Highlights
- Private 2-day Biblical Ephesus package from Gazipasa Alanya Airport by flight.
- Use the first stage for the flight to Izmir and overnight near the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
- Visit the House of Virgin Mary with private pacing around the hillside shrine.
- See the Cave of the Seven Sleepers and then explore Ephesus Ancient City in the heart of the route.
- Add lunch near Selcuk and St. John Basilica before the return flight to Gazipasa Alanya Airport.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- Private touring gives the Ephesus-region day a more personal rhythm after the airport connection.
- The route is built around the real sacred-history line from House of Virgin Mary to St. John Basilica.
- Starting and ending at Gazipasa Alanya Airport keeps the package clear for airport-based travelers.
- The 2-day structure makes the long-distance flight route easier to experience than a rushed same-day plan.
Overview
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Day 1
Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region
Travel from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to the Ephesus region by flight.
Day 1 positions the private party near Selcuk or Kusadasi before the full local route.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortGazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP)Board the flight from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir.
Flight segment from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) ExcludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive at Izmir Airport and transfer to the hotel area.
Arrival at Izmir Airport and transfer toward Kusadasi or Selcuk.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in near Kusadasi or Selcuk before the sightseeing day.
Overnight stay in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded -
Day 2
House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus & St. John Route
Full sightseeing day in the Ephesus region.
Different tour end?
Day 2 follows the complete local route.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
Fountains at the House of Virgin Mary 
Interior Chapel and Altar of the House of Virgin Mary 
Cave of the Seven Sleepers Stone Entrance 
Carved Details at the Library of Celsus 
Archaeology Detail at the Library of Celsus 
Library of Celsus Cultural Landmark Scene 
Grand Theatre View Across Stone Tiers 
Nike Stone Relief Close View 
Temple of Hadrian Street View 
Historic Detail at St. John Basilica Hotel Check-out / DepartureLeave the hotel for the full local tour.
Hotel check-out and start of the local sightseeing route.
House of Virgin MaryVisit the hillside shrine associated with the final years of the Virgin Mary.
Guided visit to House of Virgin Mary.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 ExcludedHouse of Virgin Mary opens the private local route with a calm sacred stop above Ephesus. After the airport-based travel setup, this hillside sanctuary gives the day a reflective tone before the route continues to the Seven Sleepers tradition and the ancient city.
The visit is best understood through setting and atmosphere. The modest chapel, shaded grounds, votive wall and quiet visitor flow create a different experience from the larger archaeological sites that follow.
Questions
Why does this private package visit House of Virgin Mary?
<p>The House of Virgin Mary gives the private Ephesus-region day a spiritual opening. Its chapel, hillside setting and pilgrimage tradition make it a meaningful stop before the archaeological route.</p>How should I experience House of Virgin Mary?
<p>Experience it slowly and respectfully. The quiet chapel, shaded grounds, votive wall and peaceful setting are the main elements that shape the visit.</p>
Cave of the Seven SleepersContinue to the Seven Sleepers site near Ephesus.
Visit Cave of the Seven Sleepers with a short walking section.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers brings a local early Christian tradition into the private route. The story of the sleepers, connected with refuge and awakening, adds a faith-based narrative layer to the Ephesus region before the main archaeological visit.
Because the stop is more interpretive than monumental, the guide explanation is important. The cave-area setting helps show how the area around Ephesus was remembered through sacred stories as well as urban ruins.
Questions
What does the Cave of the Seven Sleepers add to the route?
<p>It adds a story-focused early Christian layer near Ephesus. The Seven Sleepers tradition helps connect the local landscape with faith, refuge and sacred memory.</p>How should I understand the Cave of the Seven Sleepers?
<p>Understand it through the story and guide explanation rather than through large architecture. The stop is meaningful because of its tradition and place near Ephesus.</p>
Ephesus Ancient CityExplore the marble streets, public spaces and monumental ruins of Ephesus.
Guided visit inside Ephesus Ancient City.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the central historical experience of this private airport-start package. The theatre, Library of Celsus facade, marble streets, baths, fountains and public spaces reveal a city shaped by trade, worship, administration and daily life.
Follow the route through Ephesus as an urban story. Smaller details such as inscriptions, paving, water systems and building fragments help explain how people moved through the city and how its public spaces worked together.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the core stop?
<p>Ephesus is the main archaeological site because it shows ancient urban life on a large scale through streets, public buildings, theatre, baths, fountains and the Library of Celsus facade.</p>What makes Ephesus easier to understand during the visit?
<p>Street paving, inscriptions, water systems, column fragments and the city layout help explain how Ephesus functioned as a real city, not just as separate monuments.</p>
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause for lunch in the Selcuk area.
Lunch break near Selcuk during the local tour.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk is a practical break between the ancient city and Ayasuluk Hill. The surrounding region is part of the Aegean food landscape, where olive oil, vegetables, herbs, salads, grilled options and simple local cooking are common themes.
The venue and menu can vary according to the day's operation, so this is not a guaranteed restaurant program. It is a useful pause close to the main sites before the route continues to St. John Basilica.
Questions
What is the purpose of the Selcuk lunch stop?
<p>The lunch stop gives the private route a practical pause between the ancient city and Ayasuluk Hill. It keeps the local sightseeing day balanced and comfortable.</p>Is the Selcuk lunch stop a fixed menu experience?
<p>No. Restaurant and menu details can vary by operation. The stop should be read as a regional meal break, often reflecting Aegean-style vegetables, olive oil, herbs and simple local cooking.</p>St. John BasilicaVisit the basilica remains on Ayasuluk Hill.
Guided visit to St. John Basilica.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 ExcludedSt. John Basilica completes the private sightseeing line with a major Christian heritage stop on Ayasuluk Hill. The remains are traditionally linked with Saint John and help connect Selcuk, Ephesus and later pilgrimage memory.
Look for the basilica footprint, columns, stonework, baptistery area and views across the town and the plain. These elements help place the site within the wider religious and historical landscape of the region.
Questions
Why visit St. John Basilica after Ephesus?
<p>After the ancient city, St. John Basilica shifts the route toward early Christian heritage and pilgrimage memory. It helps explain the later religious importance of Selcuk and Ephesus.</p>What should I look for at St. John Basilica?
<p>Look for the basilica footprint, columns, baptistery area, stone details and views toward Selcuk and the Ephesus plain. These features place the site in its wider landscape.</p>
Izmir Airport (ADB)Transfer to Izmir Airport for the flight back.
Return flight segment from Izmir Airport to Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP).
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP)) ExcludedGazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) Drop-off Different tour end?Arrive back at Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) where the package ends.
Final airport drop-off at Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP).
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Excluded
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What's Included
- Private licensed professional tour guide.
- Private deluxe air-conditioned VIP vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Pick-up from your hotel or meeting point.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Airport transfers.
- Harbour transfers.
- Local taxes.
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.
- House of Virgin Mary, €13.5.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.Optional
- St. John Basilica, €6.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP)).
- 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.
- Airport guests should keep enough connection time before and after the package.
- 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.
- Alanya Airport is handled as a two-day private connected-flight package because same-day routing is not a standard reliable product.
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 Alanya Airport by flight include?
This private package starts from Gazipasa Alanya Airport (GZP), uses a flight connection toward Izmir, continues to the Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel area, and gives the Ephesus-region sightseeing day a private guided format. The route covers House of Virgin Mary, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Ephesus Ancient City and St. John Basilica before returning to Gazipasa Alanya Airport.
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Is this private Alanya Airport to Ephesus package operated by flight?
Yes. This is a private Ephesus package from Alanya Airport by flight. The airport-start structure is designed to move you to the Ephesus region first, then use the next day for the main local sightseeing route.
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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 personal pace than the shared group version.
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How long does this private Ephesus flight package take?
This is a 1-night, 2-day private package. Exact flight timing, airport meeting details and return flow are confirmed around the selected booking and operation plan.
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Which places are visited on this private Ephesus package?
The main sightseeing day 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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Are domestic flights included in the base private package?
No. Domestic flight tickets are not included in the base private package unless they are separately quoted or selected as part of an all-inclusive package arrangement.
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Is accommodation included in the base private package?
No. Accommodation is not included in the base private package unless it is separately quoted or selected as part of an all-inclusive package arrangement.
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Are meals included in the base private Ephesus package?
No. Meal stops appear in the route plan, but meals are not included in the base private package unless they are separately quoted or selected as part of an all-inclusive package option.
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Can I book this private Ephesus flight package online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this private Alanya Airport to Ephesus package 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 Alanya Airport to Ephesus package, 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 Alanya Airport to Ephesus package, 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 Alanya Airport to Ephesus package, 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 package?
No. Terrace Houses is optional and is not included in the base private package. 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 is a private airport-start package
The route begins at Gazipasa Alanya Airport, so meeting point, arrival timing, baggage needs and flight connection details should be confirmed before operation.
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Good to know: Base private inclusions are narrower
The base private structure focuses on private guiding and route operation. Flights, accommodation, meals and entrance fees depend on the package selected or quoted during booking.
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Good to know: The overnight structure protects sightseeing time
The first day is mainly for the airport-to-Ephesus-region connection. This gives the second day more space for House of Virgin Mary, Seven Sleepers, Ephesus and St. John Basilica.
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Good to know: Expect archaeological walking
Ephesus and Ayasuluk Hill include marble streets, steps, slopes and sunny open areas. Comfortable shoes, water and sun protection are useful.
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Good to know: Terrace Houses is optional
Terrace Houses is a separate optional paid section inside Ephesus. It is best for travelers who want a deeper look at Roman domestic life.
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