Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus Sightseeing Tour with Lunch
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Ephesus, the best-preserved ancient city in Turkey, on this shore excursion from Kusadasi. A commercial, religious and social center during ancient Greek and Roman times, Ephesus is full of spectacular ruins. While your ship waits in the Kusadasi port, you can discover ancient sights like the Fountains of Trajan, the Temple of Hadrian, the Library of Celsius and the Great Theater.
Available options
Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus Sightseeing Tour with Lunch
Pickup included
Full day Guide and Driver
Including only Guide and drive<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee
Port pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Ephesus is the highlight of any visit in Turkey, and you can see its top sights on this shore excursion from Kusadasi. With so many mythological stories and spectacular ruins, Ephesus will make you feel like you've gone back to the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans.
See the famous Fountains of Trajan, built to honor the emperor of the same name, and the Polio Fountain, located opposite the Domitian Temple. Visit the Temple of Hadrian, the Private House (a brothel which was part of the scholastic baths), the Library of Celsius and the bouleuterion (a small theater used for the meetings of the Senate). Admire the Great Theater, which was completed by the Romans in 117 AD and has a capacity for 24,000 spectators.
2
Stop 2
After enjoying a lunch of Turkish cuisine (included), you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where she spent the last days of her life.
3
Stop 3
Next, see the graceful columns and mosaics that remain of the Basilica of St John, built by the Emperor Justinian over the tomb of St John the Apostle, before returning to your ship at the Kusadasi port, where you tour concludes.
4
Stop 4
Artemis Temple
5
Stop 5
Grand Theater
6
Odeon Antique theatre
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
144 reviews
5★
96
4★
36
3★
7
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please note: You must contact your local service provider 24 hours prior to the tour to reconfirm your departure point and time
At time of booking, Cruise Ship passengers must provide the following details under Special Requirements: Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
In the event of any museum closures, an alternative similar museum will be visited
Not recommended for children aged 4 and under
Children 18 years and under must be accompanied by an adult
Important notes
• Please note: You must contact your local service provider 24 hours prior to the tour to reconfirm your departure point and time
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made Worry Free Terms & Conditions:
This product is a Worry-free Shore Excursion. If you are not returned to the ship in time to board, we will arrange the necessary transport to the next port-of-call. This policy applies only to our contracted local suppliers and only when, through no fault or action of your own, you are not returned to the ship in time to board. Viator will select and book travel to the next port of call (not to exceed US$1,000 per person). Please see our Terms & Conditions for complete details.
In the event that one of our contracted local suppliers decides to cancel your tour or activity due to weather, you will be issued a full refund. You will also be issued a full refund in the event that your ship does not make it to port in time for the start of your tour or activity.
If you need immediate assistance because you were not returned to your ship in time to board, please call us at +1 (702) 749 5743 weekdays 2am to 9pm, weekends 6am to 5pm, Pacific Standard Time (PST). At all other times call us at +61 (2) 8219 5490 (select option #5). Please note: these numbers are not for general customer service. Only customers needing immediate assistance to the next port of call will be assisted.
Opening hours are:
09:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday
09:00 - 13:00 Saturday to Saturday
This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.
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
