ITINERARY

• Visit to Ephesus Travel Agency will warmly welcome cruise passengers at the port's main exit gate, holding a sign with your name, and hotel guests in their hotel lobby. 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.
• As you pass by, take a moment to admire Kuşadası Castle, perched on Pigeon Island and surrounded by the shimmering waters of the Aegean Sea. Built during the Ottoman era for coastal defense, this historic fortress once protected the region from pirates and invaders, standing as a symbol of strength and resilience. Today, Kuşadası Castle is a cherished landmark that offers visitors a fascinating look into the town’s maritime history. Its breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and sea make it a must-see destination for those exploring the charm and beauty of Kuşadası.
• As you pass through Kuşadası, uncover the rich history of the Öküz Mehmet Paşa Caravanserai, an Ottoman-era marvel built in 1618 as a vital trade hub for merchants traveling between the East and West. This impressive structure provided lodging and protection for traders and their goods, ensuring safe passage along bustling trade routes. With its grand arched entrance, robust stone walls, and elegant Ottoman architectural design, the caravanserai symbolizes the role of trade in fostering cultural exchange and economic growth during the empire's height. Today, it stands as a significant historic landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past and Kuşadası’s heritage.
• Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, invites you to step back in time. Its ancient streets, still marked by chariot wheels, connect awe-inspiring landmarks. Marvel at the Great Theater, seating over 20,000 people, once echoing with gladiatorial battles and public events. Explore the Public Agora, where St. Paul preached and Anatolian handicrafts, celebrated for their quality, were traded. Stroll along Marble Street to the iconic Celsus Library, the ancient world’s third-largest library, renowned for its beautifully restored façade. Discover architectural gems like the Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain, Domitian Temple—among the first temples dedicated to a human—and the Odeon, a venue for musical performances. Ephesus is a testament to the grandeur, innovation, and cultural richness of ancient civilizations, making it a must-visit destination in Turkey.
• The House of the Virgin Mary, located near Ephesus, is a revered Christian pilgrimage destination, 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. Their gifts to the shrine, displayed as symbols of its sacred importance, underscore its spiritual significance. This tranquil site offers a profound connection to Christian history and faith, continuing to inspire devotion among pilgrims and visitors from around the globe.
• In the early centuries A.D., St. John the Evangelist lived in Ephesus, dedicating his life to spreading Christianity and teaching the message of Jesus. After his exile on the island of Patmos, where he authored the Book of Revelation, St. John returned to Ephesus, where he passed away and was buried by his disciples on the southern slope of Ayasoluk Hill. In the 6th century A.D., Roman Emperor Justinian honored St. John by commissioning the construction of one of Christendom's largest basilicas, directly over his tomb. This magnificent structure featured grand domes and intricate mosaics, symbolizing the devotion of early Christians. The Basilica of St. John became a major pilgrimage site, drawing faithful visitors from around the world. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to the spiritual and architectural achievements of the Byzantine era.
• 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. Built around 650 BC on a site sacred to Cybele, the Anatolian Mother Goddess, it was financed by King of Lydia and engineered on marshy ground to prevent earthquake damage. In 41 BC, Cleopatra’s sister, Arsinoe IV, was murdered here under Mark Antony’s orders. Though only columns and ruins remain, the temple’s legacy rivals the grandeur of the Parthenon. Here you will unveil how Christianity has shaped different religion in the area.
• Discover the Best Traditional Handicrafts and Local Insights from Your Guide. Get expert tips from your local guide on must-see attractions, top-quality traditional handicrafts, safety advice, and insider recommendations for a hassle-free experience.
• At the end of your tour, we will ensure your timely return to Kusadasi Cruise Port, well before your ship’s scheduled departure. Important Note: With multiple cruise ships docking and departing at different times, we carefully monitor all schedules, confirm details with our guests, and coordinate return timings to guarantee a smooth and hassle-free experience. Our tours promise an on-time return to your cruise ship, so you can explore with confidence and peace of mind.