9am - you'll be met at the dock by your private guide holding a sign with your names and will then board your luxury minivan (with A/C and non-smoking) to see some of the best preserved Roman sites around today.
Ephesus - after a scenic drive past Selcuk - a town from the 11th century BC, you'll reach this historic city, which was the capital of the Province of Asia Minor during the Roman Era.
Our first stop will be at a charming chapel, consecrated by the Pope, at the very spot where the House of Virgin Mary stood. Local tradition recounts that the Virgin Mary lived and died at this holy place in the company of St John, who was entrusted with her care by Jesus Christ when he was being crucified.
Stroll up the Marble Road that runs through the city and pass by the Temple of Hadrian, with its articulate façade and the Library of Celsus, evoking the grandeur of the Roman era. Visit the Great Theater of Ephesus, which bears the greatest Biblical significance. It was this massive building that was the scene of an uprising (Acts 19) by a merchant named Demetrius against St Paul, who spent two years preaching the Word of God there.
Following this, you'll visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The temple was erected in the 6th century BC and is the first building known to have been entirely built in marble. It had 127 Ionic pillars and was rebuilt by Alexander the Great right after he took control of the city from the Persians.
Enjoy lunch at a lovely local fish restaurant on the shores of the Aegean Sea. Their olive oil appetizers and fresh fish are amazing.
After lunch, return to Kusadasi where you should have time to hunt for bargains in fine jewelry and silverware. At the end of the day, your guide will escort you back to your cruise ship in the port.
Duration - 5 hours
Pricing - USD $280 per person (2-3 pax) and USD $155 per person (4-5 pax)
Includes - Professional lecturer/guide, luxury non-smoking minivan with A/C, all entrance and parking fees, guide books, maps, bookmarks and stamped postcards, complimentary refreshments in vehicle. Lunch and guide tips are extra.
Languages - English, Spanish, Portuguese, French
Tour Code - TU-VTSedis