Highlights
- Small-group 2-day Ephesus archaeology package from Ankara with flight-connected travel
- Izmir arrival and Selcuk-area overnight keep the next sightseeing day close to Ephesus
- Ephesus Ancient City gives the route its Roman streets, public spaces and monumental scale
- Terrace Houses bring the visit into decorated homes and preserved private rooms within ancient Ephesus
- Selcuk lunch stop adds a calm regional break before the museum section
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum links statues, inscriptions and artifacts with the ruins already visited
Why You Will Love This Tour
- You can travel from Ankara and still spend the main sightseeing day on the essential Ephesus archaeology route.
- The 2-day structure makes the experience feel organized, with travel handled separately from the guided site visits.
- Small-group touring keeps the day shared and easy to follow without widening the route beyond its confirmed stops.
- Seeing the ancient city before the museum gives the artifacts more meaning when you reach the final visit.
Overview
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Day 1
Flight to Izmir and Kusadasi / Selcuk Overnight
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The package starts with Ankara pick-up, flight to Izmir and overnight stay in the Kusadasi / Selcuk area.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: ShortCankaya Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-upPickup from Cankaya before connecting through Ankara Airport toward Ephesus.
Meet the group at the selected Cankaya hotel or meeting point, then continue with the Ankara city pickup plan toward Ankara Airport and the flight-connected Ephesus route.
Ankara Airport (ESB)Use the domestic flight connection toward Izmir.
Board the domestic flight from Ankara Esenboga Airport toward Izmir for the Ephesus-region route.
TicketsFlight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) IncludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive in Izmir and continue toward the local route or hotel area.
Arrive at Izmir Airport and continue by local transfer either toward the hotel area or directly into the archaeology route.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Check in around the Selcuk or Kusadasi area.
Hotel check-in is arranged in the Selcuk or Kusadasi area before the sightseeing day.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
Ephesus Archaeology Route and Flight Return
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Different tour end?
The second day follows Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, lunch near Selcuk and Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return flight to Ankara.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
Celsus Library Angled Stone View
Celsus Library Cultural Stone Detail
Celsus Library Restored Marble Front
Celsus Library Cultural Marble Landmark
Celsus Library Detailed Facade Scene
Heracles Gate Stone Pillars in Ephesus
Nike Relief in Ephesus Ancient City
Temple of Hadrian Historic Relief
Terrace Houses Protected Stone Path
Terrace Houses Cultural Room Detail Hotel Check-out / DepartureLeave the hotel and continue with the next part of the itinerary.
After leaving the hotel, the group continues into the next part of the route.
Ephesus Ancient CityWalk the main archaeological core of ancient Ephesus.
Ephesus Ancient City is the main archaeological stop, with marble streets, public buildings and monumental remains that define the route.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedEphesus Ancient City becomes the main visitor route after the Ankara city start and flight connection bring the group to the Ephesus region. The walk follows the ancient urban core, including marble streets, civic spaces, sacred areas, theatre remains and the Library of Celsus facade.
Read the site as a working city, not only as a set of monuments. Street paving, inscriptions, water lines, building foundations and public spaces show how movement, trade, ceremony and daily life were organized in ancient Ephesus.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main archaeological stop on this Ankara city route?
<p>Ephesus is the main stop because its ancient streets, theatre, civic areas, sacred spaces and Library of Celsus facade form the core archaeological experience.</p>What should I notice while walking through Ephesus?
<p>Notice the paving, inscriptions, water lines, foundations and public spaces. These details help explain how Ephesus worked as a living city.</p>Terrace HousesSee the preserved Roman residences of Ephesus.
Terrace Houses reveal the private Roman side of Ephesus through decorated rooms, mosaics and frescoes.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 IncludedNote- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; it may feel more demanding than the main Ephesus route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may be more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- Terrace Houses includes stairs, narrow passages and uneven ancient floors; a slower private pace may feel more comfortable here than in the main open-air route.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
Terrace Houses add a more intimate archaeological layer to the group visit. Their mosaics, frescoes, courtyards, stairways and preserved rooms show the residential world of wealthy Roman families inside Ephesus.
This stop helps balance the scale of the public city with private life. Decorative floors, painted walls and room divisions reveal taste, rest, household order and social status.
Questions
Why are Terrace Houses included in the route?
<p>Terrace Houses show the residential side of Ephesus through mosaics, frescoes, courtyards, stairways and preserved rooms from wealthy Roman homes.</p>What makes Terrace Houses different from the main ancient city walk?
<p>They focus on private interiors rather than public monuments, revealing household rest, decoration, room planning and social status.</p>Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause near Selcuk during the sightseeing flow.
The lunch stop is placed near Selcuk to keep the local sightseeing flow practical before the museum visit.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the group a practical pause close to the archaeological area. Selcuk sits beside Ephesus, so the meal fits naturally within the sightseeing sequence before continuing to the museum.
Depending on the daily venue, the table may include regional soups, salads, grilled plates, rice, bread, herbs, seasonal produce and Aegean-style olive oil vegetables.
Questions
Why is lunch planned around Selcuk?
<p>Selcuk is beside Ephesus, making it a practical local meal stop within the sightseeing flow. Exact venue and menu details may vary.</p>Ephesus Archaeological MuseumAdd museum context through key finds from Ephesus.
The Ephesus Archaeological Museum adds preserved statues, reliefs, coins and daily-life finds that deepen the site visit.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 IncludedEphesus Archaeological Museum brings original finds into close view after the ancient city walk. Sculptures, inscriptions, coins, Artemis-related pieces and everyday objects help connect the ruins with the people who used them.
The museum is useful because it turns fragments from Ephesus and Selcuk into a clearer story of worship, craft, public identity and domestic life.
Questions
How does Ephesus Archaeological Museum help after visiting the ruins?
<p>The museum displays original finds from Ephesus and Selcuk, helping connect the ruins with sculpture, inscriptions, coins, worship and daily life.</p>Which museum objects connect best with this archaeology route?
<p>Artemis-related objects, sculptures, inscriptions, coins and daily-use pieces connect especially well with Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses.</p>Izmir Airport (ADB)Use the return flight connection from Izmir.
Return to Izmir Airport for the final flight connection back to Ankara.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)) IncludedAnkara Airport ArrivalArrive back in Ankara and continue to the final endpoint.
Arrive back at Ankara Airport and continue to the final Ankara endpoint.
Cankaya Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return drop-off in Cankaya after the Ephesus archaeology package.
After the guided Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, lunch near Selcuk and museum route, the return flight-connected plan brings the package back to Cankaya.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Included
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Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Ankara Airport (ESB) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Ankara Airport (ESB)).
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Hotel or meeting point pick-up and drop-off.
- Airport transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- 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.
- 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.
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 small-group Ephesus package from Ankara by flight include in the route?
This small-group 1 Night/2 Days package uses Ankara as the departure and return base, connects through Izmir by flight route, and places the main guided visit on Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses, a Selcuk lunch stop and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum. Ankara is used for travel logistics rather than local sightseeing. -
How long is the Ankara to Ephesus flight-connected package?
The package is listed as 1 Night/2 Days. Exact pickup, flight connection and return timing should be followed from the confirmed booking information instead of a fixed clock-time schedule in the description. -
What is planned on Day 1 of this small-group package?
Day 1 is the travel and overnight setup. The route starts from the confirmed Ankara hotel or meeting point, continues with the Ankara Airport and Izmir Airport connection, and finishes with hotel check-in around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area. -
What is planned on Day 2 of the Ephesus package?
Day 2 is the main Ephesus archaeology day. After hotel check-out or departure, the route visits Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses, a lunch stop near Selcuk and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return flight connection and final Ankara drop-off. -
Can this package start from Kizilay, Cankaya or Ulus?
Yes. Kizilay, Cankaya and Ulus are active pickup variants for this small-group package. The selected pickup area can change local pickup logistics and the final payable amount, so it should be checked before confirming the reservation. -
How are Ankara and Izmir Airport used in this tour?
Ankara Airport and Izmir Airport are used as flight connection points in the route. Flight timing, ticket handling, baggage rules and meeting details should be checked in the confirmed booking information because they can depend on the selected operation plan. -
Is the hotel stay around Kusadasi or Selcuk part of the route?
Yes. The route includes hotel check-in and check-out around the Kusadasi or Selcuk area. Hotel category, room arrangement and exact inclusion details should be verified in the confirmed package information. -
Is Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in the small-group package?
Yes. Ephesus Ancient City is the core archaeological stop on this route, and its entrance fee is marked as included for this small-group package setup. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included?
Yes. Terrace Houses of Ephesus is included as a premium stop inside the archaeology route, and the Terrace Houses entrance fee is marked as included for this small-group package. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
Is Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee included?
Yes. Ephesus Archaeological Museum is part of the sightseeing route after Ephesus Ancient City and the Terrace Houses, and the museum entrance fee is marked as included in this small-group setup. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10. -
Is lunch included during the Ephesus sightseeing day?
The route includes a lunch stop near Selcuk during Day 2. Exact meal inclusion, menu details and dietary arrangements should be checked in the confirmed package information. -
Does this tour include guided visits in Ankara or Izmir?
No. Ankara, Ankara Airport and Izmir Airport are used for pickup, flight connection and return logistics. The guided visit content is focused on Ephesus Ancient City, the Terrace Houses and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. -
Can I reserve this Ankara to Ephesus package online?
Yes. This site supports online tour booking and credit-card payment, so travelers can reserve the package online and then follow the confirmed booking information for exact operational details.
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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Choose the correct Ankara pickup area
The main departure is Ankara, with Kizilay, Cankaya and Ulus available as active pickup variants. Confirm the selected area before finalizing pickup logistics and price. -
Treat flight details as confirmation-based
The route uses Ankara Airport and Izmir Airport, but ticket handling, baggage rules and timing should be followed from the confirmed package information. -
Group entrance fees are marked as included
For this small-group setup, Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses of Ephesus and Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fees are linked as included. -
Pack for one overnight and a walking-focused visit
This package combines an overnight stay around Kusadasi or Selcuk with archaeological walking at Ephesus and the Terrace Houses, so practical luggage and comfortable shoes are recommended. -
Keep the visit focus clear
The visit is centered on Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, the Selcuk lunch stop and Ephesus Archaeological Museum, while Ankara and Izmir are used as travel logistics.
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