Highlights
- Private Bodrum to Ephesus road tour: Travel the long route with a personal guide and more flexible pace.
- Private guided day: Keep the Ephesus and Selcuk visits focused around your party rather than a shared schedule.
- House of Virgin Mary: Visit a quiet sacred site in the hills above the ancient city.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Explore streets, monuments and public spaces that reveal the scale of ancient Ephesus.
- Temple of Artemis: Add the ancient wonder connection through this legendary sanctuary site.
- Isa Bey Mosque: Complete the route with Seljuk architecture in historic Selcuk.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You get the classic Ephesus route from Bodrum with the comfort and pacing of a private tour.
- The private setup helps the long road day feel easier to manage around your group.
- A guide can connect sacred heritage, ancient city life and Seljuk architecture into one meaningful story.
- It suits travelers who want Ephesus from Bodrum without adapting to a shared long-distance schedule.
Overview
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Start from Bagla with private pickup at the confirmed hotel, address or meeting point. The route then continues by private vehicle toward Selcuk, Ephesus and the return to the same pickup area.
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Pause near Bafa Lake for breakfast and a short rest before continuing toward the Ephesus and Selcuk area.
MealsBreakfast meal ExcludedBafa Lake Breakfast Break helps divide the longer private road journey from Bodrum before reaching the Ephesus region. The stop may include simple Turkish breakfast items such as tea, bread, cheese, olives, tomatoes, eggs, pastries, honey or jam depending on the venue.
The purpose is comfort and pacing, not a guaranteed menu. It gives the route a softer opening and lets guests rest briefly before the day moves into its archaeological and religious visits.
Questions
What is the breakfast break like on this route?
It is a practical road-route pause. Depending on the venue, breakfast may include tea, bread, cheese, olives, tomatoes, eggs, pastries, honey or jam.Why is the breakfast break useful?
It helps divide the longer drive from Bodrum and gives guests a calmer start before the heritage visits. -
Visit the House of Virgin Mary, a quiet pilgrimage site on Bulbul Mountain that adds a reflective opening to the Ephesus route.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 ExcludedHouse of Virgin Mary offers a reflective start to the private heritage stops. Located above Ephesus, the site is linked to Christian tradition and is visited by many guests as a place of pilgrimage and quiet remembrance.
Its importance comes from silence, memory and setting rather than scale. The small chapel and trees create a calm contrast before the route continues toward Ephesus Ancient City.
Questions
What is the importance of House of Virgin Mary?
Its importance comes from Christian tradition and pilgrimage memory. Many visitors value it as a peaceful place connected with Mary and Ephesus.Is the site large or visually dramatic?
No. It is small and quiet, with meaning based on atmosphere, devotion and setting rather than size.How should visitors behave there?
Visitors should behave quietly and respectfully because the site has religious meaning for many guests.
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Walk through Ephesus Ancient City with your private guide and see the major streets, monuments and public spaces of one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Anatolia.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the strongest archaeological experience of the private Bodrum route. Streets, theatre remains, agora spaces, gates, inscriptions and the Library of Celsus reveal how a major ancient city functioned.
Read Ephesus through the relationship between its spaces. Monumental facades, civic buildings and the former harbor identity help explain the city's power, while the surviving street plan keeps the ancient urban structure visible.
Questions
Why is Ephesus the central ancient site?
Ephesus shows the structure of a major ancient city through streets, theatre, public spaces, gates, inscriptions and monuments.Which details help explain Ephesus?
The Library of Celsus, theatre, marble streets, agora areas, gates and inscriptions help explain movement, public life and status in the city.Why does the harbor story matter?
The harbor explains how Ephesus gained influence through trade and movement before natural change moved the coastline.Are restored sections part of the visit?
Yes. Restored sections help visitors understand scale and form, but they should be read together with original remains and conservation work.
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Take a lunch break in the Selcuk area before continuing to the final heritage stops around town.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk places a regional food break between the main sightseeing stops. Around Selcuk, Aegean Turkish meals may include olive oil, seasonal vegetables, herbs, grilled foods, soups, salads and yogurt-based flavors.
The menu can vary according to venue and day, so it should be described as a local lunch experience rather than a fixed plate. It also provides a steady pause in a long road-based day.
Questions
What local flavors may appear at lunch near Selcuk?
Lunch may reflect Aegean Turkish flavors such as olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, grilled foods, soups, salads and yogurt.Can lunch vary by venue?
Yes. The menu can vary, so it should be understood as a regional food break rather than a fixed guaranteed dish.Why is lunch part of the route?
It gives guests a rest point and adds everyday local culture between the main heritage visits. -
Lunch & Sponsored Shopping/Workshop Stop
Includes a sponsored shopping/workshop stop.
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Sponsored
Take a lunch break in the Selcuk area before continuing to the final heritage stops around town.
MealsLunch meal Excluded -
See the Temple of Artemis area and hear why this once-famous sanctuary became one of the symbols of ancient Ephesus.
Temple of Artemis connects the private route with the sacred fame of ancient Ephesus. The sanctuary was once listed among the Seven Wonders, even though only modest remains are visible today.
The stop works through imagination and context. A few fragments represent a much larger story of worship, architecture, loss, reuse and the changing landscape around Ephesus.
Questions
Why is Temple of Artemis included?
It represents one of the Seven Wonders and the sacred history of ancient Ephesus, even though limited remains are visible today.Why does the site have few remains?
Centuries of damage, reuse of materials and landscape change left only fragments of the former sanctuary.How should visitors understand this stop?
Visitors should understand it through context and imagination, connecting small remains with a once-great sanctuary.
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Visit Isa Bey Mosque in Selcuk and see one of the region's important examples of early Turkish-Islamic architecture.
Isa Bey Mosque brings the route into the later Seljuk and Islamic history of Selcuk. Its location near Ayasuluk Hill helps show how the region continued to hold cultural and religious meaning after antiquity.
The courtyard feeling, stone details and balanced proportions are the main details to observe. Visitors should keep a respectful attitude because the mosque is a religious monument.
Questions
What historical layer does Isa Bey Mosque represent?
It represents the Seljuk and Islamic layer of Selcuk, adding later history to the Ephesus region.What should visitors observe at the mosque?
Visitors should observe the courtyard atmosphere, stone details, proportions and setting near Ayasuluk Hill.What etiquette is appropriate at Isa Bey Mosque?
Respectful behavior is appropriate because it is a religious monument. Visitors should follow local guidance.
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Dinner Break on Return Route (Bafa Lake Route) Pause for dinner around the Bafa Lake Route during the return journey. D
This meal break is planned as a scenic regional pause during the road journey, with Aegean-style flavors, tea, local breakfast items or simple dinner options depending on the time of day.
MealsDinner meal ExcludedDinner Break on the Return Route gives the private journey back toward Bodrum a useful evening pause. Depending on the venue, the meal may include simple Turkish road-stop options such as soups, grilled foods, salads, vegetables and yogurt.
The stop is part of the travel flow after the Ephesus region visits. It helps guests rest and reset before continuing the final return section.
Questions
What may dinner include on the return route?
Dinner may include simple Turkish road-stop dishes such as soups, grilled foods, salads, vegetables and yogurt, depending on the venue.Why is the dinner break included?
It gives guests time to rest and eat after the Ephesus region visits before completing the return journey to Bodrum. -
Private Bagla Drop-off Return privately to Bagla after the Selcuk visits. Different tour end? Different tour end?
After completing the Ephesus and Selcuk route, return to Bagla by private vehicle. Drop-off is arranged at the confirmed hotel, address or meeting point.
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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.
- Hotel or meeting point pick-up and drop-off.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Breakfast meal.
- Lunch meal.
- Dinner 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
- 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.
- 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 this private Bodrum to Ephesus day tour include?
This private Bodrum to Ephesus day tour by road covers House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, Temple of Artemis and Isa Bey Mosque, with a private guide, private route operation, comfort breaks on the long route and a planned lunch stop in the route.
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Is this private tour a good option if I am staying in Bodrum?
Yes. This private route is designed for travelers staying in Bodrum who want the main Ephesus and Selcuk heritage sites with a private guide and a more flexible pace.
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Which Bodrum pickup areas are available for this private tour?
Available pickup-based variants include Bodrum Marina, Gumbet, Bitez, Torba, Ortakent, Yahsi, Bagla, Yaliciftlik, Turgutreis, Yalikavak, Gundogan, Golturkbuku, Gumusluk, Akyarlar, Kadikalesi, Guvercinlik, Gulluk and Tuzla. Choose the closest pickup area during booking, because timing and pricing can vary by location.
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Is this tour private or small-group?
This version is private. Your party follows the long-distance Ephesus and Selcuk route with a private guide and a more flexible pace than the shared group version.
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How long does this private Bodrum to Ephesus tour usually take?
This is a long full-day private Ephesus tour from Bodrum and the main Bodrum departure usually takes about 13 hours, depending on pickup location, road conditions, your pace and site conditions.
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Is lunch included in the base private tour?
No. Lunch is not included in the base private tour structure unless you select an all-inclusive package option during booking.
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Do we visit both Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary?
Yes. The private route includes both Ephesus Ancient City and the House of Virgin Mary, then continues with Temple of Artemis and Isa Bey Mosque in the Selcuk area.
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Can I book this private Ephesus day tour online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this private Bodrum to Ephesus day tour online and pay by credit card through the booking system.
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What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Bodrum 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 House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
No. In the base private Bodrum 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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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: Choose the right Bodrum pickup area
Select the pickup area that matches where you are staying, such as Bodrum Marina, Gumbet, Bitez, Torba, Turgutreis, Yalikavak, Guvercinlik, Gulluk or another supported Bodrum-region pickup point.
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Good to know: The private pace is more flexible
The route still follows House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, Temple of Artemis and Isa Bey Mosque, but your private guide can manage the day around your party's pace.
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Good to know: Base private inclusions are narrower
The base private structure focuses on the private guide and route operation. Entrance fees and lunch depend on the package selected during booking.
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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 more detail about mosaics, frescoes and Roman domestic life.
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