Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Archaeological Sites & Ruins

Priene

Söke, Turkey

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RUINS & SITES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 95 2026
Priene

A Greek Ionian city ruin on the southern slope of Mount Mykale, near Güllübahçe in Söke. Visitors climb past the theatre and Temple of Athena and walk the grid-planned streets, with views over the Söke plain.

Highlights

  • Temple of Athena
  • Ancient theatre
  • Grid-planned main street

Good to know

  • Museum pass accepted at the entrance
  • Steep, rocky paths; wear comfortable shoes
  • Go in morning or late afternoon in summer

Also in Turkey

  1. Phaselis N° 64 Phaselis Kemer Ancient city
  2. Ani N° 67 Ani Kars Ancient city
  3. Sardis N° 70 Sardis Salihli Ancient city
  4. Tlos N° 79 Tlos Seydikemer Ancient city
  5. Patara N° 83 Patara Kalkan Ancient city
  6. Antiphellos N° 97 Antiphellos Kaş Amphitheatre or theatre