Ephesus private Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tours
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Ephesus private Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tours

Active
(15 reviews)
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

The St. John Basilica, Ephesus, and Virgin Mary House tour is a unique and fascinating experience that combines history, religion, and natural beauty. Located in the town of Selcuk in Turkey, St. John Basilica is believed to be the final resting place of John the Apostle, and it is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians.

Nearby Ephesus is an ancient Greek and Roman city that is home to stunning ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis, and the Great Theatre. Finally, the tour takes visitors to the House of the Virgin Mary, a holy site where it is believed that Mary spent her final years. This combination of ancient ruins, religious sites, and natural beauty makes the St. John Basilica, Ephesus, and Virgin Mary House tour a truly unique and unforgettable experience. This tour will be totally private and you can customize by your choices.

Available options

Ephesus private Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tours

Pickup included

What's included

SKIP THE LINE ENTRANCE TICKETS (OPTIONAL)
Wholesale shopping center visits
Fully Air-conditioned Brand new vehicle with Separate Driver
Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide
Port pickup and drop-off on time return
GUARANTEED ON TIME RETURN TO THE BOAT
Traditional Delicious Lunch
Private tour, all taxes, all parking fees
Private tour up to 10 people

Detailed itinerary

1

We will pick you from kusadasi cruise port 30 minutes to ephesus and 30 minutes back to kusadasi cruise port

2
Stop 2

This Is a Private Tour, nobody will be in the tour beside your family. Discover all the highlights of Ephesus with well-educated professional local tour guide. Visit one of the UNESCO listed places that is Ancient City of Ephesus, walk on the streets where Apostle Paul and John walked, see the Grand Theatre of Ephesus that St. Paul preached to Ephesians, take excellent pictures in front of Celsus Library, explore Roman Baths, Temple of Hadrian, Public Toilets, Marble Street, Agora, etc. See superb preserved Terrace Houses that are for the rich people during the Roman time in Ephesus, famous with unique mosaic and frescos. Feel very peaceful atmosphere of shrine that is the most important Biblical Site in Turkey, House of the Virgin Mary. See the location of Temple of Artemis that is one of the wonders of ancient world.

3
Stop 3

Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House) The House of Virgin Mary is located on the Aladag Mountains 5 miles away from Ephesus. At the third Ecumenical Council on 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 kusadasi declared there as a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there

4
Stop 4

Visit the impressive ruins of the Byzantine Church of St John mark the spot where St John the Evangelist was buried.
This church was built over the tomb of St. John. The presently-visible church is cruciform and roofed with six massive domes, and was donated by the Emperor Justinian and his wife Theodora. The capitals facing the nave (central aisle) bear their monograms. Persecution Gate forms the entrance to the walls of the Byzantine fortification, and is decorated with reliefs depicting scenes of pursuit from the life of the Greek hero Achilleus. It probably dates to the sixth or seventh century A. D

5

Lunch traditional Turkish food and In our tours, we visit a Turkish handicrafts cooperative in order to show you our handicrafts and culture as well as the historical and natural beauties of our country. This is a enjoyable, informative and interesting experience for our guests. We highly recommend you this experience. There is no obligation to buy anything. Trust us and enjoy this beautiful experience.

What's not included

Saint John Kilisesi
Ancient City ephesus EUR 40 (Paid directly on the site)
Virgin Mary House Entrance EUR 13( Paid directly on the site)

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor 5.0
12 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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

Adults
Age 18-70
1
Childs
Age 4-17
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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