Highlights
- Private Biblical Ephesus day tour from Ankara Airport with flight-supported access to Izmir.
- Start from the airport meeting point and continue directly toward the Ephesus-region route.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary with private pacing at one of the route's most important sacred sites.
- Explore the Seven Sleepers tradition and walk through Ephesus Ancient City in the same day.
- Add lunch near Selcuk and St. John Basilica before the return to Ankara Airport.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- Private touring gives the airport-based Ephesus day a calmer rhythm between the travel stages.
- The route is tightly focused on the Biblical Ephesus landmarks rather than unrelated nearby attractions.
- You get a clear sequence from House of Virgin Mary to St. John Basilica with Ephesus Ancient City at the center.
- The same-day airport plan works well when you want a direct Ankara Airport to Ephesus experience.
Overview
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Ankara Airport (ESB) Meeting Point
Meet directly at Ankara Airport.
Meet your private guide at Ankara Esenboga Airport for the Izmir flight.
TicketsFlight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) Excluded -
Izmir Airport Arrival
Arrive at Izmir Airport.
Arrival at Izmir Airport and transfer toward the Ephesus region.
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House of Virgin Mary
Visit the House of Virgin Mary.
Visit the peaceful pilgrimage site on Mount Koressos, traditionally associated with the final years of the Virgin Mary.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 ExcludedHouse of Virgin Mary gives the private Ankara Airport departure a calm and meaningful first stop after the flight into Izmir. The sanctuary stands on Mount Koressos, above the Ephesus landscape, and is visited for its spiritual tradition as much as for its peaceful setting.
Because the visit is compact, the most valuable part is attentive context: the chapel, votive wall, garden paths and quiet atmosphere all help frame the route before it continues toward the early Christian stories and archaeological remains around Ephesus.
Questions
Why does the private Ankara Airport tour start with House of Virgin Mary?
House of Virgin Mary gives the private route a quiet spiritual beginning after the Ankara to Izmir flight. It introduces the Ephesus region through pilgrimage tradition before the route moves into archaeology and early Christian stories.What makes House of Virgin Mary meaningful for visitors?
Its meaning comes from tradition, setting and atmosphere. The chapel, garden area and votive wall create a reflective visit even though the site itself is modest in size.
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Cave of the Seven Sleepers
Explore the Seven Sleepers tradition.
Continue to the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, connected with one of the region's best-known early Christian legends.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers brings a local faith story into the private route between Mount Koressos and Ephesus Ancient City. The site is linked with the well-known legend of young believers who slept through persecution and later awakened as a sign of faith and endurance.
The cave area is best understood through interpretation rather than scale. It gives the day a reflective pause and connects the Ephesus region with a story remembered across Christian and wider religious tradition.
Questions
Why is Cave of the Seven Sleepers included before Ephesus?
The cave stop adds a local faith story before the main ancient city visit. It links the landscape around Ephesus with a tradition of refuge, belief and awakening remembered in religious history.How should I understand Cave of the Seven Sleepers?
Understand it as a story and context stop. The guide explanation is important because the site's value is tied to the legend and its place in the religious imagination of the region.
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Ephesus Ancient City
Walk through Ephesus.
Explore the marble streets, public buildings and monumental remains of Ephesus with your licensed guide.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the core historical stop of this private airport-start tour. The ancient streets lead through theatres, civic spaces, baths, temples, fountains and the Library of Celsus facade, showing how large and carefully planned the city once was.
A private visit allows the guide to slow down around details that are easy to miss, from inscriptions and street surfaces to building alignments and public gathering spaces. These details make Ephesus more than a checklist of monuments; they reveal an ancient urban world.
Questions
What makes Ephesus Ancient City the highlight of this private route?
Ephesus is the largest and most complete archaeological experience on the route. Its streets, theatre, Library of Celsus facade and public buildings show the structure of a major ancient city.What can a private guide help explain in Ephesus?
A private guide can adjust the pace and point out details such as inscriptions, street planning, building functions and how civic, religious and commercial spaces connected inside the ancient city.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Lunch break near Selcuk.
L
Pause for lunch in the Selcuk area before continuing the Biblical Ephesus route.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk provides a practical break near the Ephesus route before the visit continues to Ayasuluk Hill. The Selcuk area reflects Aegean food habits, so olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, salads, grilled items and simple local flavors may shape the meal experience.
The restaurant and menu can change according to operation and season. Treat this stop as a comfortable regional pause that supports the rhythm of the private day rather than as a fixed culinary program.
Questions
What is the purpose of the Selcuk lunch stop?
The Selcuk lunch stop gives the private day a comfortable break near the main heritage sites. It supports the route between Ephesus-area visits and the final stop on Ayasuluk Hill.Is the Selcuk lunch menu fixed?
No. The venue and menu can vary by operation and season. The stop should be understood as a regional meal break where Aegean-style ingredients and simple local dishes may be available. -
St. John Basilica
Visit St. John Basilica.
Visit the Basilica of St. John, one of Selcuk's key Christian heritage sites overlooking the ancient landscape.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 ExcludedSt. John Basilica completes the main heritage sequence on Ayasuluk Hill, close to the modern town of Selcuk. Its traditional association with Saint John gives the route a strong Christian heritage ending after the sanctuary, Seven Sleepers tradition and Ephesus Ancient City.
The ruins invite a slower look at the basilica layout, stonework, baptistery area, columns and views toward the Ephesus plain. It is a fitting final visit before the private transfer returns to Izmir Airport for the Ankara flight connection.
Questions
Why is St. John Basilica an important final visit?
St. John Basilica brings the route from ancient Ephesus into later Christian heritage. Its traditional association with Saint John makes it a meaningful final stop before returning to Izmir Airport.What should I pay attention to at St. John Basilica?
Pay attention to the basilica plan, baptistery area, columns, stone remains and views over Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. These details show both the religious and landscape importance of the site.
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Izmir Airport (ADB)
Return to Izmir Airport.
Flight segment from Izmir Airport to Ankara Esenboga Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)) Excluded -
Ankara Airport Drop-off
Final airport drop-off.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
The airport-meeting tour ends at Ankara Esenboga Airport after the return flight.
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Private licensed professional tour guide.
- Private deluxe air-conditioned VIP vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Lunch meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- House of Virgin Mary, €13.5.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- St. John Basilica, €6.
- Flight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)).
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
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.
- Respectful clothing is recommended for visits to mosques and churches.
- Please arrive at the airport meeting point with enough buffer for the flight check-in process.
- 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.
- Main route: House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica.
- Airport-meeting products start and finish at Ankara Airport; Ankara city hotel transfers are outside this product.
- Terrace Houses are optional and are not counted as a separate route stop.
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 Ephesus day tour from Ankara Airport by flight include?
This private day tour begins directly at Ankara Esenboga Airport and uses the domestic flight connection toward Izmir before the privately guided Ephesus-region route. The sightseeing route covers House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica before returning to Ankara Airport.
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Is this private Ankara Airport to Ephesus tour operated by flight?
Yes. This is a same-day private Ephesus tour from Ankara Airport by flight. The airport-start structure removes the Ankara city pickup layer and keeps the travel chain focused on the Ankara and Izmir airport connection.
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Is this tour private or group?
This version is private. Your party follows the Ephesus-region route with private guiding and a more flexible local pace than the shared group version.
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How long does this private Ankara Airport to Ephesus tour take?
This is a full-day same-day private tour by flight. Exact airport reporting, flight and return details are confirmed around the selected booking and operation plan.
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Which places are visited on this private Ephesus day tour?
The main sightseeing route visits House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica, with a lunch stop in the Selcuk area.
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Does this private tour include Ankara city pickup?
No. This airport-start version begins and ends at Ankara Airport. Ankara city pickup or drop-off should only be added if it is separately quoted as an extra transfer.
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Are domestic air tickets included in the base private tour?
No. Domestic air tickets are not part of the base private tour unless they are separately quoted or selected as part of an all-inclusive package arrangement.
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Are meals included in the base private Ephesus day tour?
No. A lunch stop appears in the route plan, but meals are not included in the base private tour unless they are separately quoted or selected as part of an all-inclusive package option.
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Can I book this private Ankara Airport to Ephesus tour online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this private Ephesus day tour from Ankara Airport online and pay by credit card through the booking system.
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What is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Ankara Airport to Ephesus day tour, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5.
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What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Ankara Airport to Ephesus day tour, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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What is the St. John Basilica entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Ankara Airport to Ephesus day tour, the St. John Basilica entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package during booking. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this private tour?
No. Terrace Houses is optional and is not included in the base private tour. Add it only if you want extra time for the Roman residential section inside Ephesus. 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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Good to know: This private tour begins at Ankara Airport
The route is airport-based, so meeting point, airport reporting and return connection details should be confirmed before the booking is finalized.
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Good to know: Base private inclusions are narrower
The base private structure focuses on private guiding and route operation. Air tickets, meals and entrance fees depend on the package selected or quoted during booking.
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Good to know: City pickup is separate if needed
This airport-start product does not include Ankara city pickup or drop-off. Add that transfer only if it is quoted separately before booking.
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Good to know: The route includes serious walking
Ephesus and Ayasuluk Hill include marble streets, steps, slopes and sunny open areas. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are strongly recommended.
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