Soak up Turkey's religious heritage and ancient history on this full-day shore excursion from Izmir. Leave your cruise ship in the morning to visit the ruins and temples of Ephesus, savour a tasty Turkish lunch, and visit what's believed to be the last abode of the Virgin Mary before you're dropped back at port.

Depart from your cruise ship port in the morning and meet up with your guide for the drive through the countryside to Ephesus. Absorb the Greco-Roman history of this ancient city as you roam among ruined temples, still-standing columns, and stone streets where apostles once walked. Stroll down the great marble road, gaze out over the seats of the Odeon, snap photos of the well-preserved facade of the Library of Celsus, and stand where the Temple of Artemis—one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World—once stood.

From there, head to the historic city of Selçuk for a delicious lunch of authentic Turkish cuisine, and then continue on to see the Isa Bey Mosque, a 14th-century mosque that dates from the era of the Anatolian beyliks. Your final stop is at the House of the Virgin Mary, a shrine and chapel located on Mt. Koressos that's believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary. Write down an intention and tie it to the wishing wall, and step inside to see the room where Mary is believed to have slept. Afterwards, hop back in the vehicle for an early evening return to your cruise ship.