Highlights
- Alanya Airport to Ephesus 2-day flight route: Start at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport and connect through Izmir.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Walk the main streets, public buildings and archaeological highlights with your guide on the sightseeing day.
- St. John Basilica: Visit Ayasoluk Hill for the early Christian heritage layer after the ancient city route.
- Airport-return package flow: Combine flight routing, Ephesus-region overnight pacing, guided Ephesus and St. John visits and return to Alanya Airport.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You can begin at Alanya Airport and reach Ephesus Ancient City plus St. John Basilica through a more manageable 2-day structure.
- The group package keeps the airport routing, overnight pause, Selcuk sightseeing and return connection in one clear plan.
- The route balances the scale of Roman Ephesus with the early Christian heritage setting of St. John Basilica.
- It suits travelers using Gazipasa-Alanya Airport who want the core Ephesus and St. John route without adding city pickup or unrelated stops.
Overview
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Day 1
Alanya Airport to Ephesus Region
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Travel from Gazipasa-Alanya Airport to the Ephesus region through Izmir for the overnight package setup.
Gazipasa-Alanya Airport Meeting / Flight DepartureMeet at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport for the flight-connected journey to Izmir.
Meet at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport and complete the domestic flight connection toward Izmir. Flight timing must be confirmed before final operation.
TicketsFlight ticket (Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) IncludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive at Izmir Airport and continue by regional transfer toward Selcuk or Kusadasi.
After arrival at Izmir Airport, continue toward the Ephesus region for the overnight stay.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in at the overnight hotel in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
Check in at the hotel in the Ephesus region. Overnight in the area keeps the main sightseeing day more comfortable.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel breakfast ExcludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
Ephesus and St. John Basilica Route
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Different tour end?
Visit Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica with a Selcuk lunch stop before the return airport connection.
Historic Celsus Library Stone Detail 
Architectural Layers of Celsus Library 
Restored Front of Celsus Library 
Classical Design of Celsus Library 
Historic Setting Beside Celsus Library 
Public Monument Face of Celsus Library 
Visitor View of Heracles Gate 
Hadrian Temple from the Street Side 
Historic Detail at St. John Basilica 
Path Through St. John Basilica Ruins Hotel Check-out / DepartureCheck out from the hotel and begin the local Ephesus route.
After breakfast and check-out, meet the guide and continue to the local sightseeing route.
Ephesus Ancient CityWalk through Ephesus Ancient City with your guide and see the main streets, public buildings and archaeological highlights of this remarkable Roman city.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the main archaeological stop after the overnight setup from Gazipasa-Alanya Airport through Izmir. The site shows Roman Ephesus through its marble streets, Curetes Street, agora spaces, fountains, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus.
The value of the visit comes from seeing how these places connect. Public squares, street lines, monumental facades and smaller daily-life traces reveal how people moved, gathered, traded and worshipped in the city. With guide context, Ephesus becomes a readable ancient city rather than a sequence of isolated ruins.
Questions
Why is Ephesus the main stop on this Alanya Airport package?
Ephesus is the key archaeological site of the route, with Roman streets, public squares, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus forming the main guided visit.What should visitors notice inside Ephesus?
Curetes Street, agora spaces, marble paving, fountains, facade lines and the theatre help explain how Roman Ephesus functioned as a city.How does the guide help at Ephesus?
The guide connects famous monuments with daily life, movement, trade and public architecture, making the ancient city easier to understand as a whole.Is Ephesus an outdoor walking site?
Yes. Ephesus is open-air and includes ancient paving and uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.
St. John BasilicaContinue to St. John Basilica, one of the most important early Christian heritage sites in Selcuk and a meaningful stop after Ephesus Ancient City.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica gives the second day a meaningful Christian and Byzantine layer after Ephesus Ancient City. The basilica stands on Ayasuluk Hill in Selcuk and is traditionally associated with St. John the Apostle.
The visible church outline, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area help visitors understand the former sacred complex. This stop broadens the route from Roman city life to later religious memory and the historic landscape of Selcuk.
Questions
What is St. John Basilica known for?
St. John Basilica is traditionally associated with St. John the Apostle and represents an important Christian and Byzantine layer near Ephesus.What remains can be seen at St. John Basilica?
Visitors can see the church outline, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area on Ayasuluk Hill.Why is St. John Basilica included after Ephesus?
It adds the later Christian heritage of Selcuk and connects Roman Ephesus with the sacred history of Ayasuluk Hill.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause for lunch in the Selcuk area before the return airport transfer.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk creates a practical pause near the main historical stops before the return flight connection. Around Selcuk, Aegean-style food may include olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads, grilled plates or other simple local meals depending on the day and operation.
This text does not promise a fixed restaurant or set menu. It explains the lunch stop as a regional meal break close to Ephesus and St. John Basilica, helping the sightseeing day stay comfortable before the airport transfer.
Questions
Why is lunch planned in Selcuk?
Selcuk is close to Ephesus and St. John Basilica, so lunch can be taken near the main sightseeing area before the return airport transfer.What type of food is common around Selcuk?
Aegean-style options may include olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads, grilled plates or similar local meals depending on operation.Is the lunch menu fixed?
No. The exact restaurant and menu can vary, so the lunch note gives regional food context rather than a fixed dining promise.Izmir Airport Flight DepartureReturn to Izmir Airport for the flight connection back to Gazipasa-Alanya Airport.
Travel back to Izmir Airport for the return domestic flight connection. Flight timing must be checked before confirming final schedule.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP)) IncludedGazipasa-Alanya Airport Drop-off Different tour end?Arrive back at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport and finish the package.
The package ends at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport after the return flight connection.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast IncludedHotel dinner Excluded
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.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- St. John Basilica.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP)).
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Airport transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Day 1: Hotel Breakfast meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Dinner meal.
- 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.
- Please bring your passport or ID card.
- 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.
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 and St. John Basilica group tour from Alanya Airport cover?
This 1-night, 2-day group package starts directly at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport and uses a flight-connected route toward Izmir. Day 1 is mainly the airport meeting, domestic flight connection and overnight setup in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, while Day 2 focuses on Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica, a Selcuk lunch stop and the return airport connection.
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Why is the Alanya Airport route planned as a 2-day package?
The Alanya Airport route is long and flight-dependent, so the 2-day structure avoids forcing the entire Ephesus program into an extreme same-day schedule. The first day handles travel and overnight logistics, and the second day is reserved for the core Ephesus and St. John Basilica sightseeing route.
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Is this an airport-meeting group package?
Yes. This is the group package version starting from Gazipasa-Alanya Airport. Guests meet at the airport, follow the flight-connected route to the Ephesus region, stay overnight near Kusadasi or Selcuk, and return to Gazipasa-Alanya Airport after the sightseeing day.
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Are flight details automatically finalized for this package?
No. Gazipasa-Alanya Airport flight availability, Izmir arrival timing, overnight hotel area and return flight timing must be confirmed before the group package is finalized. The confirmed reservation should clarify the flight-related arrangement.
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Where is the overnight stay planned on this airport package?
The overnight stay is planned in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area so the second day can focus on Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. The exact hotel area, room standard and package details should be checked in the confirmed option.
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Are there pickup areas for this Alanya Airport package?
No separate pickup areas are listed for this pair. The package starts with a Gazipasa-Alanya Airport meeting and ends with Gazipasa-Alanya Airport drop-off after the return flight connection.
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Does this Alanya Airport package include House of Virgin Mary or Temple of Artemis?
No. This Ephesus and St. John package focuses on Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Isa Bey Mosque, Ephesus Museum and Sirince are not part of this specific Alanya Airport package route.
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Can I book this 2-day Alanya Airport package online?
Yes. The package can be booked online, and online credit card payment is available through the website. The confirmed reservation should show the selected date, airport meeting details, flight-related status, overnight plan and group package arrangement.
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Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in this group package?
Yes. The required Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in this group package from Alanya Airport. The linked fee information is shown separately so travelers can also understand the attraction cost. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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Is the St. John Basilica entrance fee included in this group package?
Yes. St. John Basilica is part of the main sightseeing route, and its required entrance fee is included in the group package structure for this Alanya Airport departure. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included on this package?
No. Terrace Houses are not part of the standard route. They remain optional under the Ephesus visit when timing allows, and the separate Terrace Houses entrance fee is not included. 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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Start and finish at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport
This pair has no city pickup areas. The package starts with an airport meeting and ends with airport drop-off after the return flight connection.
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Flight and overnight details need confirmation
Flight availability, Izmir arrival timing, overnight hotel area and return flight timing should be checked before the package is finalized.
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This is the normal 2-day model
The route is designed as a 1-night, 2-day flight-connected package, not as the standard same-day operation.
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Prepare for Ephesus walking conditions
Ephesus is open-air, with marble streets, uneven sections and limited shade. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are recommended.
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