Highlights
- 2-day Ephesus package from Side by bus: Leave from the Side area on a bus-linked regional connection, reach the Ephesus region, and use day two for the core sightseeing route before the return bus.
- House of the Virgin Mary: Start the main touring day at the peaceful hilltop sanctuary traditionally associated with Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Explore marble streets, monumental ruins and the archaeological core of one of Turkiye's best-known ancient sites.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum: Complete the route with the museum collection that adds historical depth to the day's site visits.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- This 2-day Ephesus package from Side uses the overnight bus-linked format well by making the regional route more practical than a same-day out-and-back plan.
- An overnight connection helps the main sightseeing day keep a better rhythm than trying to force the route into one stretched transfer schedule.
- House of the Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City and the museum work together as a balanced sacred and archaeological route.
- It is a strong option for travelers looking for a small-group Ephesus package from Side by bus with a clear overnight plan and a route built around the core highlights.
Overview
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Day 1
Overnight Bus to Selcuk
Travel overnight toward the Ephesus region.
Use the overnight bus connection toward Selcuk.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortSide Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upMeet at the confirmed starting point.
Begin with pickup from the confirmed departure area.
Side / Manavgat Bus ConnectionUse the intercity bus connection for this route.
Board the overnight bus connection toward Selcuk.
TicketsBus ticket (Side / Manavgat Bus Connection to Selcuk Bus Station) IncludedOvernight Bus JourneyTravel overnight toward the Ephesus region.
Continue overnight by intercity bus.
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Day 2
Ephesus Region and Return Bus
Visit the Ephesus region and return by bus.
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Complete the Ephesus museum sightseeing route and return by overnight bus.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
Chapel Interior with Altar 
Votive Candles in the Sacred Site 
Scholarly Legacy of Celsus Library 
Marble Niche at Celsus Library 
Celsus Library Visitor Scene 
Nike Relief in Ephesus 
Temple of Hadrian Visitor Angle 
Domitian Statue Museum Interior View 
Gallery Angle in Fountain Finds Hall 
Gallery Angle on the Muses Sarcophagus Selcuk Bus Station ArrivalContinue from the arrival point to the first sightseeing stop.
Arrive in Selcuk and continue with the local sightseeing route.
House of Virgin MaryBegin at the peaceful sanctuary above Ephesus.
Visit the House of Virgin Mary before continuing to the ancient city.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary begins the local sightseeing route after the overnight bus arrival in Selcuk. Set on the hillside above Ephesus, the sanctuary gives the day a calm spiritual opening before the ancient city visit.
The chapel, devotional wall and shaded grounds are the details to notice. The site is compact, but its tradition and quiet atmosphere make it a meaningful introduction to the Ephesus region.
Questions
Why is the House of Virgin Mary visited after arriving in Selcuk by bus?
<p>The House of Virgin Mary gives the Ephesus route a peaceful spiritual beginning after the overnight bus arrival. Its chapel and hillside setting are central to the stop.</p>What should I notice at the House of Virgin Mary?
<p>Notice the chapel, devotional wall, shaded grounds and quiet atmosphere. The site is compact, but it is meaningful because of its tradition and setting above Ephesus.</p>
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the main ancient city stop of the route.
Walk through the core ruins and main public spaces of Ephesus.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central archaeological destination of the second day. Its marble streets, theatre, library facade, public spaces and sacred remains show how a major ancient city was organized and experienced.
Look beyond the famous monuments as well. Inscriptions, paving stones, water channels and building foundations help explain movement, daily life, worship and civic identity in ancient Ephesus.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main stop on this package?
<p>Ephesus is the main archaeological destination of the sightseeing day. Its streets, theatre, library facade and public spaces show the scale of ancient city life.</p>What details help explain Ephesus during the visit?
<p>Paving stones, inscriptions, water channels, street alignments and building foundations help explain how Ephesus functioned, along with the famous monuments.</p>
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause near Selcuk during the local sightseeing route.
Take the included group lunch break in the Selcuk area.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the local sightseeing flow a practical pause near the archaeological area. Selcuk sits beside Ephesus, so the stop keeps the route focused between the ancient city and the museum.
The exact venue and menu can vary, but Aegean meals often include olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, herbs, salads and grilled options. Treat this as a regional meal break rather than a fixed restaurant promise.
Questions
Why is lunch planned in Selcuk?
<p>Selcuk is close to Ephesus and works naturally as a regional pause after the ancient city. It gives travelers time to rest before the museum visit.</p>Ephesus Archaeological MuseumSee key finds from the Ephesus region.
Visit the museum collection before the return connection.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 IncludedEphesus Archaeological Museum completes the cultural route before the return overnight bus connection. After the open-air ancient city, the museum brings original finds from Ephesus and Selcuk into closer view.
Artemis-related pieces, sculpture, inscriptions and everyday objects are especially useful. They connect the ruins outside with worship, household life, art and the people who shaped ancient Ephesus.
Questions
Why visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return bus?
<p>The museum shows original finds from Ephesus and Selcuk after the open-air ancient city visit. It adds close detail through objects, sculpture and inscriptions before the return overnight bus connection.</p>Which museum displays should I focus on?
<p>Artemis-related pieces, inscriptions, sculpture and everyday artifacts are especially useful. They connect the ruins with belief, daily life and local identity.</p>
Selcuk Bus StationUse the intercity bus connection for this route.
Board the return overnight bus connection.
TicketsBus ticket (Selcuk Bus Station to Side / Manavgat Bus Connection) IncludedReturn Overnight Bus JourneyTravel back overnight.
Continue overnight by intercity bus toward the departure area.
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Day 3
Side Arrival
Different tour end?
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Half DaySide / Manavgat Bus Connection Arrival
Continue from the arrival point to the drop-off area.
Arrive back at the bus connection point.
Side Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return to the original departure area.
Complete the overnight bus package at the confirmed drop-off point.
Different tour end?
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Day 2: Lunch meal.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- Day 1: Bus ticket (Side / Manavgat Bus Connection to Selcuk Bus Station).
- Day 2: Bus ticket (Selcuk Bus Station to Side / Manavgat Bus Connection).
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Hotel or meeting point pick-up and drop-off.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
Informations
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing.
- Please dress according to the season and weather conditions.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- 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.
- Please bring your passport or ID card.
- Pack lightly and keep essentials accessible for the overnight bus connection.
- 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.
- Entrance fees may be paid by credit card or Turkish Lira.
- Terrace Houses are optional and not counted as a separate route stop.
- The exact bus station and bus time are confirmed after booking according to the pickup area and seat availability.
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 group bus package from Side include?
This 2-day group package starts from Side, uses the Side or Manavgat intercity bus connection, and travels overnight toward the Ephesus region.
The main sightseeing day covers House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, a Selcuk lunch stop, and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return overnight bus connection back toward Side.
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Where does this Side Ephesus bus package start and end?
The main package starts from Side and returns to Side at the end of the route. The bus connection stage may use the Side or Manavgat connection point depending on the final operation plan.
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Is Manavgat pickup available for this Ephesus bus package?
Yes. This package also has a Manavgat pickup variant for travelers staying near Side. Pickup-area details may affect the final route display and booking conditions.
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Is this package private or group?
This version is the group 2-day Ephesus bus package from Side. You follow the organized shared package structure and the scheduled bus-linked route.
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Why is this Side to Ephesus route planned as a 2-day bus package?
The overnight bus format separates the long regional connection from the main sightseeing route. This keeps the Ephesus visits clearer than compressing the whole plan into one overlong day.
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Are bus tickets included in this group Ephesus package?
Yes. In the group package structure, the intercity bus connection used between the Side area and the Ephesus region is included according to the package setup.
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Is lunch included on the Ephesus sightseeing day?
Yes. In the group package structure, the planned lunch stop in Selcuk is included. Drinks and personal extras should still be checked during booking.
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Are entrance fees included in this group package?
Yes. In the base group package structure, the main ticketed stops on the route are treated as included. Optional stops are handled separately.
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Can I book this Side Ephesus bus package online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this 2-day group Ephesus bus package from Side online and pay by credit card through the booking system.
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What is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this Side group Ephesus bus package, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in the group package structure. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5.
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What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this Side group Ephesus bus package, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in the group package structure. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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What is the Terrace Houses of Ephesus entrance fee, and is it included?
No. Terrace Houses is treated as an optional stop connected to the Ephesus visit, so its entrance fee is not included in the standard group package structure. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
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What is the Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this Side group Ephesus bus package, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee is included in the group package structure. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10.
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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Good to know: this route uses overnight bus connections
The package is built around an overnight bus journey to the Ephesus region and another bus connection for the return toward Side.
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Good to know: Manavgat pickup is available as a variant
Travelers staying in Manavgat can use the pickup-variant version of this package. The main FAQ and Good to know content still belongs to the original Side tour page.
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Good to know: keep overnight bus essentials accessible
Because the route includes overnight bus travel, keep personal documents, chargers, a light layer, and small essentials easy to reach during the journey.
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Good to know: comfortable shoes are important for Ephesus
The sightseeing day includes open archaeological areas, uneven ancient streets, and museum walking. Comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are recommended.
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Good to know: Terrace Houses is optional
Terrace Houses is inside the wider Ephesus visit area but is handled as an optional extra rather than a standard included stop.
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