Highlights
- Private no-shopping Ephesus Terrace Houses ferry day trip from Chios to Izmir.
- Use the Chios-Cesme ferry connection before a private-guided Ephesus route and Izmir finish.
- Walk through Ephesus Ancient City with private pacing across marble streets and public spaces.
- Visit the Terrace Houses for decorated Roman interiors, mosaics and frescoed rooms inside Ephesus.
- Add a Selcuk lunch stop and the Temple of Artemis before continuing to final drop-off in Izmir.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The private no-shopping format turns the Chios to Izmir transfer into a focused Ephesus sightseeing day.
- Private guiding helps the Turkey-side route move at a steadier pace through Ephesus Ancient City and the Terrace Houses.
- You keep the day centered on confirmed Selcuk-area highlights: Ephesus, the Terrace Houses and the Temple of Artemis.
- Finishing in Izmir makes the route practical for travelers continuing in western Turkey after Chios.
Overview
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Megas Limnionas starts with an island transfer to Chios Ferry Port before the Cesme ferry connection.
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Complete port formalities at Chios Ferry Port and board the scheduled ferry to Cesme.
TicketsFerry ticket (Chios Ferry Port to Cesme Ferry Port) Excluded -
Arrive at Cesme Ferry Port, meet the Turkey-side vehicle and continue toward the Ephesus route.
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Visit the main archaeological route of Ephesus with time to see its best-known public monuments and preserved streets.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedEphesus Ancient City is the central historical destination on this private Chios route before the day continues toward Izmir. After the ferry connection to Cesme, Ephesus provides the main archaeological experience through marble streets, civic spaces and monumental remains.
The private guided visit keeps attention on Ephesus as a complete ancient city. Public life, commerce, worship and movement come together as the route passes through its streets and main spaces.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City central to this private Chios to Izmir route?
Ephesus is central because it is the main archaeological destination after the ferry connection to Cesme. The ancient city preserves streets, public spaces and monuments from a major Roman-period center.What should guests focus on in Ephesus?
Guests should focus on the city layout, marble streets, civic areas, facades and how public, commercial and sacred spaces connect.Is Ephesus more than a photo stop?
Yes. Ephesus is a walk-through archaeological site where the value comes from understanding the ancient city as a connected urban environment.How does the private Chios to Izmir structure affect the destination visit?
The Chios to Izmir structure defines the travel flow, while the destination visit remains centered on Ephesus, Terrace Houses, Selcuk and Temple of Artemis.
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Explore the Terrace Houses section connected with the Ephesus visit.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 ExcludedTerrace Houses add the domestic world of Ephesus to the private route. Decorated interiors, mosaics, wall paintings and household layouts make the ancient city feel more personal and detailed.
After the public streets and monuments, this stop shows how wealthy residents lived inside Ephesus. It brings comfort, taste and private life into the wider story of the site.
Questions
What do Terrace Houses add to the private route?
Terrace Houses add residential detail to Ephesus. They show decorated rooms, mosaics, wall paintings and private household spaces.Why are Terrace Houses useful after the main streets?
They help visitors compare the public city with private life, showing comfort, taste and status inside ancient homes.Do Terrace Houses help explain daily life in Ephesus?
Yes. Their interiors and layouts provide direct clues about how affluent residents lived in Roman-period Ephesus.
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A planned lunch stop near Selcuk gives the private route a practical break before the final ancient-site stop.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk works as a natural break between the main Ephesus region sites. The town reflects Aegean food culture through olive oil dishes, herbs, vegetables, soups, salads, yogurt and grilled foods.
This text gives local food context only. Specific dishes, venue and service style depend on the confirmed arrangement for the private day.
Questions
Why is Selcuk used for the lunch stop?
Selcuk is close to the route's main sites, so it keeps the guided day practical between Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Temple of Artemis.What local food references fit Selcuk?
Olive oil dishes, herbs, vegetables, soups, salads, yogurt and grilled foods fit the Aegean food setting around Selcuk.Does this destination text promise a specific lunch?
No. It explains local food culture only. The exact dishes depend on the confirmed arrangement for the tour. -
Lunch & Sponsored Shopping/Workshop Stop
Includes a sponsored shopping/workshop stop.
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Sponsored
A planned lunch stop near Selcuk gives the private route a practical break before the final ancient-site stop.
MealsLunch meal Excluded -
Complete the sightseeing route with the Temple of Artemis area before continuing to the final drop-off or return ferry.
Temple of Artemis adds the sacred background of the Ephesus region to the private Chios-to-Izmir route. The remains are modest, yet the sanctuary's ancient reputation gives the stop strong historical meaning.
Seen after Ephesus, the temple area helps explain the region through both urban life and religious memory. It is a short context stop with a much larger story behind it.
Questions
Why is Temple of Artemis meaningful on this route?
Temple of Artemis is meaningful because it links Ephesus with one of antiquity's famous sanctuaries and the Seven Wonders tradition.What should visitors expect at Temple of Artemis today?
Visitors should expect limited remains and a short context stop. The historical value is greater than the visible architectural scale today.How does Temple of Artemis complete the Ephesus region story?
It shows that the Ephesus region was shaped by both urban life and religious identity, connecting the ancient city with worship and memory.
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Continue to Izmir for the final drop-off after the Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Artemis route.
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What's Included
- Private licensed professional tour guide.
- Private deluxe air-conditioned VIP vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Drop-off at your hotel or meeting point.
- Harbour transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Lunch meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.
- Ferry ticket (Chios Ferry Port to Cesme Ferry Port).
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- Visa fees if required.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
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.
- For international ferry routes, please bring your passport and any required travel documents.
- Chios pickup timing depends on the selected hotel or meeting area and the ferry check-in time at Chios Ferry Port.
- 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.
- Ferry schedules may change due to sea conditions, weather, or port authority regulations.
- The main route includes Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and Temple of Artemis.
- This Turkey drop-off version ends in Izmir after the Ephesus route and does not return to Chios.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; it may feel more demanding than the main Ephesus route.
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 no-shopping Ephesus ferry day trip from Chios to Izmir cover?
This full-day private ferry day trip begins with Chios hotel or meeting-point pickup and continues to Chios Ferry Port for the crossing to Cesme. After arrival in Cesme, the private Turkey-side route covers Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses, a Selcuk lunch stop and the Temple of Artemis, then finishes with Izmir drop-off.
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Is this Chios to Izmir Ephesus ferry day trip private?
Yes. This version is private for your party during the Turkey-side tour operation and Ephesus guiding, with a more personal sightseeing pace than the small-group version.
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How long is this private Ephesus day trip from Chios to Izmir?
The tour is listed as a full-day private route with an approximate 13-hour duration. Exact pickup, ferry-port, sightseeing and Izmir drop-off timing is confirmed during booking rather than fixed as one universal schedule.
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Is this private Chios Ephesus ferry day trip no-shopping?
Yes. The confirmed tour setup is marked as no-shopping, so the private day is built around the ferry connection, archaeological sightseeing and Izmir drop-off rather than a planned retail detour.
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Which ports are used for this private Chios to Izmir route?
The route uses Chios Ferry Port on the Greece side and Cesme Ferry Port on the Turkey side. After the Turkey-side sightseeing route, the day ends with Izmir drop-off and is not structured as a Chios-roundtrip ferry plan.
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How are ferry costs handled in the base private day trip?
Ferry costs are confirmed during booking and may be quoted separately from the base private tour structure unless you select an option that clearly includes those travel costs.
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Which Chios pickup areas are available for the private day trip?
Active pickup variants include Karfas, Kambos, Agia Ermioni, Megas Limnionas, Agia Fotini or Agia Fotia, Vrontados, Mesta, Pyrgi, Olympi or Olympoi, Emporios or Emborios and Volissos. Pickup-area availability and final port-transfer details are shown during booking.
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Which places are visited on the private Ephesus route?
The private Turkey-side sightseeing route visits Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses inside Ephesus and the Temple of Artemis. A planned lunch stop in the Selcuk area is also part of the route flow.
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Is lunch included in the base private ferry day trip?
No. Lunch is not included in the base private tour structure unless you choose an all-inclusive package option or receive a separate quotation that includes it.
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Can I book this private Chios to Izmir Ephesus day trip online by credit card?
Yes. You can book this full-day private no-shopping Ephesus, Terrace Houses and Temple of Artemis ferry day trip from Chios to Izmir online and pay by credit card through the website booking system.
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Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included?
No. In the base private ferry day trip from Chios to Izmir, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package option during booking. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included?
No. In the base private ferry day trip, the Terrace Houses entrance fee is paid separately unless you select an all-inclusive package option during booking. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15.
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Can the private sightseeing pace be adjusted?
The private format allows a more personal pace at Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and the Temple of Artemis, but the ferry-port flow and final Izmir drop-off plan still need to be respected.
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 one-way Chios to Izmir route
The private day crosses from Chios to Cesme by ferry, continues through the Ephesus region and finishes in Izmir. It is not structured as a roundtrip ferry day ending on Chios island.
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Good to know: Base private costs are narrower
The base private structure focuses on private guiding and private Turkey-side tour operation. Ferry cost, lunch and entrance fees depend on the selected package option or quotation.
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Good to know: Documents and port flow matter
This route crosses from Chios to Cesme, so passports, any required entry documents and ferry-port instructions should be checked before the tour day.
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Good to know: Ephesus requires steady walking
Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses include ancient paving, steps, slopes and sunny open spaces. Comfortable shoes and sun protection will make the private sightseeing day easier.
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Good to know: Plan around the Izmir finish
The route finishes in Izmir after the Ephesus region, so onward hotel, airport or city logistics should be planned around Izmir drop-off rather than a Chios-side finish.
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This tour also has a group tour version.
