Amazing Ephesus, Sirince Village & Lunch: In Partnership with Food & Wine Magazine
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Port
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All,61
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$139.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 6½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Discover Ephesus -- perhaps the most important archeological site in Turkey -- and visit the quaint village of Sirince. You will taste homemade fruit wines and enjoy a delicious meal of local specialties. From the elegant lunch setting, take in glorious views across the valley.
Begin with a guided in-depth walk through the ruins of ancient Ephesus. Your guide will point out the Odeon, the Fountain of Trajan, the Baths of Scholastica, the temple of Hadrian and the most famous structure on the excavation site -- the Celsus Library. The façade of this magnificent library has two stories held up by beautiful Corinthian columns.
Wander down the Arcadian Way, where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode in procession. This legendary street leads to the Grand Theatre, where St Paul preached early Christianity to the Ephesians. It is one of the largest theatres in antiquity, with 24,000 seats.
Visit the Terrace Houses, located on the slopes Mount Bulbul, opposite Hadrian's Temple. These structures were inhabited by the most important residents of Ephesus. Gorgeous engravings and mosaics represent the lifestyle of prominent Ephesians. Step into the inner rooms of these houses, where excavations still continue.
In the atmospheric mountain town of Sirince, surrounded by vine-covered fields and old farmhouses, explore the tiny village and taste homemade fruit wine. Take a seat at the Gullu Konak Inn -- a hundred years old and set in pretty gardens on the edge of town. The lamb, free-range chicken, olives and quince are locally sourced. Enjoy a delicious lunch of regional specialties, paired with wine or beer, as you take in the glorious view across the valley.Turkey is known for its colorful rugs; a visit to a traditional carpet-seller back in Kusadasi is a must. Relax over refreshments as the vendor tells you about this quintessentially Turkish industry.
Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so, but must make their own way back to the ship (a short walk away).
Notes:
Tour requires walking a total of approximately four miles over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, and climbing 170 steps. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Shade is limited; please dress accordingly. Bring a hat and wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring insect repellent during August. Two glasses of wine, beer or soft drinks are included with lunch. Extra beverages are available at an additional cost.