Nat Geo Day Tour: Turkey’s trailblazing women - Artemis, the Virgin Mary and a Local Mayor

Nat Geo Day Tour: The Ancient Mosaics and Artistry of Ephesus

The ancient city of Ephesus is one of the most visited classical sites in the world. From the 8th century BC to the 3rd century AD, the city flourished under Greek and then Roman rule. Today, it's a historical treasure trove in a remarkably well-preserved state considering its great age, and it's easy to imagine the bustle and chatter of daily life long ago as you roam through the ruins. Your adventure begins with a tour of the interactive museum, included with your entry ticket. Take in the wonder of the Terraced Houses, which are not usually included in Ephesus tours. Among the corridors and courtyards, once home to affluent Ephesians, you will get a sense of the opulent lifestyle of the day. These houses were occupied by some of the world's richest families, and the elegant details transport you back in time as you admire the striking mosaics and frescoes adorning the walls. Your guide will then lead you down the marble streets of Ephesus where St. Paul, Cleopatra and Alexander the Great once walked. A visit to the Library of Celsus, one of the only remaining examples of a library from the Roman Empire, and the amphitheater that could hold 24,000 spectators, are other highlights of this tour. See cultural conservation in action at the Art Ceramic Centre where traditional pottery methods are still very much alive. Watch a pottery demonstration and then try your hand at painting tiles created by local artisans, both experiences available exclusively for National Geographic travelers. Your tour concludes with a tasting session of regional fruit wines, a local speciality.

Ancient Ephesus Tour with Pottery-making Demonstration

Ephesus is one of those places that brings history to life. Relive the glory days of the Roman Empire as you explore the monuments of this ancient city on a guided tour. The archaeological site is so well preserved that it's easy to imagine the toga-clad crowds that gathered and chattered in its streets 2,000 years ago.

Ancient Ephesus Tour with House of the Virgin Mary

The hills around Kuşadası are home to two of Turkey's most popular historical sites – the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. You'll be whisked through centuries of history at Ephesus, see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and visit an important pilgrimage site on Mount Koressos – all in one afternoon. Esra, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The Library of Celsus is one of the most impressive landmarks of Ephesus. It once held over 12,000 scrolls and was the third-largest library in the ancient world.'Kick off with a drive into the sun-soaked hills to visit the House of the Virgin Mary. According to popular belief, St John the Evangelist brought Mary to Ephesus after the crucifixion of Jesus, and she lived here until her death. Next, it's time to head to the ancient city of Ephesus, where a journey through history awaits. Your guide will lead you around the sprawling archaeological site and point out its highlights while regaling you with fascinating historic tales of this once-powerful city.You'll stroll down marble-paved streets where mosaics and frescoes still decorate the walls of ancient Roman houses, gaze at the Temples of Artemis and Hadrian, and be blown away by the Library of Celsus. Esra says, ‘I love to imagine the Great Theatre filled with 25,000 spectators. They would come to watch gladiator clashes, political rallies and performances in this theatre, a hub of city life. You can almost hear the roar of the crowd.'

Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour

A natural masterpiece combines with ancient ruins for this full day tour. You'll head to Pamukkale – which means 'cotton castle' in Turkish – as well as the adjacent city of Hierapolis. Both are UNESCO-listed, so it's a two-for-one deal on Turkey's historical gems. Muzaffer, one of our local guides, says, ‘Pamukkale is like something out of a fairytale – a spectacle of terraces formed over thousands of years that look like a cascading snowy waterfall. Legend has it, the hot thermal springs here have healing properties'.On arrival, you'll stop by the Pam Hotel for a spot of lunch, before we make our way to the main event. A sight to behold, Pamukkale's natural springs solidified into chalk-white stalactites and cliffs long ago, resulting in a winter-like wonderland of petrified tiers and pools. People have bathed here for thousands of years, including Roman emperors. Follow in their footsteps and bathe in one of the thermal pools or simply make your way to the top and drink in the magnificent views.Next up is the ancient spa town of Hierapolis. You'll have free time to explore its well-preserved ruins, including ancient streets, a 13,000-seat theatre and the thermal baths – known as Cleopatra's pool due to her reputation of eternal youth. A dip is extra but well worth forking out for the experience of bathing in an oasis scattered with Roman artefacts. What's more, for every sale of this experience, there's a donation to CYDD, a charity that helps in the education of underprivileged children in Turkey.

Izmir City Tour & Aquarium

Thanks to its sweeping harbour, seafront eateries and palm-lined pier, Izmir Town is known as ‘the beautiful waterfront'. Explore Turkey's third-largest city with a tour that has it all. You'll tour all the top sights, take a ferry ride across the bay, explore Izmir's aquarium, and even get to indulge in that favourite Turkish pastime, shopping.

Selçuk & Şirince Tour

There's lots of sightseeing and little travelling in this history-steeped tour to Selçuk and Şirince. You'll visit a Byzantine basilica and castle, discover one of Turkey's prettiest villages, enjoy a wine tasting and even try your hand at pottery painting.Head inland to Selçuk and immerse yourself in its layers of history. There's a guided visit to the ruins of the sixth century Basilica of St John and the partially restored Ayasuluk Fortress, which stands on a hill overlooking the town and the remains of the Temple of Artemis, a Wonder of the Ancient World. Hop back on the coach and make the short journey to Şirince, a former Greek village barely touched by the sands of time.After an authentic Turkish breakfast, there's a guided walk through windy cobblestone streets fringed by whitewashed homes and cypress trees. Enjoy a local wine tasting and then visit a ceramic workshop, where you can observe artisans at work and paint your own souvenir pottery.

Northern Bays Boat Tour from Kusadasi

The coastline north of Kusadasi offers fantastic scenery from the sea. You'll spend the full day taking it in on this laid-back cruise, with lunch and drinks on board, swimming stops from the boat and excursions to the beach.Board your luxury vessel at Kusadasi harbour in the morning and push out into the sparkling Aegean Sea, gliding past the coastline's coves and rugged cliffs. Head to the stunning northern bays, where you'll swim in the clear, turquoise waters from the boat – or maybe just sunbathe on the ample deck.Let your friendly crew-member row you to a nearby beach – and pick you up again in time for lunch aboard your boat. Relax on deck with a drink in your hand, as you set off again on your leisurely, sun-drenched cruise.

Kusadasi Shopping Trip

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Day Trip to Greek Island of Samos

A quick hop over the sea from Kusadasi, and you'll find yourself on the Greek Island of Samos. Spend a day at your own pace in either Vathy or Pythagoreio, with your return ferry, taxes and round trip transfers in Kusadasi covered.Depending on the day, you'll dock in either Vathy or Pythagoreio. From there, you'll have the rest of the day to spend exactly as you please. In Vathy, you can visit the famous Archaeological Museum, browse for souvenirs at the main square, amble along its cobblestone streets and relax into the island pace of life. Set around a horseshoe bay, you'll be able to stroll along the bustling quayside filled with tavernas and cafés, where you can watch the world go by.Or if you dock in Pythagoreio, you can relax on the nearby pebble beach, wander around the quaint harbour or head up to the rooftop pool at Samos Hotel – the choice is yours. After a busy day exploring, you'll head back to Kusadasi by ferry in the early evening.

Pamukkale Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Experience & Hierapolis Visit

Pamukkale is spectacular seen from the ground – but even better with bird's eye views. See one of Turkey's top natural treasures from above with this hot air balloon experience. You'll need to rise and shine well before sunrise, but it's all worth it. Soar over the cotton-white calcium terraces before touching down to visit the Roman ruins of Hierapolis, too.