Ephesus, Sirince Village & Home Visit: A Discovery Exclusivet

6 hours | Kusadasi | KU1-155
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Points of Interest

  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus
  • Sirince
  • Carpet Weaving and Shopping
Shopping Opportunities, Includes meal, Moderate activity

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

In Ephesus your guide will take you on a downhill walk through the impressive ruins, highlighting the archeological treasures of this great city, considered to be one of Turkey's finest outdoor museums. You'll stroll among the remains of the beautifully preserved Temple of Hadrian, the magnificent Trajan Fountain, the Odeon Theater, the majestic Celsus Library and the Great Theater. Continue your minivan tour through the picturesque countryside dotted with vineyards, olive orchards, peach trees and cotton plantations to the lovely Sirince (she-RIN-jay). This Aegean area has less than a thousand inhabitants and most of the houses date from the 19th century or earlier. Originally, the village had been named Çirkince, or "ugly place," which was a deliberate attempt by its Greek inhabitants to hide its beauty from foreign intruders. But after WWI, when the Turks became the primary inhabitants, they changed the name to Sirince, which translates roughly into "pretty" or "charming place."

In the heart of Sirince you are free to explore the wonderful local marketplace and souvenir shops where handmade crafts, such as lace, embroidery and locally produced olive oil, can be found. And be sure to discover the Byzantine Church, which has been lovingly restored, as you tour the village.

A visit to a wine shop is an opportunity to raise a glass and toast to the local harvest. You'll participate in a wine-tasting event, savoring the flavors of the famous local fruit wines, produced with peaches, blueberries and grapes grown in the surrounding orchards and vineyards. With just one sip you'll understand why, despite its diminutive size, Sirince has become a big name in the wine industry.

The warmth and friendliness of the village's inhabitants surround you when the doors of private homes are opened to welcome you inside for a traditional lunch. This unique opportunity to learn first-hand about the culture and history of Sirince is a memorable experience that will last long after this delicious meal is gone.

Turkish coffee is a fitting end to any meal, but did you know that your fortune could be told with the grounds left in the bottom of your cup? A local fortuneteller will be on hand to read your fortune and predict the future…which hopefully includes a return to this enchanting area.

Back in Kusadasi, you have the option of browsing the colorful markets and bazaars and take in a carpet-weaving demonstration, walking back to the ship at your leisure, or taking the minivan directly to port.

Special Notes:

Visitors to Sirince must negotiate uneven surfaces and many wooden steps. Dining rooms in traditional village houses occupy the second floor. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Shoes must be removed before entering; bring or wear socks before entering the home.

Not recommended for passengers with limited mobility or in wheelchairs.

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Depart from ship for a visit to Ephesus

Transport type:
Mini Bus
Transport Capacity:
10
Travel time:
00:25
Time at site:
01:15
Free time at site:
15
Inside visit:
Yes
Walking distance:
2200
Steps:
50
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes
Photo/video restrictions:
Yes
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Drive to Sirince for Lunch at Local Home

Transport type:
Mini Bus
Transport Capacity:
10
Travel time:
00:40
Time at site:
01:30
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
No
Walking distance:
50
Steps:
20
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes

Turkish coffee and fortune telling at Local Home

Time at site:
00:45
Inside visit:
Yes
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes

Carpet Weaving Demonstration and Shopping in Kusadasi

Transport type:
Mini Bus
Transport Capacity:
10
Travel time:
00:35
Time at site:
00:50
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
Yes
Wheelchair accessible:
Yes
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes

Return to ship either by minibus or walk back at your own leisure