Highlights
- No-shopping small-group Ephesus and Terrace Houses ferry day trip from Lesbos to Izmir.
- Start from Lesbos and cross from Mytilene Ferry Port to Ayvalik before the Turkey-side route.
- Travel inland toward Selcuk for the guided Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses visit.
- Pause for lunch near Selcuk and add the Temple of Artemis as the final archaeological stop.
- Finish in Izmir after a focused cross-Aegean day trip route.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The no-shopping structure keeps the Lesbos to Ephesus day trip centered on archaeology and travel flow.
- Small-group pacing helps the ferry crossing, Ayvalik arrival and Selcuk sightseeing feel organized.
- The route gives you Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses and the Temple of Artemis in one focused day.
- Finishing in Izmir works well if your onward Turkey plans continue after the Ephesus visit.
Overview
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Lesbos Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-up
Start from the selected Lesbos meeting area.
Morning island pick-up is arranged from the selected Lesbos meeting area before transfer to Mytilene Ferry Port.
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Mytilene Ferry Port Check-in
Board the scheduled ferry to Ayvalik.
Complete ferry formalities at Mytilene Ferry Port and board the scheduled crossing to Ayvalik.
TicketsFerry ticket (Mytilene Ferry Port to Ayvalik Ferry Port) Included -
Ayvalik Ferry Port Arrival
Arrive on the Turkey side.
Arrive at Ayvalik Ferry Port after the Aegean crossing and continue by road toward Selcuk.
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Road Journey to Selcuk
Continue inland from Ayvalik.
Travel by road from Ayvalik toward Selcuk and the Ephesus route.
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Selcuk Arrival for Ephesus Route
Arrive near Selcuk before the local route.
Arrive in the Selcuk area and continue into the Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Artemis route.
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Ephesus Ancient City
Guided walk through the main Ephesus route.
Visit the main archaeological route of Ephesus with time to see its best-known public monuments and preserved streets.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedEphesus Ancient City is the main archaeological destination on this Lesbos to Izmir ferry day route. After the Aegean crossing to Ayvalik and the inland road connection toward Selcuk, the visit focuses on marble streets, civic spaces, monumental facades, public buildings and sacred areas from one of western Anatolia's most important ancient cities.
Ephesus gives the long travel flow its central historical purpose before the route finishes in Izmir. The ancient city is best understood as a connected urban landscape where trade, worship, administration and daily life shaped the Roman-period experience together.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main visit on this Lesbos to Izmir route?
Ephesus is the main visit because it provides the strongest archaeological content after the Aegean crossing and inland connection. The route starts from Lesbos and finishes in Izmir after the Ephesus-region sightseeing section.What should visitors notice inside Ephesus?
Visitors should notice marble streets, civic spaces, public buildings, monumental facades, sacred areas and how trade, worship, administration and daily life connect across the ancient city.Is Ephesus experienced as one monument or a wider city?
Ephesus is experienced as a wider ancient city. The visit moves through connected streets, buildings and public spaces rather than one isolated monument.How does the Lesbos to Izmir structure shape the visit?
The structure makes Ephesus the main heritage section between the Lesbos departure flow and the final Izmir drop-off.
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Terrace Houses
Premium archaeological section with Roman homes, mosaics and frescoes.
Explore the Terrace Houses section connected with the Ephesus visit.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 IncludedTerrace Houses add the residential layer inside Ephesus. Their protected rooms, mosaics, wall paintings and household layouts show how affluent residents lived close to the city's public streets and monuments.
This stop brings a more intimate scale to the route after the main ancient city walk. It helps visitors understand private comfort, decoration, household organization and social status within Roman-period Ephesus.
Questions
Why are Terrace Houses important in Ephesus?
Terrace Houses are important because they show elite residential life through protected rooms, mosaics, wall paintings and household layouts.What makes Terrace Houses different from the main Ephesus streets?
The main streets show public urban life, while Terrace Houses show private domestic spaces. Together they give a fuller view of Ephesus.What can guests learn from Terrace Houses?
Guests can learn how affluent residents used decoration, room planning and interior space to express comfort, taste and status.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Lunch stop in the Selcuk area before the final stop.
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A planned lunch stop near Selcuk gives the shared route a practical break before the final ancient-site stop.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the sightseeing day a practical pause between Terrace Houses and Temple of Artemis. Selcuk belongs to the Aegean food landscape, where olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, herbs, soups, salads, yogurt and grilled foods are familiar local references.
This note gives regional food-culture context only. The exact venue, dishes and service style depend on the confirmed arrangement for the tour day.
Questions
Why is lunch usually placed in the Selcuk area?
Selcuk is close to Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Temple of Artemis, so it works naturally as the lunch stop during the local sightseeing section.What food culture is connected with Selcuk?
Selcuk reflects Aegean food culture, including olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, soups, salads, yogurt and grilled foods.Does this lunch text confirm a fixed menu?
No. It gives local food-culture context only. Exact dishes, venue and service style depend on the confirmed daily arrangement. -
Lunch & Sponsored Shopping/Workshop Stop
Includes a sponsored shopping/workshop stop.
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Sponsored
A planned lunch stop near Selcuk gives the shared route a practical break before the final ancient-site stop.
MealsLunch meal Included -
Temple of Artemis
Short stop at the Temple of Artemis area.
Complete the sightseeing route with the Temple of Artemis area before continuing to Izmir.
Temple of Artemis is the final ancient-site stop before the route continues to Izmir. The visible remains are limited today, but the sanctuary was famous in antiquity and is remembered through the Seven Wonders tradition.
After Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses, this stop adds sacred context to the day. Its value comes from worship, regional identity and ancient reputation as much as from what can still be seen on site.
Questions
Why is Temple of Artemis included after Ephesus?
Temple of Artemis is included because it adds sacred context to the Ephesus region and connects the route with the Seven Wonders tradition.What should visitors expect at Temple of Artemis today?
Visitors should expect limited visible remains and a concise context stop rather than a complete standing temple.How does Temple of Artemis complete the route before Izmir?
It completes the heritage sequence by connecting Ephesus city life and Terrace Houses with worship, regional identity and sacred memory before the final movement to Izmir.
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Izmir Drop-off
End in Izmir after the Ephesus route.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
Continue to Izmir for the final drop-off after the Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Artemis route.
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Lunch meal.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus.
- Ferry ticket (Mytilene Ferry Port to Ayvalik Ferry Port).
- 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.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- Visa fees if required.
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.
- Please bring your passport or ID card.
- For international ferry routes, please bring your passport and any required travel documents.
- 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.
- Ferry schedules may change due to sea conditions, weather, or port authority regulations.
- Lesbos pickup timing depends on the selected hotel area and the operating Mytilene ferry schedule; distant island pickup areas may require an earlier meeting time.
- This Turkey drop-off version ends in Izmir after the Selcuk route and does not return to Lesbos the same day; the morning crossing must be checked for the selected date.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; it may feel more demanding than the main Ephesus route.
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 is the route of this small-group Ephesus ferry day trip from Lesbos to Izmir?
This small-group ferry day trip starts from Lesbos, connects through Mytilene Ferry Port and arrives at Ayvalik Ferry Port before the road connection toward Selcuk. The sightseeing route covers Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, lunch near Selcuk and the Temple of Artemis before final drop-off in Izmir. -
Is this Lesbos to Izmir Ephesus day trip no-shopping?
Yes. This tour is marked as no-shopping, so the route is built around the supported ferry connection, road movement toward Selcuk, Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, Selcuk lunch stop, Temple of Artemis and Izmir final drop-off. -
Does this ferry day trip return to Lesbos?
No. The physical route starts from Lesbos and finishes in Izmir. It should be booked by travelers who want to begin on Lesbos, visit Ephesus on the Turkey side and continue onward from Izmir. -
Which Lesbos pickup areas are supported for this small-group day trip?
Active pickup variants are available from Molyvos / Mithymna, Petra, Anaxos, Skala Kallonis, Skala Eressos, Plomari, Agios Isidoros, Vatera and Sigri. These variants adjust the Lesbos-side pickup text while keeping the final drop-off in Izmir. -
Is the ferry connection part of the itinerary?
Yes. Mytilene Ferry Port check-in and Ayvalik Ferry Port arrival are route points in the itinerary. Guests should review selected booking details for ferry timing, passenger document requirements and any cost notes before confirming. -
How long is this Lesbos to Ephesus day trip?
This is a full-day ferry day trip. Exact departure and arrival clock times are not stated here because ferry schedules, selected pickup options and local operating conditions can vary. -
What does the Ephesus sightseeing section include?
The Turkey-side sightseeing section includes arrival toward Selcuk, Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, lunch near Selcuk and the Temple of Artemis. This keeps the day focused on the main archaeological route before the Izmir finish. -
Is Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in this small-group day trip?
Yes. Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is linked as included for this small-group day trip. The matched entrance-fee reference is attached to this answer so current fee information can be displayed clearly. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this small-group day trip?
Yes. Terrace Houses entrance fee is linked as included for this small-group day trip. This route point adds Roman residential rooms, mosaics and frescoes inside the Ephesus archaeological area. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
Does the small-group route include the Temple of Artemis?
Yes. The Temple of Artemis is included as a heritage stop near Selcuk after Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and lunch. It adds ancient Seven Wonders context to the route. -
Is lunch included during the small-group route?
The route includes a lunch stop in the Selcuk area. For the small-group structure, planned meal handling is generally part of the organized service, but guests should still review selected booking details before payment. -
How much walking is involved on the Ephesus route?
The tour has a moderate physical rating. Ephesus Ancient City includes marble streets and open-air archaeological ground, while Terrace Houses includes steps and protected interior walkways. -
Can I book this Lesbos to Ephesus day trip online?
Yes. Online booking and credit-card payment are available through the site. Before confirming, review the Lesbos pickup area, ferry connection, no-shopping label, entrance-fee links, lunch note, road-connection details and Izmir final drop-off.
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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One-way Lesbos to Izmir route
This day trip begins on Lesbos and finishes in Izmir after the Ephesus, Terrace Houses, Selcuk lunch and Temple of Artemis route. -
No-shopping sightseeing focus
The tour is marked as no-shopping and keeps the travel plan centered on ferry logistics, road connection and archaeological sightseeing. -
Pickup areas stay Lesbos-side
Molyvos / Mithymna, Petra, Anaxos, Skala Kallonis, Skala Eressos, Plomari, Agios Isidoros, Vatera and Sigri are pickup variants only; the route end remains Izmir. -
Entrance-fee references are linked
Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses fee references are linked for this small-group day trip so current fee information can be shown with the FAQ answers. -
Prepare for ferry and archaeological walking
Bring required travel documents for the ferry connection and wear comfortable shoes for marble streets, steps and open-air archaeological areas.
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