Highlights
- 2-day Ephesus biblical group tour from Sabiha Gokcen Airport by flight.
- Fly from Sabiha Gokcen to Izmir before the Kusadasi and Selcuk overnight plan.
- Follow the Biblical Ephesus route to House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers and Ephesus Ancient City.
- Add a Selcuk lunch stop and St. John Basilica to the biblical sightseeing day.
- Return through Izmir Airport with Sabiha Gokcen Airport drop-off.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The 2-day flight structure makes the Ephesus route possible from Istanbul's Asian-side airport.
- Group travel keeps the airport, Izmir, Kusadasi and Selcuk sequence organized.
- You see House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica in one biblical route.
- The same-airport return is practical when your Istanbul stay continues after Ephesus.
Overview
-
Day 1
Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region
Travel from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to the Ephesus region by flight.
D
Day 1 positions the group near Selcuk or Kusadasi before the full local route.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortSabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)Board the flight from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Izmir.
Flight segment from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Izmir Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) IncludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive at Izmir Airport and transfer to the hotel area.
Arrival at Izmir Airport and transfer toward Kusadasi or Selcuk.
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.
B
L
Different tour end?
Day 2 follows the complete local heritage 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 / DepartureLeave the hotel for the full local tour.
Hotel check-out and start of the local sightseeing 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 main sightseeing day after the Sabiha Gokcen Airport flight connection and overnight stay near Kusadasi or Selcuk. Set on Mount Koressos above Ephesus, the sanctuary gives the route a calm spiritual opening before the program continues into early Christian tradition and archaeology.
The chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and wooded hillside setting are the main details to notice. In this two-day flight package, the stop helps frame the Ephesus region through sacred memory before the larger archaeological visit.
Questions
Why does this two-day Sabiha Gokcen Airport package visit House of Virgin Mary?
House of Virgin Mary gives the main sightseeing day a calm spiritual beginning near Ephesus after the flight-linked arrival and overnight stay. It introduces the route through Marian tradition before Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.What should I notice at House of Virgin Mary?
Notice the chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and Mount Koressos setting. The site is compact, so tradition, atmosphere and guide context are central to the visit.
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. The tradition connected with the sleepers brings themes of faith, refuge and awakening into the route between House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus Ancient City.
The site is compact rather than monumental, so guide explanation gives the stop its meaning. It connects local religious memory with the wider heritage landscape around Ephesus and Selcuk.
Questions
What does Cave of the Seven Sleepers add to the route?
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds an early Christian story near Ephesus. It connects the sightseeing day with themes of faith, refuge and local religious memory.Is Cave of the Seven Sleepers a large ruins stop?
No. It is mainly a story-led heritage stop rather than a large ruins complex. Guide explanation helps visitors 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 archaeological center of this two-day group tour from Sabiha Gokcen Airport by flight. Its theatre, marble streets, Library of Celsus facade, baths, fountains and civic spaces show the scale and organization of a major Roman city in Asia Minor.
The visit is best followed as a continuous walk through the ancient urban plan. Moving through streets, public buildings and monuments in sequence helps Ephesus read as a complete historical landscape rather than separate ruins.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main visit?
Ephesus is the main visit because it is the strongest archaeological landscape on the route. Its streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade and civic spaces show ancient city life in depth.How should I follow Ephesus during this package?
Follow Ephesus as a connected city walk. Seeing the streets, monuments and public spaces in sequence makes the ancient city easier to understand as a whole.
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 practical regional pause during the main Ephesus heritage day. Selcuk-area meals often reflect Aegean ingredients such as olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, salads, grilled choices and seasonal produce.
The exact restaurant and menu may change according to operation and season. The stop supports the flow between Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica without promising 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 exact venue and menu can vary, but local food culture often includes Aegean ingredients, vegetables, herbs and grilled choices.Why is lunch placed before St. John Basilica?
Lunch gives the sightseeing day a comfortable pause after Ephesus Ancient City and before the final Ayasuluk Hill visit. It helps balance the route before the return flight structure.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 Biblical Ephesus sightseeing sequence on Ayasuluk Hill before the return flight structure toward Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Traditionally linked with Saint John, the basilica carries the route from ancient Ephesus into later Christian memory and Byzantine sacred architecture.
The basilica plan, baptistery area, surviving columns, stonework and views toward Selcuk and the Ephesus plain are the key details to notice. It gives the group package a reflective final heritage point after the ancient city visit.
Questions
Why does the route include St. John Basilica?
St. John Basilica connects the route with Saint John tradition and later Christian heritage in Selcuk. It gives the main sightseeing day a strong historical ending after Ephesus Ancient City.What are the key details at St. John Basilica?
The basilica plan, baptistery area, columns, stone remains and views toward the Ephesus plain are the key details. They explain both the sacred memory and the site setting.
Izmir Airport (ADB)Transfer to Izmir Airport for the flight back to Istanbul.
Return flight segment from Izmir Airport to Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)) IncludedSabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) Drop-off Different tour end?Arrive back at Sabiha Gokcen Airport where the package ends.
Final airport drop-off at Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
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: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- St. John Basilica.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)).
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Airport transfers.
- Parking fees.
- 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.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
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.
- Please bring your passport or ID card.
- Flight schedules and airport meeting details are confirmed after booking.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- 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.
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
-
What is included in this 2-day group package from Sabiha Gokcen Airport?
This group package is designed for guests who meet directly at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, travel to Izmir, stay near the Kusadasi / Selcuk area and visit the full Biblical Ephesus route the next day. The group structure includes airport-based coordination, Turkey-side transfers, hotel arrangement, the guided sightseeing day, lunch during the route and the main listed included entrance fees; flight reporting details and return connection timing should be confirmed before travel. -
Where does the package start and end?
The package starts at Sabiha Gokcen Airport and ends back at Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The Turkey-side route uses Izmir Airport as the gateway to the Ephesus region. -
What is the two-day route structure?
Day 1 is the Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Izmir connection and hotel check-in near Kusadasi or Selcuk. Day 2 is the House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City, lunch near Selcuk and St. John Basilica route, followed by the return connection through Izmir Airport. -
Does this package include hotel pickup in Istanbul?
No. This physical departure is tied to Sabiha Gokcen Airport, so guests meet directly at the airport. No pickup variants are attached to this tour. -
How does the flight-based package work?
Guests meet at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, continue to Izmir, transfer to the Kusadasi / Selcuk hotel area and tour the Ephesus region on the following day. Airport meeting details, domestic flight direction, baggage timing and return connection details should be reconfirmed before final booking. -
Why choose the overnight version instead of a one-day tour?
The overnight structure gives the route more breathing room. It reduces the pressure of fitting the airport connection, hotel arrival and the full House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica program into one single day. -
Which sites are visited on the sightseeing day?
The sightseeing day includes House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City, a lunch stop in the Selcuk area and St. John Basilica before the return airport connection. -
Is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee included?
Yes. The House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in this group package. The hillside shrine is one of the main Christian heritage stops connected with the Ephesus region. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5. -
Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included?
Yes. Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in the group package. The ancient city is the core archaeological stop of the route, with marble streets, civic monuments and early Christian context. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Are the Terrace Houses of Ephesus included?
No. Terrace Houses entry is optional and is not included in the standard group package. It can be considered only when timing, ticketing and group pace allow. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
Is St. John Basilica entrance fee included?
Yes. St. John Basilica entrance fee is included in this group package. The basilica remains on Ayasuluk Hill are important for the Apostle John and early Christian heritage story. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6. -
Are all main entrance fees included in the group version?
The main listed entrance fees for House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica are included in the group version. Optional Terrace Houses entry remains separate. -
Who is this Sabiha Gokcen Airport package best for?
It is best for travelers already near or flying through Sabiha Gokcen Airport who want a less rushed Ephesus-region package with one overnight before the full Biblical route. -
How difficult is the walking on the Ephesus day?
The walking level is moderate to active. Ephesus Ancient City has open-air walking, uneven ancient stone surfaces and limited shade, so comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are recommended. -
Can I book this 2-day package online?
Yes. You can book the package online by credit card. Final confirmation should check Sabiha Gokcen Airport meeting details, domestic flight direction, hotel area, guide availability, site access and return connection timing. -
Does this package focus on the Biblical Ephesus route?
Yes. The main appeal is the airport-based overnight structure and the deeper House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica sightseeing route.
General FAQs
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
Airport-based package
This package starts directly at Sabiha Gokcen Airport and returns to Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Plan around airport reporting and domestic flight connections. -
Overnight near Ephesus
The Kusadasi / Selcuk overnight gives more room for the full House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica route. -
Included group entrance fees
House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica entrance fees are included in the group version. Terrace Houses remains optional. -
Confirm travel logistics
Airport meeting point, domestic flight direction, baggage timing, hotel area and return connection should be reconfirmed before travel. -
Prepare for open-air sites
Ephesus and nearby heritage stops are open-air. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat and water are practical for the sightseeing day.
Want to read it later?
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline
Similar Tours
This tour also has a private tour version.
