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).
Selcuk - your first stop, is a small town founded by Greek colonists as early as the 11th century BC and remained inland due to the silting of the port of Ephesus.
Ephesus - after a scenic drive, you'll reach this city with enough majestic history and archealogy to please evening the most discerning connaisseur. The capital of Asia Minor during the Roman era, Ephesus had a bustling port and mercantile activity and plenty of political intrigue. Prestigious buildings are remarkably well-preserved.
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. Tour the Terrace Houses in the ancient residential section of the city and get a taste for the once flamboyant lifestlye of the Ephesians.
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. Head up to the Ephesus Archaelogical Museum to see works of art unearthed from the Roman era.
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 $160 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-VTSearc