Highlights
- Bodrum Airport to Ephesus route: Start at BJV and travel by road toward the Selcuk heritage area.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Walk marble streets, public monuments, gates and civic spaces with a licensed guide.
- St. John Basilica: Visit Ayasoluk Hill and add early Christian heritage to the ancient city experience.
- Airport return road plan: Keep the long day organized with transfer sections, practical breaks, Selcuk sightseeing and final BJV drop-off.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You can connect a Bodrum Airport start with the essential Ephesus and St. John Basilica route in one organized day.
- The group format gives the long road journey a clear shared rhythm from airport meeting point to Selcuk-area sightseeing and return.
- The route brings together the monumental Roman setting of Ephesus and the hilltop early Christian story of St. John Basilica.
- It works well for travelers who want a BJV-based Ephesus day tour without arranging separate long-distance transfers.
Overview
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Bodrum Airport Pick-up
Meet at Bodrum Airport and start the road journey.
Guests meet the vehicle at Bodrum Airport and begin the road journey toward the Ephesus and Selcuk region.
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Breakfast Break on Route
Short breakfast stop during the road journey.
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A breakfast break is planned on the Bodrum Airport to Selcuk route so the road transfer remains comfortable.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedBreakfast Break on Route gives the Bodrum Airport route a practical pause before the main sightseeing section. A road breakfast in this part of the Aegean may include tea, bakery items, cheese, olives, eggs or other simple choices depending on the stop and operation.
The venue and menu can vary, so this should not be read as a fixed breakfast program. Its role is to make the long transfer toward the Ephesus region more comfortable.
Questions
Why is there a breakfast break after Bodrum Airport pick-up?
The road journey to the Ephesus region is long, so the breakfast break gives travelers a practical pause before the sightseeing section begins.Is the breakfast stop a fixed menu?
No. The venue and menu can vary by operation, so the stop should be treated as a flexible road break rather than a guaranteed breakfast program. -
Bodrum Airport to Selcuk Road Journey
Continue toward the Ephesus and Selcuk region.
The road journey continues from Bodrum Airport toward Selcuk and Ephesus. This pass-through route keeps the long road movement readable without splitting the main transfer.
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Ephesus Ancient City
Explore the main archaeological highlight of the route.
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 archaeological destination after the road journey from Bodrum Airport to the Selcuk area. The ancient city brings together marble streets, agora spaces, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus, creating a strong view of Roman urban life in western Anatolia.
The site is best understood through its connected city plan. Curetes Street, public squares, fountains, monumental facades and the theatre show how people moved, gathered, traded and represented status in ancient Ephesus.
Questions
Why is Ephesus the main destination from Bodrum Airport?
Ephesus is the main archaeological reason for the route, with Roman streets, public spaces, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus forming the core visit.What should visitors notice inside Ephesus?
Curetes Street, agora areas, marble streets, fountains and the theatre show how movement, trade and public life were organized in the ancient city.Is Ephesus mostly explored on foot?
Yes. Ephesus is an outdoor archaeological site with ancient paving and uneven surfaces, so comfortable walking shoes are important.How does Ephesus connect with St. John Basilica?
Ephesus gives the Roman city layer of the route, while St. John Basilica adds the later Christian and Byzantine heritage of the same region.
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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 the region after Ephesus Ancient City. Set on Ayasuluk Hill in Selcuk, the basilica is traditionally linked with St. John the Apostle and became an important sacred landmark near ancient Ephesus.
The church outline, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area still show the scale of the former complex. This stop helps connect the Roman city below with the later religious history of Selcuk.
Questions
What is the significance of St. John Basilica?
The basilica is traditionally associated with St. John the Apostle and became an important Christian landmark on Ayasuluk Hill near Ephesus.What remains can be seen at St. John Basilica?
Visitors can see the church outline, columns, arches, baptistery area and traditional tomb area within the hilltop complex.Why visit St. John Basilica after Ephesus?
It adds the Christian and Byzantine layer of the region after the Roman city experience of Ephesus Ancient City.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Lunch break in the Selcuk area.
L
A lunch stop in Selcuk gives the group a practical pause between the sightseeing route and the return road journey.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk keeps the meal break close to the route's main historical focus. Selcuk and the wider Aegean region often feature olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads and grilled choices, depending on the operation.
The exact restaurant and menu can change, so the stop should be understood as practical regional guidance rather than a fixed dining promise. It gives the route a useful pause before the return road section.
Questions
Why is lunch placed in Selcuk?
Selcuk is close to Ephesus and St. John Basilica, so lunch stays near the main sightseeing area before the return road section.What type of food is common around Selcuk?
Aegean-style meals often include olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, soups, salads and grilled options, though exact choices can vary.Is the lunch restaurant fixed?
No. The restaurant and menu may vary by operation, so the destination text gives local context rather than a fixed venue promise. -
Return Road Journey to Bodrum Airport
Begin the return road transfer.
After lunch and sightseeing, the group starts the return road journey to Bodrum Airport. This pass-through route is not counted as a separate transfer segment.
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Dinner Break on Return Route
Dinner break before final arrival at Bodrum Airport.
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A dinner break is planned on the return route before final drop-off at Bodrum Airport.
MealsDinner meal IncludedDinner Break on the Return Route helps pace the long drive back toward Bodrum Airport after the historical visits. Depending on the operation and stop, travelers may find simple road-meal options such as soups, grilled dishes, salads or local Aegean-style plates.
This dinner break is not tied to a guaranteed restaurant or set menu. It is included as a practical rest point before the final airport drop-off.
Questions
Why is there a dinner break on the way back to Bodrum Airport?
The return journey is long, so the dinner break gives travelers a practical rest point before final arrival at the airport.Is dinner tied to a guaranteed menu?
No. The exact stop and menu can vary, so the destination note should be read as practical route guidance rather than a fixed dining statement. -
Bodrum Airport Drop-off
End the tour at Bodrum Airport.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
The tour ends with drop-off at Bodrum Airport after the return road journey.
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
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 tour from Bodrum Airport cover?
This Bodrum Airport group day tour starts at BJV, continues by transfer vehicle to the Selcuk and Ephesus area, visits Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica with a licensed guide, includes a Selcuk lunch stop and returns to Bodrum Airport.
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Is this Bodrum Airport Ephesus tour shared or private?
This version is a shared group tour. You follow the planned airport meeting, group transfer vehicle route, guide service and sightseeing order from Bodrum Airport to Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica and back to Bodrum Airport.
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How long does the Bodrum Airport group tour usually take?
The airport-start road program usually takes about 9-10 hours, depending on airport meeting timing, road conditions, comfort stops, the Ephesus Ancient City walk, St. John Basilica and lunch timing.
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Does this tour include flights from or to Bodrum Airport?
No. This is an airport-start road route, not a flight-based tour. Flight arrival time, meeting instructions and final airport drop-off timing should be confirmed during booking, but flight tickets are separate from this tour content.
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Are breakfast and dinner included on this airport route?
Breakfast and dinner stops are planned as comfort pauses during the longer road journey. Treat them as travel breaks unless your booking option specifically confirms meal inclusion. The planned Selcuk lunch stop is part of the group tour structure.
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Does this route include the House of Virgin Mary or Temple of Artemis?
No. This Ephesus and St. John route is focused on Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. It does not include House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Isa Bey Mosque, Ephesus Museum or Sirince unless another product specifically lists them.
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Who is this Bodrum Airport group tour best for?
It is best for travelers arriving through Bodrum Airport who have enough same-day time and want a focused Ephesus and St. John Basilica route without adding extra sightseeing stops.
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Can I book the Bodrum Airport Ephesus group tour online?
Yes. You can book this Ephesus and St. John Basilica group tour from Bodrum Airport online, and credit-card payment is available through the booking system.
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What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this Bodrum Airport group tour, the required 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 Bodrum Airport group tour, the required 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?
No. Terrace Houses is not part of the standard Ephesus and St. John route and is treated only as an optional paid section inside Ephesus Ancient City when timing and guest preference allow. 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 an airport-start road route
The tour starts and ends at Bodrum Airport, but it is operated by road between BJV and the Selcuk/Ephesus region. It is not a flight-based Ephesus route.
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Good to know: Confirm flight arrival and meeting details
Airport meeting instructions, arrival timing, possible delay handling and final airport drop-off timing should be confirmed before operation.
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Good to know: Expect open-air walking
Ephesus Ancient City has marble streets, uneven ancient surfaces and limited shade. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are useful during the guided visit.
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Good to know: Meal stops pace the road day
Breakfast and dinner breaks help structure the longer transfer day, while the sightseeing focus remains Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
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