Overview
Milas is an oft-forgotten cultural center hidden in plain sight between some of Turkey’s most popular destinations. This tour will give participants a deeper understanding of true Aegean culture and how it’s changed over the centuries.
First we'll visit the ancient entrance to the city, Baltali Kapi or Axed gate, just the first of many traces of Milas' ancient past. Walking through the narrow streets, we'll pass the Aga and Belen Mosques, both of which used ancient materials in their construction.
We pass through the pedestrian-only bazaar, gazing into a variety of craftsmens' shops before reaching the farmer's market. We'll spend some time chatting with the local producers and shopping for traditional ingredients, which will be cooked for us in a local tavern.
Our next stop is the tomb of Hekatomnos, father of Mausolos, whose own tomb gave us the word 'mausoleum'. The tour concludes with our farmers' market dinner and drinks at a restaurant in the bazaar.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Entrance Fees
Dinner
Farmers' market purchases for the tour
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
You'll see the Corekotu Cafe on the street corner between Aga Mosque and Baltali Kapi. The cafe has an arched entrance and enclosed garden. Your guide will be waiting for you here.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What to expect
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Hekatomnos Anit Mezari Ve Kutsal Alani
30 min
Visit the monumental tomb of Hekatomnos, father of Mausolos whose similar tomb gave us the word Mausoleum. The museum complex consists of the base structure of the tomb, replicas of its contents, and information about the architecture of Milas, both ancient and modern. Our history guide will also be on hand to explain the unbelievable story of the tomb's discovery.
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Milas Sali Pazari
1 hour
Milas is home to more villages than any other county of Turkey and this is most obvious at its extensive farmers' market. Colorful villagers from the surrounding mountains and plains gather every Tuesday to sell their incredible produce and catch up with friends and customers. Our culinary guide will lead you through the busy rows of sellers, explaining unique ingredients, introducing you to the locals, and answering any questions.
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5 min
Once the ancient entrance to the Carian Capital of Mylasa, today 'Baltalı Kapı' or 'Gate of Axes' sits in a lively neighborhood of Milas, a perfect example of the combination of ancient and modern that makes Milas so special. Adorned with a double headed axe, the symbol of Caria, our tour begins from this ancient arch.
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Belen Camii
10 min
This is a 14th century mosque that was constructed partially with ancient artifacts.
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1 hour 30 min
A local restaurant in the bazaar where our farmers' market finds will be served.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (Europe/Istanbul).
Additional Information
- Total duration includes walking around the town.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Aegean Insight - History and Culture in the Carian Capital Milas
Can I cancel Aegean Insight - History and Culture in the Carian Capital Milas for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 4–5 hours.
Where does it start?
You'll see the Corekotu Cafe on the street corner between Aga Mosque and Baltali Kapi. The cafe has an arched entrance and enclosed garden.
What's included?
- Entrance Fees
- Dinner
- Farmers' market purchases for the tour
What's not included?
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Hekatomnos Anit Mezari Ve Kutsal Alani, Milas Sali Pazari, Belen Camii.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English, Turkish.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Roots Adventure Travel
