Private Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour Cruiser Only

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Badge of Excellence | Kusadasi, Turkey

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4 to 6 hours (approx.)

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Overview

Discover Ephesus, a historical treasure trove, by booking this tour. Uncover its rich past and well-preserved ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at architectural wonders like the Library of Celsus and the grand Temple of Artemis. Immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of ancient civilizations. Experience spiritual significance at the House of the Virgin Mary. Expert guides provide valuable insights and seamless logistics. Embark on an enriching journey through time, embracing history, culture, and spirituality. Ephesus awaits, offering an unforgettable experience.

What's Included

LUNCH IN THE COUNTRYSIDE, Enjoy a peaceful meal with authentic flavors in a serene rural setting.
GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN, ensuring cruise passengers return on time for their departure schedule.
PARKING FEES, all parking fees are included in the tour price, for your convenience
CRUISE PORT PICK-UP & DROP-OFF, convenient service as detailed in the itinerary.
PRIVATE TOUR, ensures a more personalized and exclusive experience tailored to your preferences
PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION, travel with separate driver in an air-conditioned, non-smoking van.
PROFESSIONAL, LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE, Authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture
TO SKIP TICKET LINES, ask your guide to arrange tickets; pay the fee in cash to your guide.

Gratuities
Entrance Fees to the Museums and any Sites
Beverages During Lunch
Personal Expenses

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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Pickup details

MEETING POINT: Kusadasi Cruise Terminal for cruise passengers. ---------------------------------- EXLUSIVE PRIVATE TOUR FOR YOUR PARTY ONLY - NO SHARING WITH OTHER GROUPS! ---------------------------------- Enjoy a personalized journey tailored to your party. Want to make it even more enjoyable? Invite friends or cruise travelers to join and explore Ephesus together on your terms with flexibility and comfort. ---------------------------------- FOR CRUISE GUEST! ---------------------------------- We highly recommend meeting at the port approximately 30 minutes after your ship docks to avoid crowds, and the afternoon heat. Meeting early ensures a more enjoyable and relaxed tour of Ephesus. ---------------------------------- WE GUARANTEE ON-TIME RETURN TO YOUR SHIP. ---------------------------------- ADVANTAGES OF PRIVATE TOURS OVER GROUP OR BUS TOURS ---------------------------------- A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPURTUNITY: Your visit to Ephesus may be a unique experience. A private tour allows you to make the most of it with a personalized itinerary. ---------------------------------- FLEXIBLE AND PERSONALIZED SCHEDULE: Unlike group tours, private tours give you full control over what to see, when to start, and when to conclude. You set the pace, ensuring a tour tailored to your interests. ---------------------------------- DEDICATED ATTENTION: In private tours, the guide focuses entirely on you and your group, ensuring you don’t miss any fascinating details or key highlights. ---------------------------------- NO WAITING OR DELAYS: You won’t have to wait for large groups to gather or stop for unforeseen situations. Private tours keep the experience seamless and efficient. ---------------------------------- EXCLUSIVE COMFORT: Enjoy your own Van and expert local tour guide without the need to share with others. ---------------------------------- HASSLE-FREE EXPERIENCE: Your guide will handle tickets and entry arrangements, saving you time and effort while you focus on enjoying the ruins and museums. ---------------------------------- OPTIMAL LEARNING AND INTERACTION: Private tours provide better opportunities to ask questions, hear the guide clearly, and engage deeply with the history and culture of Ephesus.

What To Expect

Kusadasi

Visit to Ephesus Travel Agency will warmly welcome cruise passengers at the port's main exit gate, holding a sign with your name, and hotel guests in their hotel lobby. After booking your tour, please contact our team to confirm and arrange your meeting time by providing your cruise ship name and arrival & on-board times. This information will help us suggest the best timing for your tour. If you encounter any difficulties finding a suitable time option, we will gladly assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kusadasi Castle (Pass By)

As you pass by, admire Kuşadası Castle on Pigeon Island, a historic Ottoman-era fortress originally built for coastal defense. This iconic landmark, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, once safeguarded the region from pirates and invaders. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Kuşadası’s rich maritime history and breathtaking panoramic views, making it a must-see attraction for anyone exploring this beautiful coastal town.

Okuz Mehmet Pasa KervansarayI (Pass By)

As you pass by, discover the historic Öküz Mehmet Paşa Caravanserai, built in 1618 as a vital Ottoman trade hub connecting merchants traveling between the East and West. This remarkable structure served as a secure refuge for traders, providing lodging and protection for both travelers and their goods. With its grand arched entrance, sturdy stone walls, and impressive Ottoman-era design, the caravanserai highlights the importance of trade in fostering cultural exchange and economic growth. Today, it remains a significant historic landmark in Kuşadası, attracting visitors with its rich heritage and architectural splendor.

Ancient City of Ephesus

One of the best-preserved Greco-Roman ancient cities in the world. With roots dating back to the Greek and Roman periods, it hosts many impressive structures connected by streets that still bear the marks of ancient chariot wheels. Discover the magnificent Great Theater, with a capacity of over 20,000 people, where gladiatorial battles were once held. Visit the Public Agora, where St. Paul preached, which also served as an ancient trade center for Anatolian handicrafts, renowned for their quality even today. Walk along Marble Street to reach the Celsus Library, the third-largest library of the ancient world, with its beautifully restored façade. Explore other iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain, Domitian Temple—one of the first temples dedicated to a human—and the Odeon, used for musical performances. Ephesus offers a captivating journey through history, reflecting the grandeur, engineering, and cultural richness of ancient civilizations.

2 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)

The House of the Virgin Mary is a revered Christian pilgrimage site, believed to be the place where the Virgin Mary spent her final days and was assumed into heaven. According to Christian tradition, Mary was brought to Ephesus by the Apostle John after the Resurrection of Christ. John is said to have left Jerusalem with Mary following the martyrdom of James and other apostles, seeking a safe haven for her. The church, built on the foundation of her house, has been authenticated by visits from three popes: Pope Paul VI in 1967, who unofficially confirmed its authenticity, Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006. During their visits, they offered gifts to the shrine, which are now displayed as tokens of its sacred significance. This serene and spiritual site continues to inspire faith and devotion among visitors from around the world.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kusadasi Shopping Center (Pass By)

Discover the Best Traditional Handicrafts and Local Insights from Your Guide. Get expert tips from your local guide on must-see attractions, top-quality traditional handicrafts, safety advice, and insider recommendations for a hassle-free experience.

Kusadasi

At the end of your tour, we will ensure your timely return to Kusadasi Cruise Port, well before your ship’s scheduled departure.Important Note: With multiple cruise ships docking and departing at different times, we carefully monitor all schedules, confirm details with our guests, and coordinate return timings to guarantee a smooth and hassle-free experience.Our tours promise an on-time return to your cruise ship, so you can explore with confidence and peace of mind.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available
Optimize Your Cruise Tour Experience – Meet Your Guide at the Perfect Time! For cruise guests, we recommend meeting your guide at the port promptly for a seamless and enjoyable tour. If your ship arrives before 7:00 AM, plan to meet at 7:45 AM. For later arrivals, aim to meet 30–45 minutes after docking. This ideal timing helps you avoid crowds from other cruise ships, escape the midday heat, and enjoy your tour comfortably, as much of it takes place in open areas. Start your Tour stress-free and make the most of your visit!
After booking your tour, please contact our team to confirm and arrange your meeting time by providing your cruise ship name and arrival & on-board times. This information will help us suggest the best timing for your tour. If you encounter any difficulties finding a suitable time option, we will gladly assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour Cruiser Only?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03). Read more Apr 2025