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 a remarkable journey through history. Dating back to the Greek and Roman periods, its ancient streets, still etched with chariot wheel marks, connect visitors to its awe-inspiring past. Experience the grandeur of the Great Theater, seating over 20,000 spectators, where gladiatorial battles once took place. Visit the Public Agora, where St. Paul preached and where Anatolian handicrafts, celebrated for their exceptional quality, were traded. Stroll along Marble Street to the iconic Celsus Library, the third-largest library of the ancient world, renowned for its beautifully restored façade. Explore other architectural marvels like the Temple of Hadrian, the Trajan Fountain, the Domitian Temple—one of the first temples dedicated to a human—and the Odeon, a venue for musical performances. Ephesus embodies innovation, and cultural richness of ancient civilizations, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
• The Ephesus Terrace Houses, also known as the "Houses of the Rich," are a must-see archaeological site within the ancient city of Ephesus, located near Selçuk, Turkey. These remarkably well-preserved Roman-era residences date back to the 1st century AD and offer an unparalleled insight into the opulent lifestyles of Ephesus's elite. Featuring frescoed walls, intricate mosaics, advanced underfloor heating systems (hypocausts), and running water, the Terrace Houses showcase the sophistication and innovation of Roman engineering. Visitors can walk through beautifully decorated rooms and corridors, exploring the daily lives, social customs, and cultural richness of Ephesian society. This unique attraction provides an immersive experience, enhancing your understanding of the grandeur and history of Ephesus, making it a highlight for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
• 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 withstand earthquakes. In 41 BC, the temple bore witness to a tragic event when Arsinoe IV, sister of Cleopatra, was executed under the orders of Mark Antony. Today, though only remnants of columns and ruins remain, the Temple of Artemis continues to captivate visitors with a legacy that rivals the magnificence of the Parthenon, standing as a testament to the architectural and cultural brilliance of the ancient world.
• We will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local weaving school, where you’ll also have the unique opportunity to learn about Turkey’s rich carpet-making tradition. Renowned for their intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship, Turkish carpets are more than just decorative items—they are works of art and valuable investment pieces that grow in worth over time. Witness the skill of local artisans as they demonstrate the age-old techniques of weaving, showcasing patterns passed down through generations.
• 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!