Kusadasi, Turkey - Middle East Cruises

The city of Miletus was one of the greatest Ionian cities in south western Asia Minor. Miletus was destroyed in 494 BC after falling into the hands of the Persians but was later rebuilt by the famous architect, Hippodamus who gave Miletus its street grid plan. This revolutionary feature of urban planning was adopted in nearby Priene, and later by all new Roman cities. The city eventually declined after silt brought down by the river Maeander caused the gulf to close and extended the shore line.

During your visit you will see the ruins of the stadium, Roman baths and the Roman theatre which at one time could hold 25,000 spectators.

Visit the newly opened Archaeological Museum at Miletus and see the wonderful artefacts representing the many ancient sites of the area.

Afterwards, enjoy a stop at the site of Didyma to view the Temple of Apollo. This vast temple was amongst the most famous oracles in the ancient world.

As your tour concludes back in Kusadasi, you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration with some time for shopping or returning directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground on this tour. Please watch your step at all times and due to the nature of the sites, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of highlights on this tour may vary to avoid congestion.

Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeon, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre.

Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St John the Evangelist, St John's Basilica was once topped with eleven domes and rivalled Istanbul's St Sophia Basilica in scale. The church is now in ruins, but there are many frescoes, mosaics and columns that attest to the glory that once marked this holy place.

The scenic drive, past countryside cultivated with olive groves, vineyards, tobacco and cotton plantations, will come to life as your guide takes you to the former site of the Temple of Artemis for a memorable photograph stop.

The tour will end at a carpet shop in downtown Kusadasi. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit may wish to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2½ hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden.

Your tour begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where it is said that Mary, accompanied by John the Apostle, visited at the end of her life. Upon reaching the City of Ancient Ephesus, the guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. Highlights will include the Fountain of Trajan, the impressive Library of Celsius and the Grand Theatre.

Visit the recently excavated Terrace Houses, also referred to as ‘the houses of the rich’. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus resided in these houses, which appeared very plain from the outside. However inside they were decorated with mosaic flooring and frescoes. Excavations of the Terrace Houses started in 1960 and are still continuing today.

Afterwards, you will visit the glorious St John’s Basilica. This once great church built over a 2nd century tomb is thought to hold the remains of St John.

A traditional luncheon will be served in a five star hotel before the return drive to Kusadasi. Once back in downtown Kusadasi you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration or returning directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately three hours of walking over slippery and cobblestoned ground, with uneven terrain and some climbing required through the ruins. There are approximately 20 steps at the entrance to the Terrace Houses plus many steps inside to reach the different levels. The tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion. Soft drinks and water are included with luncheon; any alcoholic drinks must be purchased. Euros, Sterling and US Dollars are accepted.

An air-conditioned minibus with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Minibuses will take up to twelve guests.

This private minibus tour will allow you to take in the ancient site of Ephesus with family or friends.

Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeon, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre.

Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St John the Evangelist, St John's Basilica was once topped with 11 domes and rivalled Istanbul’s St Sophia Basilica in scale. The church is now in ruins, but there are many frescoes, mosaics and columns that attest to the glory that once marked this holy place.

The scenic drive, past countryside cultivated with olive groves, vineyards, tobacco and cotton plantations, will come to life as your guide takes you to the former site of the Temple of Artemis for a memorable photo stop.

The tour will end at a carpet shop in downtown Kusadasi. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Alternatively you may wish to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. . Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

There is approximately 2½ hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden. Entrance fees are included. Refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Ephesus is unsurpassed by any archaeological site in terms of sheer magnitude and the roots of this impressive site go back to the 13th century BC. The surviving ruins of Ephesus belong to the Roman Imperial Period, with an impressive amphitheatre, large enough to hold 25,000 people, and the well preserved and restored Library of Celsius.

Continue your tour through areas of vineyards and peach trees to Sirince Village, an old Orthodox settlement on the top of a mountain. Today, the village is a perfect synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture from the 1920's. You will have the unique opportunity to observe village life and purchase some traditional souvenirs and handicrafts. The narrow streets of the village are home to women selling crafts and olive oil.

Visit a local house, where you can see the characteristic exterior and the traditional local interior. Afterwards sip a cup of refreshing Turkish apple tea at a traditional local village tea house, whilst learning more of the Turkish way of life. The tour will end in downtown Kusadasi with an optional visit to a carpet shop to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit the carpet shop may return directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately two and a half hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground. The removal of items from the site of Ephesus is strictly forbidden. Comfortable walking shoes and a hat are recommended. The tour will end at a carpet shop next to the terminal building. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit the carpet shop may return directly to the ship.

Explore the ancient site of Miletus, once the most important city and principal port of the Ionian league, a group of cities established and reputed as the most developed cities of their age. The original city was destroyed by the Persians in 494 BC and a new town rebuilt according to the principles of Hippodamus.

Another highlight is the classical site of the Temple of Apollo at Didyma, dating back to the 6th century BC. Legend has it that upon the arrival of Alexander the Great, the dry fountain of prophecy gushed to life and the oracle announced Alexander to be the son of Zeus. As a result, Alexander ordered the building of a new superb temple, which can still be seen today.

Luncheon, accompanied by a glass of wine or beer, will be served at a local restaurant overlooking the Temple of Apollo.

Visit the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus with a guided walking tour taking in the highlights of The Temple of Hadrian, Grand Theatre, Library and Fountain of Trajan. The tour will end in downtown Kusadasi with an optional visit to a carpet shop to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit the carpet shop may return directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately three hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground. Please watch your step at all times and due to the nature of the sites, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of highlights on this tour may vary to avoid congestion.

An air-conditioned minibus with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of passengers to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Minibuses will take up to twelve guests.

Your tour begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where it is said that Mary, accompanied by John the Apostle, visited at the end of her life. Upon reaching the City of Ancient Ephesus, the guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. Highlights will include the Fountain of Trajan, the impressive Library of Celsius and the Grand Theatre.

Visit the recently excavated Terrace Houses, also referred to as ‘the houses of the rich’. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus resided in these houses, which appeared very plain from the outside. However inside they were decorated with mosaic flooring and frescoes. Excavations of the Terrace Houses started in 1960 and are still continuing today.

Afterwards, you will visit the glorious St John’s Basilica, this once great church built over a 2nd century tomb is thought to hold the remains of St John.

A traditional luncheon will be served in a five star hotel before the return drive to Kusadasi. Once back in downtown Kusadasi you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration or returning directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

There is approximately three hours of walking over slippery and cobblestoned ground, with uneven terrain and some climbing required through the ruins. There are approximately 20 steps at the entrance to the Terrace Houses plus many steps inside to reach the different levels. The tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion. Soft drinks and water are included with lunch; any alcoholic drinks must be purchased. Euros, Sterling and US Dollars are accepted.

Visit the ancient city of Ephesus which was once one of the largest cities in the Mediterranean world.

After entering at the Magnesia Gate, a slow downhill walk will take you into the ruins of this Roman provincial capital. Listen carefully as your knowledgeable guide enlightens you with stories of the past whilst showing you the Odeon Theatre, the Celsus Library, the Temple of Hadrian and the Fountain of Trajan. A highlight will be the Great Theatre which had seating for 25,000 spectators and was the site where it is believed St Paul preached to the Ephesians.

Across from Hadrian’s Temple in a newly excavated area is the impressive Terrace Houses, also referred to as ‘the houses of the rich’. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus resided in these houses, which is evident from the grand decorations of mosaics and frescoes. Your visit will provide you with the finest examples of Roman domestic life.

A scenic drive will bring you back to downtown Kusadasi to visit a carpet shop. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Those not wishing to visit may choose to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is over 2 hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, therefore flat comfortable shoes are recommended. There are approximately 20 steps at the entrance to the terrace houses. The terrace houses are located on different levels and there are a number of steps to negotiate to reach each level. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden.

An air-conditioned people carrier with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

People Carriers will take up to four guests.

Your tour begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where it is said that Mary, accompanied by John the Apostle, visited at the end of her life. Upon reaching the City of Ancient Ephesus, the guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. Highlights will include the Fountain of Trajan, the impressive Library of Celsius and the Grand Theatre.

Visit the recently excavated Terrace Houses, also referred to as ‘the houses of the rich’. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus resided in these houses, which appeared very plain from the outside. However inside they were decorated with mosaic flooring and frescoes. Excavations of the Terrace Houses started in 1960 and are still continuing today.

Afterwards, you will visit the glorious St John’s Basilica, this once great church built over a 2nd century tomb is thought to hold the remains of St John.

A traditional luncheon will be served in a 5 star hotel before the return drive to Kusadasi. Once back in downtown Kusadasi you will have the option of visiting a local carpet store for a carpet demonstration or returning directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

There is approximately three hours of walking over slippery and cobblestoned ground, with uneven terrain and some climbing required through the ruins. There are approximately 20 steps at the entrance to the Terrace Houses plus many steps inside to reach the different levels. The tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion. Soft drinks and water are included with lunch; any alcoholic drinks must be purchased. Euros, Sterling and US Dollars are accepted.

Your scenic drive will take you through the colourful town of Kusadasi, along the coast, and to the entrance of Ephesus. View the ruins of Ephesus from a distance and take in the breathtaking panoramic sight of the Great Theatre, where St Paul the Apostle preached.

Journey to the Statue of Virgin Mary located on the upper hill of the ancient city of Ephesus. Continue to Virgin Mary’s Shrine, which is the site where the Blessed Virgin is reputed to have spent the last years of her life. The site was made famous by the travels of Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI.

Afterwards stop for photographs at the Temple of Artemis, one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’.

Upon your return drive to Kusadasi, visit a local Turkish Carpet weaving centre for refreshments and snacks. Relax and enjoy the hospitable welcome of the locals whilst learning about Turkish arts and culture, especially weaving styles, handiwork and symbols.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is a maximum of one hour of walking in total on this tour mostly around the Virgin Mary’s Shrine. Please note that this tour does not include a visit inside the site of Ephesus, it is only viewed panoramically from the outside.

An air-conditioned people carrier with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

People Carriers will take up to four guests.

This private people carrier tour will allow you to take in the ancient site of Ephesus with family or friends.

Enter the magnificent site of the Ancient City of Ephesus at the Magnesia Gate. Whilst Ephesus is now deserted and in ruins, the past glories come to life as the impressive array of temples, agoras, porticoes and fountains come into view. Of particular interest are the Odeon, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theatre.

Built over a 2nd century tomb believed to hold St John the Evangelist, St John's Basilica was once topped with 11 domes and rivalled Istanbul’s St Sophia Basilica in scale. The church is now in ruins, but there are many frescoes, mosaics and columns that attest to the glory that once marked this holy place.

The scenic drive, past countryside cultivated with olive groves, vineyards, tobacco and cotton plantations, will come to life as your guide takes you to the former site of the Temple of Artemis for a memorable photo stop.

The tour will end at a carpet shop in downtown Kusadasi. This is an optional visit to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture. Alternatively you may wish to explore independently or return directly to the ship.


Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only one person in the party is required to book a ticket. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made.

There is approximately 2½ hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The removal of any pieces from the site is strictly forbidden. Entrance fees are included. Refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Begin your day by exploring the ancient site of Tralles. Situated close to the city of Aydin, Tralles was founded by the Argians and the Thracians and was handed back and forth frequently between the Hellenistic kingdoms following the conquest of Alexander the Great in 334 B.C.

Visit the newly opened Aydin Museum filled with works mainly collected from the ruins of the ancient city of Tralles; the first settlement of the area. On display are archaeological finds, coins and metals from a variety of civilisations, textiles, jewellery and household items.

The site of Magnesia is your next stop. According to legend and historians, this ancient city was founded by a tribe called the Magets from Thessaly who built the city in 400 B.C. because they required a fortified city to defend themselves against the Persians. In Magnesia’s Hellenistic period it was ruled by the Seleucids and the Kingdom of Pergamon respectively.

Upon returning to Kusadasi you will have the option of visiting a carpet shop to learn about the art of Turkish carpet manufacture or returning directly to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven, slippery and cobblestoned ground. Please watch your step at all times and due to the nature of the sites, flat comfortable shoes are recommended. The order of highlights on this tour may vary to avoid congestion.

Enjoy a walking tour of the historic sights of Ephesus, the audio player is yours alone, so you can spend as much or as little time as you’d like at each spot. Since there are no schedules to keep, you are free to either follow the suggested route or set out on your own adventure.

Your stereo iPod® allows you to listen to all the facts and descriptions of this incredible site, simply consult the customised map to find each location and then go to the indicated number on the player for a detailed description of the site and its history.

Become aquainted with areas of Ephesus such as; the Odeon, Agora, Domitian Square, Trajan’s Fountain, Temple of Hadrian as well as the most beautiful structure in all of Ephesus, the Celsus Library, which was built in the 2nd century and was the third largest library in the ancient world.

After your exploration is complete reconnect with your guide who will meet you at the lower gate to accompany you on your way back to the town. Here there will be an optional shopping stop with an educational presentation on the history of carpet-making and time to enjoy just browsing through the sprawling town of Kusadasi.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Guests must be able to walk approximately 1½ miles over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, inclines and steps. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen are recommended. Insect repellent is also recommended in July and August. Guests are recommended to watch their step at all times. An iPod with earbuds, a customised map of the walking route, return transportation, guidance/escort and a bottle of water are also included. Please present photo ID when picking up your iPod®. Ideally, participants will be familiar with iPod® technology prior to booking this tour, but a brief explanation of the equipment will be provided at the time of its delivery.