Ports: Izmir Cruise Port
Izmir
Once the ancient city of Smyrna, Izmir stands as Turkey’s third largest city and one of its most important ports. It has transformed into a modern and bustling commercial centre, with its sweeping Kordon esplanade the perfect place to soak up the Aegean coastal views and a nightlife that is second to none. In addition to exploring its famous Kemeralti Bazaar, Izmir is also on the doorstep of some of Turkey’s most impressive ancient sites, including the World Heritage listed city of Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St John.
Izmir’s Archaeological Museum is a good first port of call, overflowing with exhibits and artefacts that reveal the city’s ancient history. You can then see first hand the ruins of Smyrna at the Agora marketplace, now an important excavation site, which dates as far back as 3000 BC.
Most visitors docking in Izmir don’t miss the chance to visit the Ancient City of Ephesus, considered one of the most impressive and well-preserved ancient sites in the world. Tour its fascinating ruins, including the Great Theatre, Library of Celsius and Temple of Hadrian, and witness its famed Terrace Houses, before continuing on to the House of the Virgin Mary.
For those with more time, the ancient cities of Pergamon, Miletos, Priene and Didyma all boast impressive ruins and intriguing histories, which can be easily explored on shore excursions from Izmir. Or take the picturesque drive to the “cotton cliffs” of Pamukkale that cascade down a hillside below the ancient ruins of Hierapolis.
Not only is Izmir a vibrant destination in itself, but its proximity to some of Turkey’s most impressive ancient wonders make it a deservedly popular destination. Our selection of Izmir shore excursions will enable you to see as much as possible during your stay and have you back at the port well in time for your cruise ship’s departure.
Shore Excursions
Ephesus Exclusive
Temple of Artemis, Ephesus, Terrace Houses, Virgin Mary House, St. John Basilica, Selcuk Ottman Castle Panaroma, Pigeon Castle Panaroma
9 hours
Share a Private Tour
71 USD per person
Private Tour
from 63 USD to 242 USD
Sardes Ancient City
Sardis Ancient City, Temple of Artemis in Sardis
8 hours
Share a Private Tour
53 USD per person
Private Tour
from 43 USD to 230 USD
Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary
Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary
5 hours
Share a Private Tour
60 USD per person
Private Tour
from 53 USD to 237 USD
Pamukkale (UNESCO World Heritage) & Hierapolis
Pamukkale, Hierapolis
11 hours
Share a Private Tour
63 USD per person
Private Tour
from 50 USD to 305 USD
Ephesus & Temple of Artemis
Ancient city of Ephesus, Temple of Artemis
5 hours
Share a Private Tour
52 USD per person
Private Tour
from 45 USD to 206 USD
Priene, Miletos and Didyma
3 Ancient cities of Priene, Miletos and Didyma
8 hours
Share a Private Tour
74 USD per person
Private Tour
from 62 USD to 328 USD
Pergamon & Asclepion
Pergamon, Asclepion, Acropolis
8 hours
Share a Private Tour
60 USD per person
Private Tour
from 48 USD to 252 USD
Ephesus & Sirince Greek Village
Temple of Artemis, Ephesus Ancient City, Sirince Greek Village
5 hours
Share a Private Tour
55 USD per person
Private Tour
from 46 USD to 244 USD
Izmir Highlights
Kemeralti, Kadifekale, Kordon, Elevator, Agora
5 hours
Share a Private Tour
49 USD per person
Private Tour
from 56 USD to 183 USD
Biblical Ephesus Tour
Temple of Artemis, Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John
7 hours
Share a Private Tour
67 USD per person
Private Tour
from 57 USD to 235 USD