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History buffs will thrill to an opportunity to explore Ephesus and the incredible Terrace Houses with an expert guide. Delve deeper into life in ancient times and gain a comprehensive overview of the golden age of this Greco-Roman city once a vibrant community of 250,000 citizens.

Board your comfortable motorcoach for a 30-minute scenic drive to ancient Ephesus. Traveling north, you'll pass the massive Byzantine fortress at Selcuk, the Temple of Artemis – one of the seven wonders of the ancient world – and the extraordinary Basilica of St. John.

Upon arriving at the three-arched Magnesian Gates, a slow, downhill walk into the ruins will give you time to appreciate the historic significance of the area, once the trade center of the ancient world and the site of a succession of great civilizations. Your knowledgeable guide will take you back in time and highlight such monuments as the beautifully preserved Temple of Hadrian, the magnificent Trajan Fountain, the Odeon Theater, once used for both political and entertainment purposes, and the stunning Celsus Library with its imposing façade and two-story Corinthian-style columns. The dramatic Great Theater, once an arena for gladiator games, seats 25,000 and is one of the few structures still in use today during the annual spring festivals. Strolling through the streets, it is easy to see that Ephesus is truly one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world and why it is considered one of the great outdoor museums of Turkey.

Look up at the hill across from Hadrian's Temple, and you will see the newly excavated area known as the Terrace Houses. Also referred to as "the houses of the rich," these structures give us important information about family life during the Roman period. Remarkably, these homes had such modern conveniences as hot and cold running water and intricate central heating systems. Beautiful tiled mosaics and ornate frescos have been consolidated for easy viewing, and two buildings are open as museums. You will be given a ticket to visit the inner sections of these houses in which excavations still continue.

A scenic drive back to port affords the time to reflect with fellow travelers on the wonders you have seen. Once in Kusadasi, browse the colorful markets and bazaars where handmade goods and traditional foods are sold. A popular Turkish souvenir to bring home is "the evil eye," thought to ward off bad spirits and bring success and luck to its owner. You will also have an opportunity to learn the intricate art of carpet weaving at a demonstration. Ample time to explore on your own is provided, and you may walk back to the ship at your leisure.