We visited Ephesus (Kusadasi) and Istanbul as part of a Mediterranean cruise. Exploring the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the vibrant history of Istanbul made for an unforgettable journey through Turkey. In Ephesus, we wandered through massive Roman ruins, admired the stunning Library of Celsus and intricate terrace houses, and visited the remains of the once-grand Temple of Artemis. A stop at the House of the Virgin Mary sparked curiosity, though its authenticity seemed debatable. Our time in Istanbul was equally fascinating, packed with visits to iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. We navigated the bustling Grand Bazaar, marveled at the eerie beauty of the Basilica Cistern, and stood in the historic Hippodrome. A lively carpet demonstration and a stop for delicious Turkish Delight rounded out our experience. From ancient ruins to vibrant city life, Turkey exceeded all expectations!

Ephesus, Turkey

One Day Itinerary

This itinerary is based on a September 10, 2023, 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM NCL cruise stop in Kusadasi, Turkey.

• 7:15 AM – 11:30 AM – Ephesus & Virgin Mary Tour ($98 via Viator; free cancellation; guide meets at port with your name on a sign)
  • Ephesus (25 min drive)
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Ancient ruins of Ephesus (guided tour)
    • Library of Celsus
    • Ephesus Theater
    • Terrace House Excavation
    • Lots of friendly cats
  • Temple of Artemis (where a single pillar stands from this wonder of the ancient world)

• Time Permitting:
  • Walk to Kusadasi Castle by pier
  • Try Turkish Ice Cream (to see the Turkish Tricks)

@perfuzion

The Ephesus archaeological site was phenomenal! The ruins of the Library of Celsus, theater, and terrace houses were remarkable! Of course I loved all the 🐈! The vets of the city take care of all the cats, and they were all so friendly. #ephesus #libraryofcelsus #ephesusruins #archaeology @Scott Perdue

♬ Ephesus – Laurie Turley

Istanbul, Turkey

One Day Itinerary

This itinerary is based on a September 11, 2023, 9 AM – 6 PM NCL cruise stop in Istanbul, Turkey. If you have just one day in Istanbul, hiring a tour guide is highly recommended. They offer invaluable tips for skipping lines and timing your visits efficiently—especially at the mosques. Turkey takes tourism seriously, and its licensed guides hold degrees in tourism, ensuring deep knowledge and a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Having a guide made our Istanbul visit phenomenal.

• 9 AM – 5 PM – Private guided Istanbul full day tour ($170, Guide will have your name on a sign at terminal exit)
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Basilica Cistern (~$13/person entry)
  • Blue Mosque 
  • Topkapi Palace & Harem (~$20/person entry – CC accepted)
  • Hippodrome
  • Turkish carpet demonstration
  • Grand Bazaar
  • Spice Bazaar

🍽️ Food to Try in Turkey:

• Turkish Delight
• Turkish Coffee and Tea
• Turkish Ice Cream (to see the Turkish Tricks)

@perfuzion

Istanbul was phenomenal! The mosques were an absolute marvel! Loved seeing the cistern, recognizable from Inferno. #istanbul #ayasofya #hagiasofia #bluemosque #topkapi #topkapipalace #basilicacistern @Scott Perdue

♬ Istanbul: The Blue Mosque – Alexandre Desplat

@perfuzion

Istanbul was phenomenal! The artistry and bustle of rug making, pottery crafting, and the Grand Baazar were a Turkish delight! #istanbul #turkishrug #grandbazaar #turkishdelight @Scott Perdue

♬ Epic Music(863502) – Draganov89