Silversea Luxury Cruises A KUSADASI

Embrace the ancient beauty, sites and treasures of Ephesus during a full-day tour of this spectacular old city.

Home of the Virgin Mary

Depart the pier for the drive out of Kusadasi, and towards Bulbul Mountain to see the house that some claim to be the last home of the Virgin Mary. The Virgin Mary is said to have come here in the company of St. John towards the end of her life, around 40 A.D. The site remained undiscovered and unvisited for 1,800 years until being described in visions by a German nun who had not previously seen nor visited the house. Each year, Christians and Muslims who honour 'Meryemana' as the mother of a great prophet make religious pilgrimages to the site. Beneath the house is a fountain where a sacred spring feeds three fonts, each bestowing a unique blessing upon visitors. From here, re-board your coach and continue on for the drive to Ephesus.

Ephesus

In ancient times, Ephesus hosted St. Paul, St. John and the Virgin Mary. Ephesus was an important Greek trading city of Ionia. Later, it became Rome's provincial capital and was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The massive foundation of the Temple of Diana can still be seen here today after 3,000 years. In the 60s A.D., when the city supposedly had a population of nearly 150,000, St. Paul lived here for three years and wrote one of his most famous epistles, the Letter to the Ephesians.

Celsus Library

During your walking tour, see the exquisite Celsus Library. Built in 135 B.C. by a son in homage to his father, this magnificent library is lavishly decorated with facades, columns and sculptures. The library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts, making it one of the largest in the ancient world and second only to the library in Alexandria, Egypt.

Greek Theatre and Temple of Hadrian

Next, proceed to the spectacular Greek Theatre. Originally built in the 3rd century by the Greeks, the theatre was later expanded to its present capacity of 24,000. From this theatre, which has a row of seats 100 feet (30 metres) above the orchestra, St. Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to give up their worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith. Your archaeological tour continues with a visit to the Temple of Hadrian, built in the 2nd century A.D. in the name of the Emperor.

Ephesus Archaeological Museum

After Ephesus, a visit is made to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, which showcases two wonderful statues of Artemis and 25,000 artefacts unearthed in this historic ancient city.

Basilica of St. John

Your last stop is at the nearby Basilica of St. John, one of the most significant religious monuments of its time. Built in the 6th century to replace the small basilica at the site of St. John's Tomb, the church signifies a major move from the ancient Roman cults to Christianity. Much of the basilica was constructed using materials from the famous Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Following your tour of Ephesus and surrounding area, proceed for a relaxing open buffet lunch served at one of the best 5 star hotels in Kusadasi. At the end of the lunch, re-board your coach for the return drive to Kusadasi. Upon arrival, you may opt to return directly to the ship or remain in town for shopping and return to the pier at your leisure.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (approximately 2 km/1.25 miles), and uneven ground at the archaeological site. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests in wheelchairs. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended and conservative attire is required at the House of Virgin Mary.

Discover one of the world's most beautiful ancient cities during this scenic and memorable half-day excursion to Ephesus.

Depart the pier in Kusadasi for the scenic drive to the spectacular ancient city of Ephesus, or 'Efes'. En route, pass through the countryside dotted with orchards of fig trees and rural Turkish villages.

Ephesus

After Istanbul's Sultanahmet area, the ruins of Ephesus are the most-visited landmarks in all of Turkey. The city ranks among the world's most beautiful classical cities, on par with Rome and Athens in scope, quality and feel. In ancient times, Ephesus hosted St. Paul, St. John and the Virgin Mary.

Ephesus was an important Greek trading city of Ionia. Later, it became Rome's provincial capital and was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The massive foundation of the Temple of Diana can still be seen here today after 3,000 years. In the 60s A.D., when the city supposedly had a population of nearly 150,000, St. Paul lived here for three years and wrote one of his most famous epistles, the Letter to the Ephesians.

Celsus Library

During your walking tour, see the exquisite Celsus Library. Built in 135 B.C. by a son in homage to his father, this magnificent library is lavishly decorated with facades, columns and sculptures. The library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts, making it one of the largest in the ancient world and second only to the library in Alexandria, Egypt.

Greek Theatre

Next, proceed to the spectacular Greek Theatre. Originally built in the 3rd century by the Greeks, the theatre was later expanded to its present capacity of 24,000. From this theatre, which has a row of seats 100 feet (30 metres) above the orchestra, St. Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to give up their worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith.

Temple of Hadrian

Your archaeological tour continues with a visit to the Temple of Hadrian, built in the 2nd century A.D. in the name of the Emperor.

Ephesus Archaeological Museum

Your last stop is a visit to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, which showcases two wonderful statues of Artemis and 25,000 artefacts unearthed in this historic ancient city.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the return drive to Kusadasi. Upon arrival, you may opt to return directly to the ship, or remain in town for shopping or an optional carpet presentation before returning to the pier at your leisure.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, and uneven, inclined ground or cobblestones at the archaeological site. Although this tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and it is not recommended for guests that utilise a wheelchair. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore the sites seldom seen during this exclusive tour to the hidden treasures around Kusadasi.

Depart from the pier for a visit to Claros Antique Site with your guide and expert who will add a new and exciting dimension to the discoveries and treasures of Claros and Ephesus during this exclusive programme.

Claros and the Temple of Apollo

Claros is a prophecy centre of Colophon, one of the twelve Ionic cities. Claros is built between two cities; it is 8 miles (13 kilometres) south of Colophon and 1.25 miles (2 kilometres) north of Notion. The Temple of Apollo here was a very important centre of prophecy as in Delphi and Didyma. The oldest information about this sacred site goes back to the sixth and seventh centuries B.C. through the Homeric Hymns. A sacred cave near the Claros' Temple of Apollo, an important place both in the Hellenistic and Roman eras, points to the existence of a Cybele cult here during the earlier periods.

Discoveries

Claros' Apollo sacred side was first discovered by S. Schuchardt. Later, in 1907, Theodore Macridy found a column of a propylon, a monumental entrance building. In 1913, Macridy worked with Charles Picard and together they found the propylon, which contains a large exedra.

The excavations were suspended during World War I and were restarted by Louis Robert in 1950 and lasted until 1961. After 27 years, Professor Juliette de La Geniere started a series of supervising excavations. In 1988-1989, during systematic cleaning work, archaeologists found structures that had remained under the alluvium.

Ephesus Archaeological Museum

After Claros, a visit is made to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, which showcases two wonderful statues of Artemis and 25,000 artefacts unearthed in this historic ancient city.

Basilica of St. John

Your last stop is at the nearby Basilica of St. John, one of the most significant religious monuments of its time. Built in the 6th century to replace the small basilica at the site of St. John's Tomb, the church signifies a major move from the ancient Roman cults to Christianity.

Temple of Artemis

Following your visit, drive by the Temple of Artemis, where one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World lies in ruins. After your short photo stop at the site, continue for the short drive to a local restaurant to relax and enjoy lunch before making the return drive to Kusadasi.

Please note: This tour involves moderate walking over uneven surfaces with stairs to negotiate. The tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend guests wear seasonal clothing, sun protection and comfortable walking shoes. Tour does not visit the Ephesus Archaeological site. This tour is extremely limited in participation, we recommend reserving this tour well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Escape for a day of play at Kusadasi International Golf Club.

With stunning views of the Samos Island and the Aegean Sea and its exquisite setting amongst natural vegetation, Kusadasi Golf is paradise for the golfing enthusiast, be it an advanced or intermediate player.

A game of golf here is an exciting journey that begins with enthusiasm, and ends in immense satisfaction. Kusadasi Golf is unique, exotic and challenging. Only in operation with a 'soft Opening of the 1st nine holes for a few weeks now, the course follows the scenic contours of the two plateaus, its challenging fairways cutting through two lakes, olive and carob trees. 'Golf an unspoiled nature of gods' -No wonder the course will take its rightful place among the very best the Mediterranean can offer.

Regardless of how many times you play the course, there is always a new challenge. Not least the skill needed to conquer the dramatic holes that run alongside or traverse the dramatic ravines. Celebrate your success in the sophisticated Clubhouse, overlooking the 9th green and the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea and The National Park below.

In the restaurant you can savour delectable Aegean specialties, international cuisine and an extensive wine list, or just enjoy the breathtaking view from the terraces. A premier Golf Academy, practice facilities and Pro Shop enhance your golf experience.

Depart the pier for the 20-minute transfer to the Kusadasi International Golf Club and check-in for your round of play. Arrange for any rental requirements directly with the pro-shop before heading out to the first tee. Following your round, re-join your transport for the return drive to the pier and your awaiting ship.

Please note: This tour involves moderate activity and is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair. The cost of this programme includes round-trip transportation, green fees and a shared cart. Guests must wear proper golf attire and soft spike shoes. Only Bermuda shorts are permitted, with which socks should be worn. Mobile phones are strictly prohibited on the course. Practice swings are not allowed on the tees. Handicap certificate copy is required (for men the maximum is 28 and for ladies the maximum handicap is 36). A minimum of 2 golfers is required to operate this programme. Lunch is available for purchase and we recommend bringing local currency for guests that are interested in purchasing a meal.

Explore Kusadasi at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Only private vans are available in this port. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Kusadasi at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Depart the pier for the drive out of Ephesus, towards Bulbul Mountain to see the house believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary.

Home of the Virgin Mary

The Virgin Mary is said to have come here in the company of St. John towards the end of her life, around 40 A.D. The site remained undiscovered and unvisited for 1800 years until being described in visions by a German nun who had not previously seen nor visited the house.

Each year, Christians and Muslims who honour 'Meryemana' as the mother of a great prophet make religious pilgrimages to the site. Beneath the house is a fountain where a sacred spring feeds three fonts, each bestowing a unique blessing upon visitors. From here, re-board your coach and continue on for the drive to Ephesus.

Ancient Ephesus

Leaving the House of the Virgin Mary, resume your drive to Selçuk and the upper entrance of Ephesus, Turkey's most celebrated site of antiquity, and among the best places in the world to experience a step back into Roman times.

As you follow your guide down the marble-paved Curetes Street and Sacred Way, experience a step back into Roman times. View the remains of civic buildings and temples. Admire the splendid façade of the Celsus Library and the impressive tiers of the Grand Theatre.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the return drive to Kusadasi. Upon arrival, you may opt to return directly to the ship, or remain in town for shopping and return to the pier at your leisure.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking at Ephesus (approximately 1.5 km/0.9 miles) , mainly on uneven ground and with some steps to climb. This programme is not recommended for guests that utilise a wheelchair. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended and conservative attire is required at the House of Virgin Mary. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this tour.

This exclusive tour may only be reserved by calling Silversea Reservations. Please note that a minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. Space on this tour is limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Available exclusively to our esteemed guests, Silversea is pleased to present this private evening concert inside the ancient city of Ephesus - one of Turkey's most famous and best-preserved sites of antiquity.

After an early dinner onboard, coaches will be ready to take you to Ephesus, an approximately 20-minute drive from the port. Arriving at the lower entrance of Ephesus, guests will proceed on foot through a wide marble road to one of the largest libraries of the ancient world. Between 12,000 and 15,000 scrolls were housed in the grand Library of Celsus in the Roman city, Ephesus. Designed by the Roman architect Vitruoya, the library was built in memory of Celsus Polemeanus, a prominent Roman general and politician who was a great lover of reading.

In case of a large number of participants, guests will enter through the upper entrance and proceed a short distance on foot to Odeon for the concert. The semi-circular theater was built in the 2nd century AD. Its lower tiers of marble benches are original; the remaining tiers have been reconstructed.

In either of these dramatic settings, you are treated to the wonderful music of famous composers, such as Vivaldi, Boccherini, Mozart, Bach and Faure, which take on a special meaning in the spellbinding atmosphere of Ephesus. Refreshments served during intermission will further enhance the special mood of the evening.

At the end of the performance, make your way back to the coaches and conclude this magical evening with the return drive to Kusadasi and the ship.

Please note: This programme is only available to Silversea guests. This exclusive programme involves moderate walking over uneven and inclined surfaces. Guests with limited mobility or guests that utilise a wheelchair should speak to the Shore Concierge staff onboard to request assistance accessing the concert venue at Ephesus. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and perhaps bringing a shawl or light sweater for cooler temperatures at night. This programme requires a minimum number of participants to operate. Operation of this programme is dependent upon favourable weather conditions and is subject to last minute cancellation should weather become a factor. Depending on the number participating guests, the Celsus Library may be substituted as the concert venue.