Ephesus tours Basilica of Saint John Turkish bath Tours

Discover the Best of Kusadasi with the Ephesus, Saint John Basilica, and Turkish Bath Tour

This comprehensive tour in Kusadasi, Turkey, offers an enriching mix of history, culture, and relaxation for just $65 per person. Spanning approximately 6 to 7 hours, it features visits to the legendary Ephesus ancient city, the Temple of Artemis, and the Basilica of Saint John, along with a traditional Turkish bath and a delightful lunch. The tour is designed for those seeking an in-depth exploration of Turkey’s most iconic sites with the convenience of pickup and guaranteed on-time return.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of a soap massage and Turkish bath, combined with visits to historical landmarks led by a highly praised local guide. The private tour experience ensures a personalized touch, ideal for up to 10 people. With positive review scores of 5.0/5 from 11 participants, this tour appeals to travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone looking for a full-day experience that balances sightseeing with wellness. Keep in mind that some sites, like Ephesus and the Basilica of Saint John, do not include entrance fees, so budgeting for these is advisable.

Key Points

• Includes an authentic Turkish bath with a sauna, scrub, and foam wash.
• Guided visits to Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most famous ancient cities.
• Visits to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.
• A delicious Turkish lunch and a soap massage are part of the package.
• The tour begins at Kusadasi port, with pickup included.
• Private group experience for up to 10 people ensures personalized attention.

Meeting Point and Transportation in Kusadasi

The tour starts at Ege Ports (Camikebir, Liman Cd. No:10, Kusadasi), with pickup arranged directly from the Kusadasi cruise port. The guide, known as one of the best in the region, will wait at the designated spot with a sign bearing your name. The tour utilizes air-conditioned transport, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

Travelers are advised to leave early from the port to maximize time at each stop. The group size is limited to 10, fostering a more intimate experience. The transportation cost and parking fees are included in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free day.

Exploring the Ancient City of Ephesus

The Ephesus ancient city is the main highlight, offering a walk through a marble-lined street filled with remarkable ruins. As a former Ionian League city, Ephesus was a major port and trade hub. The guide leads you through key sites such as The Marble Street, The Odeon, The Bouleterion, and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Notable landmarks include the Library of Celsus, built in the early 2nd century A.D., which is the third largest library of the ancient world and a favorite photo spot. Plus, visitors see the Temple of Hadrian, The Trajans Fountain, and The Great Theatre. The admission tickets to these sites are not included in the tour price, so it’s wise to budget extra.

The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, sharing historical context and interesting anecdotes about the ruins and their significance.

Visiting the Temple of Artemis: A Wonder of the Ancient World

One of the final stops is the Temple of Artemis in the nearby town of Selcuk. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, the temple is celebrated for its grand scale and historical importance. The site is visited for about 15 minutes, giving enough time to appreciate the remains and learn about its legendary status.

The admission fee to the temple is included, making this a convenient addition to the day. The visit offers an inspiring glimpse into ancient architecture and religious practices.

Lunch and Cultural Experiences in Selcuk

The tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch, showcasing local flavors and culinary traditions. During this stop, visitors also explore a Turkish handicrafts cooperative, which offers a chance to see local artisans at work. This stop lasts about 2 hours and is free of charge, with no obligation to make purchases.

The cultural visit adds depth to the day, offering insights into Turkish craftsmanship and daily life. The food, as highlighted by reviews, is enjoyed as a genuine, local experience, making it a highlight of the tour.

Relaxing at Ada Saray Hamami Turkish Bath

A major perk of this tour is the Turkish bath experience, lasting about 1 hour. The session features a sauna, a full-body scrub using traditional kese gloves, and a foam massage with soap. The scrubbing helps remove dead skin and leaves the skin feeling softer, making it a refreshing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

The admission to the Hamami is included, and the experience is noted for its authenticity and quality. This relaxing treatment complements the busy day and adds a luxurious touch to the itinerary.

Visiting the Basilica of Saint John: The Site of the Evangelist’s Tomb

The final stop is the Basilica of Saint John, built over the tomb of St. John the Evangelist. This impressive Byzantine ruin features a cruciform structure with six large domes and reliefs depicting scenes from Greek hero Achilleus’s life. The persecution gate at the entrance also offers historical relief carvings.

The visit lasts around 1 hour, and the admission fee is not included in the tour. The site provides a powerful sense of spiritual history and architecture, making it a fitting conclusion to the day’s exploration.

Overall Experience and Value

This private tour combines key historical sites with cultural and wellness elements, making it ideal for those who want a balanced day. The guides’ expertise and the personalized pace ensure a meaningful experience. The delicious lunch, soap massage, and Turkish bath earn special praise, adding a memorable touch.

While the entrance fees for some historical sites are not included, the overall value remains high, especially considering the comfort of transport, local guide, and guaranteed punctuality. The $65 price point and the all-inclusive transport and pickup make this a convenient option for cruise passengers or day visitors.

The limited group size enhances interaction and attentiveness, and the positive reviews underscore the quality of the experience. This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, culture, and relaxation in a single day.

Visiting Ephesus and Kusadasi: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals to history buffs eager to explore Ephesus’s ruins and learn about ancient Greece and Rome. It also suits culture enthusiasts interested in Turkish traditions, crafts, and cuisine. The wellness component with the Turkish bath makes it a good choice for those seeking a little pampering.

Because of the private, small-group format, it provides a more intimate experience than larger tours. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value guided storytelling and personalized service. Note that entrance fees for some sites are not included, so additional budget planning is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $65 fee covers transportation, pickup, soap massage, Turkish bath, lunch, and admission to the Temple of Artemis. Entrance fees for Ephesus and Saint John Basilica are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, including all stops, meals, and wellness activities.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship visitors?
Yes, the tour begins at Kusadasi port with guaranteed on-time return, making it suitable for cruise passengers.

Can I customize the experience?
This private tour is designed for up to 10 people, offering a personalized experience, but specific customization options are not detailed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and cash for optional entrance fees or souvenirs are recommended.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking through historical ruins and sites, so it’s suitable for most physically able travelers with no specific restrictions noted.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, the local guide is highly praised for expertise and storytelling, enhancing the overall experience.

Can I cancel for a full refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This well-rounded, culturally rich experience from Kusadasi provides a perfect blend of history, local culture, and relaxation, making it a top choice for many visitors seeking an authentic Turkish day out.