Ephesus & Kusadasi: Private Shore Excursion with Lunch

Summary

Walk marble streets in Ephesus, pause at Artemis Temple, share Turkish lunch

You’ll step onto Ephesus’ ancient stones with a local guide who knows every story. Taste home-style Turkish lunch after visiting sacred sites like the House of Mary. Pause where Artemis’ temple once stood tall—and return to Kusadasi port with new memories still clinging to your shoes.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guide right outside the Kusadasi port, holding a sign with my name (which still makes me feel like a minor celebrity). The air was already thick with that salty Aegean smell and the kind of warmth that makes you want to move slow. Our minibus was waiting—just us and our friends, no strangers to herd around. I liked that we could actually talk to our guide, Ayşe, who grew up nearby and seemed to know every stone between here and Selçuk. She asked what we wanted to see most, and honestly, I hadn’t decided yet—so she just grinned and said, “Let’s start with Ephesus. The rest will follow.”

The drive out passed the old caravanserai—Ayşe pointed it out but we didn’t stop (next time maybe). Ephesus itself hit me harder than I expected. The marble underfoot was slick from last night’s rain, and there were little puddles reflecting the broken columns. We wandered Curetes Street while Ayşe told us stories about Roman politicians and how they’d gossip here. There was this moment in the Grand Theater when everyone fell quiet for a second—you could almost hear ancient crowds cheering. My shoes got dustier than I’d planned but I didn’t care; you can wash shoes but not memories like that.

I didn’t expect to feel much at the House of the Virgin Mary, but it was peaceful—candles flickering even in daylight, people whispering prayers in so many languages. Lunch after was simple: grilled chicken, rice pilaf, fresh tomatoes that actually tasted like something. We laughed about my attempt at ordering ayran in Turkish (Ayşe tried not to laugh too hard). She suggested we swing by the Temple of Artemis—even though there’s only one column left standing now. It looked lonely against all that sky.

By late afternoon we drifted back toward Kusadasi port, tired in a good way. There wasn’t any rush—Ayşe made sure we’d be back well before boarding time. I keep thinking about those marble streets and how old stories stick around if you listen for them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Ephesus tour with lunch

• Meet guide at Kusadasi port
• Drive to Ephesus passing caravanserail and marina
• Visit Ephesus ancient city sites
• Optional visit to House of Virgin Mary
• Enjoy included lunch
• Optional visit to St. John Basilica or Selcuk Museum
• Stop at Temple of Artemis
• Return to Kusadasi port

Top questions

How long does this private Ephesus shore excursion last?

The tour can last up to 10 hours before your cruise boarding time.

Is hotel or port pickup included in Kusadasi?

Yes, pickup is included from Kusadasi hotels or cruise terminal.

Are entrance fees covered for all sites?

Yes, all entrance fees are included with pre-paid tickets to skip lines.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is included.

Can I choose which sites to visit on this tour?

Yes, the itinerary is flexible based on your preferences and discussion with your guide.

Is transportation private or shared?

You’ll have private transportation by Mercedes minibus for your group only.

Will we have enough time before our cruise departs?

Your guide ensures you return at least one hour before cruise departure.

Are infant seats available for families?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What’s included

Your day includes private pickup from Kusadasi port or hotel, entry fees for every site (no waiting in line), a professional licensed local guide by your side throughout, private air-conditioned minibus transport just for your group, parking costs covered—and a traditional Turkish lunch before returning comfortably ahead of your ship’s departure time.