port
Cesme, Turkey
activityLevel
Strenuous Activity
excursionType
All
wheelchairAccessible
No
startingAtPrice
$200
minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
mealsIncluded
Meals included
Located within what was once the estuary of the River Kaystros, Ephesus comprises successive Hellenistic and Roman settlements founded on new locations, which followed the coastline as it retreated westward. Excavations have revealed grand monuments of the Roman Imperial period including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Little remains of the famous Temple of Artemis, one of the "Seven Wonders of the World," which drew pilgrims from all around the Mediterranean. Since the 5th century, the House of the Virgin Mary, a domed cruciform chapel seven kilometers from Ephesus, became a major place of Christian pilgrimage. The Ancient City of Ephesus is an outstanding example of a Roman port city, with sea channel and harbour basin.
Accompanied by a local photographer, walk among the stunning ruins here, including the façade of the Celsus Library and Hadrian's Temple. Follow the Sacred Way -- one of the main thoroughfares used by the Ancient Romans.
You'll also visit the Terrace Houses, located opposite Hadrian's Temple. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus used these finely-decorated houses, their mosaics and frescoes giving a true impression of the ancient lifestyle.
Continuing to the end of the marble street, you can look up at the impressive amphitheatre where St Paul preached to the Ephesians.
A drive to Seljuk brings you to a traditional carpet-weaving village. Lunch is served here. See an optional carpet demonstration and enjoy some free time for shopping before returning to Çesme.
Please note: Tour requires two hours of walking at a slow pace, mostly downhill. The Terrace Houses are set on inclined terrain and require some stair-climbing. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; please dress accordingly. Bring a hat and wear biodegradable sunscreen. The drive to Ephesus is approximately 90 minutes each way.