Port
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$70
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 4½ hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Your day will begin with a visit to Miletus -- the oldest and the most powerful of the twelve Ionian cities in Asia Minor. In ancient times, Miletus was located on the coast at the mouth of the River Meander. Its four harbors and strategic location on the west coast of Asia Minor made it a major player in the commerce of the ancient world, repeatedly captured by envious invaders. But eventually, Miletus met its fate, not at the hands of foreign powers, but at the gentle insistence of the Meander River, which silted up over the centuries.
Miletus's significant claim to fame is that it was the first city to apply the principles of modern town planning. Hippodamos introduced the grid plan, which later formed the basis of town planning in all Roman cities. Incidentally, St Paul visited Miletus on his Third Missionary Journey en route back to Jerusalem.
You will see the ruins of the theatre, thermal baths and the stadium here. Visit the Archaeological Museum at Miletus and see the wonderful artifacts representing the many ancient sites of the area.
Opt for a drop-off in Kusadasi for a carpet demonstration if you wish. Guests wishing to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship.