PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR: SKIP-THE-LINE & ON-TIME Return to Cruise
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PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR: SKIP-THE-LINE & ON-TIME Return to Cruise

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

Private Ephesus Tour for your party only, with guaranteed on-time return to ship and skip-the-line experience. Ephesus is one of the best preserved ancient sites in the world, but it can be difficult to plan on your own. With this private shore excursion, let someone else handle the logistics when you book this hassle-free shore excursion. Enjoy skip-the-line admission and take guided tours of the Ancient City, the Terraced Houses of Ephesus, and the Basilica of St. John (can be replaced with the House of the Virgin Mary upon request), plus learn about Turkey's rich handicraft culture. An authentic Turkish lunch option is offered during the day.

- Get a peek at Artemis Temple and the terrace houses
- A private tour means you get your guide's undivided attention
- Enjoy plenty of time to explore the UNESCO-listed site with a guide
- Guaranteed on time return to your cruise ship

Available options

PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR: SKIP-THE-LINE & ON-TIME Return to Cruise

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation with A/C Minivans with separate Driver
GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS
Cruise Port Pick-up & Drop-Off (mentioned on the details)
Professional LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE
PRIVATE TOUR that ensures more personalized service

Detailed itinerary

1

IMPORTANT NOTICE: ⛔️ GROUP TOURS force you to follow fixed schedules and visit places based on their timing, regardless of your interests! You’re stuck with fast and slow travelers alike, having to keep up with the group. Plus, you have to pay all ENTRY FEES IN ADVANCE, whether you're interested in the sites or not. Why pay for places you don't want to visit and feel obligated to go just because you paid? ⛔️ ⚠️ Our PRIVATE TOURS give you the flexibility you need. Entry fees are not included, so you only pay for the places that genuinely interest you. In the morning, we discuss your interests and tailor the itinerary accordingly. ⚠️ ✳️ With our PRIVATE TOURS, you have complete control, visiting only the places you want to see. Would you rather spend your day WAITING FOR OTHER TRAVELERS and FOLLOWING A FIXED ITINERARY, or ENJOY A PRIVATE TOUR CUSTOMIZED JUST FOR YOUR FAMILY? The choice is yours! ✳️

2

We will meet you at the Kusadasi Cruise Port! After booking this tour, please contact our team to agree & secure your meeting time.

3
Stop 3

Ephesus Ruins is the largest open-air museum of Turkey which is dated to the Greek and Roman periods. Inside the Ruins of Ephesus, we explore Senate Building, Ancient Hospital, Domitian Temple, Nike Statue, Hercules Gate, Trajan Fountain, Hadrian Temple, Celsus Library, Grand Theatre of Ephesus and many more...

4
Stop 4

Terrace Houses were the houses of rich & upper class people in Ephesus City have been lived, famed with gorgeous mosaics, frescoes and wall paintings. One of the best preserved site in the Ephesus in which archeological works still continue.

5
Stop 5

In early A.D, Evangelist St. John lived in the Ephesus in order to spread Christianity and collect more followers to the way of Jesus. And, according to many sources, he died around Ephesus after he returned from exile in Patmos. And, buried on the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill by his students. Roman Emperor Justinian constructed one of the biggest Basilicas of Christianity in the 4th Century A.D over the burial of St. Jean the Evangelist!

6
Stop 6

Artemis was the Greek goddess, the virginal huntress and twin of Apollo, who replaced the Titan Selene as Goddess of the Moon. The ancient temple was built around 650 BC to the cult of Artemis, was constructed on a site already sacred to the Anatolian Mother Goddess, Cybele. The temple was financed by the wealthy king of Lydia and the marshy ground was selected for the building site as a precaution against future earthquakes. During the time, it has been destroyed and collapsed many times due to the natural disasters.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

If requested to visit the Mary's House, it is replaced with the Basilica of St.John.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

You are able to see local handicrafts and experience local shopping if preferred. You will be also able to collect informations from your Local Tour Guide about: the best traditional handicrafts, best places to go, things to be carrefull, and best tips for hassle free experience...

9
Stop 9 Pass by

Also called Pigeon Island! One of the earliest settlements of modern Kusadasi. We will pass by and have an opportunity of seeing it in a distance. It is located very close to the Port, you might be able to have time after your tour if you are interested.

10

In the end of our tour, we return to the Kusadasi Cruise Port according to your ONBOARD TIME! PLEASE NOTE THAT: There are several Ships with different arrival and departure times. We carefully check all the timings, confirm with the passengers, and coordinate our return time to Cruise Port. OUR TOURS ENSURE GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN TO THE BOAT!

What's not included

Entrance fee of Ephesus
Entrance fee of Basilica St. John
Entrance fee of Terrace Houses (Optional)
Entrance fee of House of Virgin Mary

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Ephesus Entrance Fee is 40 €. You can pay to the guide for skip-the-line tickets.
House of the Virgin Mary Entrance Fee is 500 TRY. You can pay to the guide for skip-the-line tickets.

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 4-7
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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