Ancient Ephesus From Cruise Port Kusadasi
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Ephesus is one of the most impressive ancient ruins in the world. It’s easily accessible by cruise ship from the Turkey Cruise Port of Kusadasi.
How to get to Ephesus from Kusadasi
Kusadasi is the main cruise port for Ephesus. If you have not prearranged a tour your only option is to take a local taxi to Ephesus. There is no set price for taxis but the fare should range between €60-€120. This fare would include round-trip transportation and waiting time while you tour the ruins.
You can, of course, prearrange a tour with your cruise ship, or utilize one of the many tour offerings available once you disembark your cruise ship. The most cost-efficient way is to go on your own in a taxi.
How Much Does It Cost To Visit Ephesus?
Entrance to Ephesus is €10 per person, tickets may be purchased at the ticket window upon arrival.
Is Ephesus Worth Visiting?
Unequivocally yes. Ephesus is a sprawling mega-site with many important and historically significant sites. It is one of the most spectacular and interesting sites we have ever visited.
Should I Hire a Guide To See Ephesus?
Without some context, it would be very difficult to understand the sites. You can easily hire a local guide at the cruise terminal in Kusadasi for a small fee.
As always in Europe, Rick Steves has some of the best guides out there. Using his free app you can download an audio walking tour including maps and images for free. It is brief enough to not be boring but interesting enough to make sure you get the most out of your visit.
What To See In Ephesus
With seating for 25,000, the Great Theatre is not to be missed. Still remarkably intact, visitors are allowed to climb to the top of the ancient amphitheater.
Curetes Street was the main street of Ephesus. As you walk on the ancient stone you will see still-standing columns, terrace houses, and partially exposed ruins of all sorts.
The showstopper is the Library of Celsus. Archeologists have been painstakingly reassembling the building from the rubble. The facade of the library is complete. Standing beneath this second-century masterpiece is probably going to be your best memory from the visit.
What Are Some Other Ephesus, Turkey Tourist Attractions?
While in Ephesus you can take a tour of the Virgin Mary House. A very-very small house where she is said to have spent her final years. The backstory to this has some pretty big holes, but for the religious tourist, The Virgin Mary House should not be missed.
Also nearby is the Basilica Of Saint John. This is another important site for Christian pilgrims as it is the believed burial place of John the Apostle. The Basilica is no longer standing, but the hilltop ruins are interesting to visit.
What To See At Cruise Port Kusadasi
Ephesus Ruins including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre
Virgin Mary House
Basilica Of Saint John
