How to get from cruise port to ephesus?
Cruise ships visiting Ephesus in Turkey dock at the port of Kuşadası. Ephesus is located inland about a 20-30 minute drive away. You have several good options:
1) Cruise Ship Excursion: The easiest but most expensive. Book a guided tour through your cruise line. They handle transportation tickets and guarantee you'll be back on time. Often includes highlights like the Terrace Houses.
2) Private Taxi or Tour: As you exit the port terminal you'll find many licensed taxis and tour operators. You can negotiate a round-trip fare with waiting time. A typical rate for a taxi for 4-6 people is around €80-100 for the round trip with 2-3 hours waiting. Ensure you agree on the total price and waiting time beforehand.
3) Shared Minibus (Dolmuş): The local budget option. Walk out of the port area to the main road and find a dolmuş (shared minibus) heading to Selçuk (the town nearest Ephesus). Tell the driver "Ephesus" or "Efes." From Selçuk town center you can take another short dolmuş or taxi (or even walk about 3 km) to the Ephesus lower gate. This is cheap but requires more time and navigation.
4) Rental Car: Possible but not recommended for a short stop unless you're confident driving in Turkey. Parking at Ephesus is available.
The site has two main gates: Lower (near the theatre) and Upper (near the Odeon). Most tours start at the upper gate and walk downhill. Wear comfortable shoes bring water a hat and cash (Turkish Lira) for souvenirs and small vendors. The official Turkish Ministry of Culture page for Ephesus has current ticket prices.
I did this independently last summer. We got a taxi right outside the port gates. We negotiated with a few drivers and got a comfortable van for 6 people for €90 round trip with 3 hours waiting. The driver dropped us at the upper gate gave us his card and was waiting exactly where he said he'd be. It was seamless and way cheaper than the cruise excursion.
Key tips: Ephesus is huge and can be hot. Three hours is a minimum to see the main sights (Library of Celsus Great Theatre Curetes Street). If you want to see the Terrace Houses (extra ticket) add an hour. The driver will likely suggest a stop at a carpet/leather cooperative on the way back—it's okay to politely decline if you're not interested. Have some Turkish Lira for entrance fees (credit cards accepted but cash is faster). The site is spectacular—definitely worth the trip from Kuşadası!