Make the most of your short time in port with this cruise-friendly House of Virgin Mary & Pigeon Island Tour with Lunch. Your guide will meet you at the Kuşadası cruise port for a smooth start, with comfortable transport waiting just steps from your ship. Visit the peaceful hilltop home believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary — a meaningful pilgrimage site surrounded by nature. Continue to Pigeon Island, the symbol of Kuşadası, where you can enjoy panoramic sea views, explore the historic castle, and take beautiful photos of the coastline. A delicious traditional Turkish lunch is included, giving you a taste of local flavor before returning to port. If you’d like to unwind before boarding, you may add an optional Turkish Bath experience, offering a refreshing and authentic way to relax after sightseeing.
Worry-free shore excursion: We guarantee your on-time return to the ship.
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.
Meeting at the Ege Port. Your guide will be waiting at the exit gate holding a board with your name on it.
Pigeon Island is the iconic symbol of Kusadasi, connected to the mainland by a scenic causeway. Home to a historic Byzantine castle and surrounded by crystal-blue waters, it offers beautiful sea views, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere — perfect for photos and a relaxing coastal visit.
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.
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.
Relax and rejuvenate with a traditional Turkish Bath in Kusadasi. Begin with a few minutes in the sauna, followed by a gentle body scrub with a bath glove (kese), and finish with a soothing foam massage. This complete treatment leaves your skin soft, refreshed, and renewed—truly a rejuvenating experience.
We will drive you back to port.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience