored townhouses
    • Converted monasteries and heritage buildings

    These properties are particularly common in:

    • Istanbul
    • Safranbolu
    • Cappadocia
    • Şirince
    • Mardin
    • Antalya’s Kaleiçi district

    Boutique hotels provide travelers with a more intimate and authentic experience while preserving local architectural traditions.

    Resort Villages and All-Inclusive Holidays

    Turkey is one of the world’s leading all-inclusive holiday destinations.

    Many coastal resorts offer:

    • Unlimited dining and beverages
    • Swimming pools
    • Private beaches
    • Entertainment programs
    • Children’s clubs
    • Spa and wellness facilities
    • Sports and water activities

    These resorts are particularly popular along the Mediterranean coast, especially around Antalya, Belek, Side, and Alanya.

    Budget Accommodation

    Travelers on a budget will find excellent value throughout Turkey.

    Options include:

    • Hostels
    • Guesthouses
    • Family-run pensions
    • Budget hotels
    • Apartment rentals

    Many smaller establishments offer warm hospitality, local knowledge, and personalized service at affordable prices.

    Hotel Classification and Quality Standards

    A large number of Turkish hotels are officially licensed and inspected by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

    Hotels are typically classified using a:

    • ★ One-Star
    • ★★ Two-Star
    • ★★★ Three-Star
    • ★★★★ Four-Star
    • ★★★★★ Five-Star

    system that helps travelers evaluate:

    • Service quality
    • Facilities
    • Comfort levels
    • Safety standards
    • Available amenities

    This classification provides confidence when selecting accommodations across the country.

    Accommodation Recommendations by Travel Style

    Luxury Travelers

    • Istanbul Bosphorus Hotels
    • Bodrum Luxury Resorts
    • Antalya Five-Star Resorts
    • Cappadocia Luxury Cave Suites

    Families

    • Antalya All-Inclusive Resorts
    • Belek Family Resorts
    • Kuşadası Beach Hotels
    • Fethiye Holiday Villages

    Couples and Honeymooners

    • Cappadocia Cave Hotels
    • Bodrum Boutique Resorts
    • Coastal Boutique Retreats
    • Luxury Bosphorus Properties

    Cultural Travelers

    • Sultanahmet Historic Hotels
    • Safranbolu Heritage Houses
    • Mardin Stone Mansions
    • Boutique Hotels in Old Town Districts

    Budget Travelers

    • Hostels in Istanbul
    • Family Pensions along the Aegean Coast
    • Budget Hotels in Major Cities
    • Guesthouses in Cappadocia

    Turkey’s accommodation offerings are as diverse as its landscapes and cultures. From luxurious seaside resorts and world-class city hotels to historic mansions, cave dwellings, and family-run guesthouses, visitors can find lodging that perfectly matches their interests, budget, and travel style.

    Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Istanbul, relaxing on the turquoise shores of the Mediterranean, discovering ancient civilizations in Anatolia, or watching hot-air balloons rise over Cappadocia at sunrise, Turkey provides exceptional places to stay that enhance every journey and create unforgettable travel memories.

  • A treasure house of history and culture, Great Travel, Great Times!

    A treasure house of history and culture, Great Travel, Great Times!

    A treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, Turkey serves as a gateway between Europe and Asia, offering visitors a unique blend of East and West. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage, Turkey has become one of the most attractive destinations for meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions (MICE), and corporate events.

    Combining modern business facilities with breathtaking landscapes, ancient landmarks, and renowned hospitality, Turkey provides an exceptional setting for both professional gatherings and leisure travel. Visitors can enjoy luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art conference centers, excellent transportation networks, and countless opportunities for sightseeing and entertainment. Furthermore, Turkey offers outstanding value for money, often providing high-quality services at a lower cost than many competing international destinations.

    Strategic Location and Easy Accessibility

    Turkey’s unique geographical position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East makes it an ideal meeting point for international business travelers. Major European cities are only a few hours away by air, while direct and connecting flights link Turkey with destinations across North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

    The country’s modern airports, led by the impressive Istanbul Airport, provide convenient access to major Turkish cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya. National carrier Turkish Airlines, together with numerous international airlines, operates extensive global networks, making travel to Turkey simple and efficient.

    Istanbul: A World-Class Conference and Tourism Hub

    As Turkey’s largest city and cultural capital, Istanbul is among the world’s most captivating destinations for conferences, conventions, and incentive programs. Straddling two continents and overlooking the magnificent Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul offers a unique atmosphere that few cities can rival.

    The city boasts a wide range of luxury hotels, international conference centers, exhibition venues, and modern business facilities. Beyond business activities, visitors can explore extraordinary historical landmarks such as:

    • Hagia Sophia
    • Blue Mosque
    • Topkapi Palace
    • Grand Bazaar
    • Basilica Cistern

    Istanbul’s vibrant culinary scene, luxury shopping, nightlife, and cultural attractions provide endless opportunities for delegates and accompanying guests.

    Izmir and the Aegean Coast

    Located on Turkey’s western coast, Izmir is a modern and cosmopolitan city known for its palm-lined boulevards, Mediterranean lifestyle, and proximity to some of the country’s most important historical sites.

    As the gateway to the Aegean Region, Izmir provides easy access to a collection of charming coastal destinations ideal for corporate retreats, incentive travel, and executive meetings, including:

    • Kusadasi
    • Bodrum
    • Marmaris
    • Fethiye

    These resorts offer luxury marinas, boutique hotels, pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and numerous recreational activities such as sailing, diving, and yacht cruises. The nearby ancient city of Ephesus is one of the Mediterranean’s most remarkable archaeological treasures and a popular excursion destination.

    Antalya and the Turkish Riviera

    The Mediterranean city of Antalya is one of Turkey’s leading tourism and conference destinations. Known as the heart of the Turkish Riviera, Antalya enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an attractive year-round destination.

    Visitors can experience:

    • Spectacular sandy beaches
    • Luxury seaside resorts
    • Championship golf courses
    • Modern conference facilities
    • Ancient archaeological sites
    • Scenic mountain landscapes

    Nearby coastal regions and resorts offer excellent venues for international meetings and incentive programs while allowing participants to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

    Ankara: Turkey’s Dynamic Capital

    As the capital of Turkey, Ankara serves as the country’s political and administrative center. The city features modern business districts, sophisticated hotels, international-standard conference facilities, fine dining establishments, and an efficient transportation network.

    Ankara also serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the extraordinary region of Cappadocia. Famous for its surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys, underground cities, and rock-carved churches, Cappadocia offers one of the most unique cultural and natural experiences in the world.

    Bursa and Uludağ

    The historic city of Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, combines rich heritage with modern hospitality facilities. Surrounded by lush greenery and historic monuments, Bursa is renowned for its thermal spas, wellness resorts, and traditional Ottoman architecture.

    Just outside the city lies Uludağ, one of Turkey’s premier ski destinations. During winter, Uludağ attracts visitors from across the region for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain recreation, while the surrounding area remains popular year-round for nature tourism.

    Outstanding Hospitality and Event Infrastructure

    Turkey has invested heavily in tourism and business infrastructure, enabling it to host events of every scale—from executive board meetings and incentive programs to large international congresses and exhibitions.

    Key advantages include:

    • Modern convention and exhibition centers
    • Luxury international hotel chains
    • Advanced transportation networks
    • Experienced event management services
    • Competitive pricing and excellent value
    • Diverse leisure and cultural activities
    • High-quality cuisine and internationally acclaimed wines

    Turkey’s long-standing tradition of hospitality ensures that visitors receive warm, professional service throughout their stay.

    An Unforgettable Business and Travel Experience

    Whether hosting a multinational conference in Istanbul, organizing an incentive trip along the Aegean coast, conducting meetings in Ankara, or enjoying a corporate retreat on the Mediterranean Riviera, Turkey offers an unmatched combination of business efficiency, cultural richness, and natural beauty.

    With its strategic location, world-class facilities, remarkable historical heritage, stunning coastlines, exceptional hospitality, and competitive costs, Turkey continues to rank among the world’s most appealing destinations for meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions, and corporate travel. Any event organized in Turkey is not only professionally rewarding but also an unforgettable cultural experience for every participant.

  • Priene is one of the best-preserved examples from Antiquity to the present day

    Priene is one of the best-preserved examples from Antiquity to the present day

    The ancient city of Priene, located in the south of Ephesus, offers the magnificent features of a city dating back to the 4th century. The ancient city of Priene is located 15 kilometers southwest of the Söke district of Aydın, on the southern slopes of Samsun Mountain (Mykale). The first information about this city, which was included in the Ionian League, is found in ancient sources in the 7th century BC. The city was rebuilt in the middle of the 4th century BC on the basis of the plan named after Hippodamos of Miletus. Priene was an episcopal center during the Byzantine period. The city, which is gradually moving away from the sea due to the alluvium carried by the Menderes River, has lost its value over time. It is known that Priene was completely evacuated in the 13th century.

    The fact that the city was built on a steep cliff offered an advantage in terms of defense. Priene is one of the best preserved examples of urban planning from Antiquity to the present day. In this respect, it is extremely important to comprehend the development of urban planning in Anatolia and to set an example for contemporary planning practices. Priene was designed by the famous city planner Hippodamos of Miletus and designed the city on a chessboard plan, with the streets of the Bosphorus intersecting each other at right angles. The main streets run in the east-west direction, and the secondary streets run in the north-south direction. As a whole city, it faces south. This arrangement allowed the Priene houses to receive sunlight in the winter months and the mouths to the roofs of the houses in the summer.

    The plan of Hippodamos divided the city into insulas or islands. Each rectangle measures the area… He had either four houses or an official building. Some structures, such as the stadium and the theater, did not fit into the city plan due to their shape and/or size. In addition to urban planning, there are three monuments that visit Priene: The Priene theater is one of the best examples of Greek-type theaters. This horseshoe-shaped theater is built on the hillside and has a seating capacity of 5000 people. The theater has undergone renovations in different periods of history.

    The Temple of Athena, located about 100 meters above sea level and the Menderes Valley, attracts the attention of visitors. Designed by architect Pytheos, who was also the architect of the Mausoleum in Halicarnassus, this Ionic temple became one of the most famous monuments in Ionia. After his temple in Priene, Pyteos published a book explaining the principles of Ionian architecture. The attributes for which he used this temple became the canonical orders of Ionic architecture.

    In the center of the ancient city, there are many monumental buildings built by well-known architects of the period and skillfully integrated into the city plan. Among the prominent buildings of the city are the Temple of Demeter, the Temple of Athena, the agora, the Temple of Zeus, the bouleuterion, the upper gymnasion, the lower gymnasion, the Temple of the Egyptian Gods, the residence of Alexander the Great, the Byzantine church, and the necropolis area. The theater, another important structure of the city, was built in 350 BC and has a capacity of 5 thousand people. In addition to these, the houses of Priene, one of the best-preserved examples of its kind from the Late Classic and Hellenistic periods, provide valuable information about the settlement history. In this respect, the city is described as the “Pompeii of Anatolia”.

    Buleterion
    The third interesting building in Priene is its charming town hall with seating capacity of 640 people. Town hall where the members of the city council used to meet on the special days of the week was covered over with a wooden roof. The Buleterion is entered through two major doors.