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Kusadasi Cruise Port
One of the most popular resort towns along Turkey’s Aegean Coast and the gateway to the UNESCO-listed wonders of Ephesus, the Kusadasi Cruise Port welcomes some 200,000 cruise passengers each year. It’s also a jumping-off point for regular ferry service to the surrounding Greek Islands.
The Basics
Ephesus is a popular shore excursion destination from Kusadasi and the ruins of the ancient Greek city are among the most remarkable in Turkey. Enjoy Ephesus highlights on a half-day tour; alternatively, combine with the House of the Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—or the artisan workshops in Şirince village on a full-day tour.
In Kusadasi, the main attractions include the hilltop fortress on Pigeon Island and the old town of Kaleici, where the bazaars are a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Things to Know Before You Go
Most shore excursions include port pickup, round-trip transportation, lunch, and entrance tickets.
Exploring the ancient ruins means lots of time outdoors with little shade—bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Visitors to religious sites in Turkey are required to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees; women might also be asked to cover their hair.
The ruins of Ephesus and other sites may be difficult to navigate for wheelchair users or strollers; consider booking a tour that caters to your needs.
If you opt not to visit the ruins, a beach in Kusadasi is within walking distance of the cruise port.
How to Get to Kusadasi From the Kusadasi Cruise Port
The cruise port is located right in the heart of Kusadasi, and it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the main shopping area. For those traveling farther afield or with luggage, taxis are also readily available at the port. Many shore excursions also offer round-trip transportation from the port.
Port Information
The cruise ship terminal is part of the Scala Nuova mall, which has a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as an ATM and currency exchange. The official currency is the Turkish lira, although euros and US dollars may be accepted at some stores. Turkish is the official language, but it’s typically easy to get by in English.
Trip ideas
- Kusadasi Castle
- Kusadasi Caravanserai (Öküz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai)
- Adaland Aquapark
- House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)
- Temple of Hadrian at Ephesus
- Public Latrine at Ephesus
- Library of Celsus
- Temple of Artemis (Artemision)
- Ephesus (Efes)
- Basilica of St. John
- Sirince
- Priene
- Dilek National Park (Dilek Milli Parki)
- Miletus (Miletos)
- Didyma