Kusadasi Shore Excursion - This 6 Hour shore trip visits the House of the Virgin Mary and the ancient site of Ephesus, one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. Included is a visit to the Terrace Houses, something many tours do not include. Before returning to the pier you have free time for lunch and or shopping.

Your driver and licensed guide will meet you at the pier in Kusadasi and you immediately depart for the countryside. The first stop on this fascinating tour is the House of the Virgin Mary. This holy site sitting atop a tranquil mountain is believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary after she fled Jerusalem.

Next you travel on to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. Your licensed guide will bring the past to life as you stroll streets lined with columns and paved with marble. You will see the Odeon, where the advisory council held its meetings, the Temple of Hadrian, Roman Baths, and many other monuments and ruins.

The most impressive sight is the much photographed Celsus Library towering at the end of the main street. Equally impressive is the ancient theater which can seat 24,000 people. It is here where St. Paul preached.

Next is free time for lunch (not included) and or shopping. Possibilities include pottery, leather, jewelry, the famous Turkish carpet workshops or more. If you are interested in shopping, please let your guide know.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs

Tips on visiting Turkey:

Shopping - If additional time is available during your tour, many guides will ask if you are interested in seeing how Turkish carpets are made or if you wish to shop. These free demonstrations are very interesting and quite informative, but they are also a selling opportunity. Decide on your interest and tell your tour guide clearly whether shopping interests you or not. You should never feel obligated to make a purchase on any tour.