If you have already been to Ephesus, you might want to visit three other wonderful ancient sites near Kusadasi that can be toured in one day:

Priene, one of the first planned cities in the world, requires some uphill walking, but is worth the climb! Streets cut each other at right angles and all the buildings are on perfect city blocks, dating from the 4th Century BCE, based on the Hippodamian Plan. (Famous architect Hippodamus was from nearby Miletos). From the top, you will be able to see the River Meander from which comes the English language word “meander”.

Then, stop at Miletos, which was a very important city of antiquity, where you can see a well-preserved theater, Roman baths, and a very charming old mosque, among other interesting buildings. Many famous philosophers and scientists had come out of Miletos: Thales, one of the Seven Sages and considered to be the ‘Father of Science’, had lived in Miletos. Isidore, the architect who built the famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, was also from Miletos. The people of Miletos founded about 90 colonies in different parts of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea coasts.

As the last stop, continue on to Didyma, where you can see the Temple of Apollo, “Seat of the Oracle”, one of the largest temples ever built; its construction took over 250 years, but was never totally completed. The head of Medusa will greet you as you are about to enter the temple.

There will be a shopping opportunity before returning to your cruise ship.