Eagerly waiting for the arrival of Regent Seven Seas ships in 2025, Kusadası Cruise Port offers cruise passengers an unforgettable opportunity to visit magnificent Ephesus. 

We can guarantee that our Private Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port is meticulously designed to enhance your travel experience. Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Ephesus, where you will walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations and witness astonishing archaeological sites such as the majestic Library of Celsus and the grand Theatre. Our Expert Ephesus Tour Guides will enlighten you with fascinating narratives and bring history to life with their knowledge and passion. From well-preserved ruins to awe-inspiring Terrace Houses, every moment you spend in Ephesus will deepen your appreciation for the intricate stories woven among the stones of this extraordinary destination. 

In 2025, Kusadası Cruise Port will be graced by the arrival of magnificent ships of Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Seven Seas Grandeur, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Navigator. Among these impressive ships will be the Seven Seas Grandeur, which will set foot in port during the fascinating 10-night "Myths, Gods and Legends Cruise" from Athens (Piraeus) to Athens (Piraeus). Especially Seven Seas Voyager is no stranger to the charm of Kusadası; It made several to Kusadasi port in the past years. The inclusion of such famous ships in the range of Kusadası Cruise Port certainly promises cruise enthusiasts an extraordinary and unforgettable experience in the year 2024

As Ephesus Travel Guide, we are proud to offer private guided Ephesus tours from Kusadasi Port to cruise passengers. We understand the desire for an unforgettable experience, which is why our carefully crafted Ephesus tours provide an enlightening journey through the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Immerse yourself in the rich history and fascinating stories this extraordinary site has to offer. For more information or to book a Private Ephesus tour from Kusadasi Port, we invite you to visit our website or contact us directly. Let us be your guide on an unforgettable trip to Ephesus.

In 2025, both Nautica and Vista of Oceania Cruises will make stops at Kusadası Port. Nautica will make a total of 4 port calls at Kusadası Port on the 20 Night Crossroads Traveler Venice to Istanbul and 10 Night Ancient World Wonders Athens to Istanbul itineraries. On the other hand, Vista will make 4 port calls at Kusadası Port on its 20 Night Mediterranean Poetry Venice to Rome and 10 Night Philosophers & Sultans Venice to Istanbul cruises, These itineraries offer passengers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders of the Ancient Mediterranean Antiquities, especially the historical city of Ephesus. From archaeological treasures to fascinating ruins, travelers will have the chance to immerse themselves in the rich history and mythology of this fascinating region.

As Ephesus Travel Guide, we are excited to offer private Ephesus Excursions at much more affordable prices than Oceania Cruise Excurisons. When you book with us, instead of being part of a group of 30 people, you will be provided with your private tour guide, driver and vehicle. Our tour guides are not only licensed by the Turkish Government, but also experts on everything related to the region. You will be in complete control with a personalized Ephesus tour. Your private guide can adjust the tour to include other similar sights or even focus on a particular aspect or culture you want to learn more about. Our Ephesus Private Tours from Kusadasi Port offer comfortable excursions designed according to your interests. You will not be rushed from one stop to another; With our private tours you can truly take time to appreciate the ancient ruins. And the best part? All this comes at an even lower price than cruises. So don't miss this incredible opportunity to discover Ephesus at your own pace and at unbeatable prices.

If you are looking for a truly unforgettable Ephesus experience, do not hesitate to contact us today. We specialize in creating personalized Ephesus tours that specifically cater to your preferences and interests. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, learn about the fascinating history of Ephesus, or simply soak in the beauty of this incredible destination, our team of experienced professionals is here to help you. For recommended excursions from Kusadası Port please do not hesitate to contact us. Start planning your dream Ephesus tour and create memories that will last a lifetime.

In 2025, the Resilient Lady of Virgin Voyages is scheduled to make four calls to the picturesque Kusadasi Port, promising unforgettable experiences for passengers. These upcoming visits to Kusadasi Port are a testament to the cruise line's dedication to providing top-notch travel experiences, allowing guests to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes of this popular destination. Travel enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure aboard the Resilient Lady as they dock in Kusadasi, known for its historical sites, vibrant markets, and breathtaking views.
Private Ephesus excursions offer a tailored experience that allows you to discover this historical gem at your own pace. With expert Ephesus tour guides from Kusadasi cruise port, you can delve into the rich history and culture of Ephesus while avoiding the crowds and hustle of group tours. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking to immerse yourself in a new culture, a private tour of Ephesus will cater to your interests and preferences.

​Our private tours of Ephesus offer a more cost-effective option compared to Virgin Voyages Ephesus shore excursions. With our expertly guided tours, you can experience the rich history and culture of Ephesus without compromising on quality. Our team of knowledgeable guides ensures a personalized and memorable experience, all while keeping your budget in mind. By choosing our private tours, you get exceptional value for your money, making your visit to Ephesus not only affordable but also truly enriching.

• Personalized Itineraries: One of the main advantages of private Ephesus excursions is the ability to customize your itinerary according to your interests and preferences. Whether you want to focus on the iconic sites such as the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis, or explore hidden gems off the beaten path, your tour guide can tailor the experience to suit your needs.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private tours offer a more intimate and comfortable setting compared to crowded group tours. As a Resilient Lady passenger, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of Ephesus without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. You can take breaks as needed, ask questions, and truly savor the moments without being surrounded by a large group of people.
• Safety and Security: Safety is paramount, especially when exploring a new destination. With a private Ephesus tour, you can rest assured that you are in safe hands. Your expert tour guide will ensure that you navigate the historical sites with ease and provide you with valuable insights and information along the way.

For Resilient Lady passengers that are looking for a unique and memorable experience during their visit to Kusadasi cruise port, private Ephesus excursions are the perfect choice. With expert tour guides, personalized itineraries, and a focus on comfort and safety, you can explore the wonders of Ephesus in a way that suits your preferences and interests. So why wait? Book your private Ephesus tour today and embark on a journey of discovery and adventure like never before! Experience the magic of Ephesus with Private Excursions. Expert guides and personalized itineraries await at Kusadasi cruise port. For more information, please contact us and visit Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port

Disney Fantasy, one of Disney Cruise Line's flagship ships, will call at the port of Kusadasi as part of its captivating Mediterranean cruise itinerary with the Greek Islands. This long-awaited trip promises an unforgettable experience, combining the enchanting charm of Greece with other fascinating Mediterranean destinations. When the ship docks at the port of Kusadasi, passengers will have the opportunity to explore the splendid beauty and rich history of this Turkish coastal city. From its stunning coastline to renowned sites such as the ancient city of Ephesus, Kusadasi offers a host of attractions for travelers to discover. The Disney Fantasy's visit to the port of Kusadasi will undoubtedly be a highlight of this carefully planned cruise, which brings together the meticulous magic of Disney with the charm of the Mediterranean in a truly professional and memorable way.

We offer a wide range of tour options to ensure an unforgettable experience for Disney Cruise Passengers. Immerse yourself in the captivating ancient city of Ephesus, known as one of the best preserved Roman cities in the world. Accompanied by a licensed local tour guide, you will embark on a quest that will take you to St. John's Basilica, the resting place of the Apostle John. This extraordinary journey also includes a visit to the famous "House of Virgin Mary".

Ephesus, with its marble-paved Curetes Street, the impressive Library of Celsus and the magnificent Grand Theatre, will transport you back to Greco-Roman times.

Our professional team guarantees a smooth and enriching experience, making your visit to Kusadasi Port truly unforgettable. For those looking for additional information about our private tours to Ephesus from Kusadasi port, we invite you to visit the following link: Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port

Here you will find a complete guide showing the highlights and unique experiences our tours offer. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the vibrant local markets, our professional team has crafted unforgettable itineraries tailored to your interests and preferences. Additionally, in our continued pursuit of excellence, we prioritize excellent customer service. Therefore, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or special requests. Our dedicated Ephesus Guides are ready to assist you to ensure your visit to Ephesus is an extraordinary experience.

We also offer kid friendly Ephesus tour for families travelling with children. We understand the importance of creating memorable experiences for the entire family, which is why we proudly offer kid-friendly tours of Ephesus. Our aim is to ensure that families traveling with children can explore this captivating ancient city without any worries or hassle. Our professionally curated Ephesus Family Tour cater specifically to the needs and interests of young explorers, providing a well-balanced blend of education, fun, and adventure. From interactive storytelling that brings history to life, to engaging activities designed to spark curiosity, our expert guides are committed to keeping children entertained and engaged throughout the tour. We take pride in creating an environment where families can bond over shared discoveries and create lasting memories. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience in Ephesus for your family, we invite you to visit the following link: Ephesus Family Tour

​For travelers who has limited time in Turkey, we offer private tours of Ephesus and Pamukkale in one day from Kusadasi, Selcuk and Sirince Village. Combine two of Turkey's must-see highlights into one day.  You will be spending approximately 1.5-2 hours in Ephesus and approximately 2.5 hours in Pamukkale. At the end of your private tour we can take you back to Kusadasi, Selcuk Sirince Village or drop you at a hotel in Pamukkale. Kindly note that it takes 3 hours drive from Ephesus to Pamukkale. This is a long tour. We recommend to visit Pamukkale and Ephesus in two days.  This tour is offered for travelers who has limited time. 

Suggested Pamukkale and Ephesus in one day tour program is as follows:
Meet with your guide in front of your hotel in Kusadasi, Selcuk or Sirince Village. (Recommended time to start the tour is 8am) Drive  to the country. Drive by the Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient would, afterwards see the remains of Basilica of St. John from outside. Drive to visit ancient Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath,Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theater with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. After the visit to the ancient city of Ephesus, drive to Pamukkale. On the way to Pamukkale, stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival to Hierapolis (Pamukkale) Enter the site from North Gate and walk through the Ancient Necropolis (Cemetery). So far Italian archaeologists excavated over 1200 tombs in the area. The total number is expected to exceed 3000.  No where in the world you can see such a gigantic ancient cemetery. Afterwards see the Roman Bath,  walk through Domitian Gate, Frantinus Avenue to see the other remains. View the huge Roman theater having a capacity of 12,000.  Walk on the calcium deposit terraces of Pamukkale. Enjoy the stunning views. The water temperature is 32 degrees.  At the end of the tour we can drop you at a hotel in Pamukkale or drive you back to Kusadasi, Selcuk or Sirince Village.

* This tour can also be offered for travellers who are staying in Pamukkkale hotels. We can pick you up from your hotel in Pamukkale and at the end of your Pamukkale and Ephesus tour, we can drop you at your hotel in  Kusadasi, Selcuk or Sirince Village.

Tour timings are as follows:
8.00 - Depart Kusadasi
8.30 - Arrive Ephesus and visit
10.30 - Depart Ephesus
13.00 - Lunch 
14.00 - Enter Pamukkale
16.30 - Depart Pamukkale
19.00 - Arrive back to Kusadasi.

Cost of private tour Ephesus and Pamukkale starting and ending in Kusadasi: 400 Euro (Total to be paid for your party of 1-6)
* Above rate is NOT a per person rate. It is total to be paid for your group.

Rates Cover:

• Services of an excellent English speaking tour Guide 
• A/C MPV
• All transportation costs.
• Tax, service charges.
• Pick up and drop off from/to as indicated.
• Traditional Turkish Lunch 
• Parking fees to the sites.

Rates Do Not Cover:

• Entrance fees to the sites.
• Drinks during lunch​

​* There is no prepayment required for the reservation. To avoid disappointment, we recommend to make your private tour reservation at earliest possible.

Payment Terms:
Payment can be made in Euros, Turkish Liras, British Pounds and US Dollars cash at the end of the tour. There is no prepayment required for the booking.

Cancellation Policy
You can cancel a tour 72 hours in advance of your tour departure without any charges. If you would like to cancel a tour, simply send us an email and we will  be happy to assist you. Once you are within the 24 hour tour departure window,  the tour becomes non-refundable. This is because our guide and vehicle have set  aside space to accommodate your request and will often not be able to  fill that  space with another customer so close to departure. 

For more information and costs please contact us.

We have just completed 2 Days Custom Tour of Western Turkey for Oeler Family from Dubai. They had wonderful time with our tour guide.

We offer private tours of Western Turkey. These tours can start from Izmir airport, Izmir hotels, Kusadasi hotels, Pamukkale hotels or any other desired location nearby. 

Suggested tour program is as follows:
​
Day 1 - Fullday Tour of Ephesus
Meet with your guide in front of  your hotel in Kusadasi. Drive  to the country. Your first stop on this fascinating tour is at the HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY. Then, you will continue on to visit ancient EPHESUS, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath,Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theater with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. Afterwards visit the  BASILICA OF ST. JOHN and see the TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS, one of the wonders of the  ancient world. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity. Overnight in Kusadasi.

Day 2 - Fullday Tour of Pamukkale and Aphrodisias
After departing from Kusadasi, drive east approx. 2 hours. Visit Aphrodisias, see the finest works of marble from Roman Period and the 30.000 spectator capacity gigantic roman stadium. Continue to Hierapolis (Pamukkale) Enter the site from North Gate and walk through the Ancient Necropolis (Cemetery). So far Italian archaeologists excavated over 1200 tombs in the area. The total number is expected to exceed 3000.  No where in the world you can see such a gigantic ancient cemetery. Afterwards see the Roman Bath,  walk through Domitian Gate, Frantinus Avenue to see the other remains. View the huge Roman theater having a capacity of 10000.  Walk on the calcium deposit terraces of Pamukkale. Enjoy the stunning views. The water temperature is 32 degrees.  At the end of the tour we can drop you at a hotel in Pamukkale or drive you back to Kusadasi.


Private Tour Cost: 600 Euro (Total to be paid for your party of 1-6 people)


Rates Cover:

• Services of an excellent English speaking tour Guide 
• A/C Mercedes MPV
• All transportation costs.
• Tax, service charges.
• Pick up and drop off from/to Hotel in Kusadasi or Selcuk
• Lunches
• Parking fees

Rates Do Not Cover:

• Entrance fees to the sites.
• Drinks during lunches.

There is no prepayment required for the reservation. To avoid disappointment, we recommend to make your private tour reservation at earliest possible.

Payment Terms:
Payment can be made in Euro or US Dollar cash at the end of the tour. There is no prepayment required.

We recommend you to overnight in Kusadasi.
Recommended hotels to stay in Kusadasi:

• Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel - 4 Stars
• LaVista Boutique Hotel
• Charisma Deluxe Hotel - 5 Stars
• Double Tree by Hilton Hotel - 4 Stars
• Korumar Deluxe Hotel - 5 Stars

• Hotel Ilayda - 3 Stars

We offer custom private tours of Western Turkey such as above.
For more information, please contact us.

Day 1
Private Tour of  Pamukkale (Hierapolis) starting and ending in Kusadasi.
After departing from your hotel, drive east approx. 3 hours. Enter the site from North Gate and walk through the Ancient Necropolis (Cemetery). So far Italian archaeologists excavated over 1200 tombs in the area. The total number is expected to exceed 3000.  No where in the world you can see such a gigantic ancient cemetery. Afterwards see the Roman Bath,  walk through Domitian Gate, Frantinus Avenue to see the other remains. View the huge Roman theater having a capacity of 10000. Walk on the calcium deposit terraces of Pamukkale. Enjoy the stunning views. The water temperature is 32 degrees.  For the ones interested there is an opportunity to swim at the ancient pools of Cleopatra.  Kindly note there is an extra entrance fee approximately 8 Euros per person. 

Day 2
Private Tour of Priene, Miletus and Didyma starting and ending at Kusadasi
Following the departure from your hotel, the first stop will be PRIENE. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture. All the streets intersect at right angles. Next visit MILETUS, an ancient city located near the mouth of the Meandros River. Miletus owed its importance to its position on the trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the ancient philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Having a prominent position, Miletus became the most important port in this area and it was the most active member of the twelve cities of the Ionian Confederation. From the 7th century B.C. the city has been controlled in turn by the Persians, Roman and Seljuk Turks. The last visit in the tour will be DIDYMA. The world Didyma meant "twins" and it was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo, which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 12 mile sacred road.

Day 3
Private Tour of Ephesus, Haouse of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John 
Meet with your guide in front of the Kusadasi port passenger terminal. Drive  to the country. Your first stop on this fascinating tour is at the Hourse of Virgin Mary. Then, you will continue on to visit ancient Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath,Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theater with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. Afterwards visit the  BASILICA OF ST. JOHNand see the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the  ancient world. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity

For private tour costs and availability, please contact us.
​
Rates Cover:
- Services of an excellent English speaking Guide
-  A/C vehicle. 
- All transportation costs.
- Tax, service charges
- Parking Fees
- Traditional Turkish Lunch

Rates Do Not Cover:
- Entrance fees to the sites.
- Drinks during lunch

For more information, please contact us.

Winemaking flourished throughout the Aegean during the peak time of Ephesus in the 1st and 2nd century AD. As a major trade center, Ephesus imported and exported wines. Romans almost always diluted their wine with water. The ratio could vary depending on the situation, but sometimes they would even use equal parts water and wine. This made the drink safer (unrefrigerated wine could be quite strong), more refreshing, and a better accompaniment to food. Romans saw diluting wine with water as a civilized practice. Undiluted strong wine consumption was considered as barbaric. Wine was a staple beverage, consumed by all classes in ancient Roman Empire. Even slaves received a daily ration of wine.

Join us for an unforgettable journey through fertile landscapes of Ephesus. Indulge in the local wines of this exquisite country by joining our meticulously curated Ephesus wine tour. Designed for wine enthusiasts. Our expert Ephesus tour guide will lead you on a captivating exploration of Greek and Roman history and will connect you with passionate a winemaker who will share the rich insights and stories of the local wines. Join us in celebrating the history and culture of winemaking as you savor the unforgettable flavors and aromas that make each sip a truly remarkable experience. Cheers to an extraordinary adventure filled with wine, and history.

As you meet with your tour guide embark on an extraordinary journey filled with historical wonders. Your first stop will be the Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 wonders of the Ancient World. Afterwards immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Ancient City of Ephesus as you stroll through its colonnaded streets, guided by the wealth of Greek and Roman history. Transport yourself back in time to the enchanting city of Ephesus, gaining insight into the daily lives and magnificence of past civilizations. Amidst picturesque olive orchards and pine trees, relish a traditional Turkish lunch before indulging in local handicrafts. After this memorable visit to Ephesus, a panoramic drive through the countryside to Camlik Village where you'll discover a serene local vineyard called 7 Bilgeler. Amid lavender gardens, vineyards and lush hills, delight your senses with the essence of local wines, swirling the flavors and inhaling the aromas that echo the divine pleasure once enjoyed by the Greek Gods themselves. Learn about winemaking industry of Ephesus, which dates back more than 6,000 years, from an expert. You will be escorted on a tour of the facility and the cellar where the French oak barrels are stored. Sample the local wines with an assortment of local Turkish cheeses. 

For more information and availability, please contact us.

According to some historians, the legendary city was believed to have been founded by the Phrygian King Tantalos and his family. One prominent figure in this fascinating tale was Tantalos' daughter, Niobe, who was said to have had the impressive number of seven sons and seven daughters. However, Niobe's abundance of children seemed to bring her great trouble. Leto, who could only boast of having two children, became envious and embarrassed by Niobe's impressive brood. In a tragic turn of events, the twins of Leto, Artemis and Apollo took action by brutally murdering all fourteen of Niobe's children. Overwhelmed with grief, Niobe sought solace on Mount Sipylus, where she too was turned to stone.
Tantalus was a person who was very popular among the gods and won the admiration of the gods. But one day he decided to test their strength by inviting them to a lavish banquet. In a shocking display, Tantalus cooked and served his own son Pelops to the holy guests. Understandably horrified by this terrible act, the gods refrained from participating in the meal, except for Demeter, who was still grieving the loss of her daughter Persephone and succumbed to her grief by eating a portion. The gods quickly administered justice and severely punished Tantalus by banishing him to the depths of Hades. His punishment was torture like no other; Suffering from unbearable thirst, Tantalus found himself stranded in the middle of a lake. Just as he tried to drink water, the water drained and he was left empty-handed. Fortunately, Pelops was resurrected by the gods and continued to carve out an important path for himself in history. He launched a successful attack on the city of Spylos and eventually founded the famous Peloponnesian region.

The first settlement of the region is today in Bayraklı. It dates back to 5000 years ago. Legends say that the first settlement of this place was made by powerful Amazons from Northern Anatolia. Amazon Queen Smyrna not only laid the foundations of her presence in these lands, but also gave her name to the region. 

Smyrna became an Aiolian settlement during the 10th century BC migrations from Greece. Later it became an Ionian city. The Ionian refugees took the control while the Ailoian inhabitants were away for celebrations of a feast. Aiolians of Smyrna were welcomed by other Aiolian cities. The city was attacked and ruined by Alyattes of Lydia and was under the Lydian rule till the Persians came to the area in 546 BC. In 334 BC Alexander defeated the Persians in the Battle of Granikos near today's Canakkale. Alexander stayed in the city for a few days. While he was hunting in Mt. Pagos, he fell a sleep and in his dream, saw 2 goddesses saying him to move the city to where he is now. Like before the founders of the all ancient cities, inhabitants consulted to an Apollo Temple. They went to Claros for approval. According to Strabon the new city was built by Antigonos and Lysimachos following him. Lysimachos named the city of his daughter "Eurydike". However, this name did not last long. Strabon also mentioned that Smyrna was the most beautiful among the cities. Homer, the author of the earliest and finest epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey lived in Smyrna in the 8th century BC. He made his living as a court singer and storyteller.. According to Strabon there was a temple constructed after the death of Homeros, named as "Homerion".

Today from the remains of Ancient Smyrna, travelers can only see the remains of the Roman Agora. Agora was built after the earthquake in 178AD by the Roman Emperror Marcus Aerelius and was dedicated to his wife Faustina. It was one of the largest agoras of the Roman World. Romans named Agora as Forum. The basement of the Agora is quite impressive. The basement was used as shops and their storages. There is also a cistern which was able to provide water for 7.000 people. Grafittis in Ancient Greek can be seen by the travelers.

​Smyrna is among the 7 churches of Asia Minor mentioned in the book of Revelations. It is the second church mentioned in the Book of Revelation after Ephesus. Among the 7 churches, Like Philadelphia Smyrna was among the two churches which was not criticized of their faith. In the letter to Smyrna. The message speaks of false Jews and impending persecution, but encourages perseverance which will be rewarded.

The strong allegiance to Rome plus a large Jewish population which was actively hostile to the Christians made it exceptionally difficult to live as a Christian in Smyrna. The most famous martyrdom of the early church fathers was of the elderly Polycarp, the 'twelfth martyr in Smyrna', St. Polycarp was one of the diciples of John the Apostle. He is considered to be the first bishop of S,yrna. In 155 AD, St. Polycarp faced a great challenge: accept Caesar as Lord or face the consequences. St. Polycarp chose to remain true to his beliefs, refusing to bow to the demands of the Roman authorities. The Romans decided to unleash lions on him in the ancient theater of Smyrna. Surprisingly, the lions, satiated from the previous meals, chose to spare his life. The Romans then resorted to an alternative method: They tried to burn Polycarp at the stake but were unsuccessful. In a final act of cruelty, a Roman soldier dealt the fatal blow, ending the earthly life of this stubborn saint.

Located at the corner of the agora in Smyrna, there stands a majestic terebinth tree. According to legend, this venerable tree originated from Polycarp's staff. Polycarp, a renowned Christian bishop and martyr, was believed to have planted his staff in the ground, which miraculously sprouted into the magnificent terebinth we see today. This ancient tree serves as a tangible reminder of the enduring legacy of Polycarp and his devotion to his faith.

Smyrna, the physically persecuted church. The Christian community in Smyrna was considered as a poor community and without prestige and political power. While in contrast richly adorned temples to the pagan deities. There is no Christian commonwealth; they were a tiny minority in the community devoted to a multitude of gods. The Contrast between the city and the church is marked. The Church in Smyrna had suffered but had been faithful. Physically the church in Smyrna suffered from persecution from the Jews, and they were poor, they had few luxuries and possessions, yet spiritually they were rich in the sight of Christ. Jesus sees their affliction, he knows about it, this must be of comfort to this persecuted church. The Jewish community outside the church spoke of evil of the Christian community. John promised the Christians as a result of faithfulness even unto death, they would receive a crown of life.
​
In the ancient times Smyrna was famous with its wine called "Pramnos". This wine was mixed with cheese, flour and honey. They used honey to sweeten the wine and added water before drinking. Drinking wine without adding water considered as a barbaric behavior. Pramnos wine of Smyrna was mentioned by Homer.

​The name Smyrna may also have been taken from the ancient Greek word for myrrh, which was the chief export of the city in ancient times. Myrrh is a gum-resin extracted from a tree. Myrrh resin was used as a perfume, incense, medicine and embalming body. Myrrh is mentioned in the New Testament as one of the three gifts that the Wise Men "from the East" presented to the Christ Child. Myrrh was also present at Jesus' death and burial. Jesus was offered wine and myrrh at his crucifixion. According to John's Gospel, Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea brought a 100-pound mixture of myrrh and aloes to wrap Jesus' body. The Gospel of Matthew relates that as Jesus went to the cross, he was given vinegar to drink mingled with myrrh. The Romans often added the myrrh to wine to prevent it from vinegarizing (turning sour), which also provided a narcotic to deaden pain.

Excavations in the Smyrna Theatre are currently ongoing, revealing the magnificence of what is claimed to be one of the most stunning marble theaters in Asia. The essence of this excavation project has been to unearth the grandeur of this historical gem, with experts estimating its capacity at a staggering 20 thousand people. As the digging progresses, the theater's intricate beauty is slowly emerging.
​

Smyrna is called Izmir today. The transformation of Smyrna into Izmir resulted from a series of historical events and cultural changes that shaped the fate of the city. Following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey by Ataturk, the city went through a significant transformation as Turkey pursued a Turkification policy. Within the scope of this process, the names of many cities and settlements of Greek, Armenian and foreign origin were changed to Turkish. In the case of Smyrna, it was renamed Izmir in order to emphasize the national identity of the country and promote unity among the people. This decision carried symbolic weight, reflecting the country's desire for independence and the break from the Ottoman past.

​Today, Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey with a population of nearly 4 million. Izmir stands as a vibrant, secular and cosmopolitan city in Western Turkey.

We offer private airport transfer service from Izmir Airport to Kusadasi, Selcuk and Sirince.  We recommend the travelers to book a private airport transfer in advance. We can provide a warm welcome on arrival at Izmir Airport with one of our professional drivers helping you with your luggage. 

Once provide us with your flight number we will track your flight and adjust your pickup time to when your flight actually lands. That means that you don't pay extra if there are any delays to your flight and exceed the designated waiting time. And additionally we offer fixed rates on all rides, so you know exactly what you have to pay once you book. There'll be no additional costs if you get stuck in traffic and your ride will be paid for automatically once it has been completed.

Affordable private transfers from between Izmir Airport and Kusadasi, Sirince and Selcuk (Ephesus). We primarily provide luxury vehicles for airport transfer from Izmir Airport to Kusadasi. You only need to sit back and enjoy the ride, 

For more information, about our private airport transfer service please visit:
Izmir Airport Transfers