Kusadasi Weekly Bulletin - June 22, 2026

Welcome to Kusadasi

Summer has officially claimed the coastline this week in Kusadasi, bringing endless blue skies, perfect sea temperatures, and buzzing waterfront evenings. Whether you are here to lounge on our sandy beaches, browse the vibrant local markets, or enjoy a fresh fish dinner as the sun dips below the horizon, the energy in town is unmatched.

Meanwhile, back in the realm of political theater, we must extend our warmest, most ironic congratulations to the Turkish justice system for the swift arrest of our very own CHP Mayor, Ömer Günel, on bribery and extortion charges. How comforting it is to see the law applied with such exquisite, laser-targeted precision to opposition figures. It is almost as if being elected under the CHP banner carries an automatic, politically motivated reservation in court, a privilege recently shared by other prominent opposition figures, most notably Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Naturally, the European Union has responded with its signature, deeply moving display of utter silence, proving once again that their selective concern for democracy and the rule of law stops exactly where convenient diplomatic calculations begin. But do not let these minor political sideshows distract you from the glorious Aegean sunshine.

Quick Links: Beaches | Ephesus Guide | Cruise Arrivals | Restaurants

Weather This Week

Monday: 32C (90F) - Sunny
Tuesday: 32C (90F) - Sunny
Wednesday: 33C (91F) - Sunny
Thursday: 33C (91F) - Sunny
Friday: 32C (90F) - Sunny
Saturday: 32C (90F) - Sunny
Sunday: 32C (90F) - Sunny

Packing Tip: High SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are your best friends during these hot, bright summer days.

This Week in Kusadasi

What's Happening: The summer season is in full swing with daily boat trips departing from the harbor and the local water parks operating at peak hours. Beach clubs along Ladies Beach and Long Beach are hosting sunset DJ sessions and beachside gatherings throughout the week. It is the perfect time to explore Pigeon Island Castle in the cooler late afternoon hours.

Turkey Travel Update: The Turkish Lira exchange rate is hovering around 46.45 TRY to 1 USD and 53.30 TRY to 1 EUR, offering excellent purchasing power for international travelers. No major visa changes or flight disruptions have been reported at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, making arrivals smooth and straightforward.

Port & Cruise News: Ege Port is exceptionally busy this week with multiple double and triple ship days. For passengers with limited port time, the Kusadasi Grand Bazaar and Scala Nuova shopping village are directly walkable from the terminal exit. If you plan to visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus, we highly recommend booking a private tour in advance to bypass the heavy port crowds. Read our full cruise schedule and cruise passenger guide.

Where to Eat This Week

Our dining theme for this week is Aegean Seafood, celebrating the freshest daily catches and classic mezes along the waterfront.

[Mezgit Restaurant] - [Ataturk Boulevard, Marina Area]. Order the roasted octopus or the stuffed calamari, which are prepared to perfection at this highly rated, family-run local favorite.
[Kazim Usta] - [Mahmut Esat Bozkurt Caddesi, Port Area]. A legendary local establishment operating since 1950, famous for its grilled sea bass and traditional hot shrimp starters served right by the harbor.
[Kule Seafood Restaurant] - [Mahmut Esat Bozkurt Caddesi, Harbor Area]. Enjoy the rich fish soup and a variety of cold Aegean herb mezes with an incredible, elevated view of the sea and the incoming cruise ships.

For the full dining guide, see our Kusadasi Restaurant Guide.

Week Planner

Day Plan 1: History & Culture

Morning: Beat the midday heat with an early morning trip to the breathtaking Ephesus Ruins, exploring the Terrace Houses and the Celsus Library.
Afternoon: Head to the quiet mountain village of Sirince for a lunch of traditional Turkish pancakes and local fruit wines.
Evening: Head back to the coast for a stroll around the historic Caravanserai in the town center, utilizing our guide on Getting Around.

Day Plan 2: Beach & Relaxation

Morning: Take a local dolmus to the Dilek Peninsula National Park to swim in the crystal-clear, pine-fringed bays of Icme or Karasu.
Afternoon: Rent a sunbed at one of the lively beach clubs on Beaches Guide or spend a thrilling day sliding at one of the local Water Parks.
Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at a seaside tavern while watching the sunset over Samos Island.

Day Plan 3: Shopping & Local Life

Morning: Explore the bustling local market to pick up fresh Aegean figs, olives, and spices, guided by our Shopping Guide.
Afternoon: Walk along the coastal promenade to Pigeon Island to explore the restored fortress and take photos of the harbor.
Evening: Dive into the vibrant Kusadasi Nightlife with a cold drink at a pub in the Kaleici old town district.

Cruise Ship Schedule

The verified port arrivals for June 22 through July 6:

June 22: Marella Voyager (Marella Cruises)
June 22: MSC Divina (MSC Cruises)
June 22: Wind Star (Windstar Cruises)
June 23: Celebrity Infinity (Celebrity Cruises)
June 23: Celebrity Xcel (Celebrity Cruises)
June 23: Celestyal Discovery (Celestyal Cruises)
June 24: Odyssey Of The Seas (Royal Caribbean)
June 25: Celebrity Equinox (Celebrity Cruises)
June 26: Seabourn Quest (Seabourn)
June 26: Viking Vesta (Viking Ocean)
June 27: Celestyal Discovery (Celestyal Cruises)
June 27: Enchanted Princess (Princess Cruises)
June 27: Oosterdam (Holland America Line)
June 27: Viking Sea (Viking Ocean)
June 28: Celestyal Journey (Celestyal Cruises)
June 28: Wind Spirit (Windstar Cruises)
June 29: MSC Divina (MSC Cruises)
June 29: Scarlet Lady (Virgin Voyages)
June 29: Wind Star (Windstar Cruises)
July 1: Odyssey Of The Seas (Royal Caribbean)
July 2: Oosterdam (Holland America Line)
July 2: Marella Voyager (Marella Cruises)
July 3: Viking Sea (Viking Ocean)
July 4: Celestyal Discovery (Celestyal Cruises)
July 4: Marella Explorer (Marella Cruises)
July 5: Celestyal Journey (Celestyal Cruises)
July 6: Azura (P&O Cruises)
July 6: MSC Divina (MSC Cruises)
July 6: Wind Star (Windstar Cruises)

For the full 2026 schedule and ship details, visit our Cruise Arrivals page.

Until Next Week

Enjoy every moment of the beautiful summer sun, the warm Aegean waters, and the unbeatable local hospitality this week. Next week, we will look at some of the best hidden coves along the coast for those looking to escape the busier public beaches. For more guides, tips, and local information, explore kusadasi.biz. Have a question? Contact us.