Private Ephesus, St. John Basilica, The House of Mary with Lunch
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Private tour allows you to see almost all the highlights close to Kusadasi. Our private tour includes visits to Ephesus, The House of Virgin Mary, St. John Basilica, The Temple of Artemission.This private full-day tour includes a private guide, private transportation by brand-new minibus with A/C and a traditional kebap lunch with mezes and salad that is not to be missed.
• Private Tour for your family and friends
• You will decide on departure time
• Our tour guide will meet you at the Port/Hotel with your name sign,
• Our professional tour guide will be with you from arrival till departure,
• You will have flexibilty to spend how much time you want in each site and customize the itinerary,
• You do not have to wait for other group members
• You may stop to have pictures during your tour.
• Lunch in a local restaurant is included
Available options
Private Ephesus, St. John Basilica, The House of Mary with Lunch
Pickup included
What's included
Traditional Turkish Lunch
GUARANTEED On Time Return to PORT
Private tour for your family and Friends only
Private transportation by brand-new vehicles with AC
Private professional licensed tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Your private guide will meet you at your Kusadasi hotel or Kusadasi port at pre-arranged time. Pickup time will be given during the confirmation of your booking.
2
Stop 2
After greeting, we will have a 2-minute drive to the Ephesus area to visit one of the main highlights in Turkey. Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionian League (an ancient Greek district on the western coast of Asia Minor) is located near Izmir. As a port city it was a major departure point for trade routes into Asia Minor.
Walk through history along marble streets lined with wonderful public buildings. Among them are the Baths of Scholastica and the Library of Celsus (it was built in the beginning of the 2nd century A.D. by Gaius Julius Aquila to be a memorial to his father Gaius Julius Celsus Polemanus, the proconsul of Province of Asia). The Temple of Hadrian and The Grand Theater are two of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus. The Grand theatre was built in the 3rd century B.C and it was later expanded to 24.000 spectators by the Romans in the 1st century A.D.
You can visit Terrace Houses by paying entrance fee to the site
3
Stop 3
Our next stop is The House of Virgin Mary, located in the Aladag Mountains 5 miles away from Ephesus. At the third Ecumenical Council in 431 AD in Ephesus, it was claimed that Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. After the discovery of the house, the Archbishop of Izmir declared it as a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there.
4
Lunch time. we will have traditional Turkish lunch in a local restaurant with mezes
5
Stop 5
After Lunch we drive to St. John’s Basilica. It is believed that the evangelist St. John had spent his last years in the region around Ephesus and was buried in the southern slope of the Ayosolug Hill.
6
Stop 6
We will stop at the Temple of Artemis where one of the seven wonders of the ancient world used to be.
7
After the tour we will take you back to the Kusadasi city center or port.
the end of our services
What's not included
Tips & Personal Expenses are not included
Entrance Fees ( Our guide will have pre-paid tickets to skip the line )
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
22 reviews
5★
20
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
1
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Private tour allows you to see almost all the highlights close to Kusadasi. Our private tour includes visits to Ephesus, The House of Virgin Mary, St. John Basilica, The Temple of Artemission.
Traditional kebap lunch with mezes and salad that is not to be missed.
About Kusadasi
Kusadasi is a vibrant coastal city on the Turkish Riviera, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and proximity to ancient ruins. It offers a blend of modern resort amenities and traditional Turkish culture, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Top Attractions
Lady Mary's Bath
A historic hamam (Turkish bath) built in 1640, offering traditional Turkish bath experiences and spa treatments.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate
Kusadasi Castle
A medieval castle with a rich history, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Long Beach (Long Beach)
A popular beach with golden sand, clear waters, and a variety of water sports and activities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to Moderate (for amenities and water sports)
Ephesus Ancient City
One of the most famous ancient cities in the world, featuring well-preserved ruins and significant historical sites.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Pigeon Island (Kusadasi Castle)
A small island connected to the mainland by a causeway, featuring a historic castle and beautiful views.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to enter, moderate for activities
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gözleme
A traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients like cheese, spinach, or potatoes
Breakfast/Snack
Vegetarian options available
Kusadasi Köfte
Spicy meatballs made with ground beef, onions, and spices, often served with rice or bread
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains nuts
Popular Activities
Scuba diving
Parasailing
Jet skiing
Hiking in nearby nature parks
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga on the beach
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant nightlife. The sea is at its warmest, perfect for swimming and water sports.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Turkish
- Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kusadasi is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Adnan Menderes Airport • 75 km south of Kusadasi
By bus
Kusadasi Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent minibuses that follow set routes. Easy to use but can get crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Gett
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Kadınlar Denizi
Davutlar
Day trips
Ephesus
20 km • Half day to full day
One of the most famous ancient cities in the world, featuring well-preserved ruins and significant historical sites.
Pamukkale
160 km • Full day
A natural wonder featuring terraces of white travertine pools filled with thermal water.
Sirince
30 km • Half day
A charming village known for its wine production, fruit wines, and traditional architecture.
Festivals
Kusadasi International Music Festival • July
Kusadasi International Kite Festival • May
Pro tips
- Visit Ephesus early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try the local street food, especially simit and kebabs
- Bargain politely when shopping in bazaars
- Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use dolmuş (shared taxis) for affordable and convenient transport within the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
