Private Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary, tour from Izmir

Visit to Ephesus Travel Agency will warmly welcome cruise passengers at the port's main exit gate, holding a sign with your name. After booking your tour, please contact our team to confirm and arrange your meeting time by providing your cruise ship name and arrival & on-board times. This information will help us suggest the best timing for your tour. If you encounter any difficulties finding a suitable time option, we will gladly assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, offers a remarkable glimpse into the past. Its ancient streets, still marked by chariot wheels, connect visitors to awe-inspiring history.

Discover the Great Theater, a grand venue seating over 20,000, where gladiatorial battles once captivated crowds. Visit the Public Agora, where St. Paul preached and Anatolian handicrafts, celebrated for their quality, were traded. Stroll along Marble Street to the Celsus Library, the ancient world’s third-largest library, renowned for its beautifully restored façade.

Explore other marvels like the Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain, Domitian Temple, and the Odeon, a venue for musical performances. Ephesus embodies the cultural richness and engineering brilliance of ancient civilizations, making it a must-visit destination in Turkey.

The House of the Virgin Mary, near Ephesus, is a revered pilgrimage site believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final days and was assumed into heaven. According to tradition, Apostle John brought Mary to Ephesus after the Resurrection of Christ, seeking refuge following the martyrdom of James and other apostles.

Built on the foundation of her home, the church has been affirmed by visits from three popes: Pope Paul VI (1967), Pope John Paul II (1979), and Pope Benedict XVI (2006). Their gifts to the shrine, displayed as symbols of its sacred importance, underscore its authenticity and spiritual significance.

This serene site continues to draw visitors worldwide, offering a profound connection to Christian history and inspiring faith and devotion among all who come.

The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt and moon. Constructed around 650 BC on a site sacred to Cybele, the Anatolian Mother Goddess, it was funded by the King of Lydia and ingeniously built on marshy ground to withstand earthquakes.

This historic site also witnessed dramatic events, such as the murder of Cleopatra’s sister, Arsinoe IV, in 41 BC under Mark Antony’s orders. Today, while only columns and ruins remain, the Temple of Artemis continues to captivate visitors, its legacy standing as a testament to the grandeur and architectural brilliance of the ancient world, rivaling even the Parthenon.

We will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local weaving school, where you’ll also have the unique opportunity to learn about Turkey’s rich carpet-making tradition. Renowned for their intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship, Turkish carpets are more than just decorative items—they are works of art and valuable investment pieces that grow in worth over time. Witness the skill of local artisans as they demonstrate the age-old techniques of weaving, showcasing patterns passed down through generations.

At the end of your tour, rest assured that we will guarantee your timely return to İzmir Cruise Port, well before your ship’s scheduled departure. With multiple cruise ships docking and departing at various times, we carefully monitor all schedules, confirm details with our guests, and coordinate return timings for a smooth and stress-free experience. If the tour cannot fit within your cruise schedule, we will inform you in advance.

During your tour, enjoy a curated journey exploring must-see attractions and uncovering the best of traditional Turkish handicrafts. With expert guidance from your local guide, gain valuable insights, safety advice, and personalized tips to make the most of your visit. Discover exquisite handmade treasures, while immersing yourself in the cultural richness of the region.

Our tours promise a seamless experience, allowing you to explore with confidence and peace of mind. We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable adventures!