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Kusadasi: when your ship stops here

Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary, or a slow day on foot to Pigeon Island; the Temple of Artemis is one column.

Facts checked Nov 1, 2026, each with its source. No prices on this page.

Kusadasi is a resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast and the cruise port for the ancient city of Ephesus. Right by the docks is a stone caravanserai built in 1618 as a strong room for seamen's goods, and Ladies Beach is close to the town centre.

Source: Wikipedia: Kuşadası

Top 3 things to do

  1. 1. Ephesus

    One of the great cities of the ancient world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015. The Library of Celsus was built about AD 125; the Great Theatre held an estimated 25,000 people; the Terrace Houses, six rich Roman homes with mosaic floors and wall paintings, are kept under a protective roof. The ruins are about 2 km (1 mile) from the town of Selcuk.

    Tip: The Terrace Houses are the one part under a roof, and the best preserved; go in.

    Sources: Wikipedia: Ephesus; Wikipedia: Selçuk

  2. 2. The House of the Virgin Mary

    A small stone chapel on Mount Koressos (Bulbuldagi), about 7 km from Selcuk, where Catholic tradition says Mary lived her last years. It was found in 1881 by a French priest following the visions of a German nun. Popes Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI have all prayed here, though the Church has never ruled on whether the story is true. Pilgrims tie written wishes to a wall outside.

    Tip: Most Ephesus tours add it as a stop. Ask before you book.

    Source: Wikipedia: House of the Virgin Mary

  3. 3. Pigeon Island and the old town

    Guvercinada, Pigeon Island, with its small castle, is joined to the town by a causeway, an easy walk from the ships. On the way is the 1618 caravanserai, and Ladies Beach is a short way along the shore.

    Tip: This is the choice for anyone who wants a slow day without a coach.

    Source: Wikipedia: Kuşadası

What to skip

  • Going out of your way for the Temple of Artemis

    It was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, but today only foundations and a single column, put back together from fragments, stand near Selcuk; its carved pieces are in the British Museum. Look as you pass, then spend your time inside Ephesus.

    Source: Wikipedia: Temple of Artemis

Before you go ashore

You do not have to book a tour: you are free to go ashore on your own. Royal Caribbean sets the all aboard time about 30 minutes before the ship sails, posts it near the gangway, and says the ship does not wait for guests touring on their own.

Source: Royal Caribbean FAQ: Do I need to book a shore excursion?

Back-to-backs that stop in Kusadasi

Back-to-back cruises from these home ports have a stop in Kusadasi, from the Royal Caribbean sailings we track:

Sources

Read on Nov 1, 2026. Opening days, hours and rules change: check with the place itself before you go. legtolegcruises.com is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by Royal Caribbean International or any place named here.

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