Highlights
- Private Balikesir to Ephesus day tour: Travel by private transfer vehicle toward Selcuk for the Ephesus and St. John heritage route.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Explore marble streets, monuments and archaeological spaces at a private guided pace.
- Basilica of St. John: Continue to Ayasoluk Hill for the early Christian layer beside Ephesus.
- Private Balikesir return plan: Keep pickup, road breaks, guided visits and final drop-off arranged around your party.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You get a private Ephesus and Basilica of St. John day from Balikesir with the road route handled around your party.
- The private format gives the transfer and Selcuk sightseeing day a calmer rhythm than a shared group schedule.
- Your guide can connect the Roman city of Ephesus with the Christian heritage of Ayasoluk Hill in one focused route.
- It works well for Balikesir travelers who want private guiding for the core Ephesus and St. John highlights and a planned same-day return.
Overview
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Akcay Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-up
Private pickup from Akcay for the Balikesir departure route.
Start from the confirmed Akcay hotel or meeting point by private local transfer and continue toward Selcuk and the Ephesus region.
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Breakfast Break on Route
Breakfast stop around the Akhisar route.
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A breakfast break is planned around the Akhisar route so the morning road transfer remains comfortable.
MealsBreakfast meal ExcludedBreakfast Break on Route gives this private Balikesir departure a useful pause before the historical visits begin in the Selcuk region. Around the Akhisar route, breakfast stops often follow practical Turkish travel patterns, with tea, coffee, bread, eggs, cheese, olives, tomatoes, pastries or simple hot dishes depending on the day's operation and stop selection.
This description does not promise a fixed venue or exact menu. It is meant to set practical expectations for the road-based start of the day while giving regional food context before Ephesus and St. John Basilica.
Questions
Why is a breakfast break useful on this private Balikesir road route?
The road departure begins early, so the breakfast break adds comfort before the historical visits start in the Selcuk region.What breakfast options may appear on the route?
Depending on operation, breakfast stops may include tea, coffee, bread, eggs, cheese, olives, tomatoes, pastries or similar simple Turkish travel foods.Is a specific breakfast venue guaranteed on this private route?
No. The stop is planned into the route, but the exact venue and menu can vary according to the day's operation. -
Balikesir to Selcuk Road Journey
Continue toward the Ephesus region by private vehicle.
The road journey continues from Balikesir toward Selcuk and the Ephesus region. This pass-through row keeps the long road movement readable without splitting the main transfer.
Road Journey -
Ephesus Ancient City
Privately guided visit to Ephesus Ancient City.
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 main archaeological focus of this private full-day route from Balikesir once the journey reaches Selcuk. The visit follows Curetes Street, marble paving, agora spaces, theatre remains, fountains and the Library of Celsus while keeping the wider urban logic of Roman Ephesus in view.
A more flexible pace can make it easier to connect the famous monuments with the smaller architectural details that explain everyday life, ceremony, trade and movement across the city. 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.
Questions
What makes Ephesus the key stop on this private Balikesir full-day route?
Ephesus gives the day its main archaeological focus, with Roman streets, civic spaces, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus at the center of the visit.Which Ephesus features help explain the ancient city best?
Curetes Street, marble paving, agora areas, fountains, theatre remains and facade lines help visitors understand how Roman Ephesus functioned.How does a more flexible pace help at Ephesus?
A more flexible pace can help connect major monuments with smaller details that explain daily life, ceremony, trade and public movement through the city.Are Terrace Houses included in the standard Ephesus route?
No. Terrace Houses are not part of the standard route in this tour, but guests who want to visit them may enter optionally by paying the separate entrance fee on site.Does Ephesus require walking preparation?
Yes. The visit takes place outdoors on uneven archaeological surfaces, so supportive shoes, water and sun protection are recommended.
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St. John Basilica
Visit 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 brings a reflective Christian and Byzantine dimension to the Selcuk route after Ephesus Ancient City. Standing on Ayasuluk Hill and traditionally linked with St. John the Apostle, the basilica broadens the story of the region beyond the Roman layer represented by Ephesus.
The visible church plan, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area help visitors imagine the former hilltop sacred complex. Its calmer atmosphere balances the scale of Ephesus before lunch and the private road journey back toward Balikesir.
Questions
Why is St. John Basilica part of the Selcuk route?
It expands the day beyond Roman Ephesus and introduces the Christian and Byzantine importance of Ayasuluk Hill.What can be seen at St. John Basilica?
Visitors can see the church plan, arches, columns, baptistery area and traditional tomb area of the former basilica complex.How does St. John Basilica complement Ephesus?
Ephesus presents the Roman urban layer, while St. John Basilica adds the later sacred and Byzantine layer of the same broader region.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Lunch break in the Selcuk area.
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A lunch stop in Selcuk gives the private route a practical pause during the local sightseeing day.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk creates a comfortable regional break during the private sightseeing day before the return drive to Balikesir. Food around Selcuk often reflects Aegean habits, with olive oil vegetables, soups, fresh salads, grilled dishes, pide or similar local plates appearing depending on the operation and restaurant choice.
This text is not a promise of a fixed venue or exact menu. It gives local food context for the day while keeping the planning flexible around the historical route.
Questions
Why is lunch taken in Selcuk during the private sightseeing day?
Selcuk keeps the meal stop close to the main historical visits and supports a smoother route before the drive back to Balikesir.What kind of food may travelers expect around Selcuk?
Meals may reflect Aegean food culture, with olive oil vegetables, soups, fresh salads, grilled dishes, pide or similar local plates depending on operation.Is a specific lunch venue guaranteed in Selcuk?
No. The venue and menu can change, so the note gives local context rather than a fixed restaurant commitment. -
Return Road Journey to Balikesir
Begin the return road journey.
After lunch and sightseeing, the return road journey to Balikesir begins. This pass-through row is not counted as a separate transfer segment.
Road Journey -
Dinner Break on Return Route
Dinner break before final arrival in Balikesir.
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A dinner break is planned around the Akhisar route before the final drop-off in Balikesir.
MealsDinner meal ExcludedDinner Break on Return Route makes the longer drive back to Balikesir more manageable after the Selcuk visits are complete. Depending on timing and operation, return-road meal stops may include soups, grilled dishes, simple local plates, breakfast-style options or other practical regional choices suited to an intercity evening pause.
This description is not a fixed restaurant or menu commitment. It is there to explain the role of the dinner break in the travel rhythm before final arrival in Balikesir.
Questions
Why is a dinner break part of the return drive to Balikesir?
The stop helps make the longer evening drive more manageable after the Selcuk visits are complete.What food might be found at the return-route dinner stop?
Depending on the stop, travelers may find soups, grilled dishes, simple local plates, breakfast-style items or other practical regional road-route options.Is the dinner stop linked to one fixed restaurant?
No. The stop is planned as part of the route, but the venue and menu can vary with the operation. -
Akcay Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off
Final private drop-off in Akcay after the return journey.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
After the private Ephesus and Selcuk sightseeing route, continue back through the Balikesir route and complete the tour with drop-off at the confirmed Akcay hotel or meeting point.
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.
- Airport transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- 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.
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 bring your passport or ID card.
- 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.
- Entrance fees may be paid by credit card or Turkish Lira.
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 Balikesir to Ephesus and St. John Basilica tour cover?
This private full-day tour starts with pickup from Balikesir, travels by private transfer vehicle toward Selcuk and focuses on Ephesus Ancient City, St. John Basilica and a lunch stop in Selcuk. The route also includes practical breakfast and dinner breaks on the road before returning to Balikesir.
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Is this Balikesir departure arranged as a private tour?
Yes. This is the private version from Balikesir, arranged for your own party with private pacing during the road journey and guided sightseeing route where supported by the operation.
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Which pickup areas are available for the private Balikesir tour?
The active pickup areas for this private Balikesir departure are Edremit, Akcay, Altinoluk and Burhaniye. Pickup area choice can affect average duration, timing and price details, so the selected pickup point should be confirmed before operation.
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How long is the private Balikesir to Ephesus day tour?
The main private Balikesir route is planned as a full-day road tour with an average duration of about 17 hours. Pickup areas such as Edremit, Akcay, Altinoluk and Burhaniye can extend the day, with source durations reaching about 18 to 20 hours depending on the selected area.
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Which places are visited on this private Ephesus and St. John route?
The private route visits Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica. The breakfast break, Selcuk lunch stop and dinner break support the road journey and sightseeing day, but they do not add extra archaeological sites to the route.
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Does the private Balikesir route include House of Virgin Mary or Temple of Artemis?
No. This Ephesus and St. John private route is focused on 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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Are meals included in the base private Balikesir tour?
No. Meals are not included in the base private tour unless a selected package option or custom quote adds them. The breakfast, lunch and dinner stops show where meal breaks fit into the route, not automatic meal-cost inclusion.
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Can I reserve the private Balikesir tour online by credit card?
Yes. You can reserve this private Balikesir tour online and pay by credit card through the website. Enter the correct Balikesir, Edremit, Akcay, Altinoluk or Burhaniye pickup details and review the selected package inclusions before confirming.
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Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in the private tour price?
No. In the base private Balikesir tour, 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 tour price?
No. St. John Basilica is part of the private sightseeing route, but its entrance fee is not included in the base private tour 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 the private Balikesir tour?
Terrace Houses are not part of the standard Ephesus and St. John route from Balikesir. They may be considered only as an optional Ephesus-area addition when timing allows, and the Terrace Houses entrance fee is not included in the base private tour. 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 road route from Balikesir
The private tour uses a private transfer vehicle for the Balikesir to Selcuk road route and keeps the Ephesus and St. John Basilica sightseeing day arranged around your party.
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Confirm the selected pickup area
Balikesir is the main departure, with Edremit, Akcay, Altinoluk and Burhaniye available as pickup areas. Confirm the exact meeting point and any timing or price difference tied to the selected area.
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Base private pricing has exclusions
Meals and entrance fees are normally separate in the base private tour unless a selected package option or custom quote adds them. Review inclusions carefully before booking.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes
Ephesus Ancient City has open-air walking, marble paving and uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection make the private sightseeing day easier.
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