Best of Ephesus Tour
Highlights
- Ancient City of Ephesus ; Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, including the Celsus Library, Great Theatre, Temple of Hadrian, and the Trajan Fountain. Walk through the historic Curetes Street and see remnants of Roman baths, public latrines, and ancient homes.
- House of the Virgin Mary ; Visit the serene mountaintop shrine believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary. A sacred site for both Christians and Muslims.
- Temple of Artemis (Artemision) View the remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only a few columns remain today, the site evokes the grandeur of the once-glorious temple.
- Terrace Houses (optional, additional fee) Discover the luxurious homes of Ephesus' elite, with stunning frescoes, mosaics, and advanced Roman plumbing. A hidden gem for those keen on deeper exploration.
- Local Handicrafts or Turkish Delights Enjoy a brief stop at a local cooperative or artisan workshop where you can see traditional crafts and sample regional treats
Overview
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the wonders of the ancient world on this captivating full-day tour of Ephesus. Perfectly blending history, culture, and natural beauty, the Best of Ephesus Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of one of the most well-preserved classical cities in the world. Accompanied by an expert local guide, you'll walk the marble streets once tread by emperors and apostles, admire the architectural splendor of Roman monuments, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of sacred sites that shaped early Christianity.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, cultural explorer, or simply in search of a meaningful travel experience, this tour reveals the heart and soul of ancient Anatolia.
Route
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View the route on Google MapsItinerary
Your guide will meet you at a point where you would like to be picked up. Once you get to Ephesus your driver will drop you at the upper gate and he will meet you at the lower gate when you finish your visit to this unique ancient city over 2000 years old , feel the atmosphere like Gods are whispering in your ears the secrets of their lives. While you are walking through the ancient ruins such as the monumental Celsus Library, which was once the third largest of the world, the beautifully adorned edifices like Temple of Hadrian and Fountain of Trajan, the largest ancient theater built by the Romans in Anatolia which would once had a capacity of 24 thousands of people and so on.
Terrace Houses serve as a private museum which is one of the must visits while you are in Ephesus. This is the place where actually you would like to sit with Ephesians and have a drink with them on the open air courtyard, talk about who you have met when you were in the Library and maybe plan to go to see a show in the Theater. After we complete our excursion ay Ephesus, we head to Virgin Mary’s House, located on the Mount Bulbul which will be a nice break for you. Even if declared as an official Church by Pope Paul IV in 1967, there is still no evidence or archaeological proof to say that Virgin Mary died in this little house. The ruins were discovered according to the visions and narrations of a nun lady from Germany called "Ann Catherine Emmerich".
Proceeding down to Selcuk town for St. John's Basilica, it will be a beautiful scenery with the nature and the old castle. Such a great location to have an idea about the ancient port of Ephesus and St. John’s Church in Selcuk City.
When you are at the Ruins of St. John’s Church you will be looking at the one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, The Temple of Artemis and imagining the boats sailing in to the ancient port of Ephesus for thousands of reasons.
Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selcuk is also waiting for you to introduce you with beautiful statues of Artemis and more to complete your day.
We did not forget to take you for lunch where you will enjoy the local food.
Hope you enjoy every moment of the day.
End of the tour.
Trip includes
Included
Professional English-speaking tour guides
Guiding Method Fully guided
English
Pick up from your hotel.
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach
Return transfer to your hotel
Guided Ephesus & Sirince Tour
All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours
Tour Type: Guided, small-group or private
Language: Available in multiple languages (English, Spanish, German, etc.)
Pick-Up/Drop-Off: Available from Kusadasi, Izmir, or Selçuk hotels/cruise port
Entrance Fees: Not always included – confirm when booking
Terrain: Uneven surfaces and steps – wear comfortable walking shoes
Weather: Summer months can be hot – bring sun protection and water
Modest Dress: Required for religious sites (e.g., shoulders and knees covered)
Excluded
Lunch
Insurance: All types
Personal expenses: Lunches, extras at hotel or additional meals
Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
Need help or have a question about this tour?
If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We're ready to help.
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Availability
Now, just deposit 25% of the total
Book the tour by paying only 25% upfront, and settle the remaining amount 30 days before departure.
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Upcoming departures
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What our travelers say
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