Ephesus: Small Group Tour for Cruise Passengers

Cruise passengers visiting Ephesus won’t want to miss this small group tour. It’s an enriching 5-hour exploration of one of the ancient world’s most remarkable cities. With skip-the-line access and an expert local guide, travelers will discover the House of the Virgin Mary, the impressive ruins of Ephesus, and the Temple of Artemis – a true highlight. Comfortable transportation and a lunch stop in Selçuk make for a memorable experience. But the real draw? Uncovering the secrets that lie within Ephesus’ ancient walls.

Key Points

• 5-hour small group tour designed specifically for cruise passengers to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus.
• Tour includes skip-the-line access, live English-speaking guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes Vito.
• Itinerary covers the House of Virgin Mary, ruins of Ephesus, Temple of Artemis, and lunch in Selçuk.
• Recommended items to bring include passport/ID, comfortable shoes, and sun protection, with some restrictions on tripods and wheelchairs.
• Tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on over 300 customer reviews, highlighting knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Ephesus Small Group Tour is designed for cruise passengers, offering a comprehensive 5-hour exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus and its surrounding attractions.

Priced from $32 to $24 per person, the tour provides skip-the-line access and a live English-speaking guide.

The itinerary includes visits to the House of Virgin Mary, the ruins of Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, and the town of Selçuk, where a lunch stop is included.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned Mercedes Vito.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and certain restrictions, such as no tripods, apply.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting from the Kuşadası Port in Türkiye, the Ephesus Small Group Tour takes visitors on a guided exploration of the ancient city’s highlights.

The tour features:

• A visit to the House of Virgin Mary with a 45-minute guided tour (extra fee)

• A 1.5-hour guided tour of the ruins of Ephesus

• A stop in Selçuk for 45 minutes, including lunch

• A 30-minute guided tour of the Temple of Artemis

• The main stop at the Kuşadası Port

The tour includes skip-the-line tickets, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees.

Tour Features

Skip-the-line tickets are included in this Ephesus Small Group Tour, allowing visitors to bypass the queues and dive straight into the experience.

Skip-the-line tickets allow visitors to bypass queues and dive straight into the Ephesus Small Group Tour experience.

A live English-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing expert commentary throughout the tour. Transportation is by air-conditioned Mercedes Vito, ensuring a comfortable journey.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from the Kuşadası Cruise Port, as well as all entrance fees and a lunch stop in Selçuk.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users. Travelers should come prepared with their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.

What to Bring and Restrictions

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat for this Ephesus Small Group Tour.

The tour also has the following restrictions:

• No tripods are allowed.

• There’s no obligation to cover the head or shoulders in Ephesus, but a pashmina is recommended for the House of Virgin Mary.

• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and walking requirements.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Ephesus Small Group Tour, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on over 300 reviews.

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, providing an enjoyable and informative experience. The comfortable transportation and included meals also receive high marks, contributing to the tour’s excellent value for money.

Positive feedback emphasizes the tour’s efficiency, with skip-the-line tickets and a well-paced itinerary allowing visitors to make the most of their time.

Exploring the House of Virgin Mary

As part of the Ephesus Small Group Tour, visitors can embark on a guided exploration of the House of Virgin Mary, an important religious site located just a short distance from the ancient city.

The House of Virgin Mary tour offers the following:

A guided 45-minute visit to the House of Virgin Mary, an important religious site near ancient Ephesus.

• A 45-minute guided visit with a knowledgeable local guide

• Learning about the historical and spiritual significance of the site

• Admiring the well-preserved architectural features of the modest stone structure

• Experiencing a serene and tranquil atmosphere conducive to personal reflection

• Understanding the significance of the House of Virgin Mary as a pilgrimage destination for Christians worldwide.

Discovering the Ancient City of Ephesus

Nestled within the lush landscapes of western Turkey, the ancient city of Ephesus stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire. During the guided tour, visitors will be captivated by the well-preserved ruins, including the iconic Library of Celsus, the impressive Great Theater, and the remarkable Terrace Houses. These architectural gems offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Ephesus’ inhabitants. The tour also includes a visit to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

| Highlights | Duration | Inclusions |

| — | — | — |

| Library of Celsus | 1.5 hours | Guided tour |

| Great Theater | – | Skip-the-line tickets |

| Terrace Houses | – | Knowledgeable English-speaking guide |

| Temple of Artemis | 30 minutes | Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle |

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Recommended Restaurants Near the Ephesus Site?

The tour includes a lunch stop in Selçuk, where visitors can enjoy local Turkish cuisine at several restaurants near the Ephesus site. Many highly-rated options offer authentic dishes and scenic views of the historic ruins.

Can We Make Stops for Shopping During the Tour?

There are no scheduled shopping stops on this tour. The focus is on visiting Ephesus and its historical sites. However, the tour may allow some time for browsing shops in Selcuk if participants are interested.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-set group tour. However, there may be opportunities to make optional stops or spend extra time at certain sites, depending on the tour provider’s policies and your group’s preferences.

What Is the Dress Code for the Entire Tour?

The dress code is generally casual, but it’s recommended to avoid shorts or sleeveless tops when visiting the House of Virgin Mary. A pashmina or scarf can be worn to cover the head and shoulders if needed.

Are There Any Additional Costs During the Tour?

There are additional costs for the guided tours of the House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus, which are extra fees. Lunch and entrance fees to the sites are included in the tour price.

The Sum Up

The "Ephesus: Small Group Tour for Cruise Passengers" offers an enriching exploration of this ancient site. With skip-the-line access, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation, the tour ensures travelers make the most of their time. Whether visiting the House of Virgin Mary or discovering the ruins of Ephesus, this experience provides an immersive look into the city’s rich history and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: