Ephesus Small Group - Semi Private Shore Excursion
Active
4h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Catch the highlights of Ephesus, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this 5-hour semi-private trip from Kusadasi. Experience the best Ephesus has to offer on this comprehensive full day private guided tour. This Kusadasi shore excursion takes you to the most noteworthy and popular destinations available. Learn about Ephesus's stunning history, visit incredible landmarks, and enjoy local cuisine before going back to your cruise ship. This Kusadasi guided tour is ideal for history lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for an immersive cultural experience at a affordable price.
This tour is guaranteed Skip-The-Line with pre-purchased tickets.
This tour's maximum participant number is 12 person per group.
Your guides will meet you at the Kusadasi Cruise Port and bring you back to port on time.
Available options
Kusadasi Cruise Port
Lunch<br/>Mercedes Vito / Sprinter<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Guaranteed skip-the-line!
Pickup and Drop-off from Cruise Port
Traditional lunch at a handicraft carpet demonstration village
Brand New A/C Luxury Mercedes Sprinter with Private Driver
Professional Licensed Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Your guide will meet you at the Cruise Port with a sign your name is written.
2
Stop 2
The House of Virgin Mary where Mary had spent her last day, the Basilica of St. John where is believed that the evangelist St. John had spent his last years in the region around Ephesus and buried in the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill
3
Stop 3
This enclosure for archaeological remains at Ephesus elegantly reconciles historic conservation with accessibility for visitors. The site of a succession of great ancient civilizations, Ephesus, on the south-west coast of modern Turkey, embodied a peculiarly fertile synthesis of architecture and culture. In 356BC the Greeks built the Artemesium (a colossal Ionic temple dedicated to Artemis the fertility goddess) which was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. During the 2nd century BC, Ephesus was the fourth largest city in the eastern Roman Empire, famous for its Artemesium, the Library of Celsus and its medical school..
4
Stop 4
Temple of Artemision in Ionia at Ephesus in Turkey, became one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was built in Ephesus on a flat area which has turned into a swamp over the centuries. Today there are only the ruins of this marvelous construction of the Hellenistic Age which was made of marble and sculptured columns. The most beautiful remainings of this temple are exhibited in the London British Museum.
The oldest remaining found dates back to 6th century BC. It was surrounded by 36 huge columns, later enlarged upon the orders of the Lydian King, Kreisos during the 6th Century BC. Most of the exhibits in the London British Museum belong to this period.
The new Artemis temple was built in the 2nd century BC. It was located on top of the previous one and had tremendous dimensions like 121 columns of each 17,5 meters high. Unfortunately this temple was destroyed by fire and reconstructed but then again demolished by earthquakes.
What's not included
Beverages at the Lunch
Ephesus Ancient City
Virgin Mary House
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
37 reviews
5★
33
4★
3
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
369 reviews
5★
358
4★
11
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Small Group Tours are exclusive only for cruise passengers
Important notes
Tour guide will meet you at the exit of the immigration gate of Kusadasi Cruise Port. Look out for a sign with your name written on it. Our guides will be ready and waiting for you half an hour before your selected meeting time. If you happen to exit earlier, kindly wait at the designated guide meeting area.
About Kusadasi
Kusadasi is a vibrant coastal city on the Turkish Riviera, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and proximity to ancient ruins. It offers a blend of modern resort amenities and traditional Turkish culture, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Top Attractions
Lady Mary's Bath
A historic hamam (Turkish bath) built in 1640, offering traditional Turkish bath experiences and spa treatments.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate
Kusadasi Castle
A medieval castle with a rich history, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Long Beach (Long Beach)
A popular beach with golden sand, clear waters, and a variety of water sports and activities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to Moderate (for amenities and water sports)
Ephesus Ancient City
One of the most famous ancient cities in the world, featuring well-preserved ruins and significant historical sites.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Pigeon Island (Kusadasi Castle)
A small island connected to the mainland by a causeway, featuring a historic castle and beautiful views.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to enter, moderate for activities
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gözleme
A traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients like cheese, spinach, or potatoes
Breakfast/Snack
Vegetarian options available
Kusadasi Köfte
Spicy meatballs made with ground beef, onions, and spices, often served with rice or bread
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains nuts
Popular Activities
Scuba diving
Parasailing
Jet skiing
Hiking in nearby nature parks
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga on the beach
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant nightlife. The sea is at its warmest, perfect for swimming and water sports.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Turkish
- Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kusadasi is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Adnan Menderes Airport • 75 km south of Kusadasi
By bus
Kusadasi Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent minibuses that follow set routes. Easy to use but can get crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Gett
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Kadınlar Denizi
Davutlar
Day trips
Ephesus
20 km • Half day to full day
One of the most famous ancient cities in the world, featuring well-preserved ruins and significant historical sites.
Pamukkale
160 km • Full day
A natural wonder featuring terraces of white travertine pools filled with thermal water.
Sirince
30 km • Half day
A charming village known for its wine production, fruit wines, and traditional architecture.
Festivals
Kusadasi International Music Festival • July
Kusadasi International Kite Festival • May
Pro tips
- Visit Ephesus early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try the local street food, especially simit and kebabs
- Bargain politely when shopping in bazaars
- Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use dolmuş (shared taxis) for affordable and convenient transport within the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
