Highlights
- Alanya to Ephesus 2-day flight route: Connect through Gazipasa-Alanya and Izmir for a calmer Ephesus and St. John package.
- 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.
- Return to Alanya flow: Combine flight routing, local transfers, overnight-paced planning, guided visits and final drop-off in one package.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You can reach Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica from Alanya without making the distance feel like a rushed road day.
- The group package gives the route a clearer structure, with flight connections, an overnight pause and focused Selcuk sightseeing.
- The experience pairs the Roman city setting of Ephesus with the early Christian heritage of St. John Basilica.
- It suits Alanya-based travelers who want the core Ephesus and St. John route arranged as a practical 2-day flight-connected journey.
Overview
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Day 1
Alanya to Ephesus Region
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Alanya Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-up
Start from Alanya for the flight-connected package.
Meet the group in Alanya and continue to Gazipasa-Alanya Airport for the flight connection toward Izmir.
Gazipasa-Alanya Airport Flight DepartureBoard the flight connection toward Izmir.
Use Gazipasa-Alanya Airport as the flight departure point for the Ephesus region package.
TicketsFlight ticket (Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) IncludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive at Izmir Airport and meet the local transfer.
Land at Izmir Airport, meet the local team and continue toward the Selcuk and Kusadasi overnight area.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Overnight in the Ephesus region.
Check in around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area so the Ephesus and St. John Basilica route can be visited at a calmer pace the next day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel breakfast ExcludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
Ephesus and St. John Basilica Route
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Different tour end?
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 / DepartureBegin the Ephesus touring day from the overnight area.
After hotel check-out, continue toward Ephesus Ancient City for the main guided route of the package.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the main archaeological site of Ephesus.
Walk 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 focus of the second day after the flight-connected journey from Alanya to the Ephesus region. The site brings together Curetes Street, marble streets, agora spaces, fountains, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus, showing how Roman Ephesus worked as a complete city.
Because this package places the main touring route after an overnight stay nearby, the visit can be understood as more than a quick monument stop. The guide can connect public spaces, street lines, restored facades and daily-life details so the ancient city becomes readable as a living urban landscape.
Questions
Why is Ephesus the main sightseeing stop on this 2-day package from Alanya?
Ephesus is the central 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 Ancient City?
Curetes Street, agora spaces, marble streets, fountains, restored facades and the theatre help explain how the ancient city functioned.How does the overnight package help the Ephesus visit?
The overnight structure places the main Ephesus route on the second day, helping the sightseeing day stay focused around Selcuk and the main historical stops.Is Ephesus mostly outdoors?
Yes. Ephesus is an open-air archaeological site with ancient paving and uneven ground, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are useful.
St. John BasilicaVisit the basilica area on Ayasoluk Hill.
Continue 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 adds the Christian and Byzantine layer to the Ephesus and Selcuk route. Located on Ayasuluk Hill, the basilica is traditionally associated with St. John the Apostle and helps explain the sacred importance of the region after the Roman period.
The church outline, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area still suggest the scale and meaning of the former complex. After Ephesus Ancient City, this stop gives the day a quieter perspective focused on belief, memory and later Selcuk history.
Questions
What is the importance of St. John Basilica?
St. John Basilica is traditionally associated with St. John the Apostle and represents an important Christian and Byzantine layer near Ephesus.What 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 with Ephesus?
It connects the Roman city story of Ephesus with the later Christian heritage of Selcuk and Ayasuluk Hill.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LTake a lunch break in Selcuk.
Pause for lunch in the Selcuk area before the return airport transfer.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the sightseeing day a practical regional pause close to Ephesus and St. John Basilica. Local food culture around Selcuk often reflects the Aegean setting, with olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads, grilled plates or simple local meals depending on the operation.
The exact restaurant and menu can vary, so this destination text should not be read as a fixed dining promise. Its purpose is to place the meal stop in context before the route continues toward Izmir Airport for the return flight connection.
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 kind 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 Selcuk lunch menu fixed?
No. The restaurant and menu can vary by operation, so the lunch note gives local food context rather than a fixed menu guarantee.Izmir Airport Flight DepartureReturn flight departure from Izmir.
After the sightseeing route, arrive at Izmir Airport and board the return domestic flight to Gazipasa-Alanya Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Gazipasa-Alanya Airport (GZP)) IncludedGazipasa-Alanya Airport ArrivalArrive back at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport.
Land at Gazipasa-Alanya Airport and continue with the final shared transfer back to Alanya.
Alanya Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return to Alanya for final drop-off.
The 2-day flight-connected group package ends with drop-off in Alanya.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast IncludedHotel dinner Excluded
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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.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Airport transfers.
- Harbour 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 by flight cover?
This 1-night, 2-day group package starts from Alanya, connects through Gazipasa-Alanya Airport and continues by domestic flight route toward Izmir. Day 1 is mainly the flight-connected travel 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 flight route toward Alanya.
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Why is the Alanya route planned as a 2-day flight package?
Alanya is far from the Ephesus region, so this package avoids forcing the whole route into an extreme same-day schedule. The 2-day structure separates the long flight-connected travel movement from the main Ephesus and St. John Basilica sightseeing day.
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Is this Alanya tour a group package?
Yes. This is the group package version from Alanya by flight. The airport connection, overnight area and sightseeing route are arranged around the group operation, while the main guided visits remain Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
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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. Early booking helps protect the available flight and touring window.
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Where is the overnight stay planned on this Alanya 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 package?
No separate pickup areas are listed for this pair. The package is planned around Alanya hotel or confirmed meeting point pickup and final drop-off in Alanya after the return airport connection.
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Does this Alanya 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 package route.
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Can I book this 2-day Alanya 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, pickup 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. 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 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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Flight and overnight details need confirmation
Gazipasa-Alanya flight availability, Izmir arrival timing, overnight 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 Alanya route is designed as a 1-night, 2-day flight-connected package, not as the standard same-day operation.
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Check hotel and package details
The overnight area, hotel standard and meal plan can depend on the selected package option, so review those details before confirming.
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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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