Things to Do in Kusadasi, Turkey

Kusadasi, Turkey, is a popular port for cruise ships sailing the Aegean Sea. This town, on the mainland of Turkey, is probably best known for its close proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus, the ruins of which can be toured today.

Tourists flock in droves to Ephesus, so get there early if you can. You’ll find incredibly well-preserved ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian era, including the Agora, the Odeon and the famous Library of Celsus. You can walk on the marble-paved Street of Kouretes, which remains largely unchanged from ancient times. The Temple of Hadrian, the massive Greek theater, and the public latrines are other highlights.

The nearby Terrace Houses are another draw. These well-preserved homes sit at the foot of the Bulbul hill and were the homes of rich families inhabiting ancient Ephesus.

Another draw in Kusadasi is the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be the home where Jesus’ mother lived until she died at 101 years old. It’s an important pilgrimage site for Christians and Muslims.

Other highlights include shopping for Turkish rugs and silk products; visiting the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse, all reachable from Kusadasi; and wandering the port town, including the lively Kusadasi fish market.