The Weekly Kusadasi Bulletin
For the Week of Monday, January 19, 2026
Welcome back to the sun-kissed shores of Kusadasi, our little slice of Aegean perfection!
If you’re joining us this week, you’ve arrived in the quiet, cozy heart of the winter season. The pace is slower, the coffee is hotter, and the locals are chattier. It’s the perfect time to explore, when you can wander the ancient streets of Ephesus without feeling like you’re trying to find a sunbed at Ladies Beach in July. The real trick to winter in Kusadasi is mastering the art of the Turkish breakfast—it’s a feast so grand, you’ll need a historical site to walk it off afterwards. We're here to be your ultimate local insider, guiding you past the tourist traps straight to the good stuff. Grab your thickest sweater and let’s dive in!
Current Local Time: 06:00 AM
Weather Watch (Mon–Sun)
This week, expect cool, classic Aegean winter weather. It’s a week for layers and cozy cafes, not for swimming.
| Day | High (°C / °F) | Low (°C / °F) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, Jan 19 | 13°C (55°F) | 6°C (43°F) | Partly Cloudy |
| Tuesday, Jan 20 | 13°C (55°F) | 6°C (43°F) | Partly Cloudy |
| Wednesday, Jan 21 | 15°C (59°F) | 9°C (48°F) | Possible Rain |
| Thursday, Jan 22 | 14°C (57°F) | 8°C (46°F) | Partly Cloudy |
| Friday, Jan 23 | 14°C (57°F) | 7°C (45°F) | Cloudy |
| Saturday, Jan 24 | 12°C (54°F) | 8°C (46°F) | Possible Rain |
| Sunday, Jan 25 | 12°C (54°F) | 7°C (45°F) | Cloudy |
Packing/Vibe Tip: This is a week for a light jacket and a scarf. With the possibility of rain mid-week, tuck a compact umbrella into your day bag, especially if you’re heading to Ephesus. The evenings will be chilly, so a warmer coat is a must for those sunset dinners.
This Week's Pulse (News & Events)
Flashback: Just last week, a beautiful but un-developed local treasure, the Aslanlı Cave (Lion Cave) in the Kirazlı Neighborhood, was featured in the news as a destination for local adventurers. Known for a stalactite that resembles a lion, this hidden beauty is a reminder of the natural wonders just outside the main town center, which may soon be developed for wider tourism.
Local Scoop: Kusadasi's local government is focusing on promoting its natural and historical heritage. Meanwhile, Ege Port, our main cruise terminal, has recently completed the first phase of its solar energy investment project, a great step towards sustainable tourism for our town.
News in Turkey: The biggest national news for travelers is the continuation of the Turkish Lira’s value, which means your dollars, euros, or pounds will stretch further, offering exceptional value on dining and local goods. On a major tourism note, Turkey eliminated visa requirements for Chinese citizens on January 2nd, a move that has already caused a massive surge in flight searches and is expected to double the number of Chinese visitors in 2026. For safety, Kusadasi remains a safe destination, but national travel advisories always recommend avoiding the southeastern border provinces near Syria.
Cruise Corner (Ege Port): With only one confirmed cruise call this week, the area around Ege Port will be beautifully calm for most of the week. This is the ideal time to explore the shops and the Kale İçi (Old Town) district without the summer rush. Quick walking-distance recommendations for a quiet mid-morning coffee are the local spots just off the main bazaar street, where you can watch the world go by.
Cruiser's Compass: The winter season means fewer ships, but the market is buzzing with trends! Cruise tourism is seeing a surge in demand from younger travelers, notably Gen Z. This trend means cruise lines are constantly innovating with new itineraries and onboard experiences to attract a younger, more adventurous crowd. For you, this means keep an eye out for off-season deals and unique shore excursions that focus on culture and adventure, like a quiet winter tour of Ephesus or Pamukkale.
Taste of the Week: Aegean Seafood
This week, we’re celebrating the fresh bounty of the Aegean Sea. January is a prime time for certain fish, and the smaller crowds mean the service is personal and the catch is straight from the morning market.
- Spot 1: The Must-Try — Kazım Usta Restaurant.
- Renowned for its fresh fish, including turbot and gilt-head bream, this local favorite embraces traditional Turkish cooking methods, often preparing fish expertly grilled or cooked in a stone oven. It’s equally famous for its delicious and varied selection of mezes.
- Spot 2: A Hidden Gem — Bottarga Restaurant.
- This charming spot is a true culinary adventure. They often operate without a fixed menu, cooking whatever fresh catch was available at the market that morning. It’s highly praised for being a unique experience, offering something different from your usual Turkish fare.
- Spot 3: Great Atmosphere — Mezgit Restaurant.
- Located near the Marina, this restaurant offers a wide selection of seafood platters and mezes with a beautiful sea view. It’s perfect for a cozy, atmospheric dinner where you can watch the lights of the boats twinkle while enjoying your fresh meal.
The Planner (Daily Itinerary)
Relaxed Mid-week (Tues & Wed):
- Morning: Embrace the expat coffee culture. Find a cozy cafe in the Old Town (Kale İçi) for a Turkish coffee or salep (a warm, milky winter drink).
- Afternoon: Since rain is possible on Wednesday, make it an indoor culture day. Visit the Kusadasi Museum or spend a few hours getting lost (and finding treasures) in the covered Grand Bazaar.
- Evening: Head to a traditional meyhane (tavern) for mezes and raki, enjoying the slow, warm pace of winter dining.
Historical Friday (Fri):
- Morning/Lunch: Take a short, uncrowded trip to the magnificent ancient city of Ephesus. The cooler weather is perfect for walking the vast site.
- Afternoon: On your way back, stop in Selçuk to visit the stunning Basilica of St. John and the Isa Bey Mosque.
- Evening: Treat yourself to the "Must-Try" seafood dinner at Kazım Usta to celebrate a day of history and culture.
Active Weekend (Sat & Sun):
- Morning: Drive or take a local dolmuş (minibus) to the Dilek Peninsula-Büyük Menderes Delta National Park. Even in winter, the trails offer breathtaking views and quiet nature walks.
- Afternoon: Visit Pigeon Island (Güvercinada) for a scenic walk and a perfect photo opportunity of the castle.
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet, local experience with a hearty pide (Turkish pizza) dinner from a small, family-run spot in the back streets.
Cruise Ship Radar (Next 14 Days)
The winter season is a quiet time for the major cruise lines, but we do have one confirmed luxury call this week!
| Date | Ship Name |
|---|---|
| Fri, Jan 23 | Viking Star |
| Jan 24 – Feb 2 | Schedule currently unavailable. |
We are awaiting the confirmed port schedule for the remainder of this period. Keep an eye on the horizon!
See you next week! For more details on Ephesus tours, the best quiet beaches, and our favorite local guides, visit Kusadasi.biz.