PRIVATE BIBLICAL EPHESUS SHORE EXCURSION
Take a day out from your cruise to explore the legendary Ancient City of Ephesus and experience what life was like during the Roman Empire. Walk through history and listen to fascinating stories about the Great Theatre, the stunning Library of Celsus, and the elegant Temple of Hadrian, all narrated by our locally licensed professional guides.
This is a private shore excursion, carefully designed to provide a fully customized experience, allowing you to escape the crowds, skip the lines, and enjoy a relaxed yet well-planned day ashore. Together with your guide, you will create a time-efficient strategy that ensures you return to your cruise ship on time, stress-free.
Your journey begins directly at the cruise port. When your ship docks, our friendly staff will be waiting for you near the cruise port exit gate information desk, holding a sign with your name, making it easy to identify us.
ANCIENT CITY OF EPHESUS
The Ancient City of Ephesus, located near the modern town of Selçuk, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean region and an essential destination for history lovers. Ephesus was once a major Roman port city and served as the starting and ending point of the King’s Road, one of the three most important ancient trade routes of the world, alongside the Silk Road and the Spice Road.
During your guided tour, you will see:
Magnificent Roman temples
Library of Celsus, the third-largest library of the Ancient World
Great Theatre, one of the largest theaters of the Roman era
Roman-period streets and public buildings, reflecting daily life in antiquity
HOUSE OF MOTHER MARY
The House of the Virgin Mary, known as Meryemana in Turkish, is a sacred pilgrimage site located near Ephesus. According to Catholic and Orthodox tradition, it is believed that Virgin Mary spent her final years here after the death of Jesus Christ, living under the care of Saint John the Apostle.
Although the Bible does not explicitly mention the house, the site gained importance in the 19th century following the visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich, a German nun who described the location of Mary’s home. These visions led to the discovery of the small stone house that is revered today.
THE BASILICA OF ST.JOHN
The Basilica of St. John, located in Selçuk near Ephesus, is one of the most important early Christian monuments in the region. Built in the 6th century AD by Emperor Justinian I, the basilica stands on what is believed to be the burial site of St. John the Apostle.
St. John is thought to have lived in Ephesus during the final years of his life and to have written the Gospel of John here. Although the original structure suffered damage due to earthquakes over centuries, the remains visible today reflect its former grandeur and religious significance.
TERRACE HOUSE OF EPHESUS
The Terrace Houses of Ephesus, often called the “Houses of the Rich,” offer a unique glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Ephesus’ elite citizens during the Roman period. Dating from the 1st century BCE to the 7th century CE, these residences were equipped with advanced infrastructure and lavish decorations.
Inside, you will see:
Intricate mosaics and frescoes
Underfloor heating systems
Elegant courtyards and living spaces, showcasing Roman wealth and sophistication
PRICES INCLUDED
✅ Licensed Professional Tour Guide
✅ Transportation with Air-Conditioned Minivans
✅ Cruise Port Pick-up & Drop-off
PRICES EXCLUDES
❌ Personal Expenses
❌ Drinks at Lunch (Optional)
❌ Entrance Tickets to the Museums Mentioned in the Itinerary
PRICES INCLUDED
✅ Licensed Professional Tour Guide
✅ Transportation with Air-Conditioned Minivans
✅ Cruise Port Pick-up & Drop-off
PRICES EXCLUDES
❌ Personal Expenses
❌ Drinks at Lunch (Optional)
❌ Entrance Tickets to the Museums Mentioned in the Itinerary
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This form is not a form of direct booking. You will receive an email from our travel counsellors and this email will direct you about the confirmation to your reservation.
