A lively Aegean resort town and the gateway to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean.
Kusadasi is a seaside resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast, and ships dock at the cruise port right in the center of town. It is best known as the starting point for visits to the ancient city of Ephesus.
History lovers will be in heaven here, with Roman ruins, early Christian sites and traditional villages a short drive away. It also suits shoppers and anyone who wants to experience Turkish food and hospitality.
Average daily high and low in °F, from the nearest weather station with long records: Samos Airport, Greece (about 20 miles away). Source: Meteostat station records, 1991–2020.
Here are my favorite ways to spend a cruise day in Kusadasi. Each one opens on Viator, where you can check the times, reviews and price before you book.
Skip the lines at ancient Ephesus and walk its marble streets to the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre with a guide, timed around your ship's schedule.
View details
Relax the traditional Turkish way with a steam, body scrub, foam wash and massage at a local hamam in Kusadasi, an easy 90-minute break close to the port.
View details
Spend the day on the water along the coast of Dilek National Park, with swim stops in quiet bays and lunch served on board.
View detailsMy favorites: walk the marble streets of Ephesus and see the Library of Celsus; visit the House of the Virgin Mary on a hillside above Ephesus; see the remains of the Basilica of St. John in the nearby town of Selcuk; explore the small castle on Pigeon Island, linked to Kusadasi by a causeway; wander the hillside village of Sirince, known for its fruit wines.
Turkish lira; euros and US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas.
The port is right in town, so you can walk to the bazaar and waterfront, and Ephesus is a short drive away by tour or taxi.
Search sailings that stop in Kusadasi on our site, or ask me for a quote. I book it for you with no fees, and I watch for price drops after you book.
A purpose-built cruise port on the Dominican Republic's green north coast, close to historic Puerto Plata, waterfalls and mountain views.
Explore Amber Cove
Gateway to ancient Maya temples, jungle rivers and the Belize Barrier Reef, all reachable on a single day from your ship.
Explore Belize City
A laid-back Dutch Caribbean island famous for crystal-clear water, protected reefs, flamingos and world-class snorkeling right from shore.
Explore Bonaire
Barbados blends British heritage, rum history and gorgeous beaches, with calm west coast water and a wild Atlantic east coast.
Explore Bridgetown
