Nestled on Turkey’s Aegean Sea coast, Kusadasi (Kuşadası) is a popular seaside resort and the main getaway to the ancient city of Ephesus.
Kusadasi is located 20 km (12.4 mi) southwest of Ephesus and 99 km/61.5 miles south of Izmir, which makes it a great starting point for those who want to explore the historical heritage and archeological treasures of Izmir and Aydin provinces.
Kusadasi is a frequent stop in the Eastern Mediterranean cruise itineraries together with Istanbul, and in this article, I share with you:
- Kusadasi port information (Kusadasi cruise terminal, getting around, helpful info)
- 6 best things to do in Kusadasi port & Kusadasi shore excursions
Also visit our cruise port guides to Istanbul, Limassol, Mykonos, Santorini, Athens (Piraeus), Rome (Civitavecchia), Chania, Rhodes
Kusadasi Port Guide
Kusadasi cruise port is conveniently located in the center of the town, only a 5-minute walk from the shopping area.
It consists of two parallel piers that can accommodate 4 cruise ships simultaneously. Upon getting off the ship, you will need to walk to the end of the pier to exit the terminal.
Normally you will find some locals offering wheelchair assistance for guests with walking difficulties. The tourist information desk is located right outside the terminal building, next to the parking lot.
As you exit the port you will encounter a small shopping complex known as Scala Nuovo, full of souvenir stores, jewelry shops, cafes, and taxi drivers offering their services.
You’ll find ATMs, restaurants (seafood, fast food, traditional Turkish restaurants), and historic landmarks nearby. On your way back visitors have access to the duty-free shops.
Getting Around Port Kusadasi
- If you decide to stay in Kusadasi town, you can easily explore it on foot as the waterfront promenade, main attractions and beaches are located within a short walking distance. On the other hand, if you decide to explore outside of the city, I suggest booking an organized shore excursion or hiring an official taxi with an English-speaking driver.
- The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL) but Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. It’s advisable to bring small bills.
- Public transport may be an option if you are adventurous and want to feel local. This transportation is called “dolmuş” and they look like minibusses. These are shared taxis that run set routes and will take you between the towns. You can typically get on and off anywhere you want, you just need to “wave” to the bus and inform the driver. The single ticket price is very cheap and varies based on the final destination. Dolmuses depart from the main road of Kusadasi as you exit the cruise terminal area and they run every 15-20 minutes.
- Taxis are also available in Kusadasi. They are reasonably priced and easy to get, however, if you want to take a long journey I suggest negotiating the price in advance to avoid inconveniences. You should inquire about the official taxi prices at the tourist information desk at the cruise terminal.
- Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport is the closest airport and it is located in Izmir, around 67 km/42 miles (a 1-hour drive) north of Kusadasi cruise port.
- Book a private transfer to/from the port of Kusadasi
- Explore Kusadasi tours and activities
- Find accommodation in Kusadasi
Watch my YouTube video on Kusadasi Cruise Port & Best Things to Do in Kusadasi!
6 Best Things to Do in Kusadasi Port
Before I share the best things to do in Kusadasi, I invite you to grab your copy of the “Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide”, the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Kusadasi), packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)
1. Ephesus Archeological Site
Ephesus is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive ancient city was once the most important trading center in the Mediterranean region.
Ephesus boasts several constructions that attract a lot of attention, both for their historical and archeological importance and for the state of conservation they present.
The most attractive structure is the Library of Celsus built by Galius Julius Aquila in honor of his father. The Celsus Library was the third richest library in ancient times after the Alexandra and Pergamum, holding over 12.000 scrolls.
The Great Theatre of Ephesus could accommodate 20.000 people and was used for plays, concerts, fights and political or religious meetings.
The best way to explore the ancient city of Ephesus is definitely with a knowledgeable guide who will provide you with all historical facts, local stories and anecdotes.
Make sure you get there early because it can get crowded. During the peak summer months it can get really hot, so bring water with you and wear comfortable footwear and clothing.
While exploring Ephesus you also have the option to visit the Terrace Houses, which were owned by the richest Ephesians (extra fee applies). Even though the site is still in excavation, you will be able to admire the beautiful wall decoration and designs.
Terrace Houses are located on a hill, so please take into consideration that you will need to climb several sets of staircases up and down.
You can also visit the Ephesus Museum where you will see lots of statues, columns, decorations, and many more interesting items that were found in the ancient city.
Ephesus is partially wheelchair accessible. Guests with wheelchairs should have a companion.
The entrance fee to Ephesus costs 700 TL per person (approx. 21.50€); Terrace Houses cost 320 TL (approx. 10€); Ephesus Museum costs 220 TL (approx. 6.5€). (prices updated in January 2024)
The Ruins of Ephesus are located near the town of Selçuk, approximately 20 km/12.5 miles from Kusadasi. It takes around a 30-minute drive from the port of Kusadasi.
If you are adventurous, you can try to get the public bus or dolmus from the closest stop at the cruise port. You will need the one with Selçuk as a final destination.
Upon getting off in Ephesus, you’ll still need to walk for about 15 minutes to the entrance of the archaeological site (or take a taxi).
Check out Ephesus tours and activities
2. Kusadasi Town
If you decide to skip a shore excursion to Ephesus and stay in the town of Kusadasi, these are the things you should see and do:
- Kusadasi Castle – This beautiful castle was built between the 14th and 19th centuries and is the iconic landmark of Kusadasi. It is also known as the “Pirate Castle” as it defended the Kusadasi harbour from pirates back in the past.
- The castle sits on Pigeon Island (Güvercinada) which is connected to mainland Kusadasi via a man-made narrow causeway. You can visit the castle’s museum, enjoy gorgeous panoramic views, or delight in the specialties from one of the island’s restaurants. Admission is free, and it’s located 10 minutes walk from the cruise terminal.
- Ladies Beach – This beach is located less than a 10-minute drive from Kusadasi cruise port. It is a beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear waters, however, it can get very crowded during the peak season. It is filled with restaurants, bars and you can find all sorts of amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas.
- Kusadasi Old Town (Kusadasi Kaleiçi) – Only a 5-minute walk from the exit of the cruise terminal, you’ll come across the Old Town, filled with old traditional Turkish houses that are home to quaint cafes, souvenir shops and little taverns. In the heart of the Old Town stands Kaleiçi Camii – A beautiful Ottoman-style mosque with painted windows and walls.
- Kuşadası Bazaar – Only 5 minutes walk from the port, you’ll come across this traditional colorful market where you can find leather jackets, belts, jewelry, local handicrafts, ceramics, and a lot more.
- You can shop, walk around the lively Kusadasi streets, indulge in Turkish delicacies and enjoy a beautiful view of the harbour.
Check out Kusadasi Castle tours and activities
3. House of Virgin Mary
Drive through “Bulbul” mountain to the Catholic and Muslim shrine, where it is said the Virgin Mary spent her last days after the crucifixion of Jesus.
Even though the Catholic Church has never confirmed its authenticity, the House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi in Turkish) is considered a major holy place that has been visited by several popes throughout history.
Hundreds of tourists visit this place every day and pilgrims believe the natural spring next to the house has healing properties.
It is a common sight to see visitors drinking the water or taking some as a souvenir in a little clay container that can be purchased at the site. You will also see visitors tying their intentions at the wishing wall.
The House of the Virgin Mary is located in Selçuk, around 26 km (16 mi) or a 35-minute drive from Kusadasi cruise port (and only a 10-minute drive from Ephesus).
Check out the House of Virgin Mary tours and activities
4. Temple of Apollo
Take a trip to the Sanctuary of Didyma and visit the Temple of Apollo, home to the second oracle in the Greek world, after Delphi.
Thousands of pilgrims arrived here looking for answers and they did not hesitate to pay a good price for them or leave large gifts and offerings.
This sacred enclosure was supported by 122 Ionic columns almost 20 meters high and two meters in diameter at its base. Even though only three columns remain standing today, one feels tiny in front of its imposing measurements.
Driving time to Didyma and Temple of Apollo is approximately 70 minutes one way (the distance is 80 km/50 mi), and the best way to get there is definitely on an organized shore excursion.
Some tour options include stops at the ancient towns of Miletus and Ephesus. The Temple of Apollo is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties.
Check out the Temple of Apollo and Didyma tours and activities
5. Sirince Village
Once a Greek Orthodox village, Şirince is one of the most scenic villages on the coast of the Aegean Sea that has become a popular tourist destination in the last few years.
Apart from its characteristic architecture that mainly consists of old, traditional Greek white houses, the village is situated in lush nature surrounded by vineyards and olive trees.
The village is known for a centuries-old winemaking tradition of producing unique fruit wines, which you can taste in the many shops scattered around the town where the vendors will encourage you to enter.
You can also visit St John the Baptist Church and admire frescoes dating from the Byzantine era. According to locals, the church’s basement was used to ripen wines.
Sirince is located near Selçuk, approximately 20 km (12.5 mi) from Kusadasi. The best way to get there is on an organized shore excursion or by hiring a taxi as public transport does not run often.
The village is hilly and the streets are cobblestone, so it is recommended to wear comfortable footwear. This village is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or with walking difficulties.
Check out the best Sirince tours and activities
6. Adaland Aquapark
Adaland Aquapark is considered one the biggest aqua parks in Europe and is rated as one of the top 10 water parks in the world!
It features numerous water slides, a children’s pool, slides using the theme of the Kremlin towers, a Jacuzzi pool, a wave pool, an activity pool, an ocean pool, a lazy river, a rafting river (extra charge), jumping towers, trampolines, and more fun-filled activities suitable for the whole family.
Food and beverage options are available for purchase inside the park, from Turkish specialties to international dishes.
Adaland opened from May 1st until October. It is located around 8 km (5 mi) north of Kusadasi port, approximately a 15-minute drive. Find more information about prices and opening times on Adaland Waterpark’s official webpage
Check out Adaland Waterpark tours and activities
Also visit our cruise port guides to Palermo (Sicily), Rome (Civitavecchia), Crete (Heraklion), Valletta (Malta), Corfu
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Western Europe, Baltic & Scandinavia, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your Mediterranean cruise experience with our “Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide“- your ultimate companion to discovering the region’s hidden treasures and creating unforgettable memories; click below to purchase your copy today and embark on the voyage of a lifetime!
Ultimate Guide to Mediterranean Cruise Ports
Plan your Cruise Itinerary in Less than an Hour and Maximize Your Port
Experience!
This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my disclaimer here.
For the ones who may be interested booking a private tour of Ephesus with a local tour guide, please visit: https://www.ephesustravelguide.com/
Wanted to say thank you!
Your site has been very helpful in planning a Mediterranean cruise in September.
Hi there! You’re welcome, I’m glad I can help! 🙂