Highlights
- Assos to Ephesus day tour: Travel from the North Aegean coast to Selcuk on a long but focused Ephesus and St. John road route.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Walk marble streets, gates, public monuments and civic spaces with your guide.
- St. John Basilica: Visit Ayasoluk Hill for an early Christian heritage stop near Ephesus.
- Assos return flow: Connect early pickup, comfort breaks, guided Selcuk sightseeing, lunch stop and final Assos drop-off in one planned day.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You can start from Assos and reach the Ephesus region on a carefully organized full-day road route.
- The group format keeps the long North Aegean transfer, practical breaks, guided visits and return journey coordinated across the day.
- The tour combines the monumental Roman setting of Ephesus Ancient City with the early Christian heritage of St. John Basilica.
- It suits Assos travelers who want the essential Ephesus and Selcuk highlights with a same-day return to the departure area.
Overview
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Assos Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-up
Early pickup from Assos for the road journey.
Guests are picked up from the confirmed Assos hotel or meeting point and start the road journey toward the Ephesus region.
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Breakfast Break on Route
Breakfast stop on the North Aegean road route.
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A breakfast break is planned on the North Aegean road route so the early Assos departure remains comfortable.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedBreakfast Break on Route helps pace this early Assos departure before the sightseeing segment reaches Selcuk and Ephesus. On North Aegean road routes, breakfast stops often reflect practical Turkish travel habits, with tea, coffee, bread, eggs, cheese, olives, tomatoes, pastries or simple hot dishes appearing depending on the day's operation.
This note is not a promise of a fixed venue or exact menu. Its purpose is to frame the stop as a comfortable regional pause before the main historical visits and to give travelers realistic context for the road-based start of the day.
Questions
Why is a breakfast break included on the Assos to Selcuk road route?
The departure starts early from Assos, so the breakfast break helps make the long road segment more comfortable before the historical visits begin.What kind of breakfast may travelers find on the route?
Road-route breakfast stops may include tea, coffee, bread, eggs, cheese, olives, tomatoes, pastries or similar simple Turkish travel foods depending on operation.Is the breakfast venue or menu fixed on this route?
No. The stop is part of the route rhythm, but the exact venue and menu can vary according to the day's operation. -
Assos to Selcuk Road Journey
Continue toward the Ephesus region by road.
The road journey continues from Assos toward Selcuk and the Ephesus region. This pass-through row keeps the long road movement readable without splitting the main transfer.
Road Journey -
Ephesus Ancient City
Guided visit to Ephesus Ancient City.
Walk through the marble streets, public monuments, gates and civic spaces of Ephesus Ancient City with your guide. Terrace Houses are not part of the standard route, but guests who want to visit them may enter optionally by paying the separate entrance fee on site.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the main historical focus of this full-day Assos route once the road journey reaches the Selcuk region. The guided visit follows Curetes Street, marble streets, agora areas, theatre remains, fountains and the Library of Celsus so the site can be understood as a complete Roman city rather than a scattered group of ruins.
Reading Ephesus through its connected urban layout makes the visit much richer. Street lines, civic spaces, monumental facades and public gathering areas reveal how people moved, traded, worshipped and lived in one of the most important ancient cities of western Anatolia. Terrace Houses are not part of the standard route, but guests who want to visit them may enter optionally by paying the separate entrance fee on site.
Questions
Why is Ephesus the main sightseeing stop on this Assos full-day route?
Ephesus is the central archaeological destination of the tour, with Roman streets, civic spaces, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus forming the main guided visit.What should visitors notice inside Ephesus?
Curetes Street, marble streets, agora areas, fountains, facade remains and the theatre help explain how the ancient city worked as an urban center.How is Ephesus best understood during the visit?
It is best read as a connected Roman city where trade, ceremony, public movement and daily life can still be traced through the surviving layout.Are Terrace Houses included in the standard Ephesus route?
No. Terrace Houses are not part of the standard route in this tour, but guests who want to visit them may enter optionally by paying the separate entrance fee on site.Is Ephesus mostly an outdoor walking site?
Yes. Ephesus is an open-air archaeological site with uneven ancient surfaces, so supportive shoes, water and sun protection are useful.
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St. John Basilica
Visit the early Christian heritage site on Ayasoluk Hill.
Continue to St. John Basilica, one of the key early Christian monuments of Selcuk and an important heritage stop connected with the region around Ephesus.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica adds the Christian and Byzantine layer of Selcuk after the Roman setting of Ephesus. Located on Ayasuluk Hill and traditionally associated with St. John the Apostle, the basilica helps explain why the region remained spiritually and historically important long after the classical city period.
The church outline, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area help visitors picture the former sacred complex on the hill. This stop brings a quieter and more reflective historical dimension before lunch and the long road return to Assos.
Questions
Why is St. John Basilica included after Ephesus?
It adds the Christian and Byzantine layer of Selcuk and helps connect the Roman story of Ephesus with later sacred history on Ayasuluk Hill.What can visitors see at St. John Basilica?
The site includes the church outline, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area linked with the former basilica complex.What makes St. John Basilica historically important?
The basilica is traditionally associated with St. John the Apostle and remains one of the key Christian heritage sites of the region.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Lunch break in the Selcuk area.
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A lunch stop in Selcuk gives the group route a practical pause during the local sightseeing day.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the sightseeing day a practical local pause between the main historical visits and the afternoon return route to Assos. Around Selcuk, food culture often reflects the Aegean setting, with olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads, grilled plates, pide or similar regional meals appearing depending on the day's operation.
This text does not promise a fixed restaurant or exact menu. It is there to explain the meal stop as local context near Ephesus and St. John Basilica while keeping expectations aligned with flexible tour-day restaurant planning.
Questions
Why is lunch planned in Selcuk on this route?
Selcuk keeps the meal stop close to Ephesus and St. John Basilica, making the sightseeing day more efficient and comfortable before the return road journey.What type of food is common around Selcuk?
Aegean-style options may include olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads, grilled plates, pide or similar regional meals depending on operation.Is the Selcuk lunch menu fixed?
No. The restaurant and menu can vary, so the destination note gives local food context rather than a fixed menu promise. -
Return Road Journey to Assos
Begin the return road journey.
After lunch and sightseeing, the return road journey to Assos begins. This pass-through row is not counted as a separate transfer segment.
Road Journey -
Dinner Break on Return Route
Dinner break before final arrival in Assos.
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A dinner break is planned on the return route before the final drop-off in Assos.
MealsDinner meal IncludedDinner Break on Return Route helps make the long drive back to Assos more comfortable after the Selcuk sightseeing program is complete. Depending on the route timing and operation, this kind of North Aegean road stop may include soups, grilled dishes, simple home-style meals, breakfast-for-dinner plates or other practical regional options suited to intercity travel.
This note is not a guarantee of a fixed dinner venue or menu. Its role is to explain the return-meal stop as part of the road-route rhythm and to give travelers realistic context before the final arrival back in Assos.
Questions
Why is a dinner break included before returning to Assos?
The return drive is long, so the dinner stop helps pace the road journey more comfortably before final arrival back in Assos.What kind of dinner may be available on the return route?
Depending on the stop, travelers may find soups, grilled dishes, simple local plates, breakfast-for-dinner items or other practical regional road-route meals.Is the return-route dinner stop tied to a fixed restaurant?
No. The dinner break is part of the travel plan, but the exact venue and menu can change with the operation. -
Assos Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off
End of the full-day group route in Assos.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
The tour ends with drop-off at the confirmed Assos hotel or meeting point after the return road journey.
Got a question about this tour?
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What's Included
- 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.
- Airport 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.
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 Ephesus and St. John Basilica group day tour from Assos cover?
This group day tour starts with pickup from the confirmed Assos hotel or meeting point and travels by road toward Selcuk and the Ephesus region. The sightseeing route covers Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica and a Selcuk lunch stop, with breakfast and dinner breaks planned around the long North Aegean road route before returning to Assos.
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Is this Assos to Ephesus tour a shared group tour?
Yes. This is the group version from Assos. Guests follow the coordinated pickup or meeting plan, shared road route, guided Ephesus and St. John sightseeing sequence and return drop-off to the confirmed Assos area.
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How does the road route from Assos to Selcuk work?
The route travels by road from Assos toward Selcuk, with comfort breaks included around the long transfer. The road journey is part of the tour flow and is followed by the guided visits to Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
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Where do guests meet for the Assos group tour?
Guests normally start from the confirmed Assos hotel or meeting point. The exact meeting point and pickup details should be confirmed before operation because local access and pickup timing can depend on the hotel or selected meeting area.
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How long does the Assos day tour to Ephesus usually take?
This is a long full-day road route and is usually planned around 14 hours. Total timing can vary with pickup location, road conditions, comfort breaks, sightseeing pace, lunch timing and the return route to Assos.
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Where does this Assos Ephesus day tour finish?
This group tour returns to Assos. After Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica, lunch in Selcuk and the return road journey, guests are dropped off at the confirmed Assos hotel or meeting point.
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Does this Assos tour include House of Virgin Mary or Temple of Artemis?
No. This Ephesus and St. John route from Assos focuses on Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Isa Bey Mosque, Ephesus Museum and Sirince are not part of this specific tour route.
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Can I book this Assos group day tour online?
Yes. This group day tour can be booked online, and online credit card payment is available through the website. The confirmed reservation should show the selected date, Assos pickup or meeting details, route structure and return drop-off plan.
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Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in this group day tour?
Yes. The required Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in this Assos group day tour. The linked fee information is shown separately so travelers can also understand the attraction cost. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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Is the St. John Basilica entrance fee included in this group day tour?
Yes. St. John Basilica is part of the main sightseeing route, and its required entrance fee is included in the group tour structure for this Assos departure. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included on this day tour?
No. Terrace Houses are not part of the standard route. They remain optional under the Ephesus visit when timing allows, and the separate Terrace Houses entrance fee is not included. 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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This is a long full-day road route
The Assos-Selcuk return journey uses the North Aegean road route and includes comfort breaks, guided sightseeing in Selcuk and final return to Assos.
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Confirm the Assos meeting point
The exact hotel pickup or meeting point in Assos should be confirmed before the tour, especially for hotels or local streets with limited vehicle access.
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Breakfast and dinner breaks are part of the route flow
The route includes planned breakfast and dinner breaks around the long road journey, with the main sightseeing focused on Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
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Prepare for road travel and archaeological walking
Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection and a light layer for the road journey are useful because the day combines long travel time with open-air walking at Ephesus.
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Private Ephesus and St. John Basilica Day Tour from Assos
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