4 min read
Ephesus lies roughly 20 kilometres inland from Kuşadası, a drive of about half an hour in normal traffic. Most cruise calls give you between eight and ten hours ashore, which is enough for the ancient city, a meal and an unhurried return, provided the day is planned backwards from your ship's all-aboard time.
Plan on two to three hours inside the archaeological site. The route is mostly downhill if you start at the upper gate, finishing near the Great Theatre where your vehicle can meet you. Add the Terrace Houses or the House of the Virgin Mary only if your schedule has real room for them.
Summer midday heat is considerable and there is little shade among the ruins. Early starts are quieter and cooler, and a guide who knows where the cruise groups gather will choose the order of the stops to avoid the worst of the crowds.
Tell us your ship's name and all-aboard time when you enquire. We confirm in writing only a route that fits comfortably inside your port call.