Highlights
- Ephesus shore excursion from Marmaris Cruise Port: Leave directly from Marmaris Cruise Port and spend the day on a structured Ephesus-region route built around the core historical visits before returning to port.
- House of the Virgin Mary: Begin the sightseeing route at the hillside sanctuary that adds a spiritual dimension before the main archaeological stage.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Walk through one of Turkiye's most celebrated classical sites, where the monumental streets, ruins and public buildings define the heart of the day.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum: Complete the Selcuk stage with the museum visit that gives stronger historical context to the places explored across the route.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- This Marmaris Cruise Port shore excursion gives cruise travelers a direct port-based route to the strongest Ephesus-region highlights in one organized day.
- The combination of Virgin Mary, Ephesus and the museum creates a balanced sightseeing flow, so the experience moves from sacred setting to major ruins to deeper historical context.
- Starting and ending at Marmaris Cruise Port keeps the structure easy to follow while the touring time stays centered on the key visits that matter most.
- It is a strong option for travelers looking for a small-group Ephesus shore excursion from Marmaris Cruise Port with a clear route, recognizable highlights and a practical cruise-day format.
Overview
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Marmaris Cruise Port Pick-up
Start from Marmaris Cruise Port.
Meet the group at Marmaris Cruise Port before the long shore-excursion road transfer toward the Ephesus region.
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Breakfast Break on Route
A short road breakfast pause.
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Pause for breakfast around the Mugla / Yatagan corridor during the early road journey toward Selcuk.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedBreakfast Break on Route gives the Marmaris Cruise Port shore route a practical pause during the longer morning drive toward the Ephesus region. It helps make the transfer more comfortable before the main cultural visits begin.
The exact venue and menu may vary by operation. In western Turkey, a simple breakfast stop may include bread, cheese, olives, tomatoes, eggs, tea or baked items depending on the place.
Questions
Why is there a breakfast break from Marmaris Cruise Port?
<p>The breakfast break helps make the longer morning road journey more comfortable before the Ephesus visits begin. The exact venue and menu may vary.</p> -
House of Virgin Mary
Visit the peaceful pilgrimage site above Ephesus.
Begin the guided route at the House of Virgin Mary on Bulbul Mountain before continuing to Ephesus Ancient City.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary is the first main visit after traveling from Marmaris Cruise Port toward Selcuk. Set above Ephesus, the sanctuary gives the day a calm spiritual opening before the ancient city.
The chapel, devotional wall and wooded hillside setting are the details to notice. The site is compact, but its tradition and atmosphere make it a meaningful part of the Ephesus landscape.
Questions
Why is the House of Virgin Mary included on this shore route?
<p>The House of Virgin Mary is an important spiritual stop near Ephesus. Its chapel, hillside setting and devotional tradition give the day a calm opening.</p>What should I notice at the House of Virgin Mary?
<p>Notice the chapel, devotional wall, shaded grounds and quiet atmosphere. The site is compact but meaningful because of its tradition and setting.</p>
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Ephesus Ancient City
Explore the main archaeological highlight of the route.
Walk through Ephesus Ancient City with the guide and connect the marble streets, public buildings and ancient city story.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central archaeological destination of this shore route. Its marble streets, theatre, library facade, civic remains and sacred spaces show the scale of a major ancient city.
Look at Ephesus as a connected urban landscape, not only as separate monuments. Street alignment, inscriptions, paving, water channels and building remains help explain how daily life and public movement worked here.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main destination?
<p>Ephesus is the main archaeological stop of the route. Its streets, theatre, library facade and public spaces show the structure of an ancient city.</p>What details help explain Ephesus?
<p>Paving, inscriptions, water channels, street alignment and building foundations help explain how the city functioned, along with the famous monuments.</p>
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Pause for lunch in the Selcuk area.
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A planned lunch stop near Selcuk gives the route a practical break between Ephesus Ancient City and the museum visit.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk provides a local pause after the ancient city visit. Selcuk sits beside Ephesus, so the stop keeps the route close to the main sightseeing area while giving travelers time to rest.
Aegean meals in this area often include olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, salads and grilled options, though the exact venue and menu may change. Treat it as a practical regional meal break rather than a fixed restaurant promise.
Questions
Why is lunch planned in Selcuk?
<p>Selcuk is close to Ephesus and works naturally as a regional pause after the ancient city. It helps travelers rest before the museum visit.</p> -
Ephesus Archaeological Museum
See key finds from the Ephesus region.
Visit Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return journey to Marmaris Cruise Port.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 IncludedEphesus Archaeological Museum completes the cultural sightseeing sequence with original finds from Ephesus and nearby Selcuk. After the open-air ancient city, the museum brings smaller objects, inscriptions and sculpture into close view.
Artemis-related pieces, everyday artifacts and regional displays are especially useful to observe. They connect the monuments outside with belief, local identity and daily life around Ephesus.
Questions
Why visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum?
<p>The museum shows original finds from Ephesus and Selcuk after the open-air ancient city. It adds close detail through objects, sculpture and inscriptions.</p>Which museum items are useful to notice?
<p>Artemis-related pieces, inscriptions, sculpture and everyday artifacts are especially useful. They connect the ruins with belief, daily life and local identity.</p>
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Dinner Break on Return Route
A return-road dinner pause.
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Pause for dinner around the Mugla / Yatagan corridor on the late return road toward Marmaris Cruise Port.
MealsDinner meal IncludedDinner Break on Return Route gives the long return drive to Marmaris Cruise Port a practical evening pause after the museum visit. It helps finish the day more comfortably before the final port return.
The exact stop and menu can vary by operation. Depending on daily arrangements, simple regional dishes, soups, salads, grilled foods or light options may be available.
Questions
Why is there a dinner break on the return route?
<p>The dinner break gives the long return journey to Marmaris Cruise Port a practical evening pause. The exact stop and menu can change according to the operation.</p> -
Marmaris Cruise Port Drop-off
Return to Marmaris Cruise Port.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
Return to Marmaris Cruise Port after the Ephesus museum shore excursion.
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Breakfast meal.
- Lunch meal.
- Dinner meal.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- This is a long-day route between the Marmaris or Icmeler region and Ephesus; comfortable clothing and a small day bag are recommended.
- Ship arrival and departure times should allow a long Ephesus shore-excursion route.
- 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.
- Entrance fees may be paid by credit card or Turkish Lira.
- The main route includes House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City and Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- Terrace Houses are optional and not counted as a separate route stop.
- The regional vehicle route may be adjusted according to traffic, comfort stops and local site timing.
- Full route timing depends on ship schedule and local site conditions.
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 small-group shore excursion from Marmaris Cruise Port include?
This small-group shore excursion starts at Marmaris Cruise Port, follows the regional road route toward Selcuk, and covers House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, planned meal breaks on the road and in Selcuk, and return to Marmaris Cruise Port on the same day.
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Is this a shore excursion from Marmaris Cruise Port?
Yes. This product is built as a Marmaris Cruise Port shore excursion and starts directly from the cruise-port departure area.
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Does this shore excursion return to Marmaris Cruise Port?
Yes. The route is planned as a same-day shore excursion with return to Marmaris Cruise Port after the Ephesus-region program is completed.
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Is this tour private or small-group?
This version is the small-group shore excursion from Marmaris Cruise Port. You follow the organized Ephesus route with a guide and other travelers once the sightseeing program begins.
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How long does this Marmaris Cruise Port Ephesus shore excursion usually take?
This is a long full-day shore excursion and the total duration is usually about 15 hours, depending on port procedures, road conditions, group pace, meal stops and site conditions.
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Is this route suitable for cruise travelers with enough port time?
Yes. This route is intended for cruise travelers who have enough port time for a full Ephesus-region road day and want a clear return to Marmaris Cruise Port afterward.
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Is the transfer included in this group shore excursion?
Yes. In the group shore-excursion structure, the cruise-port departure and return transfer route is included as part of the organized program.
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Are meals included on this group shore excursion?
Yes. In the group shore-excursion structure, planned meal breaks connected with the route are included according to the day setup. Drinks and personal extras should still be checked during booking if you need exact inclusion detail.
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Can I book this Marmaris Cruise Port shore excursion online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this small-group shore excursion 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 Marmaris Cruise Port group shore excursion, 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 Marmaris Cruise Port group shore excursion, 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 Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this Marmaris Cruise Port group shore excursion, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee is included in the group tour structure. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10.
General FAQs
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Is Ephesus a good shore excursion from Kusadasi port?
Yes. Ephesus is one of the most popular and efficient day trips from Kusadasi.
- The drive is usually short compared to many other ports.
- We plan the route around your ship timing and keep a safe return buffer.
- Early starts help avoid heat and heavy crowds in peak season.
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How do cruise shore excursions work (meeting point and return time)?
Shore excursions are built around your ships docking schedule.
- We confirm a clear meeting point close to the port exit.
- We recommend a comfortable buffer before all-aboard time.
- If your ship uses tender boats, allow extra time and tell us your tender details.
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Where is Ephesus located and what is it close to?
Ephesus is an ancient city near Selcuk on Turkeys Aegean coast.
- The closest main cruise port town is Kusadasi.
- Izmir is the nearest major city and transport hub.
- Many day tours combine Ephesus with nearby stops based on your available time.
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Can I visit Ephesus from Izmir port in one day?
Yes, but it is a longer drive than from Kusadasi.
- Timing must be planned carefully to avoid rushing.
- If your port stay is short, we may recommend an Izmir-focused program instead.
- Share your ship schedule and we will suggest the most realistic plan.
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What are the must-see highlights inside Ephesus?
Ephesus is a large open-air archaeological site with world-famous monuments.
- Library of Celsus and Curetes Street.
- Great Theatre and main marble streets.
- Key public areas such as agoras, baths, and temples depending on route and time.
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Should I add the Terrace Houses in Ephesus?
The Terrace Houses offer a closer look at Roman-era homes, mosaics, and frescoes.
- This visit usually requires extra time and is often a separate ticket.
- If you love details, art, and interiors, it is a great upgrade.
- For cruise days with limited time, we can advise if it fits comfortably.
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How much walking is there at Ephesus?
Ephesus involves a lot of walking on stone surfaces and open paths.
- Paths can be uneven and can feel slippery when wet.
- There are gentle slopes and limited shade in some areas.
- If you have mobility concerns, tell us and we can suggest the best route or alternatives.
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What should I wear for an Ephesus tour?
Comfort and sun protection make a big difference.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen in warm months.
- Carry water, especially in summer and on cruise days.
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When is the best time to visit Ephesus?
Ephesus can be visited year-round, but the experience changes by season.
- Spring and autumn are comfortable for long outdoor visits.
- Summer is hotter and busier, so early starts are recommended.
- Winter has fewer crowds but cooler weather and occasional rain.
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Is Ephesus crowded and how do we avoid peak crowds?
Ephesus is very popular, especially in summer and on cruise days.
- Starting early is the best way to reduce crowds and heat.
- We can adjust stop order based on ship traffic and site flow.
- Weekends and holidays can be busier.
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Do I need to buy Ephesus tickets in advance?
In peak season, planning helps avoid delays, but rules can change.
- Some areas may have separate tickets.
- Starting early is often more important than pre-buying.
- On guided tours, we plan entry timing to keep the day smooth.
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Should I add the House of Virgin Mary to my tour?
It is a meaningful stop for many visitors and can be added based on timing.
- It is a short drive from Ephesus.
- It can be busier at certain times, so we plan the order carefully.
- If your cruise time is limited, we will suggest a realistic priority list.
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Is Sirince village worth visiting from Ephesus?
Sirince is a small hillside village near Selcuk and is often added for variety.
- It is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, small cafes, and local products.
- It works well if you want something beyond ruins.
- We add it only when it fits safely with your return schedule.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pamukkale in one day?
It is usually too long for a comfortable day, especially for cruise schedules.
- Pamukkale is a longer drive and needs more time on site.
- For a better experience, consider an overnight plan.
- If you share your exact timing, we can advise what is realistic.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pergamon on the same day?
It is usually not recommended for a single day from Kusadasi.
- Pergamon is closer to Izmir than to Kusadasi.
- Doing both can feel rushed and increases return-time risk.
- If you have extra days, plan them on separate days for a better experience.
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What if my ship docks late or departs earlier than planned?
Ship schedules can change, and we plan with buffer time.
- If you receive an updated schedule, message us immediately.
- We can shorten or adjust the route while keeping key highlights.
- Our priority is always a safe, on-time return to port.
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Private tour or group tour: what is better for Ephesus?
For cruise travelers, private tours are often the most comfortable option.
- Private tours allow flexible pace, timing, and photo stops.
- Group tours can be good value, but timing is less flexible.
- We can recommend the best option based on your ship schedule and preferences.
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Is Ephesus suitable for seniors or limited mobility?
It depends on comfort level, as the site is large and mostly outdoors.
- There are uneven stones and some slopes.
- We can select a route that reduces walking where possible.
- Please tell us about mobility needs in advance so we can plan correctly.
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Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and may change.
- Please check the latest official entry rules for your nationality before travel.
- Many visitors use an e-Visa when eligible for short tourist stays.
- If you share your passport country, we can guide you to the correct official source to verify.
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What currency is used in Turkey?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- ATMs are common in Kusadasi, Selcuk, and Izmir.
- Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases and tips.
- Keep small bills for convenience.
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Are credit cards accepted in Kusadasi and around Ephesus?
Cards are accepted in many restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Small vendors and some taxis may prefer cash.
- For markets and quick purchases, cash is helpful.
- Keep a backup payment option, especially on busy port days.
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Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?
Many travelers prefer bottled water.
- Bottled water is easy to find and inexpensive.
- If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid ice in unknown places.
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Is tipping common in Turkey?
Tipping is common and appreciated for good service.
- Restaurants: rounding up or leaving a small amount is typical.
- Guides and drivers: optional and based on service quality.
- Carry small notes for convenience.
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What plug type and voltage are used in Turkey?
Turkey typically uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V, 50Hz).
- Bring an adapter if your plug type is different.
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How can I get a SIM or eSIM in Turkey?
SIM and eSIM options are available from major operators.
- Official stores usually require passport registration.
- If you only need data, compare short-term packages.
- Download offline maps if you plan to explore independently.
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Do Ephesus and museums have closure days or seasonal hours?
Opening hours can change by season and some venues may have weekly closure days.
- Public holidays can also affect schedules.
- Some venues have different winter and summer hours.
- We plan visits based on current opening information.
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Can I take photos inside Ephesus and museums?
Photography rules vary by venue.
- Outdoor ruins usually allow photos.
- Some museums restrict flash or photography in certain areas.
- Always follow posted rules and staff instructions.
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What is ship time vs local time and why does it matter?
Some cruise ships keep ship time different from local Turkey time.
- Always confirm whether your port schedule is in ship time or local time.
- Tell us what your cruise line uses so we plan pickups correctly.
- This helps avoid confusion on meeting points and return timing.
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Is Turkey safe for cruise travelers and day tour guests?
Tourist areas like Kusadasi and major sites are used to international visitors.
- Use normal precautions in crowded places near the port and markets.
- Stick to licensed transport and agreed meeting points.
- Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying unnecessary cash.
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What can I do in Kusadasi if I skip Ephesus?
If you prefer a lighter day, there are good alternatives.
- Explore Kusadasi town and waterfront.
- Consider local food stops and shopping areas.
- We can suggest a shorter cultural route depending on your time in port.
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Should I carry my passport during port days?
We recommend keeping your passport safely on the ship or at your accommodation and carrying a copy if needed.
- A phone photo plus a printed copy is usually enough for day trips.
- For buying a SIM, you may need the original passport at the store.
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What is the emergency number in Turkey?
Dial 112 for emergencies (medical, police, fire, and urgent situations).
- If you are on a guided day, inform your guide so we can help quickly.
Good to Know
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Good to know: this is a long full-day cruise excursion
The route covers a broad mainland Ephesus line and returns to Marmaris Cruise Port on the same day, so it works best for guests with enough port time and realistic expectations about a long road day.
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Good to know: comfortable shoes are strongly recommended
Ephesus includes marble streets, open sections and uneven ancient surfaces. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are useful for the sightseeing portion of the route.
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Good to know: keep your cruise timing and documents easy to access
Because this route starts and ends at Marmaris Cruise Port, it helps to keep your cruise details and personal documents easy to reach throughout the day.
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Good to know: Marmaris itself is the port base, not the sightseeing focus
The sightseeing focus is House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum. Marmaris Cruise Port serves as the departure and return point.
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