Private Ephesus Tour | History Only | No Shopping Stops

Selçuk , Turkey

Private Ephesus Tour | History Only | No Shopping Stops

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(62 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Perfect Private Ephesus Tour Option for the independent traveler.
Ephesus Tours - No Shopping Stops - History Only

Come visit and discover the Ancient City of Ephesus hassle free with us!

Many people miss out on the tours they want to do because of the inconvenience of the many shopping stops along the way. The sights are what you have come to see and that is what we aim to show you.

We provide the visitor to Ephesus a unique cultural based tour experience with a professional English speaking guide, without the hassle of being taken to various factory outlets or shopping stops along the way. We offer a no nonsense tour experience without substituting on quality or service.

Available options

Private Ephesus Tour | History Only | No Shopping Stops

What's included

Ephesus Terrace Houses

Ancient City of Ephesus

Professional Licensed English speaking tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Come, Visit and Discover the ancient city of Ephesus
UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tour Ephesus hassle free with no shopping stops

Stop 2

The wealthy people of the city lived in the houses built on terraces on the slopes of Bülbül Mountain. The houses that were built around an open peristillium courtyard consisted of two floors. The houses, the first construction date of which was identified as the 1st century AD, were used in the following years with various additional modifications until the city was finally abandoned. The floors of the houses are decorated with mosaics and the walls are decorated with marble and frescoes. The houses had fountains and underfloor heating systems.

What's not included

Ancient City of Ephesus

Ephesus Terrace Houses

SAVE with the COMBO Ticket Ephesus + Terrace Houses 52.00 Є

Transportation (Meeting Point Ephesus South / Top Gate)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

62 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Ephesus can get very hot during the summer months and there is minimal shade so we advise you to take sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water and of course your camera!

Meeting point

Your tour guide, who will be holding an orange No Frills Ephesus Tours sign, will meet and greet you at the southern/top gate entrance of Ephesus, next to the ticket booth or carpark.

Important notes

If want to visit EPHESUS ONLY • Best Option • 40.00 Є
EPHESUS ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE
https://muze.gov.tr/urun-ekle?catalogNo=WEB-EFS01-87-009

Combo Ticket - Skip the Line
If want to visit EPHESUS & TERRACE HOUSES • Best Option • 52.00 Є
EPHESUS ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE
+ EPHESUS TERRACE HOUSES
-- ONLY AVAILABLE AT ENTRANCE GATES -- Priority Entry Ephesus Ticket

Combo Ticket - Skip the Line
If you want to see and visit ALL the main sights - Best Option - 65.00 Є
EPHESUS ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE
+ EPHESUS TERRACE HOUSES
+ EPHESUS MUSEUM
+ BASILICA OF ST. JOHN

About Selçuk

Selçuk is a charming town in Turkey's Aegean Region, renowned as the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and proximity to stunning natural sites, Selçuk offers a unique blend of archaeological wonders and authentic Turkish hospitality.

Top Attractions

Ephesus

Ephesus is one of the most famous ancient cities in the world, known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis.

Historical Half to full day Moderate (Entrance fee around 20 USD)

Selçuk Basilica

The Selçuk Basilica is an ancient Christian church with well-preserved mosaics and architectural details, offering insights into the region's early Christian history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

İsa Bey Mosque

İsa Bey Mosque is a 14th-century Ottoman mosque with beautiful Seljuk architecture, featuring intricate tile work and a serene courtyard.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Şirince Village

Şirince is a picturesque village known for its traditional stone houses, local wines, and olive oil. It's a great place to experience authentic Turkish village life and sample local produce.

Cultural Half day Free to explore, budget for food and wine tastings

Ephesus Museum

The Ephesus Museum houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Ephesus, including sculptures, mosaics, and coins.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (Entrance fee around 5 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Çökertme Kebap

A traditional dish made with minced lamb or beef, onions, and spices, cooked on a skewer over an open flame.

Main Course Contains meat, can be spicy

Karnıyarık

A stuffed eggplant dish made with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and peppers, topped with a rich tomato sauce.

Main Course Contains meat, can be spicy

Şakşuka

A traditional dish made with green peppers, tomatoes, and onions, cooked with minced meat and topped with a yogurt sauce.

Main Course Contains meat, can be spicy

Midye Dolma

Stuffed mussels filled with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and spices, served with a lemon wedge.

Snack Contains seafood, can be spicy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding countryside Horseback riding Mountain biking Beach relaxation in Kuşadası Spa treatments in Pamukkale Wine tasting in Şirince Village Exploring ancient ruins Visiting local museums

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Selçuk is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are manageable. These seasons offer ideal conditions for exploring the ancient sites and enjoying the local cuisine.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Turkish
Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Selçuk is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Be wary of fake petitions or surveys, as they may be a distraction for thieves.

Getting there

By air

Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport • 80 km

By train

Selçuk Railway Station

By bus

Selçuk Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Selçuk, connecting the town center to major attractions and nearby towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Ephesus Area Şirince Village

Day trips

Pamukkale

150 km • Full day

Pamukkale is a natural wonder known for its white travertine terraces and thermal springs. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular day trip from Selçuk.

Kuşadası

20 km • Half day

Kuşadası is a popular coastal town known for its beaches, nightlife, and shopping. It's a great day trip for those looking to relax on the beach or explore the town's many shops and restaurants.

Priene, Miletus, and Didyma

50-60 km • Full day

Priene, Miletus, and Didyma are ancient cities located near Selçuk, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. These sites are less crowded than Ephesus and offer a unique opportunity to explore ancient ruins.

Festivals

International Selçuk Ephesus Culture and Art Festival • May International Selçuk Ephesus Jazz Festival • July Selçuk Wine Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the ancient city of Ephesus early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Try the local specialties, such as Çökertme Kebap and Şakşuka, at traditional restaurants like Dünyayla Otel Restaurant or Selçuk Pidecisi.
Explore the charming village of Şirince for a glimpse into traditional Turkish village life, with its stone houses, local wines, and olive oils.
Take a day trip to Pamukkale to experience the natural wonders of the travertine terraces and thermal springs.
Visit the Ephesus Museum to learn more about the ancient city and its rich history, with a collection of artifacts that includes sculptures, mosaics, and coins.