Highlights
- 2-day group Biblical Ephesus package starting directly from Gazipasa Alanya Airport.
- Fly from Gazipasa Alanya Airport to Izmir and stay overnight near Kusadasi or Selcuk.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary, a peaceful sacred site above the Ephesus region.
- Continue to the Cave of the Seven Sleepers before exploring Ephesus Ancient City.
- Pause for lunch near Selcuk and complete the sacred-history route at St. John Basilica.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The airport-start format works well for travelers who want to begin the package at Gazipasa Alanya Airport.
- Group touring keeps the flight connection, overnight area and Ephesus sightseeing day organized in one shared structure.
- The route gives you the core Biblical Ephesus stops without adding unsupported attractions.
- The overnight plan helps separate travel logistics from the main sacred-history experience.
Overview
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Day 1
Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region
Travel from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) 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: ShortGazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP)Board the flight from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) 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 airport-start package a quiet spiritual beginning after the route has positioned the group in the Ephesus region. Set in the wooded hills above the ancient city, the sanctuary is visited for its chapel, devotional tradition and reflective atmosphere.
The site is modest rather than monumental, so the details should be read slowly: the small chapel, shaded paths, votive wall and calm setting all help explain why this stop remains meaningful for many visitors.
Questions
Why is House of Virgin Mary included in this airport-start package?
<p>It introduces the sacred side of the Ephesus region before the ancient city route. The hillside chapel, quiet grounds and pilgrimage tradition make it a meaningful first sightseeing stop.</p>What should I notice at House of Virgin Mary?
<p>Notice the chapel, shaded paths, votive wall and calm atmosphere. The site is compact, so its importance comes mostly from tradition, setting and reflection.</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 adds a story-led early Christian point between the House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus Ancient City. The tradition connected with the Seven Sleepers brings themes of faith, refuge and awakening into the local landscape around Ephesus.
This stop is not a large restored monument. Its value comes from the story, the cave-area setting and the guide context that helps connect the tradition with the wider sacred and historical geography of the region.
Questions
What is the Cave of the Seven Sleepers known for?
<p>It is known for the Seven Sleepers tradition, a story connected with faith, refuge and awakening. The stop adds an early Christian narrative close to Ephesus.</p>Is the Cave of the Seven Sleepers a major monument?
<p>No. It is best understood as a story-based historical and religious stop. Guide context helps explain why the cave area is meaningful.</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 stop of the route. Its marble streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade, fountains, baths, gates and public buildings show the scale of a city that once held major civic, commercial and religious importance in Roman Asia Minor.
As you walk, look at both the headline monuments and the small evidence around them: inscriptions, paving stones, drainage channels, column bases and street alignments. These details make the site feel like a complete city rather than a collection of isolated ruins.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main stop?
<p>Ephesus is the route's largest archaeological site. Its marble streets, theatre, library facade, baths, fountains and civic spaces show the scale of a major ancient city.</p>What should I look for inside Ephesus?
<p>Look for the famous monuments and also the smaller details: inscriptions, paving stones, water channels, columns and how different public 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 local sightseeing day a practical pause near the Ephesus area. Selcuk is closely tied to the ancient city and Ayasuluk Hill, and its food culture often reflects Aegean habits such as olive oil, seasonal vegetables, herbs, salads and grilled or home-style dishes.
The exact restaurant and menu may change with the operation, so this stop should be understood as a regional meal break rather than a fixed dining promise. It helps keep the day comfortable before the St. John Basilica visit.
Questions
What should I expect at the Selcuk lunch stop?
<p>Expect a practical regional meal break near Ephesus. Exact venues and menus can vary, but the local food culture often includes Aegean vegetables, olive oil, herbs, salads and grilled or home-style dishes.</p>Why is lunch placed before St. John Basilica?
<p>The lunch stop gives travellers time to rest after Ephesus Ancient City and continue comfortably toward Ayasuluk Hill and St. John Basilica.</p>St. John BasilicaVisit the basilica remains on Ayasuluk Hill.
Guided visit to St. John Basilica.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica stands on Ayasuluk Hill and adds the route's strongest early Christian landmark after Ephesus. Traditionally associated with Saint John, the basilica remains help explain why Selcuk stayed important in Christian memory after the classical city period.
Notice the basilica plan, surviving columns, stone details, baptistery area and the hilltop relationship with Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. The stop brings the day from ancient urban life into pilgrimage heritage and Byzantine-era history.
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 are traditionally linked with Saint John and stand above the Ephesus region on Ayasuluk Hill.</p>What should I notice at St. John Basilica?
<p>Notice the basilica layout, surviving columns, stonework, baptistery area and the hilltop view. These details help connect the site with later Christian heritage.</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) Drop-off Different tour end?Arrive back at Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) where the package ends.
Final airport drop-off at Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP).
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.
- Airport guests should keep enough connection time before and after the package.
- 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 Airport is handled as a two-day connected-flight package because same-day routing 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 Airport by flight include?
This group package starts from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP), uses a flight connection to reach Izmir, continues to the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area, and follows the guided Ephesus-region route on the second day. The sightseeing route covers House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica before returning to Gazipasa Alanya Airport.
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Is this Alanya Airport to Ephesus package operated by flight?
Yes. This is a 2-day Ephesus group package from Alanya Airport by flight. The first day is built around the airport-to-Izmir flight connection and transfer to the hotel area, while the second day is used for the main Ephesus-region visit.
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Is this tour private or group?
This version is the group tour. You share the flight-based package structure and the guided Ephesus-region sightseeing day with other guests on the same product.
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How long does this Alanya Airport to Ephesus package take?
This is a 1-night, 2-day package. Exact flight timing, meeting details and return flow are confirmed around the selected operation plan, so the package should not be read as a fixed clock-time schedule.
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Which places are visited on this Ephesus package from Alanya Airport?
The main 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 the domestic flights included in the group package?
Yes. In the group package structure, the planned domestic flight connection between Gazipasa Alanya Airport and Izmir Airport is handled as part of the package route.
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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 full local sightseeing day.
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Are meals included on this group flight package?
The group package includes the planned meal handling connected to the route and sightseeing day. Drinks, personal extras and special meal requests should be checked during booking.
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Can I book this Ephesus flight package online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this Alanya Airport to Ephesus group 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 Airport 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 Airport 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 Airport 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 package begins from Gazipasa Alanya Airport
The meeting flow is airport-based, so arrival timing, baggage plans and flight connection details should be clear before confirmation.
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Good to know: The first day is mainly a travel connection
The first day moves you from Gazipasa Alanya Airport to Izmir and then toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area. The main sightseeing route takes place on the second day.
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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 areas. 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 more detail about Roman homes, mosaics and frescoes.
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