ITINERARY

• Visit to Ephesus Travel Agency will warmly welcome cruise passengers at the port's main exit gate, holding a sign with your name. After booking your tour, please contact our team to confirm and arrange your meeting time by providing your cruise ship name and arrival & on-board times. This information will help us suggest the best timing for your tour. If you encounter any difficulties finding a suitable time option, we will gladly assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, offers an extraordinary glimpse into history. Dating back to the Greek and Roman eras, its ancient streets, still marked by chariot wheels, connect visitors to its vibrant past. Explore the Great Theater, seating over 20,000 spectators, once hosting gladiatorial battles and performances. Visit the Public Agora, where St. Paul preached and Anatolian handicrafts, celebrated for their quality, were traded. Walk along Marble Street to the iconic Celsus Library, the third-largest library of the ancient world, renowned for its beautifully restored façade. Marvel at other landmarks like the Temple of Hadrian, the Trajan Fountain, the Domitian Temple, and the Odeon, a venue for musical events. Ephesus reflects the innovation and cultural richness of ancient civilizations, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
• The House of the Virgin Mary, near Ephesus, is a revered Christian pilgrimage site believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final days and was assumed into heaven. According to tradition, Apostle John brought Mary to Ephesus after the Resurrection of Christ, seeking refuge following the martyrdom of James and other apostles. Built on the foundation of her home, the church has been affirmed by visits from three popes: Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006. These visits, along with their gifts displayed at the shrine, highlight its sacred significance. This serene site, steeped in spirituality and history, continues to draw visitors from across the globe, inspiring faith and devotion while offering a profound connection to Christian history.
• The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt and moon. Constructed around 650 BC on a site sacred to Cybele, the Anatolian Mother Goddess, the temple was financed by the King of Lydia and ingeniously built on marshy ground to resist earthquakes. In 41 BC, this sacred site witnessed the tragic murder of Arsinoe IV, Cleopatra’s sister, under the orders of Mark Antony. Although only columns and ruins remain today, the Temple of Artemis continues to captivate visitors with its historical and cultural significance, standing as a testament to ancient architectural brilliance and rivaling the grandeur of the Parthenon.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local weaving school, where you’ll immerse yourself in Turkey’s rich carpet-making heritage. Renowned worldwide for their intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship, Turkish carpets are not just decorative items—they are timeless works of art and valuable investments that appreciate in worth over time. During your visit, witness skilled artisans demonstrate the age-old weaving techniques, creating stunning patterns passed down through generations. Gain insight into the cultural significance and craftsmanship that make Turkish carpets a global symbol of artistry and tradition.
• At the end of your tour, rest assured that we will guarantee your timely return to İzmir Cruise Port, well before your ship’s scheduled departure. With multiple cruise ships docking and departing at various times, we carefully monitor all schedules, confirm details with our guests, and coordinate return timings for a smooth and stress-free experience. If the tour cannot fit within your cruise schedule, we will inform you in advance. During your tour, enjoy a curated journey exploring must-see attractions and uncovering the best of traditional Turkish handicrafts. With expert guidance from your local guide, gain valuable insights, safety advice, and personalized tips to make the most of your visit. Discover exquisite handmade treasures, while immersing yourself in the cultural richness of the region. Our tours promise a seamless experience, allowing you to explore with confidence and peace of mind. We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable adventures!