Highlights
- Full-day Biblical Ephesus group tour from Marmaris with return.
- Begin from Marmaris and continue toward the Ephesus region with a breakfast break on route.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers and Ephesus Ancient City.
- Pause for lunch in Selcuk before continuing to St. John Basilica.
- Return toward Marmaris after the Selcuk departure point and the evening break on route.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The route brings Marmaris travelers to the core biblical Ephesus landmarks in one organized day.
- The group format works well when you want a shared sacred-history route from the coast.
- You connect the Virgin Mary tradition, Seven Sleepers story, ancient Ephesus and St. John Basilica.
- The Marmaris return structure keeps the experience practical without changing your travel base.
Overview
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Armutalan Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-up
Pickup from Armutalan before joining the Marmaris departure flow.
Guests meet at the confirmed Armutalan hotel or meeting point. This central Marmaris pickup zone joins the same road-based Ephesus route used by the Marmaris departure before continuing toward Selcuk and the Ephesus region.
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Breakfast Break on Route
Pause for a practical breakfast break during the morning drive.
B
A short comfort stop is planned on the road before continuing toward Selcuk and Ephesus.
MealsBreakfast meal IncludedBreakfast Break on Route is a practical morning pause during the long road journey from Marmaris toward the Ephesus region. Depending on the stop, breakfast may include simple Turkish road options such as tea, coffee, bakery items, cheese, olives, eggs or other quick regional choices.
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Road Journey to the Ephesus Region
Continue across western Turkey toward Selcuk.
This route note keeps the long road section visible while the journey continues from Marmaris toward Selcuk and the Ephesus region.
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House of Virgin Mary
Visit the hillside shrine above Ephesus.
Begin the guided Biblical Ephesus route at the House of Virgin Mary before continuing toward the ancient city area.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary begins the sightseeing section after the long road journey from Marmaris. Set on Mount Koressos above Ephesus, the sanctuary gives the route a quiet spiritual beginning before the day continues into early Christian memory and archaeology.
The chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and hillside setting are the main details to notice. Because the site is compact, guide context and atmosphere are especially important for understanding its place in the sacred landscape around Ephesus.
Questions
Why does this Marmaris day tour visit House of Virgin Mary?
House of Virgin Mary gives the sightseeing route a calm spiritual opening after the long road journey reaches the Ephesus region. It introduces the day through pilgrimage tradition and the Mount Koressos setting.What should I notice at House of Virgin Mary?
Notice the chapel, votive wall, shaded grounds and hillside atmosphere. The site is compact, so its meaning comes from tradition, setting and guide context.
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Cave of the Seven Sleepers
See the sacred cave area linked with early Christian tradition.
Continue to the Seven Sleepers site for a focused stop before entering the main Ephesus archaeological route.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds a story-led Christian heritage stop close to Ephesus Ancient City. The tradition connected with the sleepers brings themes of faith, refuge and awakening into the route before the main archaeological visit.
The stop is modest in scale and best understood through its story rather than monumental remains. Guide explanation helps connect the cave tradition with the religious memory of the wider Ephesus area.
Questions
What does Cave of the Seven Sleepers add to this route?
Cave of the Seven Sleepers adds an early Christian story near Ephesus. It connects the route with themes of faith, refuge and religious memory before the ancient city visit.Is Cave of the Seven Sleepers a large archaeological stop?
No. It is mainly a story-led heritage stop rather than a large archaeological complex. The guide explanation helps guests understand the tradition attached to the place.
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Ephesus Ancient City
Walk the marble streets and monuments of ancient Ephesus.
Explore the main archaeological route of Ephesus with its preserved public spaces, temples and Roman-era streets.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central archaeological experience of this full-day Marmaris road route. Its marble streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade, baths, fountains and civic spaces reveal the planning and daily life of a major Roman city in Asia Minor.
Because the route covers a long return distance, the Ephesus visit is the main historical focus of the day. Follow the streets, public buildings and sacred spaces as a connected city plan so the site reads as a living historical landscape.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main sightseeing point?
Ephesus is the main sightseeing point because it is the strongest archaeological landscape on the route. Its streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade and public spaces show the scale of ancient city life.How should I follow Ephesus on this Marmaris day route?
Follow Ephesus as a connected city route rather than separate monuments. This makes the streets, public buildings and sacred spaces easier to understand as one historical landscape.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Take a lunch break in the Selcuk area.
L
Pause for lunch near Selcuk after the Ephesus visit and before the St. John Basilica stop.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk provides a regional pause between Ephesus Ancient City and the final Ayasuluk Hill stop. Food culture around Selcuk often reflects Aegean ingredients such as olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, salads, grilled choices and simple seasonal flavors.
The restaurant and menu can vary by operation and season. The stop is meant to support the flow of the sightseeing day rather than promise a fixed dining program.
Questions
What should I expect at the Selcuk lunch stop?
Expect a practical regional meal break near the Ephesus sites. The venue and menu can vary, but local food culture often reflects Aegean ingredients and simple seasonal cooking.Why is lunch placed before St. John Basilica?
Lunch gives the route a comfortable pause after Ephesus Ancient City and before the final Ayasuluk Hill visit. It helps balance the sightseeing day before the return section toward Marmaris. -
St. John Basilica
Visit the basilica area above Selcuk.
Complete the guided visit at St. John Basilica, one of the most important early Christian landmarks of the region.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 IncludedSt. John Basilica completes the heritage sequence on Ayasuluk Hill above Selcuk. Traditionally connected with Saint John, the basilica carries the day from ancient Ephesus into later Christian memory and Byzantine-era sacred architecture.
Look for the basilica plan, baptistery area, surviving columns, stonework and views toward Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. It gives the route a reflective final stop before the return road section toward Marmaris.
Questions
Why is St. John Basilica included after Ephesus?
St. John Basilica connects the region with Saint John tradition and later Christian heritage. Visiting it after Ephesus shows how Selcuk remained important beyond the ancient city period.What are the key details at St. John Basilica?
The basilica plan, baptistery area, surviving columns, stonework and views across Selcuk are the key details. They explain both the sacred memory and the archaeological setting.
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Selcuk Departure Point
Regroup in Selcuk for the return road journey.
Depart from the Selcuk area after the guided visits and begin the return drive toward Marmaris.
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Dinner Break on Return Route
Pause for an evening meal break before reaching Marmaris.
D
The return drive includes time for an evening meal break before completing the drop-off route.
MealsDinner meal IncludedDinner Break on Return Route is a practical evening pause during the long road journey back toward Marmaris. The exact stop and menu may vary, but common road-meal choices can include grilled foods, soups, salads, vegetable dishes, rice, bread and simple regional plates suited to a travel day.
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Armutalan Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off
Return drop-off in Armutalan after the road journey from Selcuk.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
After House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City, lunch near Selcuk and St. John Basilica, the route returns to Armutalan for final drop-off.
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.
- 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.
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 be ready for an early start and a long travel day with meaningful walking on archaeological surfaces.
- 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.
- Main route: House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
- This is a long road-based day from Marmaris and may require manual timing confirmation in busy season or for distant pickup areas.
- Terrace Houses are optional and are not counted as a separate route stop.
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 group day tour from Marmaris include?
This group day tour starts from Marmaris or the confirmed pickup area, travels by road toward Selcuk, visits House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica, includes a lunch stop near Selcuk, and returns to Marmaris the same day. -
How long is the Marmaris Ephesus day tour?
This is a long full-day tour with an approximate 14-hour duration. final start and return times are not stated here because pickup order, road conditions, comfort stops and seasonal traffic must be confirmed before travel. -
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts from Marmaris or the selected Marmaris-region pickup area and ends back at the same confirmed area after the return road journey. -
Which Biblical Ephesus places are visited?
The guided route visits House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica, creating a focused faith-history route rather than a simple highlights-only Ephesus visit. -
Is this a group tour or a private tour?
This is the group version of the Marmaris Ephesus day tour. It follows a shared structure, while the matching private version is arranged separately for travelers who want private guide attention and more flexible pacing. -
Which Marmaris-region pickup areas are available?
Pickup variants are available from Icmeler, Turunc, Armutalan, Marmaris Siteler, Beldibi, Uzunyali, Hisaronu, Orhaniye, Selimiye and Bozburun. Availability, timing and any price difference should be confirmed before booking. -
Are distant pickup areas suitable for this tour?
Yes, but distant areas such as Turunc, Hisaronu, Orhaniye, Selimiye and Bozburun require earlier pickup planning and realistic expectations for a long road day. -
Is this tour suitable for travelers interested in Christian heritage?
Yes. The route connects House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica in one coherent early Christian and Biblical heritage narrative. -
Can I book this tour online by credit card?
Yes. This tour can be booked online, and online credit card payment is available through the system. -
Is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee included?
Yes. The House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in this group tour. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5. -
Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included?
Yes. The Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in this group tour. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is the St. John Basilica entrance fee included?
Yes. The St. John Basilica entrance fee is included in this group tour. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6. -
Is the Terrace Houses of Ephesus entrance fee included?
No. Terrace Houses of Ephesus is optional, and its entrance fee is not included in the standard group tour unless it is added separately. 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 road day
The Marmaris route is approximately 14 hours, so driver planning, comfort stops and realistic return timing should be confirmed before travel. -
Distant pickup areas need earlier planning
Turunc, Hisaronu, Orhaniye, Selimiye and Bozburun can require earlier pickup timing because of distance and seasonal traffic. -
Prepare for open-air walking
Ephesus Ancient City has limited shade and uneven ancient surfaces, so water, comfortable shoes and sun protection are strongly recommended. -
Respectful behavior matters at sacred sites
House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers and St. John Basilica are sensitive Christian heritage stops, so calm and respectful behavior is expected. -
Route order should be protected
The day is planned around House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City, lunch near Selcuk and St. John Basilica.
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