Kusadasi, Turkey (for Ephesus)

From the port of Kusadasi on Turkey's Anatolian Coast, one travels into the past. Nearby stand the ruins of ancient Ephesus, a major site of archeological excavation. The city was once a Roman provincial capital and trading center. Ephesus is also home to several of Christendom's holiest sites. St. Paul preached at the Great Theater and the ruins of Ephesus' Basilica cover the tomb of Christ's most beloved disciple, St. John the Apostle.

In Kusadasi, whitewashed stone houses rise in tiers behind the market district. The palm-lined esplanade is the center of town life, with thousands of merchants offering wares to rival the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.

Read More about Kusadasi, Turkey (for Ephesus) description

Points of Interest

  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus Museum
  • Terrace Houses
  • Sirince
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping
  • Tour sites at guest's discretion

More about Kusadasi, Turkey (for Ephesus) Points of Interest

  • Ephesus

    Enter the city though the Magnesia Gate entrance and walk down a marble road to the ruins of this Roman provincial capital. The major sites are the Odeum, the Celsus Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theater. The theater had seating for 25,000, and is the site where St. Paul preached to the Ephesians.

  • House of the Virgin Mary

    The Vatican has recognized this small house in the Solmissos Mountains as a Holy Place. A small shrine dedicated to St. Mary was found when the ruins of the house were first discovered.

  • Basilica of St. John

    Built by the Emperor Justinian over the tomb of St. John the Apostle, the ruined Basilica once rivaled St. Sophia in size. A number of graceful columns and colorful mosaics survive.

  • Ephesus Museum

    This small museum in Selcuk boasts an incredible collection of Hellenistic and Roman statues, carved reliefs and artifacts from the ruins of Ephesus.

  • Terrace Houses

    Located in a newly excavated area across from Hadrian's Temple, these houses are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes.

  • Sirince

    This is a traditional hillside village. Browse among the tented stalls and shops, view the Byzantine church. Sample the local wine and stop for a cup of Turkish coffee.

  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

    Carpet weaving is a cottage industry in Turkey and here you can observe the different stages of the carpet making process.

  • Tour sites at guest's discretion

27 EXCURSIONS

Already Booked Your Cruise? Reserve excursions in Cruise Personalizer
Special Child Pricing Available! Children age 12 and younger, savings up to 50%.
Display as:

Easy Ephesus

3.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 9 0
  • Ephesus
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus Museum
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

This tour is designed for passengers who prefer to see some sights from the motorcoach with little or no walking involved. Enjoy a panoramic tour around the highlights of The Ephesus region. Tour the Ephesus Museum and view its collection of Hellenistic and Roman statues, carved reliefs and artifacts discovered in the ruins of Ephesus.

Read More about Easy Ephesus description

Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity, Includes snack

From

$49.95

Average Guest Rating

Easy Ephesus (Wheelchair Accessible)

3.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 9 1
  • Ephesus
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus Museum
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

This departure is space set aside on lift-equipped vehicles for wheelchair confined passengers - please be sure to read the Notes section of the tour description regarding requesting this space. This tour is designed for passengers who prefer to see some sights from the motorcoach with little or no walking involved. Enjoy a panoramic tour around the highlights of The Ephesus region. Tour the Ephesus Museum and view its collection of Hellenistic and Roman statues, carved reliefs and artifacts discovered in the ruins of Ephesus.

Read More about Easy Ephesus (Wheelchair Accessible) description

Wheelchair Accessible, Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity, Includes snack

From

$49.95

Average Guest Rating

Giving Back - Nature at Leisure

5.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 4 1 5
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Nature lovers will thrill to an in-depth look at the indigenous flora and fauna of Turkey at Menderes Delta National Park, home to 804 kinds of plants and 256 species of birds. Then, explore the ancient Greek village of Doganbey for its restored stone homes. Refreshments are served at the local teahouse.

Read More about Giving Back - Nature at Leisure description

Moderate Activity

From

$59.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus & Virgin Mary Shrine

4 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 0 5
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Travel to the picturesque Solmissos Mountains and visit a site recognized by the Vatican as a Holy Place and a shrine to the of the Virgin Mary, followed by a guided walking tour of the major archeological sights of ancient Ephesus. Return to Kusadasi to browse the marketplace and take in a Turkish carpet-weaving demonstration.

Read More about Ephesus & Virgin Mary Shrine description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$69.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus (Guided in French)

3 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 1 9
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus

An in-depth guided walking tour of Ephesus, once the trade center of the ancient world, reveals its historic and archeological significance through its major sights. Enjoy a visit to a local leather factory and before arriving back at the port, where you will have the opportunity to browse and shop in the colorful bazaars.

Read More about Ephesus (Guided in French) description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$69.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus

3 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 1 5
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

An in-depth guided walking tour of Ephesus, once the trade center of the ancient world, reveals its historic and archeological significance through its major sights. In the port of Kusadasi, enjoy ample time to browse the lively marketplace and join your guide for an informative, Turkish carpet weaving demonstration.

Read More about Ephesus description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$69.95

Average Guest Rating

Éfeso Y Santuario De La Virgen María (Guiado En Español)

4 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 0 7
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary

Travel to the picturesque Solmissos Mountains and visit a site recognized by the Vatican as a Holy Place and a shrine to the of the Virgin Mary, followed by a guided walking tour of the major archeological sights of ancient Ephesus. Return to Kusadasi to browse the marketplace.

Read More about Éfeso Y Santuario De La Virgen María (Guiado En Español) description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$69.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus & Virgin Mary Shrine (Guided in German)

4 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 0 8
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary

Travel to the picturesque Solmissos Mountains and visit a site recognized by the Vatican as a Holy Place and a shrine to the of the Virgin Mary, followed by a guided walking tour of the major archeological sights of ancient Ephesus. Return to Kusadasi to browse the marketplace.

Read More about Ephesus & Virgin Mary Shrine (Guided in German) description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$69.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus, St. John's & Virgin Mary Shrine

5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 0 0
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

A guided walking tour of Ephesus and its major sights celebrates the historical significance of this ancient city. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary designated as a Holy Place by the Vatican, the remains of the Basilica of St. John and the ruins of the Roman provincial capital. Shop for souvenirs and view a Turkish carpet-weaving exhibition.

Read More about Ephesus, St. John's & Virgin Mary Shrine description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$79.95

Average Guest Rating

Late Riser - Ephesus Highlights

5.75 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 4 1 0
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Travel to the picturesque Solmissos Mountains and visit a shrine to the final resting place of the Virgin Mary, followed by a guided walking tour of the major archaeological sights of ancient Ephesus. Return to Kusadasi to browse the marketplace and take in a Turkish carpet-weaving demonstration.

Read More about Late Riser - Ephesus Highlights description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes snack

From

$79.95

Average Guest Rating

Turkish Vineyard & Wine Tasting

4 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 3 0 0
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Turkish wine is becoming increasingly popular with connoisseurs, and the countryside surrounding Kusadasi is home to hundreds of grape varieties producing exceptional wines for centuries. Visit the Seven Sages Vineyard for a tour of its beautiful vineyards and a tasting. A handicraft village and carpet presentation conclude this day of traditions.

Read More about Turkish Vineyard & Wine Tasting description

Shopping Opportunities, Easy Activity, Includes snack

From

$79.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus On Your Own with Audio Device

3.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 1 8 0
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Independent travelers will thrill to the opportunity to tour Ephesus, the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean, on their own. With an iPod® and a customized map, this self-guided walking tour allows you to discover this ancient city at your own pace. Complete the day with a carpet-making demonstration.

Read More about Ephesus On Your Own with Audio Device description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$89.95

Average Guest Rating

Discovery Family - Ephesus & Village of Sirince

6.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 6 0 0
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • Sirince
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Junior archaeologists will thrill to a walk through time at the open-air museum of Ephesus followed by a tour of the village of Sirince, a great way to experience rural life in Turkey. A fun bracelet-making activity, a traditional lunch and a demonstration of Turkish carpet making complete the day.

Read More about Discovery Family - Ephesus & Village of Sirince description

Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$89.95

Average Guest Rating

Biblical Ephesus, Virgin Mary Shrine & Private Mass; A Discovery Exclusive

5.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 1 0
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

In a once-in-a-lifetime experience, travel to the picturesque Solmissos Mountains and attend a special interdenominational mass, including communion at the Virgin Mary Shrine. Then, embark on a guided walking tour through ancient Ephesus before returning to Kusadasi to browse the marketplace and take in a Turkish carpet-weaving demonstration.

Read More about Biblical Ephesus, Virgin Mary Shrine & Private Mass; A Discovery Exclusive description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity

From

$99.95

Average Guest Rating

Jeep Adventure and Swim

5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 4 0 0

Get off the beaten path and explore remote areas of Kusadasi and its environs on an exciting 4x4 Jeep adventure. Traverse rugged roads, taking in spectacular scenery and the stunning turquoise coastline. Step back in time at charming Kirazli Village and refresh with a swim on beautiful Pamucak Beach.

Read More about Jeep Adventure and Swim description

Moderate Activity

From

$99.95

Average Guest Rating

Ultimate Ephesus and Terrace Houses with an Expert - A Discovery Exclusive

5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 1 6 0
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • Terrace Houses
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Ephesus is the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean, and exploration with an expert historian is an opportunity to make the most of your visit to this ancient open-air museum. View all the celebrated major sights plus the exclusive Terrace Houses, a newly excavated area. Conclude with a carpet-weaving exhibition.

Read More about Ultimate Ephesus and Terrace Houses with an Expert - A Discovery Exclusive description

Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity

From

$99.95

Average Guest Rating

Horseback Riding to the Beach

4.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 4 0 5
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Giddyup! A guided horseback riding adventure along scenic tree-lined trails is a spectacular way to take in the scenery. Your surefooted steed takes you along picturesque trails that lead to a lovely stretch of beachfront. There's ample time to refresh with a swim in the warm waters of the Aegean Sea. Suitable for all skill levels.

Read More about Horseback Riding to the Beach description

Moderate Activity

From

$99.95

Average Guest Rating

Ultimate Ephesus with Private Lunch: A Discovery Exclusive

7 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 0 5 0
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Terrace Houses
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Immerse yourself in the culture of ancient Ephesus on this guided walking tour of its most celebrated sights. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, and explore the Basilica of St. John and the Terrace Houses. Enjoy a private exclusive lunch among the ruins, a unique respite in your day.

Read More about Ultimate Ephesus with Private Lunch: A Discovery Exclusive description

Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$119.95

Average Guest Rating

Best of Ephesus for Small Groups

7 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 9 9 9
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Terrace Houses
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Experience the significant sights of Ephesus on an extensive, guided walking tour. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, explore the ruins of the Roman provincial capital and the Basilica of St. John. Marvel inside the Terrace Houses, once inhabited by wealthy citizens, these homes are exquisite examples of Roman domestic life.

Read More about Best of Ephesus for Small Groups description

Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$119.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus, Sirince Village & Home Visit: A Discovery Exclusive

6 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 1 5 5
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • Sirince
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

This traditional Turkish village is surrounded by groves and orchards. Stroll along streets lined with whitewashed houses sporting red-tiled roofs. View the Byzantine church and explore the market before having a traditional lunch in a village home and travelling to Ephesus.

Read More about Ephesus, Sirince Village & Home Visit: A Discovery Exclusive description

Shopping Opportunities, Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

$129.95

Average Guest Rating

Ephesus & The Terrace Houses

4.5 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 2 5 0
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • Terrace Houses
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Rich with archeological significance, this guided walking tour of Ephesus celebrates its major sights, including the exclusive Terrace Houses, a newly excavated area across from Hadrian's Temple. Once inhabited by wealthy citizens, these homes are exquisite examples of Roman domestic life. On return to port, browse the marketplace and view a carpet-weaving exhibition.

Read More about Ephesus & The Terrace Houses description

Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity

From

$129.95

Average Guest Rating

Lo Mejor De Éfeso (Guiado En Español)

7 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 0 0 7
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Terrace Houses

Experience the significant sights of Ephesus on an extensive, guided walking tour. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, explore the ruins of the Roman provincial capital and the Basilica of St. John. Marvel inside the Terrace Houses, once inhabited by wealthy citizens, these homes are exquisite examples of Roman domestic life.

Read More about Lo Mejor De Éfeso (Guiado En Español) description

Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$169.95

Average Guest Rating

Best of Ephesus

7 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 0 0 5
  • Ephesus
  • House of the Virgin Mary
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Terrace Houses
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping

Experience the significant sights of Ephesus on an extensive, guided walking tour. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, explore the ruins of the Roman provincial capital and the Basilica of St. John. Marvel inside the Terrace Houses, once inhabited by wealthy citizens, these homes are exquisite examples of Roman domestic life.

Read More about Best of Ephesus description

Shopping Opportunities, Strenuous Activity, Includes meal

From

$169.95

Average Guest Rating

Kusadasi by Private Vehicle - Car Class Half Day (With Guide)

4 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 9 1 5
  • Tour sites at guest's discretion

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide are available on a half-day basis. A perfect solution for passengers who wish to tour privately or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.

Read More about Kusadasi by Private Vehicle - Car Class Half Day (With Guide) description

Easy Activity

From

$399.95

Average Guest Rating

Kusadasi by Private Vehicle - Van Class Half Day (With Guide)

4 hours | Kusadasi | K U 1 - 9 1 0
  • Tour sites at guest's discretion

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide are available on a half-day basis. A perfect solution for passengers who wish to tour privately or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.

Read More about Kusadasi by Private Vehicle - Van Class Half Day (With Guide) description

Easy Activity

From

$399.95

Average Guest Rating