Highlights
- Private Kas to Ephesus 2-day route: Travel by private transfer vehicle with overnight-paced planning toward Selcuk.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Explore marble streets, civic spaces and landmark ruins at a private guided pace.
- Basilica of St. John: Continue to the hilltop early Christian monument that completes the Ephesus and St. John heritage focus.
- Personal return package: Keep the long road journey, practical breaks, guided visits and Kas drop-off arranged around your own party.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You get the Ephesus and Basilica of St. John route from Kas with private pacing across a more manageable 2-day structure.
- The private format gives more control over the long transfer sections while keeping the sightseeing day focused on Selcuk and Ephesus.
- Your guide can connect the ancient city setting with the early Christian story of Ayasoluk Hill in one clear regional narrative.
- It works well for Kas travelers who want a personal Ephesus and St. John heritage route without compressing everything into a difficult single-day plan.
Overview
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Day 1
Kas to Selcuk Road Journey
Road transfer day from Kas to the Ephesus region.
The first day is planned as a flexible private long-distance road transfer from Kas to the Kusadasi or Selcuk area with comfort and meal stops on route.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Full DayKas Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upMeet the private vehicle and start the road journey.
Guests are picked up from the Kas hotel or confirmed meeting point and begin the private transfer vehicle journey toward the Ephesus region.
Breakfast Break on Route BShort breakfast stop during the road journey.
A breakfast break is planned on the Kas to western Anatolia road route so the long private transfer remains comfortable.
MealsBreakfast meal ExcludedBreakfast Break on Route gives the private Kas package a useful pause during the first travel day toward the Ephesus region. The stop may offer simple breakfast choices such as tea, bakery items, cheese, olives, eggs or similar local options depending on operation.
No fixed venue or menu should be assumed from this destination text. The break supports the route by making the long transfer day more comfortable before the overnight area is reached.
Questions
What is the purpose of the breakfast break on the private package?
It gives the private road journey a useful pause before reaching the Ephesus region and the overnight area.Can the breakfast venue change?
Yes. The stop and menu can vary by operation, so it should be treated as a flexible road break.Kas to Selcuk Road JourneyContinue toward the Ephesus region by private transfer vehicle.
The road journey continues toward the Selcuk and Ephesus region. This pass-through route keeps the long road movement readable without splitting the main transfer.
Lunch Break on Route LLunch break before reaching the overnight area.
A lunch break is planned on route before arrival in the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Break on Route gives the private transfer day a practical midday stop before reaching the Kusadasi or Selcuk area. Road-meal options can vary, but simple local choices such as soups, salads, grilled dishes or seasonal plates may be available depending on the stop.
The exact restaurant and menu can change by operation, so this text should be read as route context rather than a fixed meal promise. It helps pace the first day of the package.
Questions
Why is there a route lunch before the overnight area?
The transfer day from Kas is long, so lunch helps pace the road journey before reaching the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.Is the route lunch menu guaranteed?
No. The restaurant and menu may vary, so the destination note gives route context rather than a fixed menu promise.Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in and rest after the road transfer.
After arrival in the Ephesus region, guests check in at the overnight hotel in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded -
Day 2
Ephesus / Selcuk Region
Private Ephesus and St. John Basilica sightseeing day.
Different tour end?
The second day focuses on the core Ephesus and Selcuk heritage route before the return road journey to Kas.
This Day Physical Rating: Moderate This Day Intensity: Long Day
Heritage Scene at the Celsus Library 
Street Approach to the Celsus Library 
Ancient City View with the Celsus Library 
Close Study of the Celsus Library Facade 
Celsus Library in Ancient City Context 
Archaeological View of Celsus Library 
Marble Niche Detail at Celsus Library 
Temple of Hadrian Heritage View 
Temple of Hadrian Along Curetes Street 
St. John Basilica Ruins in Selcuk Hotel Check-out / DepartureCheck out and start the local sightseeing route.
Guests check out from the hotel and start the private Selcuk and Ephesus region program.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the main archaeological highlight of the route.
Walk through the marble streets, public monuments, gates and civic spaces of Ephesus Ancient City with your guide. Terrace Houses are not part of the standard route, but guests who want to visit them may enter optionally by paying the separate entrance fee on site.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central historical experience of the private sightseeing day. The marble streets, public squares, theatre remains and Library of Celsus make the ancient city readable as a Roman urban landscape rather than only a set of isolated monuments.
A private visit can connect famous landmarks with smaller details of daily life. Street paving, fountain remains, agora spaces and facade lines help show how Ephesus functioned as a living city in the Roman period.
Questions
What makes Ephesus the key stop in the private package?
Ephesus provides the main archaeological experience, with marble streets, public spaces, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus showing the city at scale.Which details help explain Ephesus Ancient City?
Street paving, agora spaces, fountains, facade lines and theatre areas help visitors understand how the ancient city functioned in daily life.Does Ephesus require walking preparation?
Yes. The site has uneven ancient paving and open-air walking areas, so supportive shoes and sun protection are recommended.Why is Ephesus paired with St. John Basilica?
Together they show the Roman city of Ephesus and the later Christian heritage of Ayasuluk Hill in one regional route.
St. John BasilicaVisit the early Christian heritage site on Ayasoluk Hill.
Continue to St. John Basilica, one of the key early Christian monuments of Selcuk and an important heritage stop connected with the region around Ephesus.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 ExcludedSt. John Basilica gives the private route a quieter sacred stop on Ayasuluk Hill after Ephesus Ancient City. Traditionally linked with St. John the Apostle, the basilica represents the Christian heritage that followed the Roman period in the Ephesus region.
The church plan, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area still communicate the importance of the hilltop complex. It adds a reflective layer before the route turns back toward Kas.
Questions
What is the main story of St. John Basilica?
St. John Basilica is traditionally linked with St. John the Apostle and shows the Christian importance of the Ephesus region after the Roman period.What should visitors look for at the basilica?
The church outline, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area are the main visible features.How is this stop different from Ephesus?
Ephesus is a large Roman urban site, while St. John Basilica is a quieter sacred hilltop complex focused on Christian and Byzantine history.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LLunch break in the Selcuk area.
A lunch stop in Selcuk gives the private route a practical pause between the sightseeing program and the return road journey.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk offers a local pause near the main historical stops on the second day. Around Selcuk, Aegean-style food often includes olive oil dishes, vegetables, soups, salads and grilled options, with exact choices depending on operation.
The destination text does not promise a named restaurant or fixed menu. It describes the stop as a practical regional meal break close to Ephesus and St. John Basilica.
Questions
What should travelers expect from lunch in Selcuk?
It is a practical regional meal break near the historical sites, often shaped by Aegean flavors such as olive oil, vegetables, salads, soups or grilled dishes.Is the Selcuk lunch menu guaranteed?
No. The exact restaurant and menu can vary, so the destination note should not be read as a fixed menu statement.Why keep lunch close to Selcuk?
Keeping lunch in Selcuk keeps the route focused around Ephesus and St. John Basilica before the return toward Kas.Return Road Journey to KasBegin the return road transfer.
After lunch and sightseeing, the return road journey to Kas begins. This pass-through route is not counted as a separate transfer segment.
Dinner Break on Return Route DDinner break before final arrival in Kas.
A dinner break is planned on the return route before the final drop-off in Kas.
MealsDinner meal ExcludedDinner Break on the Return Route gives the private return journey toward Kas a practical evening rest. Depending on the stop, travelers may encounter simple local-style food such as soups, salads, grilled dishes or Aegean road-meal options.
The exact venue and menu can vary by operation, so this text should be read as route guidance rather than a fixed meal statement. The stop helps pace the final part of the package return.
Questions
Why is the dinner break useful before returning to Kas?
The return road section is long, so a dinner break helps pace the route and gives travelers a practical pause before final arrival.Is the dinner restaurant fixed?
No. The dinner venue and menu can vary by operation, so the destination text gives route context rather than a fixed restaurant promise.Kas Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?End of the 2-day private road package in Kas.
The tour ends with drop-off at the confirmed Kas hotel or meeting point after the return road journey.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Excluded
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What's Included
- Private licensed professional tour guide.
- Private deluxe air-conditioned VIP vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Hotel or meeting point pick-up and drop-off.
- Parking fees.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Dinner meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- St. John Basilica, €6.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- Visa fees if required.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
Informations
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing.
- Please dress according to the season and weather conditions.
- Bring warm clothing for cooler weather or early morning departures.
- Please bring your passport or ID card.
- Guests should watch their step at all times to avoid injuries.
- For private vehicle packages, the first day is mostly a long road journey, so comfortable clothing and light luggage are recommended.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- 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.
- The private vehicle route may be adjusted according to traffic, comfort stops and hotel check-in timing.
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 the private 2-day Ephesus and St. John Basilica tour from Kas include?
This private 1-night, 2-day package starts from Kas and travels by private transfer vehicle toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk area. Day 1 is arranged around the long road transfer and overnight stop, while Day 2 focuses on Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica, a Selcuk lunch stop and the return road journey to Kas.
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Why choose the private 2-day version from Kas?
The private 2-day format turns a long Kas-to-Ephesus connection into a more balanced route. It gives your party private pacing, more direct guide interaction on the sightseeing day and a clearer overnight rhythm instead of a very long same-day operation.
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Is this Kas package private throughout the route?
Yes. This is the private version from Kas, arranged for your own party with private transfer vehicle service and private guiding for the Selcuk-region sightseeing route. The main visits remain Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
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Where is the overnight stay planned on the private package?
The overnight stay is planned in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area so the next day can focus on Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. The exact hotel area, room details and accommodation standard should be checked in the selected package option.
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Are there pickup areas for the private Kas package?
No separate pickup areas are listed for this private pair. The package is planned around Kas hotel or confirmed meeting point pickup and return drop-off in the Kas area after the second-day road journey.
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Are meals included in the base private 2-day package?
Meals are not automatically included in the base private package unless a selected package option adds them. The route can include breakfast, lunch and dinner breaks as practical stops, but meal and hotel-board details should be checked before confirmation.
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Does the private Kas package include House of Virgin Mary or Temple of Artemis?
No. This Ephesus and St. John private package is built around Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Isa Bey Mosque, Ephesus Museum and Sirince are separate route choices and are not included in this tour.
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Can I reserve the private 2-day Kas package online?
Yes. You can reserve this private package online and pay by credit card through the website. The booking should include the correct date, party size, pickup details, hotel option and selected package details.
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Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in the private package price?
No. In the base private package, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is not included unless you choose a package option that adds entrance fees. The linked fee information helps you plan the separate attraction cost. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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Is the St. John Basilica entrance fee included in the private package price?
No. St. John Basilica is part of the sightseeing route, but its entrance fee is not included in the base private package unless a selected package option includes entrance fees. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
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Can Terrace Houses be added to this private Ephesus package?
Terrace Houses may be considered only as an optional Ephesus-area addition when timing allows. They are not part of the standard route, and the Terrace Houses entrance fee is not included in the base private package. 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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Private package uses the 2-day model
This route is designed as a 1-night, 2-day private road package from Kas, not as the normal same-day operation.
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Check accommodation and package level
Hotel area, room standard, meal plan and inclusions can depend on the selected package option, so review those details before confirming.
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Base private pricing has exclusions
Entrance fees and meals are normally separate in the base private package unless a package option adds them, so choose the option that matches your expectations.
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Sightseeing day still includes walking
The second day includes open-air archaeological walking at Ephesus, so comfortable shoes, water and seasonal sun protection are useful.
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This tour also has a group tour version.
