Ephesus , Terrace Houses and Ancient Priene
Strenuous Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Priene
Believed to date back to the 7th century B.C., this ancient Greek city is laid out in a grid pattern, an ideal example of Greek town planning. Perched on a hill stands the magnificent 2,750-year-old Temple of Athena. North of the town, you'll see the 7,000-seat Hellenistic theater with well-preserved stage buildings.
Ephesus
Founded in the 10th century B.C. and abandoned 500 years later, a guided tour of this UNESCO World History Site includes a stroll along the marbled streets past sights such as the beautifully preserved Temple of Hadrian; the impressive Trajan Fountain; the Odeon Theater, once used for both political and entertainment purposes; and the beautiful Celsus Library with its imposing façade and two-story Corinthian-style columns. The Great Theater, one of the few structures still used today, hosted gladiator games.
Terrace Houses
A complex of seven homes dating back 2,000 years showcase the wealth and opulence of the high ranking officers and governors who once lived here. The well-preserved frescoes, beautiful courtyards, modern conveniences as hot and cold running water and intricate central heating systems present a remarkable testimony to life of the wealthiest Ephesians.
Kusadasi
Upon your return to your host city, you'll observe a Turkish carpet-weaving demonstration.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
No tripods, flash photography or professional camera equipment permitted at Ephesus or Terrace Houses.
LUNCH
Feast on world-famous Turkish cuisine with a buffet lunch at a 5-star property in Kusadasi. On the menu you'll find a variety of hot and cold dishes, salads, and desserts.
SHOPPING
Back in Kusadasi, you'll have time to browse the colorful markets and bazaars in search of that perfect souvenir.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Your motorcoach travels north from Kusadasi past the Byzantine fortress in Selcuk, the ruins of the Temple of Artemis and the Basilica of St. John, en route to the ancient city of Ephesus, the Roman provincial capital.
Points of interest
Ephesus
Terrace Houses
Carpet Weaving and Shopping
Schedule
Special Notes
Guests will have to walk long distances, climbing the steps at Terrace Houses and hill at Priene. The two-hour walk is at a slow pace and mostly downhill, with the exception of the Terrace Houses, which are on a slope and require some stair climbing. Not suitable for guests confined to wheelchairs.
At the end of the tour, passengers have the option to remain in town to view a carpet demonstration or to shop in the bazaar; return to the ship would be on your own (10 to 15 minutes walking).
No tripods, flash photography or professional camera equipment permitted at Priene, Ephesus or Terrace Houses. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended. Headsets (provided) will enhance your experience.
Exceptional Value
Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.
Strenuous Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Priene
Believed to date back to the 7th century B.C., this ancient Greek city is laid out in a grid pattern, an ideal example of Greek town planning. Perched on a hill stands the magnificent 2,750-year-old Temple of Athena. North of the town, you'll see the 7,000-seat Hellenistic theater with well-preserved stage buildings.
Ephesus
Founded in the 10th century B.C. and abandoned 500 years later, a guided tour of this UNESCO World History Site includes a stroll along the marbled streets past sights such as the beautifully preserved Temple of Hadrian; the impressive Trajan Fountain; the Odeon Theater, once used for both political and entertainment purposes; and the beautiful Celsus Library with its imposing façade and two-story Corinthian-style columns. The Great Theater, one of the few structures still used today, hosted gladiator games.
Terrace Houses
A complex of seven homes dating back 2,000 years showcase the wealth and opulence of the high ranking officers and governors who once lived here. The well-preserved frescoes, beautiful courtyards, modern conveniences as hot and cold running water and intricate central heating systems present a remarkable testimony to life of the wealthiest Ephesians.
Kusadasi
Upon your return to your host city, you'll observe a Turkish carpet-weaving demonstration.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
No tripods, flash photography or professional camera equipment permitted at Ephesus or Terrace Houses.
LUNCH
Feast on world-famous Turkish cuisine with a buffet lunch at a 5-star property in Kusadasi. On the menu you'll find a variety of hot and cold dishes, salads, and desserts.
SHOPPING
Back in Kusadasi, you'll have time to browse the colorful markets and bazaars in search of that perfect souvenir.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Your motorcoach travels north from Kusadasi past the Byzantine fortress in Selcuk, the ruins of the Temple of Artemis and the Basilica of St. John, en route to the ancient city of Ephesus, the Roman provincial capital.
Points of interest
Ephesus
Terrace Houses
Carpet Weaving and Shopping
Schedule
Special Notes
Guests will have to walk long distances, climbing the steps at Terrace Houses and hill at Priene. The two-hour walk is at a slow pace and mostly downhill, with the exception of the Terrace Houses, which are on a slope and require some stair climbing. Not suitable for guests confined to wheelchairs.
At the end of the tour, passengers have the option to remain in town to view a carpet demonstration or to shop in the bazaar; return to the ship would be on your own (10 to 15 minutes walking).
No tripods, flash photography or professional camera equipment permitted at Priene, Ephesus or Terrace Houses. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended. Headsets (provided) will enhance your experience.