FOR CRUISERS:Private Tour Ephesus and House of Mary-Skip the line
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FOR CRUISERS:Private Tour Ephesus and House of Mary-Skip the line

Active
6h - 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

Discover the magic of ancient Turkey with your exclusive Ephesus tour! Skip the long lines with pre-arranged entrance tickets and step straight into a world of history and wonder. Wander through the breathtaking ruins of one of the greatest cities of the Roman Empire, marvel at the stunning Library of Celsus, and feel the atmosphere in the grand ancient theater.

With a brand-new, fully air-conditioned vehicle and a dedicated professional driver, your comfort is your priority. Plus, enjoy convenient port pickup and drop-off, making your journey smooth and hassle-free.

After the tour, take some free time to explore the vibrant Kuşadası Shopping Center, just a short walk from the port, where you can find unique souvenirs or relax at a café.

Don’t miss this unforgettable experience—book now and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Available options

Kusadasi Port Private Shore Excursion to Ephesus Skip the line

What's included

Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide
A brand-new, fully air-conditioned vehicle with a professional, dedicated driver.
Parking fees
Pickup and drop-off at the port

Detailed itinerary

1

⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTICE! ⚠️

⛔ Group tours may sound convenient, but they often mean sacrificing your freedom. You’re forced to follow a rigid schedule, rush through places you might not care about, and wait for others — all while paying entry fees upfront for sites you may not even want to visit. Why spend your valuable holiday time and money this way?

✅ With our private tours, your day is truly yours! You decide where to go, how long to stay, and what to see. Entry fees aren’t included in advance, so you only pay for the places that genuinely interest you. Each morning, we discuss your preferences and shape the tour around you.

✳️ Imagine the difference: Instead of being herded along with strangers, you explore at your own pace. Instead of paying for places you don’t care about, every stop is somewhere you actually want to see.

Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all tour. Choose a private experience tailored just for you and your family — and make your trip unforgettable!

2

When your cruise ship arrives, our team will be ready to welcome you just outside the Exit Gate, next to the Information Desk. You’ll easily spot us—we’ll be holding a sign with your name on it.

To make the most of your time ashore and avoid the crowds, we highly recommend disembarking within 30 minutes of your ship’s arrival. This allows us to leave before the large group tours depart and ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience at each site.

When booking your tour, please choose the earliest available disembarkation time. This helps us begin your tour smoothly and maximizes your time at the highlights of the region.

We look forward to providing you with a seamless, crowd-free start to your private tour experience!

3
Stop 3

Located on Mt. Koressos near Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary is believed to be the final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims, offering a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. The modest stone house and its tranquil setting make it a spiritual highlight of the region.

4
Stop 4

Ephesus, cradled in the heart of ancient Ionia, stands as a timeless symphony of marble and memory. Once a glittering jewel of the Roman Empire, its streets still echo with the footsteps of philosophers, merchants, and emperors. The Library of Celsus rises like a stone poem to wisdom; the Grand Theater still whispers the voices of long-forgotten plays. Beneath the Aegean sun, temples, colonnades, and mosaic floors reveal a city where art, faith, and power once danced in harmony. Ephesus is not merely a ruin—it is a living testament to the beauty and brilliance of a lost world, eternal in its silence.

5
Stop 5

Tucked into the hillside of Ephesus, the Terrace Houses reveal the elegant lives of the city’s elite. Known as the “Beverly Hills of Ephesus,” these beautifully preserved Roman homes showcase vivid frescoes, intricate mosaics, and the daily charm of ancient life.

As you walk through glass-covered walkways, you’ll glimpse the soul of a lost world—not just temples and theatres, but the warmth of real homes, where art and life once flourished. An unforgettable highlight for those who seek the heart of Ephesus.

6
Stop 6 Pass by

We’ll be driving past Kuşadası Shopping Center, just a short 5-minute walk from the port. After the tour, you’ll have plenty of free time to wander around, do some shopping, or just relax. Your guide will happily show you where the shopping area is before you set off on your own.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

Located on Pigeon Island just off the coast of Kuşadası, Kuşadası Castle is a historic fortress built by the Ottomans in the 18th century. Originally constructed to protect the coastline from pirates, the castle offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and Kuşadası harbor.

8

At the conclusion of our tour, we ensure your timely return to Kusadasi Cruise Port in accordance with your ship’s onboard time.

Please be advised: As multiple cruise ships may be in port simultaneously, each with different arrival and departure schedules, we meticulously verify all timings, confirm them individually with our guests, and coordinate our itinerary accordingly.

Our tours guarantee your prompt and safe return to your vessel before departure.

What's not included

Entrance fees: We will arrange your tickets in advance, allowing you to skip the long ticket lines.
Drinks
Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
We highly recommend meeting at the port 30 to 45 minutes after your ship docks to avoid crowds, buses, and the afternoon heat. Arriving early helps you enjoy a better, more comfortable tour of Ephesus before the crowds arrive.This tour is exclusively for cruise guests. If you are not arriving by cruise ship, please do not book this tour and kindly explore our other available options.

Meeting point

Important Note for Cruise Guests
To make the most of your visit and avoid the busy crowds, school buses, and afternoon heat, we suggest meeting at the port about 30 minutes after your ship docks. Starting early means you’ll enjoy a more peaceful and comfortable tour of Ephesus.

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

Adults
Age 8-99
1
Childs
Age 3-7
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 2
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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