Highlights
- Private flight-linked Ephesus package from Sabiha Gokcen Airport: Use a 2-day format that brings the Ephesus region within easier reach through the Izmir flight connection.
- House of the Virgin Mary: Start at the quiet sanctuary above Ephesus that adds a pilgrimage dimension to the route.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Walk through the principal streets, monuments and public spaces of the ancient city with a more personal touring rhythm.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum: Finish with the museum visit that helps connect the ruins on site with the wider Ephesus story.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The private version gives the sightseeing day a more individual feel once you reach the Ephesus region.
- Flying from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Izmir keeps the route more efficient than a long road-only journey.
- The combination of Virgin Mary, Ephesus and the museum creates a clear cultural route without diluting the focus with unsupported side stops.
- It suits travelers who want a private 2-day Sabiha Gokcen Airport Ephesus package with a cleaner pace and a more personal feel on the main visit day.
Overview
-
Day 1
Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region
Travel from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to the Ephesus-region hotel area by flight and local transfer.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Half DaySabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)Use the airport connection for the Ephesus-region route.
Board the domestic flight from Sabiha Gokcen Airport toward Izmir for the Ephesus-region route.
TicketsFlight ticket (Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) ExcludedIzmir Airport ArrivalContinue from the airport into the next private route step.
Arrive at Izmir Airport and continue with the local private route team.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in around the Selcuk or Kusadasi area.
Hotel check-in is arranged in the Selcuk or Kusadasi area before the sightseeing day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation ExcludedHotel breakfast ExcludedHotel lunch ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded -
Day 2
Ephesus Museum Route
Different tour end?
Visit House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, Lunch Stop in Selcuk and Ephesus Archaeological Museum before returning to Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
Interior Chapel and Altar 
Holy Water Fountains at House of Virgin Mary 
Cultural Detail at Celsus Library 
Ancient Library Scene in Ephesus 
Celsus Library Archaeological Setting 
Facade Composition at Celsus Library 
Ancient Urban View of Celsus Library 
Aegean Heritage at Celsus Library 
Nike Relief Carving in Ephesus 
Temple of Hadrian Facade Detail Hotel Check-out / DepartureLeave the hotel and begin the private Ephesus route.
After check-out, the private route continues into the local Ephesus museum route.
House of Virgin MaryBegin with the peaceful pilgrimage site above Ephesus.
House of Virgin Mary gives the route a quiet spiritual opening before the ancient city visit.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 ExcludedHouse of Virgin Mary opens the private sightseeing day with a peaceful sanctuary above Ephesus. After the first night in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, it creates a calm transition into the region???s sacred and historical landscape.
The visit focuses on the chapel, devotional wall and hillside setting. Its importance comes from tradition, atmosphere and its close connection with the Ephesus area.
Questions
Why does the private package visit the House of Virgin Mary?
<p>The House of Virgin Mary adds a calm spiritual start before Ephesus Ancient City. Its chapel, devotional wall and hillside atmosphere are the focus of the stop.</p>Is the House of Virgin Mary a large site?
<p>No. It is a compact sanctuary rather than a large ruins area. The visit focuses on atmosphere, tradition and the chapel setting above Ephesus.</p>
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the main ancient city stop of the route.
Ephesus Ancient City is the main archaeological stop, with marble streets, public buildings and monumental remains.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the main historical landscape of the private second-day route. The theatre, library facade, marble streets, public spaces and sacred remains reveal the scale of ancient urban life.
Try to read the site as a connected city rather than isolated ruins. Street layout, inscriptions, water systems and building traces show how people moved, gathered, worshipped and lived here.
Questions
What makes Ephesus Ancient City important on this private package?
<p>Ephesus is the main historical destination of the sightseeing day. Its streets, theatre, library facade and civic spaces reveal ancient urban life.</p>How can I understand Ephesus better during the walk?
<p>Connect the main monuments with smaller clues such as inscriptions, paving, water channels and street layout. These details show how the city worked.</p>
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause near Selcuk during the sightseeing flow.
The lunch stop is placed near Selcuk to keep the day aligned with the local sightseeing flow.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk provides a useful regional pause between Ephesus and the museum. Staying close to Selcuk keeps the private route practical before continuing to the final cultural visit and return airport connection.
Depending on the venue, local meals may include Aegean-style vegetables, olive oil, herbs, salads and grilled choices. The stop helps balance the walking-heavy part of the day.
Questions
What is the purpose of the Selcuk lunch stop?
<p>The Selcuk lunch stop gives the private route a local rest after Ephesus and before the museum. It helps balance the walking-heavy part of the day.</p>Ephesus Archaeological MuseumVisit the museum that completes the Ephesus story.
Ephesus Archaeological Museum adds context with sculptures, household objects and finds connected to the ancient city.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 ExcludedEphesus Archaeological Museum adds focused context after the private visit to the ancient city. Original objects from Ephesus and Selcuk help explain worship, art, daily life and regional history.
Artemis-related displays, inscriptions, sculpture and everyday artifacts are helpful to observe. They connect the open-air ruins with the people, beliefs and local culture behind them.
Questions
Why is the Ephesus Archaeological Museum included?
<p>The museum completes the Ephesus context with original objects from the ancient city and nearby Selcuk. It helps explain worship, art and daily life.</p>What should I focus on inside the Ephesus Museum?
<p>Focus on Artemis-related displays, inscriptions, sculpture and everyday objects. They connect the archaeological site with people, beliefs and local culture.</p>
Izmir Airport (ADB)Use the airport connection for the Ephesus-region route.
Return to Izmir Airport for the flight back to Istanbul.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)) ExcludedSabiha Gokcen Airport Drop-off Different tour end?Finish at the confirmed drop-off point.
The itinerary ends with final drop-off at the confirmed endpoint.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Private licensed professional tour guide.
- Private deluxe air-conditioned VIP vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Airport transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Hotel Breakfast meal, Hotel Lunch meal, Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Hotel Dinner meal, Lunch meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- House of Virgin Mary, €13.5.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum, €10.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)).
- 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.
- 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.
- Flight times are confirmed after booking and may affect the final pickup or meeting 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
-
What does this 2-day private Ephesus flight package from Sabiha Gokcen Airport include?
This 2-day private flight package starts from Sabiha Gokcen Airport, flies to Izmir, includes an overnight mainland stage around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, and covers House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, a Selcuk lunch stop, and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return flight back to Istanbul.
It is designed for travelers who want the same Ephesus cultural route with a more personal pace and a smoother two-day rhythm.
-
Where does this private Sabiha Gokcen Airport 2-day Ephesus package start?
This private flight package starts directly from Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The route is built around the flight connection, so the airport meeting and air schedule are the starting point of the full 2-day structure.
-
Does this private package return to Sabiha Gokcen Airport on Day 2?
Yes. This route is built as a return flight package. After the overnight mainland stage and the sightseeing program, the second day finishes with the return flight connection back to Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
-
Is this private package operated by flight from Istanbul to Izmir and back?
Yes. The package uses the outbound flight from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Izmir and the return flight back to Istanbul after the Ephesus route is completed.
-
Is this tour private or small-group?
This version is private. Your party follows the Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Ephesus route with a more flexible pace than the shared group option.
-
How is this private 2-day Sabiha Gokcen Airport Ephesus package arranged?
Day 1 covers the flight from Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Izmir and the hotel check-in stage around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area. Day 2 is reserved for House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, a Selcuk lunch stop, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, and the return airport connection back to Istanbul.
-
Are the flights included in the base private Ephesus package?
No. In the base private tour structure, flight costs should not be assumed as included unless a selected package or confirmed quote specifically says otherwise.
-
Is hotel accommodation included in the base private package?
No. In the base private package structure, hotel accommodation should not be assumed as included unless a selected package or confirmed quote specifically says otherwise.
-
Are entrance fees included in the base private Ephesus flight package?
No. In the base private tour structure, entrance fees are paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package or receive a confirmed quote that states otherwise.
-
Can I book this private Sabiha Gokcen Airport Ephesus package online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this private 2-day flight package online and pay by credit card through the booking system.
-
What is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Sabiha Gokcen Airport Ephesus flight package, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5.
-
What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Sabiha Gokcen Airport Ephesus flight package, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
-
What is the Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Sabiha Gokcen Airport Ephesus flight package, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10.
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 package starts and ends at Sabiha Gokcen Airport
This product is planned as a return flight package. The outbound flight, overnight mainland stay, sightseeing day, and return flight are spread across two connected travel days.
-
Good to know: airport check-in timing matters
Because the route is built around scheduled flights, arriving at Sabiha Gokcen Airport with enough time for check-in and security helps the package start smoothly.
-
Good to know: base private inclusions are narrower
The base private structure focuses on the private sightseeing pace and route operation. Flight costs, hotel, entrance fees, meals, and other extras should not be assumed as included unless your selected package or confirmed quote says so.
-
Good to know: keep ID or passport ready for airport procedures
This route includes domestic flight procedures, so keeping your required travel document easy to reach is helpful during both the outbound and return airport stages.
-
Good to know: comfortable shoes are strongly recommended for the Ephesus day
The Ephesus route includes uneven stone paths, open archaeological sections, and museum walking. Comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are helpful for the sightseeing day.
Want to read it later?
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline
Similar Tours
This tour also has a group tour version.
