Highlights
- 2-day group House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus package from Bursa by road transfer.
- Travel from Bursa toward Kusadasi or Selcuk with practical meal breaks before the overnight stay.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary on the hillside above ancient Ephesus.
- Continue with the Cave of the Seven Sleepers and the monumental streets of Ephesus Ancient City.
- Complete the Selcuk route at St. John Basilica before the group return road journey to Bursa.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The two-day road plan gives the Bursa to Ephesus route a more manageable pace than a same-day round trip.
- Group touring keeps the transfer day, hotel area and Selcuk sightseeing sequence easy to follow.
- You experience the main Biblical Ephesus sacred sites in a logical order from Mary’s House to St. John Basilica.
- The route stays focused on Christian heritage and ancient Ephesus without adding unsupported side visits.
Overview
-
Day 1
Bursa to Kusadasi / Selcuk Road Transfer
Travel from Bursa toward the overnight hotel area.
B
L
D
The first day is reserved for the road transfer from Bursa to the Kusadasi / Selcuk hotel area before the guided route on the next day.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortBursa Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upMeet your group vehicle in Bursa.
Start from Bursa for the road transfer toward the overnight hotel area.
Breakfast Break on Route BPause for a practical breakfast break during the morning drive.
A short comfort stop is planned around the Balikesir / Akhisar Road Corridor before continuing toward the overnight region.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedBreakfast Break on Route is a practical comfort pause during the first-day road transfer from Bursa toward the Kusadasi / Selcuk overnight area. It is not a sightseeing destination, but it helps make the long regional travel day easier before the group reaches the Ephesus region.
The exact stop and food choices can vary by operation and road conditions. Guests may find simple Turkish breakfast items, tea, coffee, bread, cheese, olives, pastries or quick travel-friendly options depending on the venue.
Road Journey to the Ephesus RegionContinue toward Kusadasi and Selcuk.
This route note keeps the road section visible while the journey continues from Bursa toward the overnight hotel area.
Lunch Break on Route LPause for lunch during the road transfer.
A lunch stop is planned before reaching the overnight hotel area.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Break on Route supports the intercity road transfer before arrival near Kusadasi or Selcuk. This is a comfort meal stop rather than a fixed culinary program, so the location and menu can change according to routing and timing.
Roadside lunch options in Turkey often include soups, salads, grilled dishes, vegetable plates or simple local meals. The purpose is to keep the transfer day balanced before check-in near the Ephesus region.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in for the overnight stay.
Check in at the arranged hotel in the Kusadasi / Selcuk area before the guided route on the next day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus & St. John Route
Follow the full Biblical Ephesus route.
B
L
D
Different tour end?
The second day follows the House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica route before the return transfer to Bursa.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
House of Virgin Mary Chapel Altar View 
Votive Candles at House of Virgin Mary 
Seven Sleepers Cave Entrance Stones 
Celsus Library Among Classical Ruins 
Celsus Library Street Approach Scene 
Celsus Library in Selcuk Heritage Landscape 
Celsus Library Broad Marble Front 
Heracles Gate Carved Stone Passage 
Temple of Hadrian Arched Facade 
St. John Basilica Arched Ruin Perspective Hotel Check-out / DepartureDepart from the Kusadasi / Selcuk hotel area.
Check out from the hotel and depart for the guided visits around the Ephesus region.
House of Virgin MaryVisit the hillside shrine above Ephesus.
Begin the guided Biblical Ephesus route at the House of Virgin Mary before continuing toward the ancient city area.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary begins the guided sightseeing day after the Bursa road transfer and overnight stay near Kusadasi or Selcuk. Set on Mount Koressos above Ephesus, the sanctuary gives the route a quiet spiritual opening before the day continues through early Christian traditions and archaeology.
The site is modest in scale, so its meaning comes through atmosphere, setting and guide context. Notice the chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and hillside surroundings as part of the wider Ephesus story.
Questions
Why does this Bursa road package visit House of Virgin Mary on Day 2?
House of Virgin Mary gives the guided sightseeing day a spiritual opening after the first-day road transfer and overnight stay near the Ephesus region. It introduces the route through pilgrimage tradition before the archaeological visits.What should I notice at House of Virgin Mary?
Notice the chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and quiet hillside setting. The site is modest in size, but its atmosphere and tradition make it meaningful.
Cave of the Seven SleepersSee the sacred cave area linked with early Christian tradition.
Continue to the Seven Sleepers site for a focused stop before entering the main Ephesus archaeological route.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds a story-rich early Christian stop near Ephesus. In this two-day road package from Bursa, it creates a meaningful bridge between the spiritual setting of House of Virgin Mary and the archaeological scale of Ephesus Ancient City.
This is an interpretive visit rather than a large monument. The local tradition of faith, refuge and awakening helps guests understand how the Ephesus region carries religious memory as well as ancient urban remains.
Questions
What does Cave of the Seven Sleepers add to this route?
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds a local early Christian story near Ephesus. It connects the landscape with themes of faith, refuge and awakening before the ancient city visit.Is Cave of the Seven Sleepers a large ruins visit?
No. It is mainly an interpretive story stop rather than a large archaeological monument. The guide explanation helps guests understand the tradition attached to the site.
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 experience of the Bursa road package. Its marble streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade, baths, fountains and civic spaces reveal the planning and public life of a major city in Roman Asia Minor.
The overnight package structure protects the quality of the visit after the long transfer from Bursa. Follow how the streets, monuments and public buildings connect, so Ephesus feels like a complete ancient city rather than a series of separate ruins.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main highlight?
Ephesus Ancient City is the main highlight because it preserves the strongest archaeological landscape on the route. Its streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade and public spaces show the scale of ancient city life.How does the overnight road package help the Ephesus visit?
The package moves guests from Bursa to the Ephesus region before the sightseeing day. This protects the local route and helps the Ephesus visit feel less rushed than a same-day long road plan.
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 Stop in Selcuk gives the local sightseeing day a practical pause near the Ephesus sites. Selcuk belongs to the Aegean food landscape, where olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, salads, grilled items and simple regional cooking are common influences.
The exact restaurant and menu can vary by operation and season. The stop keeps the guided day comfortable before the route continues to St. John Basilica on Ayasuluk Hill.
Questions
What should I expect at the Selcuk lunch stop?
Expect a practical regional meal break near the Ephesus sites. The exact restaurant and menu may vary, but Selcuk-area food often reflects Aegean ingredients and simple local cooking.Why is lunch placed before St. John Basilica?
Lunch gives the sightseeing day a comfortable pause after the main ancient city visit and before the final stop on Ayasuluk Hill. It helps keep the route balanced.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 main heritage route on Ayasuluk Hill above Selcuk. Traditionally connected with Saint John, the basilica brings the day from ancient Ephesus into later Christian memory and Byzantine-era sacred architecture.
Look for the basilica plan, baptistery area, surviving columns, stonework and views toward Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. The hilltop setting gives the final visit a strong sense of continuity before the return road journey begins.
Questions
Why is St. John Basilica included after Ephesus?
St. John Basilica connects the region with later Christian heritage and Saint John tradition. Visiting it after Ephesus shows how Selcuk remained important beyond the ancient city period.What are the key details at St. John Basilica?
The basilica plan, baptistery area, surviving columns, stonework and views over Selcuk are the key details. They explain both the sacred memory and the archaeological setting.
Selcuk Departure PointRegroup in Selcuk for the return road journey.
Depart from the Selcuk area after the guided visits and begin the return drive toward Bursa.
Return Road Journey to BursaTravel back toward Bursa after the Selcuk visits.
This route note represents the return drive from Selcuk toward Bursa.
Dinner Break on Return Route DPause for dinner during the return drive.
A practical dinner break is planned on the return road before the final drop-off in Bursa.
MealsDinner meal IncludedDinner Break on Return Route is a practical comfort stop during the long road journey back toward Bursa. It supports the late return rhythm after the Ephesus-region visits and should be understood as a travel break rather than a separate sightseeing experience.
The exact venue and food choices can vary. Depending on timing and operation, guests may find simple Turkish dinner options such as soup, grilled dishes, salads, vegetable plates or quick road-friendly meals.
Bursa Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?End the package back in Bursa.
The package finishes with drop-off at Bursa or the confirmed meeting point.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Included
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Dinner meal.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- St. John Basilica.
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
Informations
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing.
- Please dress according to the season and weather conditions.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- Cameras are welcome, but tripods may not be permitted in some museums and archaeological sites.
- Guests should watch their step at all times to avoid injuries.
- Please check the weather forecast before your tour.
- Respectful clothing is recommended for visits to mosques and churches.
- Keep a small overnight bag ready and 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.
- The package format is used so the full Biblical Ephesus route can be operated with realistic timing from Bursa.
- Terrace Houses are optional and are not counted as a separate route stop.
Your Peace of Mind Options
Cancellation Policy
A transparent overview of applicable fees.
Tour Reminder!
You can create a reminder for yourself for this tour. We will send you a reminder e-mail/sms about this tour on the date you specify.
FAQs
-
What does this 2-day Ephesus group package from Bursa include?
This group road package starts from a Bursa hotel or meeting point and travels toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area for an overnight stay. The next day follows the full Biblical Ephesus route with House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica before returning to Bursa.
-
Why choose the Bursa to Ephesus standard package?
This is the comfort-focused Bursa road package for travelers who want the full Ephesus sacred-history route without forcing it into a very long same-day plan. The overnight rhythm protects both travel comfort and the local sightseeing pace.
-
Is this package private or group?
This is the group version. It uses shared group timing, Bursa-region pickup planning and a guided Ephesus-region route on the sightseeing day.
-
How does the 1-night 2-day road package from Bursa work?
Day 1 covers Bursa pick-up, road travel toward Kusadasi or Selcuk, practical breakfast and lunch break logic, and hotel check-in. Day 2 covers the House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John route, then returns by road to Bursa with a dinner break on the return route.
-
Which places are visited on this Bursa Ephesus package?
The sightseeing route visits House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica, with a lunch stop in the Selcuk area. Transfer, hotel and meal-break rows are practical route points, not extra sightseeing attractions.
-
Does the package start and finish in Bursa?
Yes. The planned route starts with Bursa hotel or meeting point pick-up and ends with Bursa hotel or meeting point drop-off, unless a different arrangement is confirmed before booking.
-
Which Bursa pickup areas are available for this package?
Active pickup areas include Mudanya, Osmangazi, Nilufer, Yildirim and Gemlik. Pickup-area changes may affect the final price or timing depending on distance and route setup.
-
Is accommodation included in this group package?
Yes. The group package includes one overnight stay in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area so the Ephesus-region sightseeing route can be operated locally on the following day.
-
Are meals included in this Bursa group package?
Yes. Planned meal handling is included in the group package structure, including road break logic, hotel meal handling and the Selcuk-area lunch stop. Drinks, personal extras and special meal requests should still be checked during booking.
-
Is this Bursa package a direct road-transfer package?
Yes. This standard package is written as a Bursa road-transfer package with hotel or meeting point pickup, overnight stay and return road journey. Terminal-style handling should not be assumed for this product.
-
Can I book this Bursa to Ephesus package online by credit card?
Yes. This 2-day Ephesus group package from Bursa can be booked online, and credit-card payment is available through the booking system.
-
What is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. In this group Bursa to Ephesus package, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in the group tour structure. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5.
-
What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. In this group Ephesus package from Bursa, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in the group tour structure. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
-
What is the St. John Basilica entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. The St. John Basilica entrance fee is included in this group Bursa to Ephesus package. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
-
Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this group package?
No. Terrace Houses is optional and is not included in the standard group package. Add it only if you want extra time for the Roman residential section inside Ephesus. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
General FAQs
-
Is Ephesus a good shore excursion from Kusadasi port?
Yes. Ephesus is one of the most popular and efficient day trips from Kusadasi.
- The drive is usually short compared to many other ports.
- We plan the route around your ship timing and keep a safe return buffer.
- Early starts help avoid heat and heavy crowds in peak season.
-
How do cruise shore excursions work (meeting point and return time)?
Shore excursions are built around your ships docking schedule.
- We confirm a clear meeting point close to the port exit.
- We recommend a comfortable buffer before all-aboard time.
- If your ship uses tender boats, allow extra time and tell us your tender details.
-
Where is Ephesus located and what is it close to?
Ephesus is an ancient city near Selcuk on Turkeys Aegean coast.
- The closest main cruise port town is Kusadasi.
- Izmir is the nearest major city and transport hub.
- Many day tours combine Ephesus with nearby stops based on your available time.
-
Can I visit Ephesus from Izmir port in one day?
Yes, but it is a longer drive than from Kusadasi.
- Timing must be planned carefully to avoid rushing.
- If your port stay is short, we may recommend an Izmir-focused program instead.
- Share your ship schedule and we will suggest the most realistic plan.
-
What are the must-see highlights inside Ephesus?
Ephesus is a large open-air archaeological site with world-famous monuments.
- Library of Celsus and Curetes Street.
- Great Theatre and main marble streets.
- Key public areas such as agoras, baths, and temples depending on route and time.
-
Should I add the Terrace Houses in Ephesus?
The Terrace Houses offer a closer look at Roman-era homes, mosaics, and frescoes.
- This visit usually requires extra time and is often a separate ticket.
- If you love details, art, and interiors, it is a great upgrade.
- For cruise days with limited time, we can advise if it fits comfortably.
-
How much walking is there at Ephesus?
Ephesus involves a lot of walking on stone surfaces and open paths.
- Paths can be uneven and can feel slippery when wet.
- There are gentle slopes and limited shade in some areas.
- If you have mobility concerns, tell us and we can suggest the best route or alternatives.
-
What should I wear for an Ephesus tour?
Comfort and sun protection make a big difference.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen in warm months.
- Carry water, especially in summer and on cruise days.
-
When is the best time to visit Ephesus?
Ephesus can be visited year-round, but the experience changes by season.
- Spring and autumn are comfortable for long outdoor visits.
- Summer is hotter and busier, so early starts are recommended.
- Winter has fewer crowds but cooler weather and occasional rain.
-
Is Ephesus crowded and how do we avoid peak crowds?
Ephesus is very popular, especially in summer and on cruise days.
- Starting early is the best way to reduce crowds and heat.
- We can adjust stop order based on ship traffic and site flow.
- Weekends and holidays can be busier.
-
Do I need to buy Ephesus tickets in advance?
In peak season, planning helps avoid delays, but rules can change.
- Some areas may have separate tickets.
- Starting early is often more important than pre-buying.
- On guided tours, we plan entry timing to keep the day smooth.
-
Should I add the House of Virgin Mary to my tour?
It is a meaningful stop for many visitors and can be added based on timing.
- It is a short drive from Ephesus.
- It can be busier at certain times, so we plan the order carefully.
- If your cruise time is limited, we will suggest a realistic priority list.
-
Is Sirince village worth visiting from Ephesus?
Sirince is a small hillside village near Selcuk and is often added for variety.
- It is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, small cafes, and local products.
- It works well if you want something beyond ruins.
- We add it only when it fits safely with your return schedule.
-
Can I combine Ephesus with Pamukkale in one day?
It is usually too long for a comfortable day, especially for cruise schedules.
- Pamukkale is a longer drive and needs more time on site.
- For a better experience, consider an overnight plan.
- If you share your exact timing, we can advise what is realistic.
-
Can I combine Ephesus with Pergamon on the same day?
It is usually not recommended for a single day from Kusadasi.
- Pergamon is closer to Izmir than to Kusadasi.
- Doing both can feel rushed and increases return-time risk.
- If you have extra days, plan them on separate days for a better experience.
-
What if my ship docks late or departs earlier than planned?
Ship schedules can change, and we plan with buffer time.
- If you receive an updated schedule, message us immediately.
- We can shorten or adjust the route while keeping key highlights.
- Our priority is always a safe, on-time return to port.
-
Private tour or group tour: what is better for Ephesus?
For cruise travelers, private tours are often the most comfortable option.
- Private tours allow flexible pace, timing, and photo stops.
- Group tours can be good value, but timing is less flexible.
- We can recommend the best option based on your ship schedule and preferences.
-
Is Ephesus suitable for seniors or limited mobility?
It depends on comfort level, as the site is large and mostly outdoors.
- There are uneven stones and some slopes.
- We can select a route that reduces walking where possible.
- Please tell us about mobility needs in advance so we can plan correctly.
-
Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and may change.
- Please check the latest official entry rules for your nationality before travel.
- Many visitors use an e-Visa when eligible for short tourist stays.
- If you share your passport country, we can guide you to the correct official source to verify.
-
What currency is used in Turkey?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- ATMs are common in Kusadasi, Selcuk, and Izmir.
- Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases and tips.
- Keep small bills for convenience.
-
Are credit cards accepted in Kusadasi and around Ephesus?
Cards are accepted in many restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Small vendors and some taxis may prefer cash.
- For markets and quick purchases, cash is helpful.
- Keep a backup payment option, especially on busy port days.
-
Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?
Many travelers prefer bottled water.
- Bottled water is easy to find and inexpensive.
- If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid ice in unknown places.
-
Is tipping common in Turkey?
Tipping is common and appreciated for good service.
- Restaurants: rounding up or leaving a small amount is typical.
- Guides and drivers: optional and based on service quality.
- Carry small notes for convenience.
-
What plug type and voltage are used in Turkey?
Turkey typically uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V, 50Hz).
- Bring an adapter if your plug type is different.
-
How can I get a SIM or eSIM in Turkey?
SIM and eSIM options are available from major operators.
- Official stores usually require passport registration.
- If you only need data, compare short-term packages.
- Download offline maps if you plan to explore independently.
-
Do Ephesus and museums have closure days or seasonal hours?
Opening hours can change by season and some venues may have weekly closure days.
- Public holidays can also affect schedules.
- Some venues have different winter and summer hours.
- We plan visits based on current opening information.
-
Can I take photos inside Ephesus and museums?
Photography rules vary by venue.
- Outdoor ruins usually allow photos.
- Some museums restrict flash or photography in certain areas.
- Always follow posted rules and staff instructions.
-
What is ship time vs local time and why does it matter?
Some cruise ships keep ship time different from local Turkey time.
- Always confirm whether your port schedule is in ship time or local time.
- Tell us what your cruise line uses so we plan pickups correctly.
- This helps avoid confusion on meeting points and return timing.
-
Is Turkey safe for cruise travelers and day tour guests?
Tourist areas like Kusadasi and major sites are used to international visitors.
- Use normal precautions in crowded places near the port and markets.
- Stick to licensed transport and agreed meeting points.
- Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying unnecessary cash.
-
What can I do in Kusadasi if I skip Ephesus?
If you prefer a lighter day, there are good alternatives.
- Explore Kusadasi town and waterfront.
- Consider local food stops and shopping areas.
- We can suggest a shorter cultural route depending on your time in port.
-
Should I carry my passport during port days?
We recommend keeping your passport safely on the ship or at your accommodation and carrying a copy if needed.
- A phone photo plus a printed copy is usually enough for day trips.
- For buying a SIM, you may need the original passport at the store.
-
What is the emergency number in Turkey?
Dial 112 for emergencies (medical, police, fire, and urgent situations).
- If you are on a guided day, inform your guide so we can help quickly.
Good to Know
-
Good to know: This is the Bursa comfort road package
The package is designed for guests who prefer a realistic two-day road rhythm instead of a compressed same-day Bursa to Ephesus plan.
-
Good to know: Pickup points should be confirmed
Mudanya, Osmangazi, Nilufer, Yildirim and Gemlik are pickup variants under the Bursa product. Confirm the exact pickup area before booking.
-
Good to know: Meal breaks are route support
Breakfast, lunch and dinner break rows support the road and sightseeing flow. They should not be treated as extra sightseeing stops.
-
Good to know: Prepare for archaeological walking
Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica include marble streets, uneven ground, slopes, steps and sun-exposed areas. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are recommended.
-
Good to know: The overnight rhythm protects the route
The two-day format gives better breathing room for House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica than a same-day custom plan from Bursa.
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 Bursa by Bus
From: Bursa - End: Bursa
1 Night/2 Days
View Tour
This tour also has a private tour version.
This tour also has transport options.
