Highlights
- 2-day Ephesus, Virgin Mary and Seven Sleepers group tour from Kemer by transfer vehicle.
- Travel from Kemer toward the Kusadasi and Selcuk region with road breaks on the first day.
- Use the overnight base near Ephesus before the Biblical Ephesus sightseeing route.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers and Ephesus Ancient City.
- Continue from lunch near Selcuk to St. John Basilica before the return road journey to Kemer.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The transfer-vehicle format keeps the Kemer to Ephesus route in one clear road flow.
- Group touring gives the travel day, overnight base and Selcuk sightseeing route an organized structure.
- You cover the main Biblical Ephesus sacred-history landmarks without adding unrelated destinations.
- The itinerary gives the Ephesus region a dedicated day after the first-day road journey.
Overview
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Day 1
Kemer to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region by Transfer Vehicle
Travel by shared transfer vehicle from Kemer to the Ephesus region.
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Day 1 is a long road transfer with comfort stops before overnight near Selcuk or Kusadasi.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortCamyuva Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upPickup from Camyuva before joining the Kemer transfer route.
Meet the group in Camyuva and continue toward the Kemer departure flow for the road transfer to the Ephesus region.
Breakfast Break on Route BPause for breakfast during the long road transfer.
Comfort breakfast break on the road.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedBreakfast Break on Route is a practical comfort stop during the long road transfer from Kemer toward the Ephesus region. Morning breaks on this route usually focus on simple, quick food options such as bakery items, tea, coffee, eggs, cheese, olives or other easy regional choices depending on the stop.
Kemer to Kusadasi / Selcuk Road JourneyContinue the long road journey toward the Ephesus region.
Scenic road journey toward Kusadasi or Selcuk.
Lunch Break on Route LPause for lunch during the road transfer.
Comfort lunch break on the route.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Break on Route gives the first transfer day a useful pause before reaching the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area. Roadside lunch stops in western Turkey can vary, but guests may encounter grilled dishes, soups, salads, vegetable plates, rice, pide-style choices or other practical local meals.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in near Kusadasi or Selcuk before the sightseeing day.
Overnight stay in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus & St. John Route
Full sightseeing day in the Ephesus region.
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Different tour end?
Day 2 follows the complete local route.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
House of Virgin Mary Chapel Altar View 
Votive Candles at House of Virgin Mary 
Seven Sleepers Cave Entrance Stones 
Celsus Library Among Classical Ruins 
Celsus Library Street Approach Scene 
Celsus Library in Selcuk Heritage Landscape 
Celsus Library Broad Marble Front 
Heracles Gate Carved Stone Passage 
Temple of Hadrian Arched Facade 
St. John Basilica Arched Ruin Perspective Hotel Check-out / DepartureStart from the overnight hotel.
Check out from the Kusadasi or Selcuk area hotel and begin the guided route.
House of Virgin MaryVisit the hillside shrine associated with the final years of the Virgin Mary.
Guided visit to House of Virgin Mary.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary begins the second-day sightseeing route after the overnight stay near Kusadasi or Selcuk. Set on Mount Koressos above Ephesus, the sanctuary gives the day a quiet spiritual opening before the route continues into early Christian memory and ancient city archaeology.
The chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and hillside setting are the main details to notice. Because the site is compact, its atmosphere and guide context are especially important for understanding its place in the sacred landscape around Ephesus.
Questions
Why does the Kemer road-transfer package visit House of Virgin Mary?
House of Virgin Mary gives the sightseeing day a calm spiritual opening after the overnight road-transfer structure reaches the Ephesus region. It introduces the route through pilgrimage tradition and Mount Koressos setting.What should I notice at House of Virgin Mary?
Notice the chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and hillside atmosphere. The site is compact, so its meaning comes from tradition, setting and guide context.
Cave of the Seven SleepersContinue to the Seven Sleepers site near Ephesus.
Visit Cave of the Seven Sleepers with a short walking section.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds a story-led Christian heritage stop close to Ephesus Ancient City. The tradition connected with the sleepers brings themes of faith, refuge and awakening into the route before the main archaeological visit.
The stop is modest in scale and best understood through its story rather than monumental remains. Guide explanation helps connect the cave tradition with the religious memory of the wider Ephesus area.
Questions
What does Cave of the Seven Sleepers add to this package route?
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds an early Christian story near Ephesus. It connects the route with themes of faith, refuge and religious memory before the ancient city visit.Is Cave of the Seven Sleepers a large archaeological stop?
No. It is mainly a story-led heritage stop rather than a large archaeological complex. The guide explanation helps guests understand the tradition attached to the place.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the marble streets, public spaces and monumental ruins of Ephesus.
Guided visit inside Ephesus Ancient City.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central archaeological experience of this two-day Kemer road-transfer package. Its marble streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade, baths, fountains and civic spaces reveal the planning and daily life of a major Roman city in Asia Minor.
The overnight road-transfer structure makes this second-day visit the core of the package. Follow the streets, public buildings and sacred spaces as a connected city plan so the site reads as a living historical landscape.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main sightseeing point?
Ephesus is the main sightseeing point because it is the strongest archaeological landscape on the route. Its streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade and public spaces show the scale of ancient city life.How should I follow Ephesus on this two-day route?
Follow Ephesus as a connected city route rather than separate monuments. This makes the streets, public buildings and sacred spaces easier to understand as one historical landscape.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause for lunch in the Selcuk area.
Lunch break near Selcuk during the local tour.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk provides a regional pause between the main Ephesus visit and the final Ayasuluk Hill stop. Food culture around Selcuk often reflects Aegean ingredients such as olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, salads, grilled choices and simple seasonal flavors.
The restaurant and menu can vary by operation and season. The stop is meant to support the flow of the sightseeing day rather than promise a fixed dining program.
Questions
What should I expect at the Selcuk lunch stop?
Expect a practical regional meal break near the Ephesus sites. The venue and menu can vary, but local food culture often reflects Aegean ingredients and simple seasonal cooking.Why is lunch placed before St. John Basilica?
Lunch gives the route a comfortable pause after Ephesus Ancient City and before the final Ayasuluk Hill visit. It helps balance the sightseeing day before the road return toward Kemer.St. John BasilicaVisit the basilica remains on Ayasuluk Hill.
Guided visit to St. John Basilica.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica completes the heritage sequence on Ayasuluk Hill above Selcuk. Traditionally connected with Saint John, the basilica carries the day from ancient Ephesus into later Christian memory and Byzantine-era sacred architecture.
Look for the basilica plan, baptistery area, surviving columns, stonework and views toward Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. It gives the sightseeing route a reflective final stop before the road return toward Kemer begins.
Questions
Why is St. John Basilica included after Ephesus?
St. John Basilica connects the region with Saint John tradition and later Christian heritage. Visiting it after Ephesus shows how Selcuk remained important beyond the ancient city period.What are the key details at St. John Basilica?
The basilica plan, baptistery area, surviving columns, stonework and views across Selcuk are the key details. They explain both the sacred memory and the archaeological setting.
Return Road Journey to KemerContinue the long return road journey to Kemer.
Road journey from the Ephesus region back toward the departure area.
Dinner Break on Return Route DPause for dinner during the return road journey.
Comfort dinner break on the return route.
MealsDinner meal IncludedDinner Break on Return Route is a practical evening pause during the road journey back toward Kemer. The exact stop and menu may vary, but common road-meal choices can include grilled foods, soups, salads, vegetable dishes, rice, bread and simple regional plates suited to a travel day.
Camyuva Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return drop-off in Camyuva after the Ephesus transfer package.
After the Selcuk-area visits and the return road transfer, the group continues from the Kemer area back to Camyuva for final drop-off.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Included
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Dinner meal.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- St. John Basilica.
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
Informations
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing.
- Please dress according to the season and weather conditions.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- Cameras are welcome, but tripods may not be permitted in some museums and archaeological sites.
- Guests should watch their step at all times to avoid injuries.
- Please check the weather forecast before your tour.
- Respectful clothing is recommended for visits to mosques and churches.
- Road transfer days are long; comfortable clothing and light hand luggage are recommended.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- The exact pick-up time will be confirmed after booking.
- The tour route may be adjusted due to weather, traffic, or site conditions.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Please be ready at your confirmed pick-up or meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
- The Kemer road transfer package is designed as a two-day product so the long distance does not compress the sightseeing route.
Your Peace of Mind Options
Cancellation Policy
A transparent overview of applicable fees.
Tour Reminder!
You can create a reminder for yourself for this tour. We will send you a reminder e-mail/sms about this tour on the date you specify.
FAQs
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What does this 2-day Ephesus group package from Kemer by transfer vehicle include?
This group package starts in Kemer, uses a shared transfer vehicle toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, includes one overnight stay, planned comfort stops, and a guided Ephesus-region route with House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. -
Where does the tour start and end?
The package starts with pick-up from Kemer hotel or meeting point areas and ends with drop-off back in Kemer after the return road journey from the Ephesus region. -
Is this a group tour or a private tour?
This is the group version of the 2-day Kemer to Ephesus package by transfer vehicle. It follows a shared package structure, while the matching private version is arranged separately for travelers who prefer a private vehicle plan and private guiding. -
How does the road route work from Kemer?
Day 1 uses Kemer pick-up, a long road journey toward Kusadasi or Selcuk, planned breakfast and lunch comfort stops, and hotel check-in. Day 2 covers the guided Ephesus-region route and the return road journey to Kemer. -
Which places are visited on the sightseeing day?
The local sightseeing day visits House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. The route combines Biblical heritage, early Christian history and the main archaeological setting around Ephesus. -
How long is this package?
This is a 1-night, 2-day package. Final start and finish timing is confirmed after booking because they depend on pick-up planning, long-distance road conditions, comfort stops and the final operation schedule. -
Is hotel accommodation included?
Yes. The group package includes one overnight stay in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area before the full Ephesus-region sightseeing day. -
Are meals included in the group package?
Yes. The group package structure includes planned meal handling, including the route lunch and comfort-stop meal plan shown in the operation flow. -
Can guests join from Beldibi, Camyuva or Tekirova?
Yes. This package has pickup variants for Beldibi, Camyuva and Tekirova. Pickup distance can affect the long road-transfer timing, so the exact meeting point should be confirmed before booking. -
Who is this transfer-vehicle package best for?
This package is best for travelers or closed groups staying in Kemer or nearby resort areas who prefer controlled road travel with planned stops instead of changing transport modes. -
Can I book this package online by credit card?
Yes. This package can be booked online, and online credit card payment is available through the system. -
Why should road time be explained before booking?
The road journey between Kemer and the Ephesus region is long. Clear expectations about travel time, comfort stops, hotel timing and final drop-off help protect the quality of the package. -
Is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee included?
Yes. The House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in this group package. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5. -
Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included?
Yes. The Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in this group package. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is the St. John Basilica entrance fee included?
Yes. The St. John Basilica entrance fee is included in this group package. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6. -
Is the Terrace Houses of Ephesus entrance fee included?
No. Terrace Houses of Ephesus is an optional visit and its entrance fee is not included in this group package. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
General FAQs
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Is Ephesus a good shore excursion from Kusadasi port?
Yes. Ephesus is one of the most popular and efficient day trips from Kusadasi.
- The drive is usually short compared to many other ports.
- We plan the route around your ship timing and keep a safe return buffer.
- Early starts help avoid heat and heavy crowds in peak season.
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How do cruise shore excursions work (meeting point and return time)?
Shore excursions are built around your ships docking schedule.
- We confirm a clear meeting point close to the port exit.
- We recommend a comfortable buffer before all-aboard time.
- If your ship uses tender boats, allow extra time and tell us your tender details.
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Where is Ephesus located and what is it close to?
Ephesus is an ancient city near Selcuk on Turkeys Aegean coast.
- The closest main cruise port town is Kusadasi.
- Izmir is the nearest major city and transport hub.
- Many day tours combine Ephesus with nearby stops based on your available time.
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Can I visit Ephesus from Izmir port in one day?
Yes, but it is a longer drive than from Kusadasi.
- Timing must be planned carefully to avoid rushing.
- If your port stay is short, we may recommend an Izmir-focused program instead.
- Share your ship schedule and we will suggest the most realistic plan.
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What are the must-see highlights inside Ephesus?
Ephesus is a large open-air archaeological site with world-famous monuments.
- Library of Celsus and Curetes Street.
- Great Theatre and main marble streets.
- Key public areas such as agoras, baths, and temples depending on route and time.
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Should I add the Terrace Houses in Ephesus?
The Terrace Houses offer a closer look at Roman-era homes, mosaics, and frescoes.
- This visit usually requires extra time and is often a separate ticket.
- If you love details, art, and interiors, it is a great upgrade.
- For cruise days with limited time, we can advise if it fits comfortably.
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How much walking is there at Ephesus?
Ephesus involves a lot of walking on stone surfaces and open paths.
- Paths can be uneven and can feel slippery when wet.
- There are gentle slopes and limited shade in some areas.
- If you have mobility concerns, tell us and we can suggest the best route or alternatives.
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What should I wear for an Ephesus tour?
Comfort and sun protection make a big difference.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen in warm months.
- Carry water, especially in summer and on cruise days.
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When is the best time to visit Ephesus?
Ephesus can be visited year-round, but the experience changes by season.
- Spring and autumn are comfortable for long outdoor visits.
- Summer is hotter and busier, so early starts are recommended.
- Winter has fewer crowds but cooler weather and occasional rain.
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Is Ephesus crowded and how do we avoid peak crowds?
Ephesus is very popular, especially in summer and on cruise days.
- Starting early is the best way to reduce crowds and heat.
- We can adjust stop order based on ship traffic and site flow.
- Weekends and holidays can be busier.
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Do I need to buy Ephesus tickets in advance?
In peak season, planning helps avoid delays, but rules can change.
- Some areas may have separate tickets.
- Starting early is often more important than pre-buying.
- On guided tours, we plan entry timing to keep the day smooth.
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Should I add the House of Virgin Mary to my tour?
It is a meaningful stop for many visitors and can be added based on timing.
- It is a short drive from Ephesus.
- It can be busier at certain times, so we plan the order carefully.
- If your cruise time is limited, we will suggest a realistic priority list.
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Is Sirince village worth visiting from Ephesus?
Sirince is a small hillside village near Selcuk and is often added for variety.
- It is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, small cafes, and local products.
- It works well if you want something beyond ruins.
- We add it only when it fits safely with your return schedule.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pamukkale in one day?
It is usually too long for a comfortable day, especially for cruise schedules.
- Pamukkale is a longer drive and needs more time on site.
- For a better experience, consider an overnight plan.
- If you share your exact timing, we can advise what is realistic.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pergamon on the same day?
It is usually not recommended for a single day from Kusadasi.
- Pergamon is closer to Izmir than to Kusadasi.
- Doing both can feel rushed and increases return-time risk.
- If you have extra days, plan them on separate days for a better experience.
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What if my ship docks late or departs earlier than planned?
Ship schedules can change, and we plan with buffer time.
- If you receive an updated schedule, message us immediately.
- We can shorten or adjust the route while keeping key highlights.
- Our priority is always a safe, on-time return to port.
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Private tour or group tour: what is better for Ephesus?
For cruise travelers, private tours are often the most comfortable option.
- Private tours allow flexible pace, timing, and photo stops.
- Group tours can be good value, but timing is less flexible.
- We can recommend the best option based on your ship schedule and preferences.
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Is Ephesus suitable for seniors or limited mobility?
It depends on comfort level, as the site is large and mostly outdoors.
- There are uneven stones and some slopes.
- We can select a route that reduces walking where possible.
- Please tell us about mobility needs in advance so we can plan correctly.
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Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and may change.
- Please check the latest official entry rules for your nationality before travel.
- Many visitors use an e-Visa when eligible for short tourist stays.
- If you share your passport country, we can guide you to the correct official source to verify.
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What currency is used in Turkey?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- ATMs are common in Kusadasi, Selcuk, and Izmir.
- Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases and tips.
- Keep small bills for convenience.
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Are credit cards accepted in Kusadasi and around Ephesus?
Cards are accepted in many restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Small vendors and some taxis may prefer cash.
- For markets and quick purchases, cash is helpful.
- Keep a backup payment option, especially on busy port days.
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Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?
Many travelers prefer bottled water.
- Bottled water is easy to find and inexpensive.
- If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid ice in unknown places.
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Is tipping common in Turkey?
Tipping is common and appreciated for good service.
- Restaurants: rounding up or leaving a small amount is typical.
- Guides and drivers: optional and based on service quality.
- Carry small notes for convenience.
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What plug type and voltage are used in Turkey?
Turkey typically uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V, 50Hz).
- Bring an adapter if your plug type is different.
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How can I get a SIM or eSIM in Turkey?
SIM and eSIM options are available from major operators.
- Official stores usually require passport registration.
- If you only need data, compare short-term packages.
- Download offline maps if you plan to explore independently.
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Do Ephesus and museums have closure days or seasonal hours?
Opening hours can change by season and some venues may have weekly closure days.
- Public holidays can also affect schedules.
- Some venues have different winter and summer hours.
- We plan visits based on current opening information.
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Can I take photos inside Ephesus and museums?
Photography rules vary by venue.
- Outdoor ruins usually allow photos.
- Some museums restrict flash or photography in certain areas.
- Always follow posted rules and staff instructions.
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What is ship time vs local time and why does it matter?
Some cruise ships keep ship time different from local Turkey time.
- Always confirm whether your port schedule is in ship time or local time.
- Tell us what your cruise line uses so we plan pickups correctly.
- This helps avoid confusion on meeting points and return timing.
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Is Turkey safe for cruise travelers and day tour guests?
Tourist areas like Kusadasi and major sites are used to international visitors.
- Use normal precautions in crowded places near the port and markets.
- Stick to licensed transport and agreed meeting points.
- Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying unnecessary cash.
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What can I do in Kusadasi if I skip Ephesus?
If you prefer a lighter day, there are good alternatives.
- Explore Kusadasi town and waterfront.
- Consider local food stops and shopping areas.
- We can suggest a shorter cultural route depending on your time in port.
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Should I carry my passport during port days?
We recommend keeping your passport safely on the ship or at your accommodation and carrying a copy if needed.
- A phone photo plus a printed copy is usually enough for day trips.
- For buying a SIM, you may need the original passport at the store.
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What is the emergency number in Turkey?
Dial 112 for emergencies (medical, police, fire, and urgent situations).
- If you are on a guided day, inform your guide so we can help quickly.
Good to Know
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This is a long-distance road package
The package includes a long road journey between Kemer and the Ephesus region, so travel-time expectations should be clear before booking. -
Comfort stops are part of the route
Breakfast, lunch and dinner breaks are planned as comfort stops around the long road movement and local sightseeing day. -
Pickup variants need timing checks
Beldibi, Camyuva and Tekirova pickups can change the road timing, so meeting point and transfer order should be confirmed clearly. -
Prepare for open-air walking
Ephesus has exposed archaeological areas and marble streets, so comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are recommended. -
Group package inclusions are structured
The group package includes transfer vehicle routing, hotel, meal handling, guiding and listed included entrance fees, while optional visits remain separate.
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