Highlights
- 2-day Ephesus and St. John Basilica group package from Kalkan by transfer vehicle
- Kalkan to the Ephesus region road route: Break the long journey with practical stops and an overnight stay
- Ephesus Ancient City: Explore the marble streets, monuments, and public spaces of ancient Ephesus
- Celsus Library and Great Theatre: See the signature landmarks within the ancient city route
- St. John Basilica: Visit the early Christian site in Selcuk before the return road journey to Kalkan
Why You Will Love This Tour
- This group package gives Kalkan travelers a structured road route to Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica over two days.
- The overnight format makes the long transfer plan clearer while keeping the sightseeing focused on the Ephesus and St. John heritage stops.
- Ephesus Ancient City delivers the main archaeological experience, from marble streets to major public monuments.
- St. John Basilica adds early Christian context in Selcuk before the return journey to Kalkan.
Overview
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The first day is arranged around the road transfer from Kalkan to the Ephesus region hotel area.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Half DayKalkan Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upStart the road-transfer package.
Meet the group at the confirmed Kalkan hotel or meeting point before the road transfer toward the Ephesus region hotel area.
Breakfast Break on Route BA short road breakfast pause.
Pause for breakfast around the Fethiye / Mugla Corridor during the first road-transfer day.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedThe breakfast break on the road from Kalkan is a practical comfort pause during the long transfer toward the Ephesus region. Depending on the route and operation, travelers may find tea, coffee, bakery items, cheese, olives, eggs, or other simple Turkish breakfast choices at a roadside stop.
Questions
What can travelers expect at the breakfast break from Kalkan?
The breakfast break is a practical road stop and may include tea, coffee, bakery items, cheese, olives, eggs, or light Turkish breakfast options depending on the venue.Lunch Break on Route LA practical road lunch pause.
Pause for lunch around the Fethiye / Mugla Corridor before continuing toward the overnight hotel area.
MealsLunch meal IncludedThe lunch break on the outward road journey gives travelers time to rest and eat before continuing toward the Ephesus region. Roadside meals in western Turkey may include soups, grilled dishes, salads, vegetable plates, and quick regional options, while the exact venue and menu can change according to the day.
Questions
What is the lunch break on the outward route for?
It is a practical meal and rest stop during the long road journey toward the Ephesus region. The exact restaurant and menu may vary by operation.Hotel Check-in (Ephesus Region)Overnight in the Ephesus region.
Check in at the overnight hotel in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area before the guided sightseeing day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2 Ephesus Region and Return to Kalkan Visit the Ephesus region and return. B L D Different tour end?
The second day covers the Ephesus and St. John Basilica route before the return road transfer.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Full Day
Cultural Detail on Celsus Library
Architectural Features of Celsus Library
Celsus Library from a Visitor Angle
Imperial Detail on Celsus Library
Ancient Ruins Beside Celsus Library
Curetes Street Stone View
Heracles Gate Stone Passage
Temple of Hadrian Stone Reliefs
St. John Basilica Stone Ruins
St. John Basilica Heritage SettingHotel Check-out / DepartureStart the guided sightseeing day.
Check out from the Ephesus region hotel area and begin the guided route.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the marble streets, monuments, and public spaces of ancient Ephesus.
Visit the main archaeological route of Ephesus with time to see its best-known public monuments and preserved streets.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the main archaeological focus of this Kalkan transfer package after the road journey brings travelers into the Selcuk and Ephesus region. The site opens into a wide ancient cityscape of marble streets, public buildings, baths, fountains, inscriptions, and civic spaces.
The route usually highlights the Library of Celsus, Curetes Street, the Great Theatre, and the surrounding urban remains. These landmarks help visitors understand how Ephesus functioned as a center of trade, culture, ceremony, engineering, and daily life in the Roman-era Aegean world.
Questions
What are the main sights inside Ephesus Ancient City?
The visit usually includes the Library of Celsus, Curetes Street, the Great Theatre, marble streets, baths, fountains, inscriptions, and ancient public spaces.Why is Ephesus important on this Kalkan package?
Ephesus is the main ancient city visit and shows Roman-era urban life through its streets, monuments, civic spaces, and archaeological remains.Is Ephesus easy to walk through?
Ephesus has uneven ancient stones, marble paving, open archaeological ground, and limited shade in places, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.
St. John BasilicaVisit the basilica area connected with St. John and early Christian heritage in Selcuk.
Continue to St. John Basilica for a focused visit above Selcuk, adding an important historical layer to the Ephesus day.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica rises on Ayasuluk Hill near Selcuk and adds early Christian heritage to the Ephesus route. The remaining walls, arches, columns, courtyards, and open spaces show the outline of a major religious complex traditionally connected with St. John.
After the larger ancient city visit, this stop gives the route a quieter and more reflective tone. It connects the classical story of Ephesus with the later sacred geography of Selcuk and shows how the region remained important across different historical periods.
Questions
What is St. John Basilica known for?
St. John Basilica is an important early Christian site on Ayasuluk Hill near Selcuk and is traditionally associated with St. John.What can visitors see at St. John Basilica today?
Visitors can see remaining arches, columns, walls, courtyards, and open ruins that show the layout and former scale of the basilica complex.
Lunch Stop / Selcuk LTake a lunch break in the Selcuk area before the return journey.
The group pauses for lunch in Selcuk after the guided visits and before starting the return road transfer.
MealsLunch meal IncludedThe lunch stop in Selcuk is a local break during the main sightseeing day, usually placed around the Ephesus and St. John visits before the return journey to Kalkan. Local food often reflects Aegean tastes, including olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, salads, soups, grilled choices, and simple regional flavors.
Questions
What kind of food can be expected during lunch in Selcuk?
Lunch around Selcuk often reflects Aegean food culture, including olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads, grilled options, and regional flavors. Exact menus may vary.Return Road Journey to KalkanTravel back toward Kalkan after the Selcuk lunch stop.
Begin the long road return toward Kalkan after the guided route.
Dinner Break on Return Route DPause for an evening meal break before completing the return to Kalkan.
Because the return reaches Kalkan later in the day, the itinerary allows time for an evening meal break.
MealsDinner meal IncludedThe dinner break on the return route gives travelers a final meal and rest pause before completing the road journey to Kalkan. Depending on the stop, guests may find soups, grilled dishes, salads, hot drinks, snacks, and simple regional roadside food.
Questions
What is the dinner break on the return route for?
The dinner break gives travelers a final rest and meal pause before completing the journey to Kalkan. Venue and food options may vary by operation.Kalkan Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return to the departure area in Kalkan.
Return to the confirmed Kalkan hotel or meeting point after the Ephesus region package.
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 (Ephesus Region)).
- Day 1: Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Dinner meal.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- St. John Basilica.
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- 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.
- Respectful clothing is recommended for visits to mosques and churches.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- Bring warm clothing for cooler weather or early morning departures.
- 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.
- Keep a small overnight bag ready because the package includes one night in the Ephesus region.
- 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.
- The main route includes Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
- Terrace Houses are optional and separate from the standard route stops.
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 the Kalkan small-group Ephesus package cover?
This small-group package starts from Kalkan and travels by road to the Ephesus region for an overnight stay. The route includes Kalkan pick-up, breakfast and lunch breaks on the first travel day, hotel check-in, Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica, lunch in Selcuk, return road travel, dinner break, and drop-off back in Kalkan.
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How long is this Ephesus and St. John Basilica package from Kalkan?
The scheduled duration is 1 Night/2 Days. Day one is mainly the Kalkan to Ephesus region road transfer and hotel check-in, while day two covers Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica, lunch in Selcuk, and the return road journey to Kalkan.
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Where does the group package start and finish?
The package starts with pick-up from the confirmed Kalkan hotel or meeting point and finishes with drop-off back in the Kalkan departure area. Exact meeting details are confirmed with your booking information.
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Is this Kalkan to Ephesus package based on road transfer?
Yes. The package is built around a road-transfer route between Kalkan and the Ephesus region. The first day is primarily travel and hotel check-in, and the second day combines sightseeing with the return journey.
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Does the group package include Ephesus Ancient City?
Yes. Ephesus Ancient City is the main archaeological stop of the package. On the small-group version, the Ephesus Ancient City admission is included in the tour structure, and the current entrance fee is matched to this FAQ row for live fee display. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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Is Terrace Houses included in this group package?
Terrace Houses is an optional section inside the Ephesus site area. It is not included in the standard group package price, so travelers who choose to visit it should expect a separate entrance cost. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
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Does this group package visit St. John Basilica?
Yes. St. John Basilica is included after Ephesus. On the small-group package, the St. John Basilica admission is included in the tour structure, and the current entrance fee is matched to this FAQ row for live fee display. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
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Is there a hotel stay in the Ephesus region?
Yes. The route includes hotel check-in in the Ephesus region on the first day. The main sightseeing day starts after hotel check-out on the second day.
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Are there meal breaks during the Kalkan package?
Yes. The route shows breakfast and lunch breaks on the first travel day, a lunch stop in Selcuk during sightseeing, and a dinner break on the return route. These breaks help organize the long road journey.
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Who is this small-group package best for?
It is best for travelers staying in Kalkan who want a planned group route to Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica with one overnight stay in the Ephesus region.
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What should I prepare for this Kalkan package?
Bring comfortable clothing, a small overnight bag, walking shoes, sun protection, and any personal essentials you may need. The route includes long road sections and outdoor archaeological visits.
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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This is a 1 Night/2 Days road-transfer package.
The first day is mainly the transfer from Kalkan to the Ephesus region, while the second day combines sightseeing in Selcuk with the return journey to Kalkan.
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The main sightseeing focus is Ephesus and St. John Basilica.
The route is focused on Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica rather than a long list of extra stops, which keeps the second day clear and manageable.
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The group version includes the main listed entrance fees.
Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica admissions are included in the small-group structure, while Terrace Houses remains optional and separate.
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Comfortable shoes are important for the Selcuk visits.
Ephesus has marble streets, open archaeological areas, and uneven surfaces. St. John Basilica also involves outdoor walking around Ayasoluk Hill.
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