Kusadasi, Turkey

Kusadasi is one of Turkey’s most important cruise ports. The most popular attraction is the ancient city of Ephesus which was founded in the 4th century BC. This archaeological site is very impressive and definitely a must-see. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Theater, which has a capacity of 24,000 spectators.

Library of Celsus
Library of Celsus
Temple of Hadrian
Temple of Hadrian

Here, we recommend taking a guided tour to get information about the discoveries made at Ephesus and to learn about the life of the people that once inhabited this great city. It’s also about a half an hour away by roadway from the cruise port.

For example, our guide pointed out grooves that had been carved into the marble streets which could have been made by Marc Anthony and Cleopatra’s horse-drawn carriage. The whole scene takes you back into another era! Amazing!

Ephesus Theatre
Ephesus Theatre

Of course, no excursion would be complete without a stop at a Persian carpet store with a glass of sweet mint tea! No worries, the water has been boiled and you don’t have to buy—try it!

In Kusadasi if you don’t want to go on a shore excursion with the cruise operator, you can easily visit on your own. The cruise terminal is next to the bazaar.

Our cruise ship docked in Kusadasi, Turkey
Our cruise ship docked in Kusadasi, Turkey

Kusadasi is also a popular beach resort town with a beautiful white sand beach. There’s a lovely seafront promenade, countless shops and restaurants. We even found some of the most delicious Turkish delights (a dessert made of jelly and sugar), Halva (a nut-based desert) and some tasty Turkish coffee in the Kusadasi Bazaar.

Kusadasi Seafront Promenade
Kusadasi Seafront Promenade

Related Post: Mediterranean Cruise: Rome to Athens


European Ports of Call

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