city closest to ephesus
 

We won't have a car but plan to take a day tour. Should we stay in Izmir or Kasadasi? Also, we'll be arriving in Istanbul & going directly to whichever city we choose. Which city is more convenient as far as distance from airport?

Selçuk is the nearest town. It is within a fairly long walking distance pf Ephesus. I think that you would be landing at the Izmir airport which is south of the city and already on the way to Selçuk. You might want to check and see if staying to Selçuk is an option.

Kusadasi is just a short dolmus (a little bus) ride away. Or take a taxi. How come I remember that Kusadasi is the nearest?

Hi

Kusadasi is about 20kms from Ephesus. If you don't like the husttle and bustle of a big city, avoid Izmir.