Highlights
- Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Ephesus day trip by flight: Start directly at SAW and connect through Izmir for the Selcuk heritage route.
- Small-group airport-based format: Join a guided Ephesus day plan without adding an Istanbul city pickup stage.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Walk through marble streets, public buildings and Roman-era monuments with guide context.
- House of Virgin Mary: Add a meaningful Christian heritage stop on Bulbul Mountain near Ephesus.
- Temple of Artemis: See the symbolic sanctuary area connected with the Seven Wonders story.
- Isa Bey Mosque: Complete the Selcuk route with Seljuk-era architecture before returning to Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- It is practical for travelers who want the Ephesus day trip to begin and end at Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
- The flight-connected structure keeps the SAW to Izmir route and local Ephesus transfer easy to follow.
- The guided day combines Roman archaeology, pilgrimage heritage and Seljuk culture in one classic route.
- It suits Istanbul-area travelers who prefer an airport-based Ephesus plan instead of a city pickup program.
Overview
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Sabiha Gokcen Airport Meeting Point
Meet the group at Sabiha Gokcen Airport for the domestic flight to Izmir.
The tour starts directly at Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Guests meet at the airport, complete domestic flight procedures and fly to Izmir for the Ephesus route.
TicketsFlight ticket (Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) Included -
Izmir Airport
Arrival at Izmir Airport and transfer to the Ephesus region.
Meet your local guide or transfer team at Izmir Airport, then continue by shared transfer toward the Ephesus region.
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Ephesus Ancient City
Guided visit to Ephesus Ancient City with the main highlights route.
Walk the core archaeological areas with your guide, focusing on the most iconic monuments and marble streets of ancient Ephesus.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 Excluded OptionalEphesus Ancient City is the main archaeological destination after the Sabiha Gokcen Airport flight connection to Izmir. Its marble streets, theatre, agora areas, gates, inscriptions and Library of Celsus show how a major ancient city organized public life, worship, trade and status.
Read Ephesus as a connected urban plan. Public spaces, monuments and street lines work together, while the former harbor story explains why this inland site once became one of the regions most influential ancient centers.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main stop?
Ephesus is the main stop because it preserves the streets, public spaces, monuments and inscriptions of a major ancient city.Which details help explain Ephesus best?
The Library of Celsus, theatre, marble streets, agora areas, gates and inscriptions help explain the city as a connected plan.Why does the former harbor matter?
The former harbor explains how Ephesus gained trade, wealth and influence before natural changes moved the coastline away.How should restored areas be viewed?
Restored areas help visitors imagine scale and form, but they should be read together with original remains and conservation work.
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House of Virgin Mary
Visit the House of Virgin Mary pilgrimage site near Ephesus.
A guided stop introduces the shrine and prayer areas on Bulbul Mountain, one of the region's key Christian heritage points.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 IncludedHouse of Virgin Mary adds a quiet religious layer to the Ephesus day. Located in the hills above the ancient city, the site is associated with the Christian tradition that Mary spent her final years in this region.
The visit is modest in scale but meaningful in atmosphere. The chapel, trees and hillside setting create a reflective pause within a route shaped by archaeology and layered belief.
Questions
Why is House of Virgin Mary meaningful?
It adds the Christian pilgrimage layer of the Ephesus region and gives the sightseeing day a quiet reflective beginning.What atmosphere should visitors expect there?
Visitors should expect a calm, small and respectful atmosphere shaped by the chapel, trees and hillside setting.Is House of Virgin Mary presented as certain archaeology?
No. It is best described as a respected Christian tradition and pilgrimage site associated with Mary and Ephesus.
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Lunch Stop (Selcuk)
Lunch break near Selcuk during the route.
L
Take a lunch break and a short rest before the final heritage stops.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the route a regional food pause near the Ephesus sites. Around Selcuk, Aegean Turkish meals may include olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, herbs, grilled foods, soups, salads and yogurt-based flavors.
The exact meal depends on the venue and arrangement, so it should be understood as a local lunch break rather than a fixed menu. It also gives guests time to rest between the main cultural visits.
Questions
What food culture is common around Selcuk?
Selcuk reflects Aegean Turkish food culture, including olive oil dishes, vegetables, herbs, grilled foods, soups, salads and yogurt flavors.Is lunch guaranteed to be one specific dish?
No. The meal can vary by venue and day, so it should be described as a regional lunch rather than one guaranteed plate.Why is lunch useful during the route?
Lunch gives guests a rest point and adds local food culture between the main heritage visits. -
Temple of Artemis
Short stop at the Temple of Artemis area for photos and context.
See the Artemis heritage zone near Selcuk and hear why it is remembered as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Temple of Artemis connects the route with one of antiquitys most famous sacred places. Although only limited remains are visible today, the sanctuary was once counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The stop is short but historically important. Its fragments help visitors imagine the lost scale of a temple that once shaped the religious identity and reputation of Ephesus.
Questions
Why is Temple of Artemis famous?
It was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a major sacred site connected with ancient Ephesus.Why are only limited remains visible today?
The sanctuary changed over centuries through damage, reuse of materials and landscape transformation, leaving only fragments visible.What does this stop add to the tour?
It adds context by connecting small visible remains with the memory of a once-famous ancient sanctuary.
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Isa Bey Mosque
Visit Isa Bey Mosque and enjoy panoramic views of Selcuk highlights.
Stop at the Isa Bey Mosque, one of the most notable Seljuk-era landmarks in Selcuk. From the area, enjoy panoramic views toward the Basilica of St. John and Selcuk Castle before heading back to the airport for your return flight.
Isa Bey Mosque adds the Seljuk and Islamic layer of Selcuk to the route. Near Ayasuluk Hill, it shows how the Ephesus region continued to hold cultural and religious meaning after antiquity.
Notice the courtyard atmosphere, stonework and balanced proportions. Because the mosque is both a historic monument and a religious place, visitors should keep the experience respectful.
Questions
What does Isa Bey Mosque add to the route?
It adds the Seljuk and Islamic layer of Selcuk, showing that the region remained important after antiquity.What should visitors notice at Isa Bey Mosque?
Visitors should notice the courtyard atmosphere, stonework, proportions and setting near Ayasuluk Hill.What behavior is appropriate at the mosque?
Respectful behavior is appropriate because the mosque is both a historic monument and a religious place.
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Izmir Airport
Return flight departure from Izmir to Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
After completing the route, arrive at Izmir Airport and prepare for your domestic return flight to Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)) Included -
Sabiha Gokcen Airport Drop-off
Tour ends at Sabiha Gokcen Airport after the return flight.
Different tour end?
Different tour end?
After landing at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, the flight-based group tour ends at the airport meeting area.
Got a question about this tour?
Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Lunch meal.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- House of Virgin Mary.
- Flight ticket (Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)).
- 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.
- Harbour transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- 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.
- 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 Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Ephesus small-group day trip include?
This small-group Ephesus day trip starts and ends at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, uses the Sabiha Gokcen-Izmir-Sabiha Gokcen flight connection, and follows the classic Ephesus heritage route in the Ephesus region: Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis and Isa Bey Mosque.
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Is this tour suitable if Sabiha Gokcen Airport is my meeting point?
Yes. This product is built for travelers who want to meet directly at Sabiha Gokcen Airport rather than use an Istanbul city pickup. The route keeps the day focused on the airport flight connection and the guided Ephesus sightseeing plan.
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Is this Sabiha Gokcen Airport Ephesus tour operated by flight?
Yes. The route uses flights between Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) and Izmir Airport (ADB), then continues with organized local transfers between Izmir Airport and the Ephesus and Selcuk sightseeing route.
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How long is this Ephesus day trip from Sabiha Gokcen Airport?
The listed duration is a full-day plan of about 14 hours. Flight and return timing depends on the selected flight operation and booking details, so the page does not use a fixed departure or finish time.
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Is this tour private or small-group?
This version is the small-group tour. You follow the Ephesus, Virgin Mary, Artemis and Isa Bey route with a guide and other travelers on the organized group structure.
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Are domestic flight tickets included in this group tour?
Yes. In the group-tour structure, the Sabiha Gokcen-Izmir-Sabiha Gokcen domestic flight tickets are included as part of the organized day tour.
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Is lunch included on this group Ephesus tour?
Yes. The group-tour structure includes the planned lunch stop near Selcuk as part of the organized route. Drinks and personal extras should be checked during booking if you need exact details.
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Does this tour include Istanbul city pickup?
No. This product starts directly at Sabiha Gokcen Airport. If you need hotel pickup in Istanbul, choose an Istanbul-departure version that includes city pickup areas.
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What is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Ephesus small-group day tour, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is included in the group-tour structure. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40.
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What is the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee, and is it included?
Yes. For this Sabiha Gokcen Airport to Ephesus small-group day tour, the House of Virgin Mary entrance fee is included in the group-tour structure. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5.
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Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this group tour?
No. Terrace Houses is optional on this route and is not included in the standard group-tour structure. 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: Carry your passport or valid ID
This day tour uses domestic flights between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Izmir, so carry the travel document required for airport check-in.
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Good to know: Start and finish are airport-based
The tour is arranged around Sabiha Gokcen Airport as the meeting and return point. It does not automatically include an Istanbul city hotel pickup.
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Good to know: Expect a long full-day route
The itinerary includes flights, local transfers and guided walking at Ephesus. 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 more detail about mosaics, frescoes and Roman domestic life.
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