Appreciate some of the area’s most significant sites on this panoramic tour to the house of the Virgin Mary and ancient Ephesus, including independent exploration in quaint Sirince and an amazing carpet presentation in Kusadasi. Journey to the location believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her last days when Saint John the Apostle brought her there after the death of Christ. Learn that dating of personal articles found at the site lend credence to the belief this was her home and led it to become a pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims. You’ll marvel at 3rd-century BC Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and view remnants of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the distance, catch sight of an imposing castle on Ayasuluk Hill and see the lovely town of Selçuk. You’ll fall in love with the old Greek Orthodox village of Sirince, which is a perfect synthesis of 1920s Turkish-Greek culture, and enjoy time to stroll its narrow, atmospheric streets at your leisure. Returning to Kusadasi, attend an informative carpet demonstration that showcases the fine craftsmanship behind these exquisite pieces.

HELPFUL HINTS 

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

PLEASE NOTE 

This tour is primarily panoramic in nature with limited optional walking at the stops. It is available to guests who utilize a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped off in town, as the buses are not allowed to return them to the cruise ship terminal parking lot. There will be a short walk from the drop-off point in town back to the Kusadasi Terminal building.