Highlights
- Private 2-day Ephesus archaeology package from Belek by flight-connected route
- Belek and Antalya Airport access leads into a focused private Ephesus visit
- Ephesus Ancient City presents Roman avenues, monuments and civic spaces
- Terrace Houses add preserved elite residences, mosaics and frescoed interiors
- Selcuk lunch stop fits naturally between ancient site and museum visits
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum closes the package with finds from the ancient city
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You get a private Ephesus package while Belek remains the practical departure and return base.
- The 2-day format supports a fuller archaeology route after the flight-connected travel section.
- Your guide can connect Roman public life with the preserved residential detail of the Terrace Houses.
- The museum stop rounds out the private visit with artifacts that give context to the ruins.
Overview
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Day 1
Flight to Izmir and Kusadasi Overnight
Use the flight connection and settle into the Kusadasi area before the sightseeing day.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortBelek Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upMeet at the confirmed starting point.
Your private party meets at the confirmed Belek hotel or meeting point before the first connection of the itinerary.
Antalya Airport (AYT)Use the airport connection for the Ephesus archaeology route.
Board the domestic flight from Antalya Airport toward Izmir for the Ephesus archaeology route.
TicketsFlight ticket (Antalya Airport (AYT) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) ExcludedIzmir Airport ArrivalMeet the next local connection after arrival.
Arrive at Izmir Airport and meet the local team for the next part of the journey.
Kusadasi Hotel Check-inCheck in around the Kusadasi area.
Hotel check-in is arranged in the Kusadasi area before the sightseeing day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast ExcludedHotel dinner ExcludedHotel lunch Excluded -
Day 2
Ephesus Region and Return Flight
Different tour end?
Complete the local sightseeing route and return to the departure area.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
Celsus Library Clear Facade View 
Celsus Library Archaeological Site View 
Celsus Library Carving and Column Detail 
Celsus Library Cultural Landmark View 
Celsus Library Roman Urban Scene 
Celsus Library Detailed Marble Scene 
Heracles Gate Relief Stone View 
Temple of Hadrian Relief Stone Detail 
Terrace Houses Restored Room Detail 
Terrace Houses Protected Site View Kusadasi Hotel Check-outLeave the hotel and begin the local archaeology route.
After check-out, your private party continues into the local Ephesus archaeology route.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the main archaeological stop of the route.
Ephesus Ancient City is the main archaeological stop, with marble streets, public buildings and monumental remains.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedEphesus Ancient City anchors the private Belek flight-connected route. The visit follows marble streets, civic buildings, sacred spaces, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus facade through the main archaeological zone.
Use the walk to connect celebrated monuments with practical evidence. Paving, inscriptions, water systems, street alignments and foundations show how movement, ceremony, trade and daily life worked in Ephesus.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City central to this private route?
<p>Ephesus is central because its marble streets, theatre, sacred spaces, civic buildings and Library of Celsus facade create the main archaeology experience.</p>How should I understand Ephesus during the visit?
<p>Connect the monuments with practical traces such as paving, inscriptions, water channels and street alignments. Together they show how Ephesus operated.</p>
Terrace HousesVisit the detailed Roman residential section of Ephesus.
Terrace Houses reveal the private side of ancient Ephesus through decorated rooms, mosaics and frescoes.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 ExcludedNote- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; it may feel more demanding than the main Ephesus route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
Terrace Houses reveal the private residential layer of Ephesus. Their mosaics, frescoes, courtyards, stairways and room layouts show how wealthy Roman families used domestic space on the hillside.
The stop balances the public city with a household perspective. Painted walls, decorative floors and architectural layers make status, rest and taste visible in a more personal setting.
Questions
What do Terrace Houses add to the private Belek route?
<p>Terrace Houses add the residential side of Ephesus, showing mosaics, frescoes, courtyards, stairways and rooms from elite Roman homes.</p>What should I look for inside Terrace Houses?
<p>Look for painted walls, mosaic floors, room divisions and architectural layers that show daily ease, taste and social status.</p>
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause near Selcuk during the sightseeing flow.
A lunch stop is placed near Selcuk to keep the day aligned with the local sightseeing flow.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk keeps the private sightseeing day close to Ephesus before the museum visit. Selcuk is the natural modern base beside the ancient city, making it a practical place for a local pause.
Depending on the daily venue, meals may include soups, salads, grilled dishes, rice, bread, olive oil vegetables, herbs and seasonal Aegean produce.
Questions
Why is Selcuk used for lunch?
<p>Selcuk is close to Ephesus and the museum, making it a practical meal pause within the archaeological route.</p>Ephesus Archaeological MuseumContinue with the museum collection near Selcuk.
Ephesus Archaeological Museum adds sculptural, domestic and civic finds that deepen the ancient city visit.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 ExcludedEphesus Archaeological Museum adds the artifact layer to the private Ephesus route. Original finds from Ephesus and Selcuk, including sculptures, inscriptions, coins, Artemis-related pieces and everyday objects, help explain the ancient city in close detail.
After Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses, the museum gives evidence for belief, craft, household life and public identity before the route returns to the airport connection.
Questions
Why visit Ephesus Archaeological Museum after the ancient city?
<p>The museum brings original Ephesus-area artifacts into close view and helps explain worship, craft, public identity and household life.</p>How does the museum connect with Terrace Houses?
<p>Daily-use objects, decorative pieces, inscriptions and sculptures help explain the people and social world behind the residential spaces seen at Terrace Houses.</p>
Izmir Airport (ADB)Use the airport connection for the Ephesus archaeology route.
Return to Izmir Airport for the flight back to the departure region.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Antalya Airport (AYT)) ExcludedAntalya Airport (AYT) ArrivalReturn to the original flight point.
Arrive back at the original airport area.
Belek Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Finish at the confirmed drop-off point.
The itinerary ends with final drop-off at the confirmed endpoint.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Airport transfers.
- Hotel or meeting point pick-up and drop-off.
What's Not Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Kusadasi Hotel Check-in).
- Day 1: Hotel Breakfast meal, Hotel Dinner meal, Hotel Lunch meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Hotel Dinner meal, Lunch meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum, €10.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Antalya Airport (AYT) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Antalya Airport (AYT)).
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- Local taxes.
- Wheelchair accessible upon request.
- Entrance fees may be paid by credit card or Turkish Lira.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
- International flight tickets.
- Optional shore excursions and site entries.
Informations
- Not suitable for people with heart problems.
- Not suitable for people with respiratory issues.
- Harbor taxes and marina fees where applicable.
- Flight schedules, pickup time and meeting details are confirmed after booking.
- Not suitable for wheelchair users.
- 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.
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 private Ephesus package from Belek by flight?
This private package starts with Belek hotel or meeting-point pickup, connects through Antalya Airport and Izmir Airport, and includes Kusadasi hotel check-in. The private Ephesus day covers Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, a Selcuk lunch stop and Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return flight flow and Belek drop-off. -
How many days does this private Belek to Ephesus package take?
The listed duration is 1 Night/2 Days. This describes the package span with airport connections, the overnight area setup and the private Ephesus sightseeing day, not final start or return times. -
What is planned for Day 1 of the private package?
Day 1 is the travel and overnight setup. The route includes Belek pickup, Antalya Airport, the Antalya Airport to Izmir Airport flight direction, Izmir Airport arrival and Kusadasi hotel check-in. -
What is planned for Day 2 of the private Ephesus package?
Day 2 begins with Kusadasi hotel check-out and continues with private sightseeing at Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, a Selcuk lunch stop and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. The return flow uses Izmir Airport to Antalya Airport and finishes with Belek drop-off. -
Are pickup variants available for this private Belek package?
No active pickup variants are listed for this private package. The main departure and drop-off area is Belek, so the exact hotel or meeting-point details should be checked in the confirmed private package information. -
How are flight details handled in the private package?
The route uses Antalya Airport to Izmir Airport on the outbound side and Izmir Airport to Antalya Airport on the return. Ticket handling, baggage rules, airport meeting points and timing should be checked in the confirmed private package information. -
Is the Kusadasi hotel stay included in the private package?
The route includes Kusadasi hotel check-in and check-out points. Exact hotel inclusion, category, room type and room arrangements should be checked in the confirmed private package information. -
Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in the base private package?
No. For the base private package structure, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is marked as excluded unless your selected package or confirmed booking information states otherwise. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in the base private package?
No. Terrace Houses of Ephesus is on the route, but its entrance fee is marked as excluded for the base private package unless your selected package or confirmed booking information includes it. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
Is the Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee included in the base private package?
No. Ephesus Archaeological Museum is part of the route, but the entrance fee is marked as excluded in the base private structure unless your selected package or confirmation says it is included. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10. -
Is there a lunch stop during the private Ephesus day?
Yes. The private Ephesus day includes a lunch stop in Selcuk. Meal inclusion, menu options and dietary arrangements should be checked in the confirmed private package information. -
Is Belek only the departure and return base?
Yes. Belek is used for pickup and drop-off logistics, while Antalya Airport and Izmir Airport support the travel connection. The private guided visit content is focused on the Ephesus region. -
Can I book this private Belek to Ephesus package online?
Yes. This site supports online tour booking and credit-card payment, so travelers can reserve the private package before the travel date.
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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Confirm the Belek pickup point
This private package starts and ends in Belek. Check your confirmed hotel or meeting-point details before the travel date. -
Review flight connection details
The route uses Antalya Airport and Izmir Airport connections. Confirm baggage rules, ticket handling, airport meeting points and timing in your private package information. -
Entrance fees are not base private inclusions
Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and Ephesus Archaeological Museum are on the route, but their entrance fees are excluded in the base private structure unless your selected package confirms otherwise. -
Check hotel and meal details
The route includes Kusadasi hotel flow and a Selcuk lunch stop. Hotel category, room setup, meal inclusion and dietary handling should be checked in your confirmed private package information. -
Wear comfortable shoes for Ephesus
The private sightseeing route includes ancient streets, steps and uneven surfaces, especially around Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses. Comfortable walking shoes are important.
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