Highlights
- 2-day Ephesus biblical group package from Yalova by bus via Selcuk.
- Travel from Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal toward Selcuk on the first day.
- Use the second day for House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers and Ephesus Ancient City.
- Pause for lunch in Selcuk before visiting St. John Basilica.
- Return through Selcuk Bus Station and complete the package back in Yalova.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The 2-day bus plan makes the Yalova to Ephesus route easier to organize.
- Group travel keeps the Yalova, Selcuk and biblical sightseeing sequence clear.
- You follow House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica in one focused route.
- Returning to Yalova works well when you want Ephesus without changing your Marmara-region base.
Overview
-
Day 1
Yalova to Kusadasi / Selcuk Bus Connection
Travel from Yalova toward the overnight hotel area by bus connection.
D
The first day uses the Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal to Selcuk Bus Station bus connection before hotel check-in in the Kusadasi / Selcuk area.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortCinarcik Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upShared pickup from Cinarcik before joining the Yalova bus connection.
Your package begins with pickup from your Cinarcik hotel or a confirmed meeting point. From there, you connect with the Yalova departure flow and continue through the bus route toward Selcuk for the overnight Ephesus-region program.
Yalova Intercity Bus TerminalBoard the bus connection toward Selcuk.
Continue from Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal on the intercity bus connection toward Selcuk.
TicketsBus ticket (Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal to Selcuk Bus Station) IncludedBus Journey to SelcukTravel by intercity bus toward Selcuk.
This transport segment connects Yalova with Selcuk before the overnight hotel transfer.
TicketsBus ticket (Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal to Selcuk Bus Station) IncludedSelcuk Bus Station ArrivalArrive in Selcuk and continue to the hotel area.
Arrive at Selcuk Bus Station and continue by local transfer to the overnight hotel area.
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
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 bus connection to Yalova.
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 IncludedThe House of Virgin Mary gives the Ephesus sightseeing day a quiet spiritual beginning after the overnight transfer from Yalova. Set on the hillside above Selcuk, the shrine is traditionally associated with the final years of the Virgin Mary and is experienced through a modest chapel area, wooded surroundings, and a reflective devotional atmosphere. It prepares the route for the faith and history themes that continue through the rest of the day. For this two-day bus package, the stop helps travelers move from the practical arrival day into the Christian heritage of the Ephesus region. The guide can connect the shrine with St. John, Selcuk, and the sacred memory that developed around the ancient city.Questions
Why is the House of Virgin Mary included in this Yalova package?
It is included because it gives the Ephesus-region sightseeing day a strong faith-heritage opening and connects the route with the traditional memory of the Virgin Mary.What should travelers expect at the House of Virgin Mary?
Travelers should expect a quiet hillside shrine with a modest chapel area and devotional atmosphere rather than a large archaeological complex.
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.
The Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds a legendary early Christian story to the Ephesus-region route. The site is remembered through the tradition of young believers who slept in a cave and later became part of local and religious memory. It is a quieter stop than Ephesus Ancient City, but its story gives the day a meaningful layer between the Marian shrine and the main archaeological visit. This stop is best understood through the guide's explanation. It shows how the Ephesus region is shaped not only by large monuments, but also by sacred stories, smaller places, and traditions preserved across centuries.Questions
What is the Cave of the Seven Sleepers known for?
It is known for the legend of young believers who slept in a cave and became part of early Christian and local religious memory near Ephesus.Why is the Seven Sleepers stop included before Ephesus?
It adds a story-based faith layer to the route and helps travelers understand the sacred traditions that developed around the Ephesus region.
Ephesus Ancient CityWalk the marble streets and monuments of ancient Ephesus.
Explore Ephesus Ancient City with your licensed guide, including its monumental streets, public spaces and landmark ruins.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central archaeological highlight of the package and the strongest visual experience of the sightseeing day. Its marble streets, Library of Celsus, great theater, fountains, civic spaces, and public buildings reveal the scale of a major Roman-period city. Walking through the site helps travelers imagine public life, architecture, and movement in ancient Ephesus. For a biblical Ephesus route, the city also carries early Christian meaning through its associations with St. Paul, St. John, and the communities of Asia Minor. The guide can keep these layers together, presenting Ephesus as both a classical city and a place of faith history.Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main highlight of the day?
Ephesus is the main highlight because it preserves marble streets, major public buildings, the Library of Celsus, the great theater, and the layout of a major ancient city.How does Ephesus connect with Christian heritage?
Ephesus connects with Christian heritage through its early Christian communities and its associations with St. Paul, St. John, and the wider story of Asia Minor.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause for lunch in the Selcuk area.
Take a lunch break near Selcuk before the final Biblical heritage visit of the day.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch in the Selcuk area gives the sightseeing route a practical pause after Ephesus Ancient City and before St. John Basilica. Local meals often reflect Aegean food culture, with olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, salads, grilled plates, and regional flavors depending on the restaurant and selected arrangement. The exact menu can vary, so the stop should be understood as a meal break rather than a fixed tasting program. After the main archaeological walk, lunch gives travelers time to rest and prepare for Ayasuluk Hill. It also creates a natural moment for the guide to answer questions before the final local heritage stop.Questions
What kind of lunch is typical in Selcuk?
Selcuk-area meals often include Aegean-style food such as olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, salads, grilled plates, and local flavors depending on the restaurant and arrangement.Is lunch in Selcuk a guaranteed fixed menu?
No. The exact restaurant and menu can vary by arrangement, so the Selcuk stop should be understood as a practical lunch pause within the route.St. John BasilicaVisit the Basilica of St. John.
Visit St. John Basilica in Selcuk, one of the region's central early Christian heritage sites.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica completes the local heritage route on Ayasuluk Hill above Selcuk. The basilica is associated with the memory and traditional burial place of St. John, and its remains show the outline of a major Byzantine church through foundations, columns, baptistery areas, and views across the surrounding landscape. It is one of the key Christian heritage places near Ephesus. After Ephesus Ancient City, this stop helps travelers understand how the region remained important beyond the Roman period. The basilica links the ancient city with later pilgrimage memory, Byzantine architecture, and the continuing sacred geography of Western Turkey.Questions
Why is St. John Basilica visited after Ephesus?
St. John Basilica is visited after Ephesus because it connects the ancient city with later Christian heritage and the traditional memory of St. John on Ayasuluk Hill.What can be seen at St. John Basilica?
Travelers can see the remains of a major Byzantine basilica, including foundations, columns, baptistery areas, and views over Selcuk and the Ephesus landscape.
Selcuk Bus StationBoard the bus connection back toward Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal.
Return to Selcuk Bus Station for the intercity bus connection back toward Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal.
TicketsBus ticket (Selcuk Bus Station to Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal) IncludedBus Journey from SelcukTravel by intercity bus back toward Yalova.
This transport segment connects Selcuk with the return terminal after the guided route.
TicketsBus ticket (Selcuk Bus Station to Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal) IncludedYalova Intercity Bus Terminal ArrivalArrive back at Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal.
Arrive at Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal and continue by local transfer to the final drop-off point.
Cinarcik Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return drop-off in Cinarcik after the Yalova bus connection.
After the return bus journey reaches the Yalova area, the final transfer brings you back to your Cinarcik hotel or the agreed meeting point. The drop-off follows the Cinarcik pickup arrangement for this variant.
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: Bus ticket (Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal to Selcuk Bus Station).
- Day 2: Bus ticket (Selcuk Bus Station to Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal).
- 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 wear comfortable shoes for Ephesus and Seven Sleepers walking sections.
- 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.
- Yalova bus schedules, terminal meeting details and final departure times are confirmed after booking.
- 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
-
Is this a 2-day Ephesus region package from Yalova by bus?
Yes. This group package starts from Yalova, connects through Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal toward Selcuk, stays overnight in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, and follows the Biblical Ephesus route on the second day. -
Does the tour start only from Yalova Bus Terminal?
No. The product starts with Yalova hotel or meeting point pickup. Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal is the connection point for the intercity bus segment, not the only starting point of the package. -
Can this package start from Termal or Cinarcik?
Yes. Termal and Cinarcik are available as pickup variants. When one of these is selected, the practical pickup and return point changes to that area while the core bus and Ephesus route remains the same. -
What is the first-day route from Yalova?
The first day covers Yalova pickup, transfer to Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal, the intercity bus journey toward Selcuk, Selcuk Bus Station arrival, and hotel check-in in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area. -
Which places are visited on the sightseeing day?
The sightseeing day covers the House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City, a lunch stop in Selcuk, and St. John Basilica before the return bus connection toward Yalova. -
Is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee included?
Yes. In this group package, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included. The shrine is part of the second-day Biblical Ephesus route. 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 this group package. The visit covers the main marble streets, monuments and public spaces of ancient Ephesus. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Are the Terrace Houses of Ephesus included?
No. Terrace Houses of Ephesus is listed as an optional entrance-fee item and is not included in the standard group package. It can only be added when timing and access allow it. 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 visit completes the Selcuk and early Christian heritage part of the route. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6. -
Does the Cave of the Seven Sleepers have a separate listed entrance fee?
There is no separate entrance-fee item linked to the Cave of the Seven Sleepers in this package setup. The stop is included as part of the route near Ephesus. -
Is accommodation included in this group package?
Yes. This is an overnight group package with hotel check-in in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area before the sightseeing day. Exact hotel details are confirmed according to the selected package conditions. -
Is lunch included during the Selcuk route?
Yes. The group package includes a lunch stop in the Selcuk area during the sightseeing day. Meal rows are handled separately from the intercity bus journey segments. -
What should be confirmed for the bus connection?
Yalova to Selcuk bus service, provider match, terminal transfer timing, seat availability and final return transfer should be confirmed before booking. -
How demanding is the Ephesus sightseeing day?
The walking level is moderate. Ephesus Ancient City includes uneven marble streets and open-air archaeological areas, so comfortable shoes are important. -
Does the package return to Yalova?
Yes. After the Ephesus region route, the tour returns to Selcuk Bus Station for the bus connection back to Yalova Intercity Bus Terminal, followed by the local drop-off chain.
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
-
Yalova pickup is part of the product
The package should not be treated as terminal-only. Yalova hotel or meeting point pickup and final local drop-off remain part of the route. -
Termal and Cinarcik are pickup variants
Selecting Termal or Cinarcik changes the practical pickup and return point, but it does not change the core Selcuk and Ephesus region route. -
Bus details need confirmation
Bus service, provider match, seat availability and terminal transfer timing should be checked before final confirmation. -
Overnight format protects the route
The 2-day plan helps keep the House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica route from becoming too rushed. -
Terrace Houses is optional
Terrace Houses of Ephesus is outside the standard included entrance-fee setup. Request it in advance if you want timing and access checked.
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 Yalova by Bus
From: Yalova - End: Yalova
1 Night/2 Days
View Tour
This tour also has a private tour version.
This tour also has transport options.
