Highlights
- Flight-supported Ephesus day trip: Connect Ankara with the Ephesus region in one organized full-day route.
- Small-group heritage route: Follow the classic Ephesus and Selcuk stops with a guided shared tour format.
- House of Virgin Mary: Begin with a quiet pilgrimage setting on the green slopes above Ephesus.
- Ephesus Ancient City: See the marble streets, civic spaces and ruins that make Ephesus a major ancient city.
- Temple of Artemis: Add the Seven Wonders story with a short stop at this legendary sanctuary site.
- Isa Bey Mosque: Finish the route with Seljuk-era architecture beside the layered heritage of Selcuk.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You can reach the essential Ephesus route from Ankara without turning the trip into a multi-day plan.
- The shared tour style keeps the day practical while still giving you guided context at the major stops.
- The route balances sacred atmosphere, archaeological scale and Seljuk culture in a single heritage day.
- It is a strong option for travelers who want a complete Ephesus introduction from Ankara with clear organization.
Overview
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Kizilay Pick-up
Pick-up from Kizilay and transfer to Ankara Airport for the Izmir flight.
The route starts with pick-up from your hotel or meeting point in Kizilay. From this Ankara pickup area, the transfer continues to Ankara Airport before the flight to Izmir and the Ephesus region.
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Ankara Airport
Domestic flight departure from Ankara to Izmir.
Arrive at Ankara Airport, complete the flight procedures and board the domestic flight to Izmir.
TicketsFlight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) Included -
Izmir Airport Arrival
Arrival at Izmir Airport and transfer to the Ephesus region.
Meet the local operation team at Izmir Airport and continue by shared transfer toward the Ephesus and Selcuk region.
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House of Virgin Mary
A peaceful pilgrimage stop on the slopes above Ephesus.
Visit the House of Virgin Mary, a quiet pilgrimage site on Bulbul Mountain that gives the route a reflective opening before the ancient city visit.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary begins the heritage part of this route with a quiet and reflective atmosphere. Set in the hills above Ephesus, the site is connected in Christian tradition with Mary's final years and is visited by many guests as a place of pilgrimage rather than as a large archaeological monument.
The stop is meaningful because of its setting, memory and devotional character. The small chapel and surrounding landscape help connect the Ephesus region with early Christian tradition, while the story should be understood as a respected religious association rather than a simple archaeological certainty.
Questions
Why is House of Virgin Mary included on this route?
It adds the Christian pilgrimage layer of the Ephesus region. The site is associated with Mary's final years and gives the day a quieter spiritual stop before or around the ancient city visit.Is House of Virgin Mary an archaeological certainty?
No. It should be described as a respected Christian tradition and pilgrimage site, not as a point proven by simple archaeology.What should visitors expect at House of Virgin Mary?
Visitors should expect a small, calm and respectful site. The atmosphere is reflective, and quiet behavior is more appropriate than treating it like a large museum stop.
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Ephesus Ancient City
The main archaeological highlight of the Ephesus region.
Walk through Ephesus Ancient City with your guide and see the marble streets, monuments and public spaces of one of Anatolias best-known ancient cities.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the major archaeological center of the day. Its streets, public buildings, theatre, agora areas and the Library of Celsus show how a powerful ancient city organized movement, trade, religion and civic life.
As you walk through Ephesus, try to read the city as a living plan. Marble routes, inscriptions, gates, fountain remains and monumental facades reveal both public power and everyday habits, while the changing landscape explains how a former harbor city now stands inland.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main stop of the tour?
Ephesus is the most complete ancient urban experience on this route. Its streets, theatre, Library of Celsus, agora areas and monuments show the structure of a major Roman city.What parts of Ephesus help explain daily life?
The marble streets, fountains, inscriptions, gates, agora spaces and seating areas help visitors understand movement, social life, trade and public identity in the city.Why is the old harbor important to Ephesus?
The harbor helped Ephesus become wealthy and influential. Over time, silting and landscape change moved the coastline, which is why the ancient harbor city is inland today.Are the restored sections of Ephesus original?
Restored sections are part of archaeological presentation and conservation. They help visitors understand scale, but the site should be read as a mix of original remains, excavation and restoration.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
A practical meal break in the Selcuk area.
L
Take a lunch break in the Selcuk area before continuing to the final heritage stops around town.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the route a natural pause in a region shaped by Aegean food culture. Around Selcuk, meals often include olive oil dishes, vegetables, soups, salads, yogurt, grilled foods, herbs and fresh seasonal flavors.
The exact menu depends on the venue and daily arrangement, so it is best to expect regional Turkish food rather than one fixed dish. The stop also gives time to rest between the larger cultural visits and absorb the story of the day.
Questions
What food culture is common around Selcuk?
Selcuk reflects Aegean and Turkish food habits, including olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, grilled foods, soups, salads and yogurt-based flavors.Is lunch always the same on this tour?
No. The exact meal depends on the venue and day. It is safer to expect a regional Turkish meal rather than a guaranteed individual dish.Why does the lunch stop matter beyond eating?
It gives guests a natural rest point and a chance to experience local hospitality. It also helps balance the pace between the major cultural visits. -
Temple of Artemis
A short stop at one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
See the Temple of Artemis area and hear why this once-famous sanctuary became one of the symbols of ancient Ephesus.
Temple of Artemis is one of the shortest stops on the route, yet its historical meaning is large. The sanctuary was once counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and helped make Ephesus famous across the ancient Mediterranean.
Only limited remains are visible today, so the visit depends partly on imagination and context. The contrast between the modest ruins and the temple's former fame helps explain how time, reuse and landscape change can transform even a world-renowned sacred place.
Questions
Why is Temple of Artemis famous?
It was one of the great sanctuaries of antiquity and was counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its fame was tied to scale, worship and the prestige of Ephesus.Why are there so few remains at Temple of Artemis?
Centuries of damage, reuse of stones, natural change and shifting settlement patterns reduced the sanctuary to limited visible remains.How should I understand this short stop?
The value is in connecting the modest remains with the former scale of the sanctuary. It is a historical context stop as much as a visual monument stop.
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Isa Bey Mosque
A Seljuk-era cultural stop near Ephesus.
Visit Isa Bey Mosque in Selcuk and see one of the regions important examples of early Turkish-Islamic architecture.
Isa Bey Mosque brings a later Seljuk and Islamic layer into the Ephesus landscape. After the ancient city, the Christian pilgrimage memory and the Artemis sanctuary, this stop shows how the region continued to matter through different periods of Anatolian history.
Look at the stonework, courtyard character and the mosque's position near Ayasuluk Hill and Selcuk. It is both a historic monument and a religious space, so the visit should be calm and respectful.
Questions
What does Isa Bey Mosque add to the route?
It adds the Seljuk and Islamic period to a route otherwise focused on ancient and Christian heritage. This helps show the long continuity of the Selcuk and Ephesus landscape.What should visitors notice at Isa Bey Mosque?
Visitors should notice the stonework, courtyard feeling, proportions and location near Ayasuluk Hill. These elements help place the mosque in its historical setting.How should guests behave at Isa Bey Mosque?
Guests should treat it as a religious monument. Quiet movement, respectful behavior and following local guidance are appropriate.
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Izmir Airport
Return flight departure from Izmir to Ankara.
After the route is complete, arrive at Izmir Airport and prepare for the domestic return flight to Ankara.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)) Included -
Ankara Airport Arrival
Arrival at Ankara Airport and transfer to the final drop-off point.
After landing in Ankara, continue with the final local transfer to the hotel or meeting point.
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Kizilay Drop-off
Return transfer and final drop-off in Kizilay after the Ankara flight connection.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
After the Ephesus route and return flight to Ankara, the shared transfer continues back to Kizilay for final drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Lunch meal.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Flight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)).
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Airport transfers.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Parking fees.
- 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.
- Respectful clothing is recommended for visits to mosques and churches.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- Please bring your passport or ID card.
- 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.
- Entrance fees may be paid by credit card or Turkish Lira.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- Restrooms are available at the entrance and exit of archaeological sites.
- 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.
- Domestic flight timing and seat availability must be reconfirmed for the selected travel date.
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 day trip from Ankara include?
This small-group Ephesus day trip from Ankara covers the flight-supported route between Ankara and Izmir, guided visits to House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, Temple of Artemis and Isa Bey Mosque, plus the Selcuk lunch stop and return to Ankara.
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Is this Ankara to Ephesus tour operated by flight?
Yes. This is a flight-supported Ephesus day trip from Ankara. The route uses domestic flights between Ankara and Izmir, with local transfers arranged around the guided Ephesus and Selcuk visit.
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Is this tour private or small-group?
This version is a small-group Ephesus tour from Ankara. You follow the main Ephesus heritage route with a guide and other travelers on the shared group schedule.
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Which Ankara pickup areas are available for this Ephesus tour?
Pickup variants are available for Kizilay, Cankaya and Ulus. Pickup-area selection can cause small final price changes when distance or route setup requires it.
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How long does this Ephesus day trip from Ankara usually take?
This is a full-day tour and the overall route usually takes about 15 hours including flights, transfers and sightseeing. Final meeting and return details are confirmed around the selected booking and flight schedule.
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Are domestic flight tickets included in this small-group tour?
Yes. In the group tour structure, the Ankara-Izmir-Ankara domestic flight tickets and the connected transfers are included as part of the organized day trip.
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Is lunch included on this group Ephesus tour?
Yes. The group tour structure includes the planned lunch stop near Selcuk as part of the organized route. Drinks or personal extras should be checked during booking if you need exact details.
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Can I book this Ephesus tour online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this Ephesus day trip 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 small-group Ankara to Ephesus tour, 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 small-group Ankara to Ephesus tour, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in the group tour structure. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this tour?
No. Terrace Houses is optional on this route and is not included in the standard group tour structure. Add it only if you want extra time for the Roman residential section inside Ephesus. 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: Carry your passport or valid ID
This route uses domestic flights between Ankara and Izmir, so carry the travel document required for airport check-in.
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Good to know: Expect a full day with walking
Ephesus has marble streets, open areas and uneven ancient surfaces. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection make the visit easier.
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Good to know: Pickup details are confirmed after booking
Your exact Ankara pickup or meeting details are confirmed after booking. Meeting and return details depend on the selected schedule and flight operation.
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Good to know: Terrace Houses is optional
Terrace Houses is a separate optional paid section inside Ephesus. Decide based on your interest in mosaics, frescoes and Roman domestic life.
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