Our last itinerary included two ports in Turkiye; Istanbul, it’s largest city straddling both Europe and Asia, and Kusadasi which is the gateway to the archaeological site of Ephesus. Both are worth the time to explore on foot with a guide to get the best introduction to these amazing sites.
The main part of the Old Town in Istanbul, Sultanahmet, is well preserved and compact. All of the top sites are there. The Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, both places of worship, are fascinating to explore. Be sure to come dressed as required for entry into either of these sites with scarves to cover your hair and shoulders and knees covered. We had seen the Blue Mosque on a prior visit so we were happy to have tickets to the Hagia Sophia this time. You could do both on one day but it would be most of your time ashore. These are the beautiful mosques with their spiraling minuets that you can see during the sail in to the harbour. They are equally as impressive close up and inside so worth seeing them when you can.
From there explore the Grand Bazaar or the Spice Market for exotic spices, foods and souvenirs. Just walking among the stalls is an experience. In the main square, the Hippodrome, walk around the German Fountain, and the Egyptian and Greek Obelisks and learn of their journeys. Be sure to stop into the Underground Cistern to see the head of Medusa used to support one of the many columns. We took a break to enjoy a traditional lunch and a glass of hot, strong Turkish coffee, served with pieces of Turkish Delight. Istanbul remains one of my favourite cities.
On the next day we sailed into Kusadasi. There is some excellent shopping to be had at the market, and many excursions will include a stop at a carpet shop. This time was no exception other than the pitch as not overly aggressive and they served pastries and your choice of juice or wine during the event. This is usually scheduled for the end of the day and you can walk back to the cruise port from there if you want to take more time.
The real goal here is to arrange an excursion to Ephesus. The city was famous in its day for the nearby Temple of Artemis (completed around 550 BC), which has been designated one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its many monumental buildings include the Library of Celsus, its ruin still recognizable, and a theatre capable of holding 24,000 spectators. There is also the importance it played in early Christianity as the apostle Paul lived in Ephesus, working with the congregation and apparently organizing missionary activity from AD 52–54.
Your tour will take you on a walk down one of the main streets as you explore homes, businesses and other municipal buildings. Only about 15% of the city has been excavated to date. The next phase will focus on the ancient port which was filled in and is located about 5 km away. They expect to find the harbour filled with ancient shipwrecks.
It is difficult to access Ephesus without a tour of some kind. There are a number of options through the cruise ship, and these will include the carpet demonstration, or you can get an “on your own” transfer option. There are also private excursions available to compare the timing and cost.
As you ponder your next cruise be sure to consider an itinerary that includes these two ports in Turkey. You will not regret it!