Ephesus tours Basilica of Saint John Turkish bath Tours

Exploring Ephesus, the Basilica of Saint John, and a Turkish Bath: An Authentic Turkish Experience

This highly-rated tour from Kusadasi offers a well-rounded day of exploring one of Turkey’s most iconic archaeological sites, Ephesus, combined with visits to historic landmarks and relaxing Turkish baths. The experience is designed for those eager to combine history, culture, and wellness in one seamless day. What we love most about this tour is its thoughtful itinerary, balancing awe-inspiring ruins with cultural insights and a luxurious touch at the end.

One standout feature is the guide, who is praised for being the best in the region—knowledgeable, friendly, and capable of enriching your understanding of each site. The inclusion of a delicious Turkish lunch and a soap massage makes the price of $65 per person feel like a good deal, considering the comprehensive experience. A potential consideration might be the timing—expect to leave early when your cruise ship docks to maximize your day. This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, expert guidance, and efficient scheduling.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides make the history come alive with detailed insights.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines ancient ruins, cultural stops, and wellness activities.
• Value for Money: Including lunch, Turkish bath, and transportation, the price offers good value.
• Flexible Booking & Pickup: Convenient port pickup and flexible cancellation options.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit historical sites and enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine and wellness treatments.
• Small Group Feel: Private tour options for up to 10 people provide intimacy and personalized attention.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Kusadasi Port and Early Pickup

Your day begins with a pickup from Kusadasi port, usually arranged through your cruise line or directly with the tour operator, Samyeli Travel. The guide, recognized as the best in the region, will be holding a sign with your name, making it easy to find them. Given the tour’s popularity—booked an average of 81 days in advance—you’ll want to plan on leaving the ship early to maximize your time, especially since the tour lasts around 6 to 7 hours.

Exploring Ephesus: The Heart of the Day

The main event is the visit to Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most famous destinations, and a true highlight for history buffs. This ancient Greek city, part of the Ionian League, is full of remarkable ruins that evoke a sense of stepping back in time.

Your guide will lead you through marble streets lined with impressive structures, such as the Odeon, Bouleterion, and the famous Celsus Library—its third-largest of the ancient world. The library alone, built in the 2nd century AD, is a testament to the city’s importance as a hub of learning and culture.

Other notable sites include the Temple of Hadrian, the grand Theatre that once seated thousands, and the Harbor Street, which hints at the city’s bustling trade past. The guide’s detailed commentary will help you appreciate the significance of each ruin—something many travelers felt was a highlight based on reviews like: “I really enjoyed my time at Ephesus; it’s so charming to see that much history.”

One tip from reviews is to take plenty of photos early in the visit—there’s a good chance you’ll want to revisit some spots later in the day!

The Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders

Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Artemis in Selcuk, the site of one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only a single column remains today, this site is a powerful reminder of antiquity’s grandeur. The short 15-minute stop allows enough time to appreciate the historical significance and snap some photos without feeling rushed.

Lunch and Cultural Insights in Selcuk

A traditional Turkish lunch is included mid-day—think fresh, local dishes that give a taste of regional cuisine. During the meal, you’ll likely visit a handicrafts cooperative, which is both fun and educational. You can observe local artisans at work and learn about Turkish crafts like carpets, leather jackets, and jewelry. Reviewers have mentioned enjoying this part of the tour, emphasizing that it’s an interesting cultural experience without any obligation to buy.

The Temples and Ruins Continue

After lunch, the tour continues to the Basilica of Saint John, which is built over the believed burial site of St. John the Evangelist. The ruins feature massive domes and impressive Byzantine architecture donated by Emperor Justinian, offering a glimpse into early Christian history. Expect about an hour here, and be prepared for some uneven terrain.

Relaxation at Ada Saray Hamami

One of the most luxurious parts of the day is the Turkish bath experience. After a morning of walking and sightseeing, you’ll unwind with a soap massage, full-body scrub, and foam wash, all in a historic hamam setting. Many reviewers highlight how this treatment leaves the skin feeling softer and provides a well-deserved break. The included one-hour session is a perfect way to refresh before heading back.

Final Stop: The Basilica of Saint John & Wrap-up

The tour concludes with a visit to the ruins of the Basilica of Saint John, offering atmospheric views of the early Christian church. Built over the tomb of St. John, the site is both historic and spiritual. This stop, lasting about an hour, wraps up your day with a sense of connection to the past.

Transportation & Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, which makes the long day manageable and enjoyable. The tour is private, limited to up to 10 people, ensuring personalized attention. This small-group approach not only enhances the experience but also allows for more flexibility in timing and sightseeing.

Cost and Value

Pricing at $65 per person covers transportation, lunch, the Turkish bath, and all parking and taxes. Optional skip-the-line tickets are available for those who prefer to avoid queues. Considering the comprehensive nature of the tour—including expert guiding, cultural experiences, and wellness treatments—this price represents a very good value for a full-day, all-inclusive excursion.

What Reviewers Say

Based on reviews, guests consistently mention the knowledge and friendliness of the guide, often noting that it elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to an engaging cultural journey. For example, one reviewer said, “Our guide was the best in the region,” emphasizing how much they appreciated the detailed explanations.

Another pointed out the value of the delicious lunch and the soap massage, often citing these as memorable parts of the day. Several reviewers also appreciated the timely pickup and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free experience.

The Sum Up

This tour from Kusadasi balances history, culture, relaxation, and local flavor, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a guided walk through Ephesus, cultural stops, and a Turkish bath creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and wellness seekers alike.

It’s particularly suitable for cruise passengers, given the early pickup, guaranteed timely return, and the small group setting that maximizes comfort and intimacy. The knowledgeable guide, combined with the value-packed amenities like lunch and a soap massage, makes it a solid choice for those wanting authentic, immersive experiences.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the tour is designed with cruise passengers in mind, with port pickup and return guaranteed to ensure you’re back on time.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving enough time to explore all stops without feeling rushed.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, you’ll travel comfortably by air-conditioned bus with pickup and drop-off at Kusadasi port.

Are the entrance tickets included?
Not all sites have included entrance fees; for example, Ephesus’s entrance is not included, but skip-the-line tickets are optional.

Can I customize this tour?
It’s a private tour, so you may be able to request some adjustments, especially if booked in advance.

What is the experience at the Turkish bath like?
You’ll enjoy a soap massage, body scrub, and foam wash, typically lasting about an hour, leaving your skin soft and refreshed.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is part of the package, offering regional dishes in a friendly setting.

What should I wear for the ruins and the Turkish bath?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring ruins, and swimwear or casual clothes for the Turkish bath.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the tour provider if you have specific considerations.