Trade the crowds of Ephesus for a day among three of the greatest sites of the ancient Greek world, almost to yourself. Stand beneath the soaring Hellenistic columns of the Temple of Apollo at Didyma, home to an oracle second only to Delphi, climb to the Temple of Athena at Priene above the plain, and explore the colossal theatre of Miletus, the birthplace of Western philosophy and grid-plan urban design. For a serious history lover this is the quietly spectacular alternative.
What to expect
Plan a full day; the three sites lie south of Kusadasi and involve real driving between them, roughly a 6-7 hour round trip. Didyma's temple is the jaw-dropper, with columns far larger than anything standing at Ephesus. Priene rewards a short uphill walk with the best views and intimate ruins; Miletus has the grand theatre and the Baths of Faustina. You will encounter a fraction of the visitors you would at Ephesus.
Good to know
Only attempt this if your port call is long (8+ hours ashore); it is not for a short stop. Pre-book a private guide and confirm the order Didyma-Miletus-Priene or reverse to optimize light and lunch. Bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes, shade is scarce. Lunch is usually at a fish restaurant near Didyma.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Kusadasi — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Kusadasi
- Ephesus + the Terrace Houses with a licensed archaeologist-guide
- The Ephesus Experience Museum (immersive projection-mapping show inside the site)
- House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi) on Mount Koressos
- Sirince: the Greek hillside village and its fruit-wine houses
- Temple of Artemis + Basilica of St. John in Selcuk