Highlights
- 2-day Ephesus biblical heritage group tour from Kas.
- Travel by road from Kas toward the Kusadasi and Selcuk area on the first day.
- Use the overnight base near the Ephesus region before the main 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 Kas.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The two-day road plan gives the long Kas to Ephesus route a clearer and calmer structure.
- Group touring keeps the travel day, overnight base and Selcuk-area sightseeing route easy to follow.
- You experience the main Biblical Ephesus sacred-history landmarks without adding unrelated destinations.
- The itinerary gives the Ephesus region its own dedicated day after the first-day journey.
Overview
-
Day 1
Kas to Kusadasi / Selcuk Road Transfer
Travel from Kas toward the overnight hotel area.
B
L
D
The first day is reserved for the road transfer from Kas to the Kusadasi / Selcuk hotel area before the guided route on the next day.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortKas Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upMeet your group vehicle in Kas.
Start from Kas for the road transfer toward the Ephesus region.
Breakfast Break on Route BPause for a practical breakfast break during the morning drive.
A short comfort stop is planned around the Fethiye / Mugla Corridor before continuing toward the overnight region.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedBreakfast Break on Route is a practical comfort stop during the long road transfer from Kas 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.
Road Journey to the Ephesus RegionContinue toward Kusadasi and Selcuk.
This route note keeps the long road section visible while the journey continues from Kas toward the overnight hotel area.
Lunch Break on Route LPause for a lunch break during the transfer day.
A lunch stop is planned before reaching the overnight hotel area.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Break on Route gives the first transfer day a needed 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 for the overnight stay.
Check in at the arranged hotel in the Kusadasi / Selcuk area before the guided route on the next day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus & St. John Route
Follow the full Biblical Ephesus route.
B
L
D
Different tour end?
The second day follows the House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica route before the return drive to Kas.
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 / DepartureDepart from the Kusadasi / Selcuk hotel area.
Check out from the hotel and depart for the guided visits around the Ephesus region.
House of Virgin MaryVisit the hillside shrine above Ephesus.
Begin the guided Biblical Ephesus route at the House of Virgin Mary before continuing toward the ancient city area.
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 Kas road 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 SleepersSee the sacred cave area linked with early Christian tradition.
Continue to the Seven Sleepers site for a focused stop before entering the main Ephesus archaeological route.
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 CityWalk the marble streets and monuments of ancient Ephesus.
Explore the main archaeological route of Ephesus with its preserved public spaces, temples and Roman-era streets.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central archaeological experience of this two-day Kas road 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) LTake a lunch break in the Selcuk area.
Pause for lunch near Selcuk after the Ephesus visit and before the St. John Basilica stop.
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 Kas.St. John BasilicaVisit the basilica area above Selcuk.
Complete the guided visit at St. John Basilica, one of the most important early Christian landmarks of the region.
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 Kas 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.
Selcuk Departure PointRegroup in Selcuk for the return road journey.
Depart from the Selcuk area after the guided visits and begin the return drive toward Kas.
Return Road Journey to KasTravel back toward Kas after the Selcuk visits.
This route note represents the long return drive from Selcuk toward Kas.
Dinner Break on Return Route DPause for an evening meal break before reaching Kas.
The return drive includes time for an evening meal break before completing the drop-off route.
MealsDinner meal IncludedDinner Break on Return Route is a practical evening pause during the road journey back toward Kas. 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.
Kas Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?End the package back in Kas.
The package finishes with drop-off at Kas or the confirmed meeting point.
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.
- Keep a small overnight bag ready and prepare for outdoor walking on the sightseeing day.
- 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.
- Main route: House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
- The Kas departure is kept as a package product because the same-day road distance is too heavy for a normal daily tour.
- Terrace Houses are optional and are not counted as a separate route stop.
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 does this 2-day Ephesus group tour from Kas include?
This group package starts in Kas and uses a long road transfer toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area. The next day follows the full Biblical Ephesus route with House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
-
Does this Kas Ephesus package return to Kas?
Yes. After the Selcuk-region sightseeing day, the route returns by road toward Kas and finishes with hotel or meeting-point drop-off.
-
Is this a group or private Ephesus package?
This is the group version of the Kas road package. It is built for travelers who want a planned shared Biblical heritage route with an overnight structure.
-
How does the road transfer work from Kas?
The first day starts with Kas hotel or meeting-point pickup, continues by road toward the Ephesus region, includes practical breakfast and lunch breaks on the route, and ends with hotel check-in near Kusadasi or Selcuk.
-
Which places are visited during this Kas Ephesus package?
The sightseeing route includes House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City, a Selcuk-area lunch stop and St. John Basilica.
-
How long is this Ephesus package from Kas?
The package is listed as 1 night and 2 days. Exact road timing, comfort stops, hotel timing and local route flow must be confirmed before booking, so fixed start or end hours should not be assumed.
-
Is the long-distance road transfer included in the group package?
Yes. The long-distance transfer from Kas to the Kusadasi or Selcuk area and the return road transfer to Kas are part of the group package structure.
-
Is accommodation included in this group package?
Yes. The group package includes overnight accommodation in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area so the full Ephesus-region route can be completed with better timing.
-
Are meals included in this group package?
Yes. Group package inclusions cover the listed meal structure, including route meal breaks and the Selcuk-area lunch stop, unless a specific booking note states otherwise.
-
Why is the overnight structure useful from Kas?
Kas is a distant western departure point for this route. The 1-night package structure helps protect enough time for House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica.
-
Who is this Kas to Ephesus group package best for?
It is best for value-focused travelers who want a coherent faith-history route from Kas rather than a simple highlights-only Ephesus visit.
-
Can I book this Ephesus package from Kas online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this Ephesus group package from Kas online and pay by credit card through the booking system.
-
What is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. The House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in this group Ephesus package from Kas. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5.
-
What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. The Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in this group package for the standard sightseeing route. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
-
What is the St. John Basilica entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. The St. John Basilica entrance fee is included in the group package for this Ephesus-region route. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
-
Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this group package?
No. Terrace Houses is optional and is not included in the standard group package. It should only be added if the sightseeing timing and ticket conditions allow enough extra time inside Ephesus. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
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
-
Good to know: This is a long road package
The Kas route depends on road timing, comfort stops, hotel check-in planning and next-day local guiding, so these details should be confirmed before operation.
-
Good to know: Overnight timing protects the route
The 1-night structure helps keep enough time for House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica on the sightseeing day.
-
Good to know: Meal stops are part of the route flow
Breakfast, lunch and dinner break rows describe the travel-day rhythm and should be kept aligned with the real road transfer plan.
-
Good to know: Ephesus is open-air
Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica include marble streets, uneven ground, steps and sunny open areas. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are recommended.
-
Good to know: Christian heritage stops need respect
House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers and St. John Basilica are sensitive heritage sites, so quiet behavior and respectful clothing choices are recommended.
Want to read it later?
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline
Similar Tours
2-Day House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus & St. John Basilica Private Tour from Kas by Bus
From: Kas - End: Kas
1 Night/2 Days
View Tour
This tour also has a private tour version.
This tour also has transport options.
