The short distance between Kusadasi and Selcuk makes it possible to fit both an ancient city and the seaside into a single day. It takes about two hours from Didim to Selcuk, and about half an hour from Kusadasi to Selcuk. In this article we suggest a sensible order for anyone arriving by coach.
Selcuk: Ephesus and the Surrounding Area
Selcuk is the closest town to the ancient city of Ephesus. With the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre and its marble streets, Ephesus is the most visited site in the region. The site is large, so you will need comfortable shoes and water; in summer, early mornings are better both for the cooler temperature and for the smaller crowds.
After Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St John and the Ephesus Museum are the natural next stops. If you have time left, the village of Sirince near Selcuk, with its narrow streets and vineyard houses, suits the quieter part of the day.
Kusadasi: Seafront and Harbour
In Kusadasi, the day starts with a walk around the harbour. Guvercinada (Pigeon Island), with its view back over the town, is worth a short stop. For a swim, the Kadinlar Denizi (Ladies Beach) area is one of the options closest to the centre. If you are planning a day in nature, consider heading to Dilek Peninsula National Park; you will need to set aside half a day for the national park.
A practical detail for coach travellers: Didim Seyahat's Istanbul route calls at Kusadasi and Selcuk. This means you can buy a direct ticket from Kusadasi to Istanbul or from Istanbul to Kusadasi, and you can use Selcuk on the same route too. For current times, see the Istanbul – Kusadasi and Selcuk – Istanbul pages.
Notes for a One-Day Route
- There is little shade at Ephesus; take a hat and water with you.
- Opening hours at the ancient sites change with the season; check the latest information before your visit.
- Selcuk and Kusadasi are close, but the journey can take longer in summer traffic; leave plenty of time before your return coach.
- While you are at the beach, carry your bus ticket and ID in a waterproof pouch.
- If you are boarding at an intermediate stop, confirm your boarding point on your ticket.
