Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage and ancient wonders of Ephesus on this private full-day tour. Explore the ancient city, visit the House of Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John, and marvel at the Temple of Artemision. Skip the lines and customize your tour with a knowledgeable guide.
Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage and ancient wonders of Ephesus on this private full-day tour. Explore the ancient city, visit the House of Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John, and marvel at the Temple of Artemision. Skip the lines and customize your tour with a knowledgeable guide.
- Ancient City of Ephesus - This archaeological site at Ephesus beautifully balances the preservation of history with visitor accessibility. Located on the southwest coast of modern Turkey, Ephesus was a hub for several great ancient civilizations, showcasing a unique blend of architecture and culture. In 356 BC, the Greeks constructed the…
- Ancient City of Ephesus - This archaeological site at Ephesus beautifully balances the preservation of history with visitor accessibility. Located on the southwest coast of modern Turkey, Ephesus was a hub for several great ancient civilizations, showcasing a unique blend of architecture and culture. In 356 BC, the Greeks constructed the Artemesium, a grand Ionic temple dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of fertility, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. By the 2nd century BC, Ephesus had become the fourth largest city in the eastern Roman Empire, renowned for its Artemesium, the Library of Celsus, and its medical school.
- The Temple of Artemis - Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis was built in Ephesus on a flat area that eventually became a swamp. Today, visitors to Ephesus can see the ruins of this magnificent Hellenistic Age structure, made entirely of marble and adorned with sculptured column capitals and shafts. The most exquisite remnants of this temple are now displayed in the British Museum in London.
- The Basilica of Saint John - It is believed that the evangelist St. John spent his final years near Ephesus and was buried on the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill. Three centuries after St. John’s death, a small chapel was erected over his grave in the 4th century. During the reign of Emperor Justinian (527-565 AD), the church of St. John was transformed into a splendid basilica.
The latter half of the first century was marked by persecution for early Christians. Apostle James and Stephen were martyred in Jerusalem, and Paul was sent to Rome and executed. Tradition holds that John brought the Mother Mary to Ephesus, where he wrote his Gospel, and later, in 96 AD, the Revelation on the Greek island of Patmos.
- Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - The House of the Virgin Mary is situated atop “Bulbul” Mountain, 9 km from Ephesus, offering a serene atmosphere amidst lush greenery. It is believed to be where Mary spent her final days, possibly arriving with Saint John, who spent several years in the area spreading Christianity. Mary chose this secluded location over a bustling environment.
The House of the Virgin Mary is a classic example of Roman architecture, constructed entirely of stone. In the 4th century AD, a church was built, incorporating her house and grave. The original two-story house included an anteroom (now a place for candles), a bedroom and prayer room (Christian church area), and a room with a fireplace (chapel for Muslims).

- Transport by Luxury Private Vehicle
- Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
- All Parking Fees and Taxes
- English Speaking Tour Guide with Archaeological Background
- Transport by Luxury Private Vehicle
- Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
- All Parking Fees and Taxes
- English Speaking Tour Guide with Archaeological Background
- Admission fees
- Local Lunch
- Admission fees
- Admission fees
- Local Lunch
- Admission fees
Our PRIVATE Ephesus Tour is one of its kind about places it covers and it’s our best-seller! This tour is a perfect option for those who have a full day to spend around the most important sights of the Ephesus area.
This tour is guaranteed Skip-The-Line with pre-purchased tickets.
You can always customize your tour with your private guide.
This tour…
Our PRIVATE Ephesus Tour is one of its kind about places it covers and it’s our best-seller! This tour is a perfect option for those who have a full day to spend around the most important sights of the Ephesus area.
This tour is guaranteed Skip-The-Line with pre-purchased tickets.
You can always customize your tour with your private guide.
This tour includes pick up service from Izmir Cruise Port / Hotels. During your tour, you will visit; Ephesus Ancient City which used to be the most important commercial center of the western Anatolia, the House of Virgin Mary where Mary had spent her last day, the Basilica of St. John where is believed that the evangelist St. John had spent his last years in the region around Ephesus and buried in the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill and the Temple of Artemision which is known as one of the seven wonders of the Antic World.
Enjoy the personalized attention of your licensed local tour guide and the comfort of your private vehicle.
- At time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
- Please note that it takes one hour from Izmir to Ephesus Ancient City by drive
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.