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

A private motorcoach tour from the port of Kusadasi to the Basilica of St. John includes scenic views of the immense Byzantine fortress in Selcuk and the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. As you approach the Basilica, you'll immediately sense the former glory of this magnificent structure. Now in ruins, the Basilica was built over the tomb of St. John the Apostle by Emperor Justinian in the shape of a cross and covered with six individual domes. A number of columns, frescos and mosaics remain at this historic hilltop location.

Travel a long and winding road while enjoying the wonderful views of the valley en route to the House of the Virgin Mary. This diminutive home in the Solmissos Mountains is considered by the Vatican to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. An idyllic garden setting contains a small shrine, dedicated to St. Mary, which was found among the ruins when the house was first discovered. The picturesque setting includes a spring of cool water, thought to have curative properties, which can be sampled by all.

Your tour continues to ancient Ephesus, where you'll pass through the three-arched Magnesian Gate and begin a slow, downhill walk through the ruins of the Roman provincial capital. Your knowledgeable guide will take you through the marbled streets and highlight such sights as the beautifully preserved Temple of Hadrian, the magnificent 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 dramatic Great Theater is one of the few structures still used today. It seats twenty-five thousand and was once an arena for gladiator games.

An outdoor luncheon is served in the heart of Ephesus at the site of the impressive Harbor Baths. Enjoy an elegant, cold buffet lunch, including assorted Turkish desserts, and a selection of local wines.

Refreshed, 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.

A return ride to Kusadasi is an opportunity to discuss the day's adventures with your fellow travelers. Once in this lovely port town, take in a Turkish carpet-weaving demonstration and browse the colorful markets and bazaars for souvenirs. Be sure to bring home a traditional Turkish, "evil eye," thought to ward off bad spirits and bring success and good luck to its owner. A pleasant stroll back to the ship completes this memorable day.