Wewill be on a cruise that stops twice in Ephesus. One of the stops is from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. I would like to visit Pamukkale that day. Is this reasonable? If so, can you recommend a tour operator that is experienced in taking cruise passengers to Pamukkale? I want to be certain we get back to our ship in time.

That would be a packed day. The non-stop driving time is 3 hours each way and traffic in Selcuk, Aydin and/or Nazilli -- while rarely really bad -- could lengthen that. I did a big self-drive road trip through that area several years ago and loved it - we spent two days and three nights in Pamukkale and easily filled them. But I think you'd have too little time actually there to justify the travel time. I don't see how you could have a relaxed and enjoyable tour of both the necropolis and the pools with the time available.

With only 11 hours on land, I think you're better off sticking to the delightful and historic town of Selcuk and a couple of the scenic montain towns nearby, particularly Sirince and Tire. And consider doing a half-hour Ultralight flight over the Ephesus ruins, which is wonderful. The airstrip is between Ephesus and Selcuk.

I was really excited about seeing Pamukkele and I'm sorry to say it was a disappointment. If you were already in that part of Turkey then I would say stop by and see it, but don't knock yourself out if you're that far away.

Thank you for this comment. It looks like it won't be possible for us to see it on this trip. Your review makes me feel better. I will find other activities closer to Kusadasi for us to do/see.

Yo Halfa,
A quasi-related point here. If in Selcuk, you could check out the leather coats and jackets there---the prices are unbelievable. We bought four jackets and coats there back in '90 and they are still in decent condition. Incredible value for money.
I am in no way a 'fashion horse', so when even a person like me raves about that possibility, it is really apparent!

Hope your trip goes well. I would not try to pack too much into a day, maybe just select one or the other to visit.
Both attractions will be there for a future visit.

I am done. The end.