Shore excursions from Selcuk give easy access to Turkey’s greatest ancient site – Ephesus. The best tours combine the must-see ruins with authentic experiences. I especially love the small-group options that avoid the crowds and include skip-the-line entry to the Library of Celsus and Great Theater. For maximum flexibility, private tours visiting both Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary offer great value. The Kusadasi Shore Excursion stands out for cruise passengers wanting an efficient, well-priced overview. All recommended tours include knowledgeable guides and traditional Turkish lunch stops. Let’s look at our favorite tour options for exploring this remarkable slice of ancient history.
Key Points
- The Ephesus Small Group Tour offers a highly recommended experience with skip-the-line access, authentic Turkish lunch, and a Badge of Excellence.
- Ephesus Private Port Tours provide a 5-hour personalized experience with hotel/port pickup, private transportation, and visits to key sites like the House of the Virgin Mary.
- The Private Biblical Ephesus Shore Excursion is a 6-hour guided tour that includes the Celsus Library, Great Theatre, and a traditional crafts experience.
- The Izmir Shore Excursion is an 8-hour day trip that covers the Ancient City of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary, with high ratings for historical and culture.
- The Kusadasi Shore Excursion is a cost-effective option for cruise passengers, featuring air-conditioned transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and flexible cancellation/rescheduling policies.
Ephesus Small Group – Semi Private Shore Excursion
The Ephesus Small Group – Semi Private Shore Excursion is a highly-rated tour that takes visitors on a guided exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus.
With a 100% recommendation rate from travelers and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that includes skip-the-line access, professional guides, and an authentic Turkish lunch.
Highlights of the tour include the Gate of Mazeus and Mithridates, the Great Theater, and the iconic Library of Celsus. Guests also visit the Temple of Artemis and the House of the Virgin Mary, as well as the Cave of the Seven Sleepers.
Offered at a competitive price with flexible booking options, this tour provides an engaging and insightful glimpse into the rich history of Ephesus.
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Kusadasi: EPHESUS PRIVATE PORT TOUR FOR CRUISES-SAVE TIME
For travelers seeking an efficient and personalized exploration of Ephesus, the Ephesus Private Port Tour from Kusadasi offers an excellent option. Priced at $59.10 per person, this 5-hour tour provides a comprehensive experience, including visits to the House of the Virgin Mary, the Ephesus Ancient City, and the ruins of the Temple of Artemis.
The tour includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and a knowledgeable local guide. While meals and drinks aren’t included, the tour covers entrance fees to the key sites. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the approximately 1.5 km of walking.
With a 5/5 rating based on customer reviews, this tour promises an efficient and personalized exploration of Ephesus.
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Kusadasi Shore Excursion : Ephesus Private Tour ONLY FOR CRUISE GUESTS
Cruise guests seeking an efficient and personalized exploration of Ephesus will find the Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus Private Tour an excellent option.
This tour is exclusively designed for cruise passengers, ensuring a seamless experience tailored to their needs. With a 100% satisfaction rate and 100% recommendation from previous travelers, this private tour boasts a professional licensed guide, air-conditioned transportation, and pre-arranged skip-the-line entrance tickets.
The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation and rescheduling, allows guests to plan their day with ease. At just $39 per person, this Ephesus private tour offers unbeatable value, making it a must-do shore excursion for those visiting Selçuk.
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Kusadasi: Private Biblical Ephesus Shore Excursion Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Ephesus and its biblical heritage will find the “Kusadasi: Private Biblical Ephesus Shore Excursion Tour” an exceptional choice.
This 6-hour private tour offers a guided journey through the remarkable Ephesus Ancient City, including the Celsus Library and the Great Theatre. Visitors can also opt to visit the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John.
Beyond the historic sites, the tour includes a cultural experience at a Teaching Village, where traditional carpet and ceramic-making can be witnessed.
With a professional, English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and inclusive lunch, this shore excursion delivers a comprehensive and personalized experience in Selcuk.
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Izmir Shore Excursion: Day Trip to Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary
The “Izmir Shore Excursion: Day Trip to Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary” provides cruise passengers with a comprehensive exploration of two iconic destinations in the Selçuk region.
This 8-hour tour includes pickup and drop-off from the Izmir port, a knowledgeable local guide, and admission to key sites like the Ancient City of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Odeion.
Travelers will enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch and have the opportunity to visit a carpet factory, though some report feeling pressured to make purchases.
While the schedule can feel rushed, the tour receives highly positive reviews for its historical and culture, with a 4.6 out of 5 rating from 19 reviewers.
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Kusadasi: Private Ephesus & Sirince Village Shore Excursion
While visiting the Kuşadası port, travelers can embark on a comprehensive 6-hour private shore excursion that showcases the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the picturesque Sirince Village.
The excursion starts with a guided downhill walk through the impressive Ephesus ruins, where visitors can admire iconic sites like the Bouleuterion, Temple of Domitian, and the magnificent Celsus Library.
An optional visit to the nearby town of Selçuk provides opportunities for photo ops, shopping, and sightseeing.
The excursion then continues to the charming Sirince Village, allowing participants to explore the local culture, visit a mosque and church, and learn about traditional handmade carpet and rug weaving.
Transportation, lunch, and all entrance fees are included in this well-rounded shore excursion.
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Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus Private Tour From Kusadasi Ephesus Port
Cruisers visiting the Kusadasi Ephesus Port can embark on a private tour that showcases the impressive ancient ruins of Ephesus.
This 100% satisfaction-guaranteed tour is recommended by all previous travelers. Led by a professional licensed local guide, the excursion includes transportation in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, all admission fees, and a personalized experience tailored to guests’ interests.
Highlights include a fashion show, carpet making demonstration, and exploration of Ephesus’ biblical history. The tour accommodates wheelchair and stroller users, and is conducted solely in English.
Priced at €38.07 per person, this private tour offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Kusadasi:Private Half Day Ephesus Shore Excursion Tour
This private half-day Ephesus shore excursion from Kuşadası port provides cruisers with a comprehensive exploration of the ancient city’s renowned historical sites.
Priced at $67.80 per person, the 4-hour tour is limited to 15 participants and offered in English and Spanish.
Highlights include guided visits to the Temple of Domitian, Hercules Gate, and the iconic Celsus Library. Guests can also opt to visit the nearby Temple of Artemis and the village of Sirince to experience local culture and crafts.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a convenient and immersive way to discover Ephesus during a Kuşadası port stop.
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Entrance Fees Are INCLUDED / Shore Excursion Biblical Ephesus
Entering the biblical sites of Ephesus on this shore excursion, visitors will find that all entrance fees are conveniently included.
The tour provides a private guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed ancient city, with an expert guide offering immersive commentary. The itinerary covers must-see highlights like the House of the Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John, and the Temple of Artemis.
Travelers will also visit the charming Selçuk village. With round-trip transportation, bottled water, and a provided lunch, this excursion offers excellent value.
While moderate fitness is required, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Priced from $140 per person, this highly-rated Ephesus experience is an exceptional shore option.
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Izmir : Private Biblical Ephesus Shore Excursion Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Ephesus’ biblical heritage, the Private Biblical Ephesus Shore Excursion Tour provides an immersive experience.
At $146.02 per person, this 8-hour tour allows visitors to explore the ancient city’s renowned landmarks, including the Celsus Library, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Basilica of St. John.
The tour includes a licensed guide, lunch, transportation, and pre-booked entrance tickets, though some optional activities come with additional costs.
Visitors can expect a detailed guided tour of Ephesus, free time for exploration and shopping, and the opportunity to witness one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, the Temple of Artemis.
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Shore Excursion Ephesus: Half-Day Tour of Ancient Ephesus
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to the ancient city of Ephesus can embark on the Shore Excursion Ephesus: Half-Day Tour of Ancient Ephesus.
This tour offers a deep dive into the historical site, guided by a knowledgeable English-speaking professional. Pickup and drop-off from the Kusadasi Port are included, along with an air-conditioned vehicle and COVID-19 safety measures like hand sanitizer and reduced group sizes.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly. With a minimum of 2 people required, the experience costs $75 per person and boasts an impressive 4.7/5 rating from 7 reviews.
Some visitors noted the carpet factory visit as a perceived sales gimmick, but overall, the tour provides excellent insights and access to less crowded areas of Ephesus.
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From Kusadası: Private Shore Excursion to Ephesus
A private shore excursion from Kusadası to Ephesus offers travelers a personalized and in-depth exploration of this renowned ancient site.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, visitors can explore the history and significance of Ephesus, once a thriving Greco-Roman city.
This private tour allows for a flexible itinerary, catered to individual interests, ensuring an enriching experience.
Highlights may include the Celsus Library, the Grand Theater, and the Temple of Hadrian, all while avoiding the crowds of larger group tours.
With round-trip transportation from the Kusadası port, this private shore excursion provides a seamless and immersive way to discover the wonders of Ephesus.
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Sum Up
Selçuk offers a range of excellent shore excursions to explore the ancient city of Ephesus. Visitors can choose from private or small-group tours, with options that include the House of Virgin Mary and other biblical sites. These tours provide a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.