CRUISE PASSENGERS: Ephesus & Terrace Houses & Virgin Mary Tour

For cruise passengers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Kusadasi, the Ephesus, Terrace Houses, and Virgin Mary Tour offers a convenient and enriching opportunity. With private transportation, pre-purchased tickets, and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore the captivating history of this ancient region. From the grandeur of the Ephesus archaeological site to the opulent Terrace Houses and the serene Virgin Mary’s House, this tour provides a seamless and insightful exploration of Turkey’s remarkable heritage. However, the true allure of this excursion lies in the personalized service and the chance to uncover the stories that have shaped this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• This 8-20 hour private tour in Kusadasi, Turkey, is designed for cruise passengers, providing pickup 30-45 minutes after docking and pre-purchased museum tickets.
• The tour covers the ancient city of Ephesus, including the iconic Library of Celsus and the Grand Theater, as well as the Terrace Houses and Virgin Mary’s House.
• Accessible for all with infant seats, stroller access, and wheelchair-friendly surfaces, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience.
• Includes a professional licensed local tour guide, private air-conditioned transportation, and meal recommendations for dietary preferences.
• Guarantees timely return to the cruise port, providing peace of mind for cruise passengers.

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Ephesus & Terrace Houses & Virgin Mary Tour," takes place in Kusadasi, Turkey.

It’s a private tour offering personalized service, with a professional licensed local guide. The tour lasts 8-20 hours, available daily from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM between August 20, 2022 and November 17, 2025.

Cruise passengers can meet the tour 30-45 minutes after their ship docks, while hotel guests receive pickup and drop-off from centrally located Kusadasi or Selcuk hotels.

The tour includes pre-purchased museum entrance tickets to skip lines, private A/C transportation, and optional meal recommendations.

The tour is accessible, with infant seats, stroller access, and wheelchair-friendly surfaces.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes several key components to provide a comprehensive and seamless experience for cruise passengers.

The package comes with a professional licensed local tour guide who’ll share their expertise throughout the journey. Private air-conditioned transportation with a separate driver is provided, ensuring a comfortable and efficient transit.

To skip long lines, museum entrance tickets are pre-purchased. Meal recommendations are available upon request, catering to various dietary preferences.

The tour also guarantees a timely return to the cruise port, giving passengers peace of mind. Whether you’re interested in the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the unique Terrace Houses, or the renowned Virgin Mary’s House, this tour has it all covered.

Pickup and Drop-off

Cruise passengers meet the tour guide after 30-45 minutes of ship docking at Kusadasi Port.

They’ll coordinate the meeting time with the reservation team via email or WhatsApp.

For hotel passengers, pickup and drop-off are provided from centrally located hotels in Kusadasi or Selcuk Town.

An additional fee of $100 applies for Izmir hotels and the cruise port, up to 15 persons.

The tour accommodates infant seats, strollers, and wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces.

Most travelers can participate in this tour.

Accessibility and Requirements

Infant seats, strollers, and wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces are available to accommodate travelers with special needs.

Most travelers can participate in this tour, making it accessible to a wide range of guests. Whether you’re traveling with a baby, a small child, or someone with mobility challenges, the tour provider has you covered.

They’ll ensure a comfortable and seamless experience so you can fully learn about the rich history and cultural highlights of Ephesus, the Terrace Houses, and the Virgin Mary’s home.

All you need to do is let the reservation team know about any special requirements when booking your tour.

Ephesus Ancient City

What was once a bustling ancient Greek city, Ephesus is now a remarkable archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the past.

As one of the largest and most well-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, Ephesus features:

1. The iconic Library of Celsus, a stunning two-story facade that was once the third-largest library in the ancient world.

2. The Grand Theater, which could seat over 24,000 people and was the site of famous speeches by the Apostle Paul.

3. The Terrace Houses, where the wealthy once lived, showcasing intricate mosaics and frescoes.

4. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, although only a single column remains today.

Terrace Houses

The Terrace Houses at Ephesus were the opulent residences of the city’s elite.

These remarkably preserved ancient Roman houses offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the wealthy. Visitors can explore the exquisite mosaics, frescoes, and marble decorations that adorned the interiors.

The layout of the Terrace Houses also reveals the advanced urban planning and architectural sophistication of Ephesus. As part of the tour, guests can marvel at the intricate details and learn about the daily lives of the privileged inhabitants who once lived in these stunning dwellings.

The Terrace Houses provide a fascinating contrast to the grand public structures of Ephesus, offering a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s rich history.

Virgin Mary’s House

One of the highlights of the Ephesus tour is a visit to the Virgin Mary’s House, a sacred site believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary.

The tour includes:

1. A guided exploration of the small, stone house, where Mary is said to have spent her final days.
2. An opportunity to learn about the site’s religious significance and its importance to both Christians and Muslims.
3. A chance to reflect and soak in the serene atmosphere of the location.
4. Optional visits to the nearby Shrine of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John, providing a comprehensive understanding of the area’s religious heritage.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have praised the Ephesus tour for its exceptional execution. With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, the tour consistently delivers an informative and engaging experience.

Reviewers highlight the expertise of the professional, licensed guide Isik, who skillfully communicates the rich history and significance of the ancient ruins. The behind-the-scenes access to the Terrace Houses and Virgin Mary’s home are also standout features, providing a unique perspective.

Customers further note the convenient transportation and seamless coordination, especially for cruise passengers. The tour earns high marks for its ability to efficiently maximize sightseeing while offering personalized service and valuable insights into Ephesus’ fascinating past.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour has no specified maximum group size. It’s a personalized service, so the group size is flexible, accommodating up to 15 persons for an additional fee if traveling from Izmir hotels or the cruise port.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. Guests can speak with the reservation team to discuss any modifications or additional requests for the private tour itinerary.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Entrance Fees or Activities?

The tour includes all necessary museum entrance tickets, which are pre-purchased to skip long lines. Optional meal recommendations are provided upon request, but there are no additional fees for activities or entrance fees.

Can the Tour Be Booked in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour can be booked in languages besides English, as the professional licensed local tour guide is multilingual and can accommodate various language preferences. Advance notice is recommended to ensure availability of the desired language.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel or reschedule their tour for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Shorter notice may incur fees.

The Sum Up

The Ephesus, Terrace Houses, and Virgin Mary Tour offers cruise passengers a comprehensive experience in Kusadasi, Turkey. With convenient transportation, pre-purchased tickets, and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore the rich history and cultural significance of the ancient city, opulent Terrace Houses, and serene Virgin Mary’s House. This tour provides an insightful and seamless exploration of Ephesus’ iconic landmarks, catering to the interests of cruise passengers.