Knidos Ancient City

Knidos, located at the tip of the Datça Peninsula in Turkey, is an ancient city renowned for its stunning ruins and strategic coastal position. Founded by the Dorian Greeks, it became a vital cultural and political hub and was part of the Dorian Hexapolis, a federation of six cities. Knidos is famous for its Temple of Aphrodite and a renowned statue of the goddess by the sculptor Praxiteles, reflecting the city's artistic heritage. Visitors can also explore its well-preserved theater, agora, necropolis, and the remains of two harbors that highlight its maritime significance. The city’s dual harbor system, partially located on an island connected by a causeway, is a marvel of ancient engineering. Knidos offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and secluded beaches, making it a unique blend of history and natural beauty for travelers.

The city has two separate harbors used for military and commercial purposes. The ancient solar clock is a must-see. In addition, you can see the short-lived Arab rule there by looking at the Arabic inscriptions.

5* nature beauty 5* service 3* accessibility ♿ This is the very best spot i have visited in this area for the reasons of: ancient city ruins, nature beauty of rocks and mountains, and lighthouse as a marvelous sightseen here. The entrance fee is 5 EUR, the opening hours are from 9.00 till 20.00 in summer time. There not so many accessible paths here, but there is parking, entrance and main accessible viewpoint. Other part of the spot is hiking area, including lighthouse. The best time to visit is before sunset of course, both from the ancient city side or from the lighthouse.

Knidos was a Greek city in ancient Caria and part of the Dorian Hexapolis, in south-western Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey. It was situated on the Datça peninsula, which forms the southern side of the Sinus Ceramicus, now known as Gulf of Gökova. It also houses the Temple of Apollo.

We came to see the sunset based on recommendation from a friend but to our surprise the ancient city is so much bigger than expected. My regret is not having enough time to explore the ancient ruins - I would suggest giving another 2-3 hours prior to sunset. Most people trek over to the lighthouse to see the sunset but if you fancy cutting out a half hour walk back at dusk you can catch the sunset from any high spots without the trek. There is a restaurant outside the city as well as an overflow car park if you don't find a spot on the gravel parking. The only public toilets after the entrance didn't have any running water when we went.

Knidos is important and must see place. You can see a beautiful harmony of history, sea and nature. The road is a bit narrow and winding, but it is a place you must see at the end. The toilets were not very clean, such important places should have much better service areas.

What a fantastic place and definitely worth the drive. We were lucky as there were no people, so we had the site almost for ourselves. Probably during the season, there would be many more people. Make sure you bring water and be with comfortable shoes.

Unfortunately a few columns left from historical legendary city-states of ancient Greek. Yet you would still feel the history once you visit.