Description
Points of Interest
- Basilica of St. John
- Ephesus
- House of the Virgin Mary
- Carpet Weaving and Shopping
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Your scenic motorcoach ride travels north from Kusadasi past the Byzantine fortress in Selcuk, the ruins of the Temple of Artemis and the Basilica of St. John en route to the sacred Virgin Mary Shrine. Great vistas of the valley can be seen as you travel through the picturesque Solmissos Mountains to the House of the Virgin Mary, considered by the Vatican to a Holy Place. The small shrine, surrounded by greenery, was found in the ruins when the house was discovered. Then, travel to Ephesus, the Roman provincial capital. Your guide will take you on a downhill walk through the ruins of the city, highlighting archeological finds along the way. You'll see the beautifully preserved Temple of Hadrian, the magnificent Trajan Fountain, the Odeon Theater, the majestic Celsus Library and the Great Theater. Back at port, browse the colorful bazaars and view a Turkish carpet-weaving demonstration.
Special Notes:
Ephesus requires walking long distances over uneven surfaces. The drive from Ephesus to the Virgin Mary Shrine takes approximately 20 minutes over a winding mountain road. Visitors to the House of Virgin Mary must climb a few steps.At the end of the tour, passengers have the option to remain in town to view a carpet demonstration or to shop in the bazaar; return to the ship would be on your own (10 to 15 minutes walking).
This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
This tour uses headsets.
Details
Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.