2-Day Trip in Aydın: Immersed in History and Nature

Aydın is a city full of the unique texture of the Aegean, offering many discovery points for both history and nature enthusiasts. On this two-day route, we embark on a journey starting from the Ottoman artifacts in the city center, moving towards ancient cities bearing the deep traces of Carian and Ionian civilizations, and the impressive nature of the Latmos Mountains. Get ready, because this trip will show you the different faces of Aydın.

Hasan Çelebi Mosque (Old New Mosque)

The Hasan Çelebi Mosque, which we encounter on Batı Gazi Boulevard in Aydın city center, has stood since 1585. Built by Hasan Çelebi, the brother of Üveys Pasha, the Beylerbeyi of Egypt, this mosque is constructed of cut stone, with a square plan and a single dome. The intricate muqarnas craftsmanship in its mihrab is noteworthy. It is also known as "Eski Yeni Camii" (Old New Mosque) among the public, its name changed after a renovation in 1950. You can allocate approximately one and a half hours to visit here.

Gümrük Önü Han

Located near Hasan Çelebi Mosque, on Denizli Boulevard, right next to Gümrük Önü Hamam, this Ottoman caravanserai stands out with its stone and brick mixed architecture. It is a two-story structure with a courtyard; it was restored between 2012-2015. A visit of about one and a half hours will be sufficient to wander among the remains of this inn, which was an important stop on the trade routes of the Ottoman period, and to trace the footsteps of the past.

Zincirli Han

In the heart of Aydın, this caravanserai, standing since 1708, has been restored and converted into a boutique hotel. With its stone courtyard and high-ceilinged rooms, it is a beautiful example of Ottoman inn architecture. You can sit in its courtyard and have a drink, or even have lunch. It's a good idea to allocate one and a half hours to explore this structure in the city center, which connects the past with the present.

Nasuhpaşa Complex

The Nasuhpaşa Complex, of which Zincirli Han is also a part, was built in 1708 by the Ottoman Pasha Nasuh Pasha. This complex of structures, consisting of an inn, madrasah, small mosque, and hammam, has undergone extensive restoration. Its architecture, which uses stone, brick, and spolia materials together, reflects the construction understanding of its period. You can allocate approximately one and a half hours to visit and understand all sections of the complex.

Cihanoğlu Mosque

In Aydın city center, this complex, built by Müderris Cihanoğlu Abdülaziz in 1756-57, consists of a mosque, madrasah, tomb, sebil, and fountain. It particularly stands out with its baroque-style plaster interior decorations and rubble stone architecture. Be sure to also see the historical bazaar floor beneath the mosque. Approximately one and a half hours will be sufficient to visit this magnificent complex of structures.

Alinda Ancient City

This Carian city, built on mountainous terrain in Aydın's Karpuzlu district, hosts one of the largest agoras in the ancient world. With its well-preserved theater and sturdy city walls, it offers a historical experience intertwined with nature. You can spend about one and a half hours wandering in Alinda, the capital of Carian queen Ada, seeing the rock tombs, and enjoying the view. Museum Card is valid.

Alabanda Ancient City

Located west of the Marsyas River in the Çine district, Alabanda is a deep-rooted Carian city dating back to 4000 BC. Although a large part of it is still underground, it stands out with its semi-buried colossal theater. It is strategically located on the ancient trade route extending from Lycia to Ionia. Here you can explore for about one and a half hours and delve into the depths of history. Admission is free.

Latmos - Beşparmak Mountains

The Beşparmak Mountains, rising on the Aydın-Muğla border, were known as Latmos in ancient times. With 8,500-year-old rock paintings, Byzantine monastery ruins, and striking rock formations, it is both a natural and cultural heritage site. You can go hiking and take photos accompanied by the view of Lake Bafa. The mythological atmosphere, especially connected with the Endymion legend, will envelop you. You can spend about one and a half hours here.

This Aydın route offers a packed trip extending from the city's historical bazaars to the silence of ancient cities, and from there to the magnificent views of the mountains. While public transport or short walks are sufficient for the Ottoman structures in the center, renting a car or arranging a tour would be more practical for the ancient cities and Latmos. For food, you can find many restaurants offering local delicacies in Aydın city center. Enjoy your trip!