The city has a long and ancient history as a port city and trading center due to its unique and strategic location along some of the major routes that have been in active use since the early civilizations in the area rose to prominence under the rule of Greeks and Romans.

Its proximity to some of Turkey's major cultural, religious, and natural attractions makes Kusadasi one of the prime ports to use as a springboard for sightseeing excursions. The ancient Roman city of Ephesus, just a half-hour drive away, is considered the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean. Just outside Ephesus, the provincial town of Selçuk is home to the Basilica of St. John and the House of the Virgin Mary.