Ephesus & Virgin Mary & St John Basilica + Lunch Opt Turkish Bath

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6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Designed exclusively for cruise passengers arriving in Kuşadası, this guided tour showcases the most meaningful spiritual and historical sites in the region. Begin at the House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful pilgrimage site believed to be her final home. Continue to Ephesus Ancient City, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world, where your guide will walk you through its remarkable ruins and rich history. After enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch, visit the Basilica of St. John, built over the Apostle John’s believed burial place and offering beautiful views over Selçuk. Guests looking to relax before returning to the ship may add an optional Traditional Turkish Bath (Hammam) for a refreshing cultural experience. This tour ensures a memorable and on-time return to your cruise.

What's Included

All taxes and parking fees
Flexible itinerary – stop wherever and whenever you like
Traditional Turkish Lunch
Visits to wholesale factory outlets and an art gallery outside the town
Worry-free shore excursion – guaranteed on-time return to your ship
Pick-up & Drop-off from Kusadasi Port
Complimentary alcoholic beverages offered to our guests in selected carpet and leather stores
Professional Licensed English-Speaking Guide Traditional Turkish Lunch
Private Transportation in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle
Ephesus Ancient City Entrance Fee (Payable On-Site)
House of Mother Mary Entrance Fee (Payable On-Site)
Basilica of St John Entrance Fee (Payable On-Site)

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

You must leave the cruise according to your pick-up timing (We suggest you to leave as early as possible so that you can have longer time for the tour). Your guide will be waiting for you holding a board with your name on at the exit gate.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Port Kusadasi Turkey

    Meeting at the Ege Port. Your guide will be waiting at the exit gate holding a board with your name on it.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)

    Located in the Aladağ Mountains, just 5 miles from Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary is a significant pilgrimage site. According to tradition, Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. The site was recognized as a place of pilgrimage by the Archbishop of Kusadasi in 1892, following the discovery of the house. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited and prayed at this sacred location, cementing its importance for visitors from around the world.

    1 hour • Admission ticket not included
  • 3
    Ancient City of Ephesus

    Discover the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Turkey. Walk through the Library of Celsus, explore the Great Theatre, and visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Our Ephesus tours from Kusadasi offer a unique chance to experience Roman history, biblical heritage, and the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Perfect for travelers looking for the best Ephesus excursions, day trips, and guided tours in Kusadasi.

    2 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 4
    Can Carpet

    Our tours from Kusadasi include a complimentary lunch with authentic Turkish food, a highlight for many of our guests. Afterward, we visit a Turkish handicrafts cooperative, where you can explore local culture and crafts. Entrance is free, and there is no obligation to buy anything—just enjoy this unique cultural experience.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 5
    The Temple of Artemis

    Once counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was a magnificent sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Artemis, protector of women and fertility. Originally built in the 6th century BCE, it was one of the largest temples of the ancient world, famed for its grand scale and ornate marble columns. Though only a single column remains today, the site holds immense historical significance and offers a glimpse into the glory of ancient Ephesus and its religious heritage.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Basilica of St. John

    Located on Ayasuluk Hill in Selçuk, the Basilica of St. John was built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian over the believed burial site of St. John the Apostle. Once a grand domed structure rivaling the Hagia Sophia, the basilica was a major pilgrimage destination in the Byzantine era. Today, visitors can explore its remains — including elegant arches, column fragments, and the symbolic tomb of St. John — all set against panoramic views of Selçuk and the surrounding countryside. The site offers a powerful glimpse into early Christian history and the region’s spiritual legacy.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by SeaDrop Travel

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Archaeology Tours
Religious Tours
Shore Excursions
Additional fees
New Product
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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