Highlights
- Private 2-day Ephesus archaeology package from Marmaris by bus-assisted route
- Marmaris and Selcuk travel link frames one focused private Ephesus sightseeing day
- Ephesus Ancient City presents Roman urban life through streets, monuments and civic spaces
- Terrace Houses reveal decorated homes and residential detail within ancient Ephesus
- Selcuk lunch stop adds a natural pause between site visit and museum
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum rounds out the route with artifacts tied to the ancient city
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You get private guiding on the Ephesus route while the Marmaris connection remains a clear travel section.
- The itinerary stays focused on the Ephesus archaeology and museum route rather than adding unsupported Marmaris-area sightseeing.
- Private explanations make it easier to connect the ancient city, Terrace Houses and museum collections.
- The package gives the Ephesus visit more breathing room than a compressed road day from Marmaris.
Overview
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Day 1
Marmaris to Selcuk Bus Connection
Connect to Selcuk by scheduled bus.
The first day sets up the bus connection from Marmaris to Selcuk before the overnight stay in the Kusadasi / Selcuk area.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortHisaronu Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upMeet at the confirmed Hisaronu pickup point before the Marmaris-Selcuk route.
Your pickup is arranged from the confirmed Hisaronu hotel or meeting point, then the route connects with the Marmaris-Selcuk section.
Marmaris Bus TerminalContinue through the intercity bus terminal before the Selcuk connection.
The route continues through Marmaris Bus Terminal before the intercity connection toward Selcuk.
TicketsBus ticket (Marmaris Bus Terminal to Selcuk Bus Station) ExcludedMarmaris to Selcuk Bus JourneyTravel between the departure region and Selcuk during the planned route.
The intercity bus journey connects Marmaris and Selcuk as the long-distance travel segment.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
Hotel check-in is arranged in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area before the archaeology day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded -
Day 2
Ephesus, Terrace Houses & Museum Route
Follow the focused archaeology route.
Different tour end?
The second day follows Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, Lunch Stop / Selcuk and Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return bus connection.
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 Hotel Check-out / DepartureContinue the route after the overnight hotel step.
After check-out, your private party continues into the local Ephesus archaeology route.
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the main open-air archaeological stop of the route.
Ephesus Ancient City is the main open-air archaeological stop, with marble streets, public buildings and monumental remains.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedEphesus Ancient City is the central cultural stop of the private package from Marmaris. The logistics bring guests into the Selcuk area, but the ancient city is where the route reaches its main purpose through streets, monuments and public spaces from Roman Ephesus.
The Library of Celsus, theatre, Curetes Street, temples and civic areas show the scale of the city and the variety of life within it. This stop anchors the day with archaeology, architecture and a strong sense of place.
Questions
What is the main cultural focus of the private Marmaris package?
<p>Ephesus Ancient City is the main focus. It gives the route its strongest archaeology through streets, monuments, temples, the theatre and the Library of Celsus.</p>Why is Ephesus more than a single ruin stop?
<p>Ephesus is a broad ancient urban landscape. Guests move through streets, public spaces and monuments that show how the city functioned in daily and civic life.</p>
Terrace HousesVisit the preserved Roman residential section of Ephesus.
Terrace Houses reveal the personal 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 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 add a detailed private-life chapter to the Ephesus visit. The preserved rooms, mosaics, wall paintings and architectural layers reveal how elite households were arranged and decorated inside the ancient city.
Because the stop is more enclosed and detail-oriented than the main street route, it encourages slower observation. It helps the private tour tell a fuller story of Ephesus, from public monuments to domestic space.
Questions
What makes the Terrace Houses different?
<p>They focus on private homes rather than public monuments, showing decorated interiors, mosaics, wall paintings and residential architecture.</p>Are the Terrace Houses useful for archaeology-focused guests?
<p>Yes. They preserve detailed evidence of elite domestic life, making them one of the most informative parts of the Ephesus visit.</p>
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause near Selcuk between the archaeology visits.
The lunch stop is placed near Selcuk to keep the day aligned with the archaeology route.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk provides a local break between the Ephesus site and museum. The town is closely tied to the archaeological landscape and gives the route a practical place to pause without leaving the cultural setting of the day.
Menus vary by restaurant and season, but guests may encounter Aegean-style vegetables, salads, soups, grilled options, breads, meze or simple desserts. The stop keeps the day restable before the museum and return sections.
Questions
What should guests expect from lunch in Selcuk?
<p>It is a practical local break near Ephesus. Exact dishes vary, but the setting usually reflects simple Aegean Turkish restaurant culture.</p>Ephesus Archaeological MuseumContinue with the museum collections that complete the Ephesus story.
Ephesus Archaeological Museum adds sculpture, portraits and excavated finds that deepen the context of the open-air site.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 ExcludedEphesus Archaeological Museum helps complete the private Ephesus route by presenting artifacts from the ancient city and surrounding Selcuk area. It gives guests a closer view of sculpture, inscriptions, architectural fragments and smaller objects connected with daily and sacred life.
The museum adds context after the outdoor ruins and Terrace Houses, helping visitors connect what they walked through with the finds recovered from the region. It is the final cultural layer before the travel connection back toward Marmaris.
Questions
What can be seen at Ephesus Archaeological Museum?
<p>The museum presents artifacts from Ephesus and nearby sites, including sculptures, inscriptions, architectural pieces and objects from daily and religious life.</p>Why is the museum a good final cultural stop?
<p>It gathers the objects behind the ruins into a focused setting, helping guests complete the Ephesus story before returning toward Marmaris.</p>
Selcuk Bus StationReturn to the local connection point after sightseeing.
The return connection begins from Selcuk after the archaeology route is completed.
TicketsBus ticket (Selcuk Bus Station to Marmaris Bus Terminal) ExcludedSelcuk to Marmaris Bus JourneyTravel between the departure region and Selcuk during the planned route.
The intercity bus journey connects Marmaris and Selcuk as the long-distance travel segment.
Marmaris Bus Terminal ArrivalArrive back at the bus terminal before the final local transfer.
Arrival back in Marmaris completes the intercity connection before the final local drop-off.
Hisaronu Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return to the confirmed Hisaronu drop-off point after the Marmaris arrival section.
After the return connection reaches Marmaris, the final local drop-off is arranged for the confirmed Hisaronu hotel or meeting point.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Excluded
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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 (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast 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: Bus ticket (Marmaris Bus Terminal to Selcuk Bus Station).
- Day 2: Bus ticket (Selcuk Bus Station to Marmaris Bus Terminal).
- 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.
- Bus-assisted Marmaris departures require suitable outbound and return intercity schedules before final confirmation.
- 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 does this private 2-day Ephesus package from Marmaris cover?
This private 2-day package starts from Marmaris, connects with Selcuk by bus, continues to the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area, and uses the second day for private guiding at Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses, a Selcuk lunch stop and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. -
How is the private Marmaris to Ephesus bus package planned?
Day 1 handles Marmaris pickup, Marmaris Bus Terminal, the Marmaris to Selcuk bus journey and hotel check-in. Day 2 is the private Ephesus archaeology route followed by the Selcuk to Marmaris return connection and final drop-off. -
How is the private package visit flow confirmed?
The selected private package and final confirmation should be followed for the exact visit flow, bus connection details, hotel area, pickup variant and return logistics. Marmaris and nearby pickup areas are used for departure and return logistics, while the private guided route is centered on Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. -
Which pickup areas can be selected for the private package?
Active pickup variants include Turunc, Armutalan, Marmaris Siteler, Beldibi, Uzunyali, Hisaronu, Orhaniye, Selimiye and Bozburun. Pickup choice can affect local logistics and final payable amount. -
Is the overnight hotel around Kusadasi or Selcuk included?
The route includes hotel check-in around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area. Exact accommodation inclusion, category and room type depend on the selected private package and final confirmation. -
Is Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in the base private package?
No. Ephesus Ancient City is part of the private route, but its entrance fee is marked as excluded in the base private setup unless the selected package or final confirmation states otherwise. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is Terrace Houses of Ephesus entrance fee included in the base private setup?
No. Terrace Houses of Ephesus is included as a route stop, but its entrance fee is marked as excluded in the base private setup unless the confirmed package includes it. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
Is Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee included in the base private package?
No. Ephesus Archaeological Museum is part of the route, but its entrance fee is marked as excluded in the base private setup unless the selected package changes that condition. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10. -
Is there a lunch stop on the private Ephesus day?
Yes. The route includes a lunch stop near Selcuk during the private archaeology flow. Exact meal inclusion, menu details and payable items should be checked in the confirmed private package information. -
Does this private package include guided visits in Marmaris?
No. Marmaris and its pickup areas are used for departure, bus connection and return logistics. The private guided content is focused on the Ephesus region. -
How should private bus details be confirmed?
The route uses bus terminal and bus journey points, but ticket handling, boarding details and timing should be checked in the selected private package and final confirmation. -
Who is this private Marmaris package best for?
It is best for travelers who want a private guided Ephesus archaeology and museum package from Marmaris or nearby pickup areas with bus-assisted access to Selcuk. -
Can this private Marmaris Ephesus package be booked online?
Yes. This site supports online reservation and credit-card payment. Final pickup, hotel, bus connection, entrance-fee and meal details should be followed from the confirmed booking information.
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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Marmaris pickup logistics matter
The private package can use Marmaris and active pickup variants such as Turunc, Armutalan, Siteler, Beldibi, Uzunyali, Hisaronu, Orhaniye, Selimiye and Bozburun. -
Review bus-assisted package details
Terminal, boarding, hotel and return details should be checked in the final confirmation before travel. -
Private package inclusions can vary
Accommodation, entrance-fee coverage and meal arrangements can depend on the selected private package, so the confirmation should be reviewed carefully. -
Base private entrance fees are excluded
Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses of Ephesus and Ephesus Archaeological Museum are route stops, but their entrance fees are excluded in the base private setup unless confirmed otherwise. -
Pack for one overnight and archaeological walking
Bring practical overnight items and comfortable shoes for the bus-assisted package and the Ephesus walking route.
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