Highlights
- 2-day group Biblical Ephesus package from Alanya with Gazipasa Alanya Airport and Izmir flight connection.
- Use the first travel stage for the airport transfer, flight route and overnight near Kusadasi or Selcuk.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary, one of the most meaningful sacred stops above Ephesus.
- Continue to the Cave of the Seven Sleepers before exploring Ephesus Ancient City and its marble streets.
- Pause for lunch near Selcuk and complete the local route at St. John Basilica.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The flight-connected structure helps make the long Alanya to Ephesus route work as a short package.
- Group touring keeps the airport transfers, overnight stay and local sightseeing arranged in one shared flow.
- You get a focused Biblical Ephesus route with House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers and St. John Basilica in the same program.
- The package gives the Ephesus sightseeing day clearer pacing after the first travel stage.
Overview
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Day 1
Alanya to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region
Travel from Alanya to the Ephesus region by flight.
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Day 1 positions the group near Selcuk or Kusadasi before the full local route.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortAlanya Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upShared pick-up in Alanya for the airport transfer.
Transfer from Alanya hotel or meeting point to Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP).
Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP)Board the flight to Izmir.
Flight segment from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) IncludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive at Izmir Airport and transfer to the hotel area.
Arrival at Izmir Airport and transfer toward Kusadasi or Selcuk.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in near Kusadasi or Selcuk before the sightseeing day.
Overnight stay in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus & St. John Route
Full sightseeing day in the Ephesus region.
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Different tour end?
Day 2 follows the complete local route.
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 / DepartureLeave the hotel for the full local tour.
Hotel check-out and start of the local sightseeing route.
House of Virgin MaryVisit the hillside shrine associated with the final years of the Virgin Mary.
Guided visit to House of Virgin Mary.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary gives the flight-connected Alanya package a quiet and meaningful start to the local sightseeing day. Set above Ephesus in a wooded hillside landscape, the sanctuary introduces the spiritual side of the region before the route moves toward early Christian and classical sites.
The visit is best experienced through atmosphere and tradition. Notice the modest chapel, the shaded grounds, the votive wall and the way the site feels removed from the larger archaeological landscape below.
Questions
Why is the House of Virgin Mary visited on this flight package?
<p>It gives the Ephesus-region sightseeing day a spiritual opening after the flight-connected travel from Alanya. The hillside chapel, quiet grounds and pilgrimage tradition make it one of the most meaningful stops before Ephesus.</p>What should I notice at the House of Virgin Mary?
<p>Notice the small chapel, shaded setting, votive wall and respectful visitor atmosphere. The site is compact, so its meaning comes from tradition and setting more than large architecture.</p>
Cave of the Seven SleepersContinue to the Seven Sleepers site near Ephesus.
Visit Cave of the Seven Sleepers with a short walking section.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers brings a story-rich early Christian stop into the day. The tradition of the Seven Sleepers is tied to faith, protection and awakening, and its presence near Ephesus helps show how the region was remembered beyond its Roman streets and monuments.
This point is not about grand restored architecture. Its value comes from the story, the cave-area setting and the guide context that connects the stop with the wider sacred geography around Ephesus.
Questions
Why is the Cave of the Seven Sleepers part of this route?
<p>It adds an early Christian story connected with faith, refuge and miraculous awakening. The stop helps connect the Ephesus landscape with religious memory as well as archaeology.</p>What kind of stop is the Cave of the Seven Sleepers?
<p>It is a story-based historical and religious stop rather than a large restored monument. Guide context is important for understanding why the cave area matters.</p>
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the marble streets, public spaces and monumental ruins of Ephesus.
Guided visit inside Ephesus Ancient City.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the main archaeological focus of the route and the place where the scale of ancient urban life becomes clear. Marble streets, the Great Theatre, civic spaces, temple remains, fountains, baths and the Library of Celsus facade all help reveal how important Ephesus was in Roman Asia Minor.
Look beyond the famous views and follow the city as a lived environment. Inscriptions, paving stones, street alignments, column fragments and water channels all help explain how people moved, gathered, traded, worshipped and governed here.
Questions
What makes Ephesus Ancient City the main stop?
<p>Ephesus is the largest and most detailed archaeological site in the route. Its marble streets, theatre, library facade, baths, fountains and public spaces show the scale of a major Roman-period city.</p>What should I pay attention to in Ephesus?
<p>Look for the famous monuments, but also notice inscriptions, street paving, water channels, column bases and the way different civic and religious spaces connect across the city.</p>
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause for lunch in the Selcuk area.
Lunch break near Selcuk during the local tour.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the day a practical pause after the major ancient-city visit. Selcuk is the natural base for Ephesus-region routes, and local food culture is shaped by Aegean ingredients such as olive oil, seasonal vegetables, herbs, salads and grilled or home-style dishes.
The restaurant and menu can vary by operation, so this stop should be understood as a regional meal break rather than a fixed menu promise. It helps reset the pace before the route continues toward Ayasuluk Hill and St. John Basilica.
Questions
What should I expect from the Selcuk lunch stop?
<p>Expect a practical regional meal break near the Ephesus area. Menus and venues can vary, but local food culture often includes Aegean vegetables, olive oil, salads, herbs and grilled or home-style dishes.</p>Why is the lunch stop placed in Selcuk?
<p>Selcuk is the natural base for the Ephesus region. The lunch stop gives the route a rest point between the ancient city visit and the St. John Basilica stage.</p>St. John BasilicaVisit the basilica remains on Ayasuluk Hill.
Guided visit to St. John Basilica.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica completes the local sightseeing line with one of Selcuk's most important Christian heritage sites. Located on Ayasuluk Hill, the basilica remains are traditionally associated with Saint John and connect the Ephesus region with pilgrimage memory and Byzantine-era history.
During the visit, focus on the basilica footprint, surviving columns, stonework, baptistery area and views toward Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. The hilltop setting helps place the sacred and archaeological parts of the day into one landscape.
Questions
Why is St. John Basilica important on this route?
<p>St. John Basilica adds the early Christian and pilgrimage context of Selcuk. Its remains on Ayasuluk Hill are traditionally linked with Saint John and the later Christian history of the region.</p>What should I look for at St. John Basilica?
<p>Look for the basilica layout, columns, stonework, baptistery area and the views across Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. These details help connect the site with the wider route.</p>
Izmir Airport (ADB)Transfer to Izmir Airport for the flight back.
Return flight segment from Izmir Airport to Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP).
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP)) IncludedGazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) ArrivalArrive back at Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP).
Arrival at Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) after the return flight.
Alanya Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return transfer to the Alanya meeting point or hotel area.
Final shared drop-off in Alanya.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Included
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- St. John Basilica.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP)).
- 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.
- Airport transfers.
- Harbour transfers.
- 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.
- 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.
- Alanya is handled as a two-day connected-flight package because the same-day version is not a standard reliable product.
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 package from Alanya by flight include?
This group package from Alanya uses the Gazipasa Alanya Airport to Izmir flight connection, overnight stay around Kusadasi or Selcuk, and a guided local route covering House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica before returning to Alanya.
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Is this Alanya to Ephesus package operated by flight?
Yes. This is a flight-connected 2-day Ephesus package from Alanya. The route uses airport transfers, the Gazipasa Alanya Airport and Izmir Airport flight connection, and then the local guided Ephesus-region sightseeing route.
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Is this tour private or group?
This version is the group tour. You follow the flight connection, overnight stay and local sightseeing route in the planned shared group package structure.
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How long does this Alanya to Ephesus flight package take?
This is a 1-night, 2-day package. Exact pickup, flight and return details are confirmed around the selected booking and flight operation rather than fixed as one clock-time schedule.
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Which places are visited on this Ephesus package from Alanya?
The sightseeing day 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.
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Are domestic flight tickets included in the group package?
Yes. In the group package structure, the domestic flight connection between Gazipasa Alanya Airport and Izmir Airport is handled as part of the organized package.
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Is the overnight hotel included in this group package?
Yes. The group package includes the planned overnight stay around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area before the local Ephesus-region sightseeing day.
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Is lunch included in this group Ephesus package?
Yes. The group package includes the planned lunch stop during the local sightseeing day. Drinks or personal extras should be checked during booking if you need exact details.
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Can I book this Ephesus flight package online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this Alanya to Ephesus flight package 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 group Alanya to Ephesus flight package, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in the group tour 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 group Alanya to Ephesus flight package, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in the group tour structure. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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What is the St. John Basilica entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this group Alanya to Ephesus flight package, the St. John Basilica entrance fee is included in the group tour structure. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this 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
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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 is a flight-connected overnight package
The route is planned as a 1-night, 2-day package so the long Alanya to Ephesus connection does not compress every visit into one same-day program.
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Good to know: Carry passport or valid ID for flights
This package uses a domestic flight connection through Gazipasa Alanya Airport and Izmir Airport. Carry the travel document required for airport check-in.
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Good to know: Walking surfaces are uneven
Ephesus Ancient City and Ayasuluk Hill include marble streets, steps, slopes and open archaeological surfaces. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are useful.
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Good to know: Dress respectfully for sacred sites
House of Virgin Mary and St. John Basilica are faith-related heritage stops. Modest, comfortable clothing helps the visit feel respectful and practical.
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Good to know: Terrace Houses is optional
Terrace Houses is a separate optional paid section inside Ephesus. Choose it if you want a deeper look at mosaics, frescoes and Roman domestic life.
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