For cruise passengers seeking a comprehensive cultural experience in Turkey, the Ephesus Tour combined with Istanbul offers a seamless and enriching itinerary. Priced affordably at €298.72 for groups of up to five, this guided excursion takes travelers on a six-hour journey through some of the country’s most significant historical sites, from the House of Virgin Mary to the majestic Ephesus Ancient City and the iconic Temple of Artemis. With convenient pickup from designated cruise ports and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides an opportunity to take in Turkey’s rich heritage, all without disrupting the overall cruise itinerary. The details of this compelling experience, however, are just the beginning.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 6-hour tour for cruise passengers exploring the House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, and Temple of Artemis, with a lunch break in Selcuk.
- Tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated cruise ports, providing convenience and efficient use of time for cruise excursions.
- Cultural highlights feature architectural masterpieces, elite lifestyles, and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, offering an immersive experience.
- Flexible cancellation policy and ‘reserve now, pay later’ option provide peace of mind and convenience in planning cruise activities.
- Additional experiences, such as visiting the Carpet Museum and Mosaic ceramic workshop, enhance the culture and appreciation of Turkish heritage.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This Ephesus Tour with Istanbul Combination is designed specifically for cruise passengers, offering a comprehensive exploration of these historic destinations at a price of €298.72 for groups of up to 5 participants.
The tour lasts 6 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cruise passengers can choose the convenient reserve now and pay later option.
The itinerary includes guided tours of the House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, and Temple of Artemis, as well as a lunch break in Selcuk.
Pickup and drop-off are provided from the cruise pier, Galata Port Istanbul, and Feribot Limanı.
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Itinerary and Locations
The tour begins with pickup from the Kusadasi Cruise Pier, Galata Port Istanbul, or Feriket Limanı, followed by a guided tour of the House of Virgin Mary, which takes approximately 1 hour.
Next, the tour explores the Ephesus Ancient City, a captivating 2-hour guided journey through this well-preserved archaeological site. During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to:
Witness the grandeur of the Library of Celsus, a renowned architectural masterpiece.
Discover the awe-inspiring Great Theatre, a testament to the city’s cultural and social heritage.
Explore the Terrace Houses, providing a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of Ephesus’ elite.
After the Ephesus visit, the tour takes a 45-minute lunch break in Selcuk before concluding with a guided tour of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Cultural Highlights
Ephesus, the ancient city, captivates visitors with its Library of Celsus, an architectural marvel that showcases the city’s cultural sophistication. Nearby, the Great Theatre and Terrace Houses offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Ephesus’ residents. Beyond Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary is a sacred pilgrimage site, while the Artemis Temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, represents the region’s rich history. In Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome of Constantinople reflect the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Beneath the surface, the Basilica Cistern stands as an engineering marvel, complementing the vibrant tapestry of experiences that await visitors.
Cultural Highlights | Location | Significance |
---|---|---|
Library of Celsus | Ephesus | Architectural marvel |
Great Theatre | Ephesus | Insight into daily life |
Terrace Houses | Ephesus | Glimpse into resident’s lives |
House of Virgin Mary | Ephesus | Sacred pilgrimage site |
Artemis Temple | Ephesus | One of the Seven Wonders |
Additional Experiences
Beyond the renowned cultural highlights, the tour offers travellers additional experiences to enjoy Turkish heritage.
Visitors can explore the Carpet Museum to learn about the intricate craft and cultural significance of Turkish carpets, or participate in a mosaic ceramic workshop to create their own unique masterpiece.
On top of that, the bustling Grand Bazaar in Istanbul provides an opportunity to discover global treasures amidst the vibrant marketplace.
The additional experiences on this tour allow guests to:
Appreciate the artistry and history behind Turkey’s renowned carpet making tradition.
Engage in a hands-on activity to craft a one-of-a-kind mosaic ceramic piece.
Immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the iconic Grand Bazaar.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package covers a range of inclusions, from pickup and drop-off services to a knowledgeable guide and a lunch break.
However, it excludes personal expenses, gratuities, and entrance fees to the attractions, making it unsuitable for individuals with low fitness levels.
Travelers can expect friendly and knowledgeable guides to accompany them throughout the journey, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
The tour includes visits to the House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, the Temple of Artemis, and various historical sites in Istanbul.
While the package covers the major highlights, travelers should be prepared to cover additional costs for entrance fees and personal expenses during the tour.
- PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR: Skip-the-Line & Guaranteed ON-TIME Return to Boat
- Private Tour FOR CRUISE GUESTS: Best of Ephesus Private Tour / SKIP THE LINE
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- For Cruisers: Best of Ephesus Skip-The-Line Tour
- Full-Day Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour From Selcuk or Kusadasi
Pickup and Drop-off Options
The tour provides convenient pickup and drop-off options from three different locations – Kusadasi Cruise Pier, Galata Port Istanbul, and Feribot Limanı. This ensures easy access for cruise passengers embarking or disembarking at these popular ports.
The itinerary is designed to maximize time exploring the cultural highlights while minimizing logistical hassles.
Some key advantages of the pickup and drop-off options include:
Seamless transfers from cruise ships, allowing passengers to focus on the sightseeing experience rather than transportation.
Flexibility to start or end the tour at the most convenient location for each traveler’s itinerary.
Efficient use of time by reducing the need for additional travel between the cruise terminal and tour starting point.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
For this tour, travelers can take advantage of the flexible cancellation and refund policy.
Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning their cruise excursion. This policy ensures that if plans change or unexpected circumstances arise, travelers can easily adjust their plans without incurring any penalties.
The ‘reserve now, pay later‘ option also allows customers to secure their spot on the tour and pay at a later time, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Reserve Now and Pay Later
This tour offers a convenient ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, allowing travelers to secure their spot with minimal upfront commitment.
This flexible payment plan is ideal for cruise passengers who may be finalizing their onshore activities closer to their departure date.
The reserve now, pay later policy provides several key benefits:
Guarantees your spot on the tour without requiring full payment upfront.
Offers peace of mind in reserving your preferred tour date and time.
Allows you to pay the full balance closer to your travel dates, providing more time to budget and plan.
This hassle-free booking process ensures you can easily add this Ephesus and Istanbul combination tour to your cruise itinerary without any financial constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for young children due to its long duration and extensive walking. Families with children should consider the child’s stamina and interest in the historical sites. Discretion is advised when booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours. However, some tour operators may have restrictions or provide lunch as part of the tour package. It’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.
Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?
The tour company doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors or students, but they may provide a group discount if there are 5 or more participants. It’s best to check with them directly about any potential savings.
How Often Does the Tour Run During the Week?
The tour runs daily, with multiple departures throughout the week. Specific schedule and availability can vary depending on the season and demand, so customers are advised to check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date information.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour operator allows customers to customize the itinerary based on their preferences. Guests can discuss options with the guide and adjust the schedule to accommodate their specific interests within the overall tour duration.
The Sum Up
The Ephesus Tour combined with Istanbul is an excellent choice for cruise passengers seeking a comprehensive cultural experience in Turkey.
Priced affordably at €298.72 for groups of up to five, the six-hour guided tour provides convenient access to historic sites, flexible scheduling, and a hassle-free cancellation policy.
This allows travelers to seamlessly incorporate this excursion into their cruise itinerary and enjoy Turkey’s rich heritage.
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