Highlights
- No-shopping 3-day small-group Ephesus Terrace Houses ferry package from Leros.
- Start from Leros, cross to Bodrum Ferry Port and continue toward the Kusadasi area.
- Use the three-day rhythm to separate the ferry crossing, Ephesus sightseeing and Leros return.
- Explore Ephesus Ancient City and the Terrace Houses during the dedicated Selcuk-area route.
- Add lunch near Selcuk, the Temple of Artemis and the final ferry flow back to Leros.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The no-shopping round-trip format keeps the Leros to Ephesus package focused on archaeology.
- Small-group pacing gives the ferry crossing, Kusadasi positioning and sightseeing day a clear order.
- Ephesus Ancient City and the Terrace Houses become the center of the journey on the middle day.
- The route returns to Leros after linking Bodrum, Kusadasi and Selcuk in a steady three-day flow.
Overview
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Leros Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-up
Meet your guide or driver at your Leros hotel or the confirmed meeting point for the short transfer to Lakki port.
Leros Ferry Port Check-inComplete the ferry check-in formalities at Lakki port before boarding for Bodrum.
TicketsFerry ticket (Leros Ferry Port to Bodrum Ferry Port) IncludedBodrum Ferry Port ArrivalArrive in Bodrum and continue by road toward the Kusadasi hotel area for the overnight stay.
Kusadasi Hotel Check-inCheck in at the hotel in the Kusadasi area and settle in for the evening.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Celsus Library Framed by Ancient Stones
Celsus Library Travel Image in Ephesus
Cultural Stonework at the Celsus Library
Celsus Library Facade Angle
Heracles Gate on the Ancient Street
Nike Relief Close View in Ephesus
Temple of Hadrian Historic Facade Detail
Terrace Houses Stone Walkway Perspective
Terrace Houses Travel Image in Ephesus
Temple of Artemis Historic Stone DetailKusadasi Hotel Check-out for Ephesus RouteLeave the hotel after breakfast and start the Ephesus route.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the main archaeological route of Ephesus with the guide.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedEphesus Ancient City is the main archaeological visit on the Turkey-side sightseeing day of this Leros round-route ferry package. After the Aegean crossing flow and the Kusadasi-area overnight setting, the route enters a city known for marble streets, civic spaces, monumental facades, public buildings and sacred areas.
Ephesus gives the package its strongest historical center before the route continues to nearby heritage points. It is best read as a connected urban landscape where trade, worship, administration and everyday movement shaped the Roman-period city together.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main visit on this Leros round-route package?
Ephesus is the main visit because it provides the strongest archaeological content on the Turkey-side sightseeing day. The package starts from Leros, reaches the Ephesus region and later follows a return flow back to Leros.What should visitors notice inside Ephesus?
Visitors should notice marble streets, civic spaces, public buildings, monumental facades, sacred areas and how trade, worship, administration and daily life connect across the ancient city.Is Ephesus experienced as one monument or a wider city?
Ephesus is experienced as a wider ancient city. The visit moves through connected streets, buildings and public spaces rather than one isolated monument.How does the Leros round-route structure shape the Ephesus visit?
The structure places the main heritage focus in the Ephesus region while keeping the overall travel flow connected with Leros as the departure and return setting.
Terrace HousesVisit the Terrace Houses area inside Ephesus as part of the core route.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 IncludedTerrace Houses add the residential story inside Ephesus. Their protected rooms, mosaics, wall paintings and household layouts show how affluent residents lived near the public streets and monuments of the ancient city.
This stop brings a more personal scale to the route after the main city walk. It helps visitors understand private comfort, decoration, household organization and social status within Roman-period Ephesus.
Questions
Why are Terrace Houses important in Ephesus?
Terrace Houses are important because they show elite residential life through protected rooms, mosaics, wall paintings and household layouts.What makes Terrace Houses different from the main streets?
The main streets show public urban life, while Terrace Houses show private domestic spaces. Together they give a fuller view of Ephesus.What can guests learn from Terrace Houses?
Guests can learn how affluent residents used decoration, room planning and interior space to express comfort, taste and status.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause for lunch around Selcuk before continuing to the final ancient site visit.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the sightseeing day a practical pause between Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Temple of Artemis. The Selcuk area belongs to the Aegean food landscape, where olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, herbs, soups, salads, yogurt and grilled foods are familiar local references.
This destination text gives food-culture context only. The exact venue, dishes and service style depend on the confirmed arrangement for the tour day.
Questions
Why is lunch usually placed in the Selcuk area?
Selcuk is close to Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Temple of Artemis, so it works naturally as the lunch stop during the sightseeing day.What food culture is connected with Selcuk?
Selcuk reflects Aegean food culture, including olive oil dishes, herbs, vegetables, soups, salads, yogurt and grilled foods.Does this lunch text confirm a fixed menu?
No. It gives local food-culture context only. Exact dishes, venue and service style depend on the confirmed daily arrangement.Lunch & Sponsored Shopping/Workshop Stop L SponsoredPause for lunch around Selcuk before continuing to the final ancient site visit.
MealsLunch meal IncludedTemple of ArtemisSee the remains of the Temple of Artemis before returning to the hotel area.
Temple of Artemis closes the Ephesus-region heritage sequence before the package continues through its return movement toward Leros. The visible remains are modest today, but the sanctuary was famous in antiquity and is remembered through the Seven Wonders tradition.
After Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses, this stop adds the sacred landscape of the region. Its value is historical and symbolic, connecting the ancient city with worship, regional identity and long memory.
Questions
Why is Temple of Artemis included after Ephesus?
Temple of Artemis is included because it adds sacred context to the Ephesus region and connects the route with the Seven Wonders tradition.What should visitors expect at Temple of Artemis today?
Visitors should expect limited visible remains and a concise context stop rather than a complete standing temple.How does Temple of Artemis complete the heritage sequence?
It completes the sequence by connecting Ephesus city life and Terrace Houses with worship, regional identity and sacred memory.
Kusadasi Hotel Second OvernightReturn to the Kusadasi hotel area for the second overnight stay.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast IncludedOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Kusadasi Hotel Check-out for Bodrum Ferry Port
Check out and transfer back to Bodrum Ferry Port for the return ferry.
Bodrum Ferry Port Check-inComplete the ferry check-in process in Bodrum for the return sailing to Leros.
TicketsFerry ticket (Bodrum Ferry Port to Leros Ferry Port) IncludedLeros Ferry Port ArrivalArrive back at Lakki port and continue to the confirmed Leros drop-off point.
Leros Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Finish the package with drop-off at the Leros hotel or meeting point.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Included
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What's Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Kusadasi Hotel Check-in).
- Day 2: Overnight accommodation (Kusadasi Hotel Second Overnight).
- Day 1: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 3: Hotel Breakfast meal.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus.
- Day 1: Ferry ticket (Leros Ferry Port to Bodrum Ferry Port).
- Day 3: Ferry ticket (Bodrum Ferry Port to Leros Ferry Port).
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Harbour transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- Visa fees if required.
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.
- For international ferry routes, please bring your passport and any required travel documents.
- 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.
- Ferry schedules may change due to sea conditions, weather, or port authority regulations.
- Leros pickup timing depends on the selected hotel area and the operating ferry schedule.
- The three-day return format separates the Leros crossing, the Selcuk sightseeing day and the Leros return so the route stays realistic.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; it may feel more demanding than the main Ephesus route.
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 is the route of this 3-day small-group Ephesus ferry package from Leros?
This small-group package starts from Leros, uses Leros Ferry Port and Bodrum Ferry Port for the Aegean crossing, and continues toward the Kusadasi area for the overnight-area stay. The middle sightseeing day covers Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, lunch near Selcuk and the Temple of Artemis, followed by the return ferry flow and final Leros drop-off on the last day.
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Is this Leros Ephesus package no-shopping?
Yes. This tour is marked as no-shopping, so the travel plan stays centered on the ferry connection, Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, Selcuk lunch stop, Temple of Artemis and the return route to Leros.
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Does this package return to Leros?
Yes. The physical route starts from Leros and returns to Leros after the Turkey-side sightseeing and ferry connection. Pickup variants may change the Leros-side start and end text, but the package remains a Leros return route.
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Which pickup areas are available on Leros?
Active pickup variants are available from Alinda, Krithoni, Panteli, Vromolithos, Gourna, Xirokampos, Platanos and Blefoutis. These variants adjust the Leros-side pickup and drop-off context while keeping the same Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Artemis route.
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How does the ferry connection work in the itinerary?
The route includes Leros Ferry Port, Bodrum Ferry Port arrival, and a return ferry flow from Bodrum back to Leros. Guests should review selected booking details for ferry timing, passenger document requirements and any cost notes before confirming.
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How long is this Ephesus package from Leros?
This is a 2-night/3-day package. Exact departure and return clock times are not stated here because ferry schedules, selected pickup options and local operating conditions can vary.
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What happens on the main Ephesus sightseeing day?
The central sightseeing day focuses on Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, a lunch stop near Selcuk and the Temple of Artemis. This gives the route a clear archaeological core between the arrival day and the return ferry day.
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Is Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in this small-group package?
Yes. Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is linked as included for this small-group package. The matched entrance-fee reference is attached to this answer so current fee information can be displayed clearly. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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Is Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this small-group package?
Yes. Terrace Houses entrance fee is linked as included for this small-group package. This route point adds Roman residential rooms, mosaics and frescoes inside the Ephesus archaeological area. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
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Does the small-group route include the Temple of Artemis?
Yes. The Temple of Artemis is included as a heritage stop near Selcuk after Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and lunch. It adds ancient Seven Wonders context to the Ephesus day.
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Is lunch included during the small-group route?
The route includes a lunch stop in the Selcuk area. For the small-group structure, planned meal handling is generally part of the organized service, but guests should still review selected booking details before payment.
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How much walking is involved on the Ephesus day?
The tour has a moderate physical rating. Ephesus Ancient City includes marble streets and open-air archaeological ground, while Terrace Houses includes steps and protected interior walkways.
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Can I book this Leros round-trip Ephesus package online?
Yes. Online booking and credit-card payment are available through the site. Before confirming, review the Leros pickup area, ferry connection, no-shopping label, entrance-fee links, lunch note, overnight-area flow and Leros return details.
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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Leros round-route package
This package starts from Leros, visits the Ephesus and Selcuk-area route in Turkey, and returns to Leros at the end.
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No-shopping sightseeing focus
The tour is marked as no-shopping and keeps the travel plan centered on ferry logistics and archaeological sightseeing.
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Pickup variants return on Leros
Alinda, Krithoni, Panteli, Vromolithos, Gourna, Xirokampos, Platanos and Blefoutis adjust the Leros-side pickup and drop-off text only.
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Entrance-fee references are linked
Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses fee references are linked for this small-group package so current fee information can be shown with the FAQ answers.
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Prepare for ferry and site walking
Bring required travel documents for the ferry connection and wear comfortable shoes for marble streets, steps and open-air archaeological areas.
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