One of Kusadasi’s most popular attractions, Kusadasi Castle is dubbed the “Pirate Castle” for being originally constructed to protect Kusadasi’s harbor from piratical and other sea attacks. Now home to a handful of maritime exhibits, the castle draws sightseers who come to explore its battlements and gardens, discover its history, and absorb its panoramas over Kusadasi bay.
Visitors can explore the castle freely during its opening hours simply by walking along the causeway. Alternatively, many opt to see it as part of a tour or cruise. Several daylong boat trips from Kusadasi call at Pigeon Island—or offer close-up views from the water—while many 4WD tours include a quick stop. Some multi-day tours of Turkey (officially the Republic of Türkiye) that cover Kusadasi also include a castle visit.