Highlights
- No-shopping 2-day Lesbos return ferry package with Mytilene and Ayvalik used as crossing gateways.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Follow the main archaeological route through marble streets and monumental remains.
- Terrace Houses: Add Roman residential detail with mosaics, frescoes and preserved interior spaces.
- Selcuk lunch stop: Pause near the Ephesus region before the museum visit completes the route.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum: Connect the ancient city with artifacts and regional context before the return movement.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The overnight structure makes the Lesbos return route more realistic than compressing everything into one day.
- Small-group pacing keeps the crossing, Ephesus route and return flow organized around the main archaeology stops.
- The no-shopping format keeps attention on Ephesus, the Terrace Houses and museum interpretation.
- Returning to Lesbos after the route suits travelers who want Ephesus while keeping their island base.
Overview
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Day 1
Lesbos to Turkey Arrival Day
Cross from Lesbos to the Ephesus coast.
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Start in Lesbos, cross to Ayvalik by ferry, continue by road to the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area, and settle in before the Ephesus route.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Half DayPetra Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upPetra pick-up for the Mytilene to Ayvalik ferry route.
Your route begins with pick-up from your hotel or meeting point in Petra before continuing to Mytilene Ferry Port for the ferry check-in. After arriving at Ayvalik Ferry Port, the package continues by road toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk overnight area.
Mytilene Ferry Port Check-inBoard the scheduled ferry to Ayvalik.
Complete port formalities at Mytilene Ferry Port and board the scheduled ferry to Ayvalik.
TicketsFerry ticket (Mytilene Ferry Port to Ayvalik Ferry Port) IncludedAyvalik Ferry Port ArrivalArrive in Ayvalik and meet the Turkey-side vehicle.
Arrive at Ayvalik Ferry Port, meet the Turkey-side vehicle and continue toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in for the overnight stay.
Check in to the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area before the Ephesus sightseeing day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
Ephesus Route with Lesbos Return
Visit the Ephesus route, then return by ferry.
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Different tour end?
The second day covers Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, Lunch Stop / Selcuk, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum and the return ferry to Lesbos.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Full Day
Celsus Library Angled Stone View 
Celsus Library Cultural Stone Detail 
Celsus Library Restored Marble Front 
Celsus Library Cultural Marble Landmark 
Celsus Library Detailed Facade Scene 
Heracles Gate Stone Pillars in Ephesus 
Nike Relief in Ephesus Ancient City 
Temple of Hadrian Historic Relief 
Terrace Houses Protected Stone Path 
Terrace Houses Cultural Room Detail Hotel Check-out for the Ephesus RouteLeave the hotel for the sightseeing day.
Check out after breakfast and depart for the guided Ephesus route.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the marble streets and public spaces of Ephesus.
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 gives the sightseeing day its main historical setting. Marble streets, civic remains, temples, bath areas, theater sections and the library facade show the scale of Roman Ephesus.
The site helps guests read the city as a living urban center rather than a set of separate ruins. Worship, trade, administration and social life can be understood together during the walk.
Questions
What does Ephesus Ancient City show?
<p>It shows marble streets, civic remains, temples, bath areas, theater sections and the library facade of Roman Ephesus.</p>How should guests read Ephesus?
<p>Guests can read it as a living urban center where worship, trade, administration and social life met.</p>
Terrace HousesContinue into the decorated Roman residential section.
Visit the Terrace Houses to see Roman residential detail, mosaics, frescoes and domestic rooms.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 IncludedTerrace Houses bring guests into the residential side of Ephesus. Mosaic floors, wall paintings, room layouts and protected interiors show how elite families shaped private space.
This stop adds a more personal layer to the ancient city. It reveals domestic taste, status, household design and the delicate work of preserving decorated rooms.
Questions
What do the Terrace Houses reveal?
<p>They reveal residential Ephesus through mosaic floors, wall paintings, room layouts and protected interiors.</p>Why are the Terrace Houses personal?
<p>They focus on domestic taste, status, household design and decorated rooms.</p>
Lunch Stop / Selcuk LPause for lunch in the Selcuk area.
A planned lunch stop near Selcuk gives the shared route a practical break before the museum visit.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk is a local pause near the Ephesus area. The food culture commonly includes olive oil dishes, fresh vegetables, soups, salads and grilled options from the Aegean table.
The exact place and menu can change with daily planning, so the stop remains flexible. It gives guests time to rest before the museum part of the route.
Questions
What kind of food culture appears in Selcuk?
<p>Selcuk commonly reflects Aegean food culture with olive oil dishes, vegetables, soups, salads and grilled options.</p>Lunch & Sponsored Shopping/Workshop Stop L SponsoredPause for lunch in the Selcuk area.
A planned lunch stop near Selcuk gives the shared route a practical break before the museum visit.
MealsLunch meal IncludedEphesus Archaeological MuseumVisit the museum collection that completes the Ephesus archaeology route.
Continue to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum before returning toward Ayvalik Ferry Port for the ferry back to Lesbos.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 IncludedEphesus Archaeological Museum completes the ancient city story through objects. Statues, inscriptions, coins, ritual pieces, household items and small finds add detail to what guests see outdoors.
The collection links buildings with human habits, belief, craft and art. It gives the route a clear final explanation through material evidence.
Questions
What does the museum add?
<p>It adds statues, inscriptions, coins, ritual pieces, household items and small finds connected to Ephesus.</p>Why does the museum complete the route?
<p>It links buildings with human habits, belief, craft and art through material evidence.</p>
Ayvalik Ferry Port Check-inBoard the scheduled ferry back to Lesbos.
Transfer to Ayvalik Ferry Port and board the scheduled ferry back to Mytilene Ferry Port.
TicketsFerry ticket (Ayvalik Ferry Port to Mytilene Ferry Port) IncludedMytilene Ferry Port ArrivalArrive back at Mytilene Ferry Port.
Arrive back at Mytilene Ferry Port after the Aegean ferry crossing.
Petra Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return drop-off in Petra after the Lesbos arrival.
After Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses, lunch near Selcuk and Ephesus Archaeological Museum, the route returns through Ayvalik Ferry Port and Mytilene Ferry Port before drop-off at your selected hotel or meeting point in Petra.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Included
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- Day 1: Ferry ticket (Mytilene Ferry Port to Ayvalik Ferry Port).
- Day 2: Ferry ticket (Ayvalik Ferry Port to Mytilene 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, island transfer distance and the operating Mytilene ferry schedule.
- The two-day return format separates the island crossing from the main sightseeing flow before the Lesbos return.
- 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 does this 2-day Ephesus ferry package from Lesbos cover?
This small-group return package starts from the selected Lesbos area, continues with Mytilene Ferry Port check-in, crosses to Ayvalik, uses the Kusadasi or Selcuk area for the overnight stop, and follows the Ephesus archaeology route on the second day before returning to Lesbos. The sightseeing focus is Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, a Selcuk lunch stop, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. -
How is the 2-day Lesbos return route organized?
Day 1 covers Lesbos pickup, Mytilene ferry check-in, Ayvalik arrival, Turkey-side transfer, and the overnight area near Ephesus. Day 2 covers the Ephesus route, Ayvalik Ferry Port check-in, Mytilene Ferry Port arrival, and drop-off at the selected Lesbos area. -
Is this Lesbos Ephesus package no-shopping?
Yes. The tour is marked as no-shopping, so the package is planned around ferry logistics, overnight positioning, and the Ephesus archaeology route rather than shopping stops. -
Which Lesbos pickup areas are available?
Active pickup variants are listed for Molyvos / Mithymna, Petra, Anaxos, Skala Kallonis, Skala Eressos, Plomari, Agios Isidoros, Vatera, and Sigri. Pickup selection may affect routing, pickup timing, availability, and final price details. -
Where does this Lesbos ferry package finish?
This return package ends at the selected Lesbos area after arrival back at Mytilene Ferry Port. It is different from one-way versions that finish in Izmir or another Turkey-side location. -
How are ferry and travel-document details confirmed?
Ferry schedule, Mytilene and Ayvalik port instructions, passport requirements, and Greece-Turkey crossing details are checked for the selected date. Guests should carry valid documents and follow the confirmed pickup and port instructions. -
Is Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included?
For this small-group package, Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in the group tour setup. This linked fee covers the main archaeological site on the Ephesus route. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is Terrace Houses of Ephesus entrance fee included?
For this small-group package, Terrace Houses of Ephesus entrance fee is included. Terrace Houses add the decorated Roman residential section inside the Ephesus visit. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
Is Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee included?
For this small-group package, Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee is included. The museum completes the route with finds and context connected to ancient Ephesus. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10. -
How should overnight and meal details be checked?
The route uses an overnight stop around Kusadasi or Selcuk and includes a Selcuk-area lunch stop during the Ephesus day. Exact hotel, meal, and dietary details should be checked in the selected option and final confirmation. -
Does this package include sightseeing in Lesbos, Mytilene or Ayvalik?
No guided sightseeing in Lesbos, Mytilene, or Ayvalik is described for this product. Lesbos areas, Mytilene Ferry Port, and Ayvalik Ferry Port are used for pickup, ferry, and gateway logistics, while the guided sightseeing focus is the Ephesus route. -
Who is this 2-day Lesbos return package best for?
It is best for travelers staying on Lesbos who want a no-shopping Ephesus archaeology package with an overnight near Ephesus and return movement back to the selected Lesbos area. -
Can this 2-day Ephesus package from Lesbos be booked online?
Yes. The package can be booked online with credit card payment. Ferry details, document notes, pickup area, overnight-area information, and Lesbos return instructions are checked after the selected date and option are reviewed.
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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Lesbos return ferry package
This package starts from the selected Lesbos area, crosses through Mytilene and Ayvalik ports, visits the Ephesus route, and returns to Lesbos. -
No-shopping Ephesus focus
The tour is marked no-shopping, keeping the main sightseeing emphasis on Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, Selcuk lunch area, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. -
Lesbos pickup areas
Molyvos / Mithymna, Petra, Anaxos, Skala Kallonis, Skala Eressos, Plomari, Agios Isidoros, Vatera, and Sigri are active pickup variants. -
Group entrance fees are included
The linked group setup includes Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses of Ephesus, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fees. -
Confirm ferry documents
Ferry operation, Mytilene and Ayvalik port instructions, passport readiness, pickup area, and cross-border details must be checked through the final confirmation.
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