Selcuk is a treasure trove for travelers stopping at Kusadasi or Izmir, especially if you love stepping back into ancient times. The town’s proximity to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, makes it a natural hub for shore excursions. Whether you’re fascinated by Roman ruins, interested in Biblical sites, or just seeking a relaxed day among history and local culture, Selcuk offers options for all tastes.
Our favorite is the Kusadasi Shore Excursion : Ephesus Private Tour ONLY FOR CRUISE GUESTS, which combines personalized attention with a full exploration of top landmarks like the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis. It’s perfect if you want a quick, intimate look at Ephesus with a knowledgeable guide.
If you prefer a more comprehensive experience, the Ephesus Shore Excursion: Private Guide and Vehicle offers a full 6-hour private tour with stops in Şirince for wine tasting. For those on a tight schedule, several options are available, but no matter your choice, Selcuk’s archaeological sites are sure to impress.
1. Kusadasi Shore Excursion : Ephesus Private Tour ONLY FOR CRUISE GUESTS
Make the most of your limited time with this tailored private tour to Ephesus, designed specifically for cruise passengers. For around $57, you get a 5 to 7-hour experience including port or hotel transfers and the chance to walk through the enormous archaeological complex with a guide.
This is a top pick for its personalized touch and flexibility. You’ll see highlights like the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater, and visit the Virgin Mary’s House, believed to be her final residence. The Virgin Mary’s House is especially evocative, offering a peaceful moment amid ruins. The tour also includes a quick visit to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world—a perfect photo op.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on making every minute count while providing personalized attention. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who craft the experience around your interests, making history come alive in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for cruise travelers who want a hassle-free, intimate exploration of Ephesus with plenty of time for photos and questions.
2. Ephesus Shore Excursion: Private Guide and Vehicle
For around $173, this private guided tour offers a deep dive into Ephesus’s best-preserved ruins. It’s designed for travelers seeking a more thorough experience, focusing on archaeological highlights like the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Roman Baths.
What makes this tour special is the personalized guidance from an expert guide who can adapt the itinerary to your pace and interests. You’ll also visit the village of Şirince, a charming hilltop town famous for its fruit wines and traditional Turkish houses. This adds a cultural touch to the archaeological immersion.
Guests consistently praise guides like Erman, who makes complex history accessible and engaging. It’s a perfect choice if you want to spend more time learning and less rushing. The worry-free policy guarantees you’ll return to your cruise on time, so no worries about missing the ship.
Bottom line: Best suited for history buffs or curious travelers who want a well-rounded day with personalized attention and a taste of local life.
3. Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus Private Tour from Kusadasi Ephesus Port
This private tour, priced at $57, provides an efficient way to explore Ephesus during your limited time. With a luxury Mercedes vehicle, your guide takes you directly from the Kusadasi port to key sites like the Terrace Houses, Ephesus Museum, and Temple of Artemis.
The tour emphasizes customizable timing and live commentary, making it particularly suitable for those who want flexibility. Guests have appreciated guides like Emma, who made history come alive and answered all their questions. The roughly 6-hour schedule fits well into a cruise itinerary, ensuring you see the best parts of Ephesus without feeling rushed.
This tour’s value lies in its private setting and focus on personalized experiences. It’s best for travelers who want a concise, yet immersive visit, with the comfort of private transport.
Bottom line: Excellent for those with limited time who want a tailored, stress-free exploration of Ephesus.
4. Izmir Shore Excursion: Day Trip to Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary
For about $95, this full-day trip from Izmir combines Ephesus with the House of Virgin Mary. It’s ideal if your cruise starts from Izmir and you want a comprehensive experience.
Your day includes guided visits to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including highlights like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. The trip also features a stop at Mary’s House, where tradition says she spent her last days. The included Turkish lunch adds a tasty local touch, and the air-conditioned coach keeps everyone comfortable.
Guests report that the guides are knowledgeable and that the pace is well-managed. The tour balances archaeology and spiritual sites, making it appealing for both history lovers and those interested in biblical connections.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want an all-in-one day trip from Izmir, combining cultural, historical, and spiritual sights.
5. Private Tour : Ephesus Port Tour for Cruisers
This private Ephesus port tour, at $57, gives you a flexible, tailor-made experience lasting around 4 to 6 hours. It’s perfect if you’re looking to avoid large groups and want to customize your day with a local guide.
While the itinerary is simple—focused on Ephesus—the real appeal is the customizable schedule. You can choose which sites matter most, whether that’s the Terrace Houses, Library of Celsus, or just soaking in the atmosphere of the ancient city.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to pause for photos or questions whenever they wish. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option that keeps logistics simple and flexible.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want control over their sightseeing and prefer a private, intimate experience.
6. Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Private Full-Day Tour to Ephesus, Didyma and Miletus
At around $236, this extensive full-day tour covers Ephesus, Didyma’s Temple of Apollo, and Miletus. It’s a deep dive into Turkey’s archaeological treasures, perfect for those with more time and curiosity.
Your guide will handle the logistics, allowing you to explore Ephesus’s marble streets, Didyma’s oracle temple, and the Roman theater of Miletus at your own pace. The tour emphasizes historical significance and highlights impressive monuments that illustrate different eras.
Guests love the expert guides who provide rich context, making the ruins come alive. The inclusion of Miletus’ theater and Didyma’s oracle offers a rounded perspective on ancient civilization’s reach.
Bottom line: Best for history enthusiasts who want a full archaeological experience beyond just Ephesus.
7. Entrance Fees are INCLUDED / Shore Excursion Biblical Ephesus
Costing around $140, this tour provides all entrance fees included, ensuring no surprises. It combines Biblical sites like Virgin Mary’s House, St John’s Basilica, and Ephesus itself.
The tour’s strength is the comprehensive itinerary and expert commentary that takes you through 2,000 years of history. The visit to St John’s Basilica and Virgin Mary’s House adds spiritual significance, appealing to those interested in biblical history.
Past travelers mention the knowledgeable guide and appreciate the hassle-free experience of all-inclusive entry fees. It’s a good choice if you want to focus on the historical and biblical aspects without worrying about extra costs.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers wanting a full, all-inclusive experience with a focus on biblical history.
$140.00 per person
8. Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus and Caravanserai Private Shore Excursion
This tour combines the ancient ruins of Ephesus with a visit to the Caravanserai Öküz Mehmet Paşa, for just $18 per person. It’s a budget-friendly option that offers both archaeology and local trade history.
You’ll explore Ephesus, then visit the Caravanserai, a historic stop for traders along ancient routes. This makes the experience more about cultural exchange and trade history than just ruins. The tour includes a lunch in Selcuk and a chance to shop for local handicrafts.
Guests highlight the affordable price and the guide’s friendliness. While the tour is shorter, it’s a well-rounded option for those interested in trade routes and local craft.
Bottom line: Great for budget travelers who want a taste of Ephesus along with some local culture.
$18 per person
9. Kusadasi Port: Ephesus Shore Excursion Small Group (max 10)
For about $22, this small-group tour offers a chance to explore Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary with a limit of 10 people. Its intimate size makes for more personal interaction with your guide and fewer crowds.
You’ll visit the most iconic sites—the Library of Celsus, Great Theater, and Virgin Mary’s House—all within a 6-hour window. The small group allows for flexible pacing and more questions.
Reviewers enjoy the personalized experience and the local guide’s knowledge. It’s a good budget option for travelers who want a more relaxed, small-group atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who value personal attention and a quieter, more intimate tour.
$22 per person
10. Kusadasi: Private Biblical Ephesus Shore Excursion Tour
At roughly $74, this private tour focuses on biblical sites like Ephesus, Virgin Mary’s House, and Temple of Artemis. It’s tailored for those interested in religious history and ancient spirituality.
Your guide shares insights into biblical connections and the significance of each site, helping you understand Ephesus’s role in early Christianity. The itinerary is flexible, and the tour lasts about 6 hours, making it a manageable option for cruise days.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the depth of information provided by guides like Ulas. It’s an excellent choice if you want to combine archaeology with religious exploration.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers eager to explore biblical history in a private, focused setting.
$74 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Selcuk Shore Excursion
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest level. For a quick and intimate experience, the Kusadasi Shore Excursion : Ephesus Private Tour ONLY FOR CRUISE GUESTS offers excellent value and flexibility.
If you want a comprehensive archaeological day, the full-day Ephesus, Didyma, and Miletus trip is hard to beat for depth of experience. Budget travelers will find the Ephesus and Caravanserai appealing for its low price and cultural flavor.
For those interested in biblical sites, tours like the Biblical Ephesus or the Kusadasi Private Biblical Ephesus provide focused insights with guided commentary.
Booking early is always wise; many of these tours fill up during peak season, and the best guides tend to be booked well in advance.
In sum, Selcuk offers a diverse range of shore excursions suited for all interests and schedules. Whether you prefer a private, tailored experience, a full archaeological tour, or a focused biblical exploration, you’ll find a trip that enhances your visit. Consider your priorities, and then book early to secure your spot on one of these memorable journeys through history.