Fire of Anatolia Turkish dance show ticket from Kusadasi

Nat Geo Day Tour: Maternal Icons: Artemis, Virgin Mary & a Local Mayor

Roam through the ages and explore the indomitable spirit of women who have shaped society from ancient times to the present day, right here in Turkey. Prepare to be awed by the might of the Greek goddess Artemis, learning her story as you pass by the site of her grand temple. In the museum, you'll spend time in the gallery dedicated to the local goddesses, depicting the evolution of Artemis. Admire two large statues of Artemis of Ephesus and a model of the temple as it was during the period when it was considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. You will also have the chance to follow in the footsteps of the Virgin Mary, visiting the house believed to be where she lived and eventually died. Inspired by a National Geographic article, your guide will discuss Mary's role as 'the most famous woman in the world' and reflect on how in modern day Turkey, the role of the woman is vital to society. Enjoy exclusive access to Efes Village of Life Earth School, an initiative founded by the Mayor of Selçuk herself. This project underscores her dedication to nurturing her community and promoting sustainable agriculture and you'll have the opportunity to meet the locals who are involved. A member of the Mayor's team will accompany you, providing insights into how this initiative is changing local lives and landscapes. There will be an opportunity to sample some traditional Turkish homemade snacks and drinks, prepared by members of the local women's organisation.

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.

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 soaking in their thermal pools. Next, prepare for 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 and an epic 13,000-seat theatre. What's more, for every sale of this experience, there's a donation to the TUI Care Foundation.

Kusadasi 4x4 safari tour

Forested mountains and sea-framed peninsulas are the backdrop to this scenic 4x4 drive. Tour the beautiful rural countryside inland from Kusadasi by rugged 4x4, taking in the charming mountain villages of Çamlık and Kirazlı, followed by an afternoon of sand surfing on Pamucak beach.

Kusadasi Turkish Bath with Transport

Turkish baths are all about relaxation. Visit one of Kusadasi's finest Turkish bath houses, where you'll be treated to a steam room session, an invigorating body scrub and soothing foam massage. There's also the option of a traditional oil massage.

Kusadasi boat and 4x4 safari tour

You'll journey on land and sea to see the countryside and coastline around Kusadasi on this full day tour. Climb up into the mountains through unspoilt villages, race down tracks in a 4x4 and then sail around Baradan Bay on a boat trip complete with lunch.

Kusadasi Half-day Scuba Diving from Beach

The sheltered waters that surround Kusadasi are crystal-clear, warm and teeming with marine life. This beginner-level scuba diving tour will give you expert instruction in scuba diving and its equipment before you plunge beneath the waves to experience the wonders of subaquatic life.

Kusadası Buggy Safari

Strap on your seatbelt for a rip-roaring adventure in the Kusadasi countryside. Driving your own off-road buggy, you'll roar through wild landscapes, swamps and scenery. And after tearing it up on Turkey's tracks and trails, you'll head back to base for a few laughs looking at photos and video from the safari.

Kusadasi Scuba Diving from Boat

Clear, warm and teeming with marine life, the sheltered waters that surround Kusadasi are perfect for a scuba diving experience. This beginner-level scuba diving tour will give you expert instruction in scuba diving and its equipment before you plunge beneath the waves to experience the wonders of subaquatic life.Let your PADI-certified instructor teach you all you'll need to know about scuba principles and equipment in the safe environment of one of Kusadasi's premier dive schools. Then it's off to a local dive site, renowned for the quality of its marine life. Non-divers can join in the cruise and enjoy time swimming and sunbathing instead of diving.With your instructor guiding you all the way, you'll explore the best of undersea life. Glide with shoals of silvery fish darting through the water, and maybe even shyer species, like eels and octopus.