Uncovering the captivating past and vibrant present of Turkey, the Ephesus and Istanbul Combined Private Shore Excursions offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to take in the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, this exclusive tour promises an unforgettable journey filled with enchanting discoveries. Travelers can expect personalized exploration, delectable local cuisine, and seamless transportation – all while benefiting from the expertise of knowledgeable guides. Embark on this captivating adventure and unlock the secrets that lie within Turkey’s treasured destinations.
Key Points

- Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the iconic sights of Istanbul on a private shore excursion.
- Tour includes pickup and drop-off at cruise ports, air-conditioned transportation, and a knowledgeable guide.
- Experience traditional Turkish cuisine with a lunch provided in both Ephesus and Istanbul.
- Suitable for families, with infant seats available, but not wheelchair accessible.
- Highly rated by customers for its organization, guide expertise, and overall satisfaction.
Tour Overview and Details

The private shore excursions in Ephesus and Istanbul offer a comprehensive exploration of these two iconic Turkish destinations. Priced from $157.61 per person, the tours include pickup and drop-off at the cruise ports, air-conditioned transportation, and a knowledgeable guide.
Highlights include visiting the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the Virgin Mary house, and exploring Istanbul’s vibrant markets and mosques. Travelers will also enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in both locations.
While the tours aren’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available. With a 5-star rating and positive feedback, these private excursions provide an engaging, hassle-free experience for all travelers.
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Istanbul
Pickup and Accessibility

Pickup points for these private shore excursions are the Kusadasi and Istanbul Cruise Ports.
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, infant seats are available for families.
This private tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available for families.
The host cautions those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions may want to reconsider participating. But most travelers can enjoy this experience.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The private nature of the tour ensures only your group takes part, giving you a personalized experience.
Tour Experience
Confirmed within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, the private nature of these shore excursions ensures only your group participates, offering a personalized experience.
Highlights of the tour include:
-
Exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visiting the awe-inspiring Virgin Mary House, a sacred pilgrimage site.
-
Taking in the bustling atmosphere of Istanbul’s vibrant markets and grand mosques, such as the iconic Blue Mosque.
-
Savoring a traditional Turkish lunch in the charming village of Sirince, where you’ll indulge in the flavors of the local cuisine.
With expert guides leading the way, these shore excursions provide an engaging and memorable exploration of Ephesus and Istanbul.
Customer Feedback

How satisfied were customers with these shore excursions? Based on a single 5-star review, travelers were very pleased with the overall organization, expertise of the guide, and family-friendly nature of the tour. The table below provides a snapshot of the customer feedback:
| Criteria | Rating | Comments |
|———-|——–|———-|
| Organization | 5/5 | Smooth pickup, no long wait times |
| Guide Expertise | 5/5 | Knowledgeable and engaging |
| Family-Friendly | 5/5 | Appealed to all members |
| Food & Interactions | 5/5 | High-quality Turkish cuisine, memorable local experiences |
Customers described the shore excursions as comprehensive, well-paced, and satisfying, encouraging others to explore both Ephesus and Istanbul for a truly enriching experience.
Exploring Ephesus: Ancient Wonders and Cultural Riches

Stepping off the cruise ship in Kusadasi, travelers embark on a captivating journey through the ancient wonders of Ephesus.
This archaeological gem offers a glimpse into the past, with highlights including:
-
The impressive Library of Celsus, a remarkable feat of Roman architecture.
-
The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, where visitors can marvel at the remains of this iconic structure.
-
The Terrace Houses, showcasing the luxurious lifestyles of the city’s wealthy residents during the Roman era.
Exploring Ephesus is a truly immersive experience, transporting visitors back in time and revealing the cultural riches of this ancient civilization.
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise With Live Performance, Folk Dance and DJ
- Istanbul E-Pass: Top Istanbul Attractions With Skip the Ticket Line
- ISTANBUL BEST : Iconic Landmarks FullDay Private Guided City Tour
- Professional Airport Transfer Services in All Turkey
- Istanbul Party Pub Crawl With Party Bus in Sultanahmet and Taksim
- Istanbul Private Transfer – Airports, Cruise Ports and Hotels
Discovering Istanbul: Marvels of the East

Where else can one discover the marvels of the East but in the vibrant city of Istanbul?
Visitors are captivated by the grand Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends Christian and Islamic influences.
The grand Hagia Sophia, a stunning architectural marvel, seamlessly blends the influences of Christianity and Islam, captivating all who visit.
The bustling Grand Bazaar offers a dazzling array of spices, textiles, and trinkets, inviting guests to enjoy the local culture.
A visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, with its magnificent six minarets, leaves an indelible impression.
Throughout the day, the scent of freshly brewed Turkish coffee and the sound of the city’s call to prayer create an unforgettable sensory experience.
Culinary Adventures: Savoring Turkish Delights

What better way to take in Turkish culture than through the vibrant culinary landscape?
From the fragrant spices of the Grand Bazaar to the sizzling kebabs of a local cafe, the Turkish dining experience is a feast for the senses.
Highlights include:
-
Indulging in a traditional Turkish lunch in the charming village of Sirince, complete with homemade mezze, freshly baked breads, and robust local wines.
-
Exploring the iconic Spice Bazaar in Istanbul, where the air is thick with the scents of cinnamon, saffron, and cardamom.
-
Savoring baklava, the decadent flaky pastry drizzled in honey and pistachios, a quintessential Turkish delicacy.
Crafting an Unforgettable Journey

Although the shore excursions in Ephesus and Istanbul offer a wealth of historical and cultural wonders, it’s the thoughtful curation of the experience that truly elevates these tours.
From the personalized pickup at the cruise ports to the expertly guided explorations, every detail is meticulously planned. Travelers marvel at the seamless transitions between sites, the insider access to off-the-beaten-path gems, and the immersive Turkish culinary experiences.
With a private tour, the journey unfolds at a relaxed pace, catering to individual interests and needs. This carefully crafted itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure, leaving lasting memories of the region’s enchanting blend of ancient and modern.
The Sum Up
Enjoy the captivating history and vibrant culture of Turkey with this Ephesus and Istanbul private shore excursion. From the ancient wonders of Ephesus to the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, this tour offers a seamless and personalized experience, complemented by delectable Turkish cuisine and expert guidance. Embark on an unforgettable adventure that showcases the enduring charm and remarkable heritage of this enchanting destination.
More Walking Tours in Istanbul
- Istanbul: Rainbow Fener & Balat Walking Tour w/Local Guide
- Istanbul: Private Walking Tour with a Local
- Taksim Istiklal and Beyoglu Walking Tour with Tour Guide
- Istanbul: Customizable Private Guided Walking Tour
- Istanbul: Balat, Red School, Pierre Loti Walking Tour
- Istanbul: Asian Side Highlights Guided Walking Tour
More Tours in Istanbul
- Istanbul Religious Sites Tour w Lunch Eyup Sultan & More
- Istanbul: 2 Continents, 1 City: From Europe to Asia Tour
- Istanbul: Private Full Day Byzantine / Ottoman Relics Tour
- Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Tour & Ticket + Optional Basilica
- Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour
- Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Tour
More Tour Reviews in Istanbul
- Morning Bosphorus Cruise with Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar
- Istanbul Religious Sites Tour w Lunch Eyup Sultan & More
- Istanbul: 2 Continents, 1 City: From Europe to Asia Tour
- Istanbul: Private Full Day Byzantine / Ottoman Relics Tour
- Magnificient Mosques of Istanbul
- Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque Tour & Ticket + Optional Basilica
Still browsing? Here are more Istanbul experiences we've covered recently
- 4 Best 4-Day Tours In Istanbul (With Reviews & Prices)
- Istanbul’s 14 Best Walking Tours: Which To Choose?
- 11 Top-Rated Istanbul Shopping & Market Tours
- 14 Best Historical Tours In Istanbul (With Prices)
- Istanbul’s 5 Top Coffee Tours
- We Rank The 14 Best Dining Experiences In Istanbul
- Which Istanbul Wine Tours To Choose? Our Best 4 Picks
- Istanbul’s 11 Top Workshops & Classes
- 14 Of The Best Tours In Istanbul
- What Are The Best Cooking Classes In Istanbul? Our Top 7 Picks
- Our Picks For The 14 Best Tours & Experiences In Istanbul
- 5 Fantastic Massage & Relaxation Services In Istanbul
