Walk through one of the ancient world's best-preserved cities, where marble streets and grand temples tell stories of Roman glory.
Quick Facts
Weather Range
70-95 (21-35)
Currency
TRY
Language
Turkish
Time Zone
TRT (UTC+3)
Overview
Kusadasi serves as the port gateway to Ephesus, one of the most magnificent archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. The ancient city was once home to 250,000 people and housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the Temple of Artemis. Today, visitors can walk marble streets past the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and remarkably preserved Roman houses with intact frescoes. The nearby House of the Virgin Mary adds spiritual significance to this historically rich destination.
Top Sights
Ancient Ephesus
Remarkably preserved Roman city with marble streets and the Library of Celsus. Walk the same paths Saint Paul preached and Cleopatra visited.
Temple of Artemis
Site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only foundation stones remain of the massive temple, but the scale still impresses.
Terrace Houses
Wealthy Roman homes with stunning mosaics and frescoes still vibrant after 2,000 years. Protected pavilions let you see how the 1% lived in ancient times.
House of the Virgin Mary
Catholic shrine where Mary allegedly spent her final years. Pilgrimage site with spring water believed to have healing properties.
Great Theatre
25,000-seat amphitheater still used for concerts with perfect acoustics. Stand on stage where Saint Paul defended Christianity before angry Ephesians.
Ephesus Archaeological Museum
Artifacts and statues from the excavations displayed in Selcuk. The Artemis statue collection alone justifies the modest admission fee.
Neighborhoods
Kusadasi Marina
Modern waterfront with restaurants and shopping district. Cruise ship port transforms into evening promenade with waterfront cafes.
Ladies Beach
Popular beach area with cafes and water sports. Local families claim this stretch on weekends for swimming and sunbathing.
Old Town Kusadasi
Bazaar, castle, and traditional Turkish atmosphere. The 14th-century Pigeon Island castle connects to shore by causeway.
Selcuk
Historic town near Ephesus with local markets and authentic restaurants. St. John's Basilica ruins crown the hill above the humble town center.
Shore Things Excursions
Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Serious Sailors™ Travel Agency was created by Charles Conroy, Top 10 travel advisor for Virgin Voyages.
The Virgin Voyages name, logo, and associated brand elements are trademarks of Virgin Enterprises Limited.Content, imagery, and intellectual property belonging to Virgin Voyages is used on this site for reference purposes only and remains the exclusive property of Virgin Voyages. All brand names and trademarks are owned by their respective holders.
Found or created a Facebook Group for your Virgin Voyages sailing? Submit it here! We'll review it and add it to the voyage page so fellow sailors can connect.
Book a Voyage with Serious Sailors
Ready to set sail? Fill out the form below to book your next cruise and start your adventure with us today!
