Turkey offers an incredible array of sightseeing opportunities. Under foot, you’re likely to be
walking the same path as the Crusaders, visit the city of Troy, where according to legend 1,000
ships arrived to reclaim Helen, be introduced to the Roman Empire at Ephesus, or take time to
reflect at Gallipoli. Couple this with inviting sun-drenched resort areas, rich shopping expeditions,
dazzling mosques and vibrant city life you could easily spend several weeks here.
Although you’d most likely not come here for Kusadasi itself, it is the cruise gateway to one of
the best-preserved ancient Greek and Roman cities in the Mediterranean, Ephesus. The pier/dock
area is modern allowing several ships to dock at once and it’s an easy, 10-minute level walk into
the heart of Kusadasi. The tour coach parking area is designed well (accessible only through a
shopping mall of course), and there are taxis just outside the pier gate. You must set the rate with
the driver before taking a taxi and be prepared to be coaxed into a shopping stop…be strong!
Kusadasi consists of shopping and more shopping. Turkish rugs/carpets, jewellery, bazaars with
alleged designer clothes and more are available, but it’s the game that’s played between shopper
and vendor that offers the real fun. You simply must haggle for the best bargain, or you’ll be
paying way too much. Some people are not comfortable haggling, but try not to take it too
seriously. Have fun with it and you’ll soon get the knack. You should never be paying the 1st price
offered, or even the 2nd, or 3rd, and don’t begin the game if you have no intention of buying. There
are also some good local restaurants here.
The major reason for stopping in Kusadasi is to get to Ephesus. You could spend two hours or all
day here. There are elaborate Roman public buildings and you can even test the acoustics in the
24,000 seat Amphitheatre. Select a tour that includes the beautiful terrace houses. Your ship will
offer half day Ephesus only tours, or full days that include lunch, the spiritual sights of the House
of Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St. John and Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders
of the World. If it’s your 2nd visit here, there are other Greek and Roman sites worth your attention,
such as Miletus and Didyma.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: April – October
Don’t Miss: Apple tea & stunning Turkish carpet demo
Tour or Not: Whatever you do, you need a guide
Sightseeing: Ephesus, Didyma, Miletus
Food: So much to sample!
Language: Turkish
Currency: Euro
Shopping: Everywhere you turn
Cash or Card: Credit Card, USD or Euro
