FROM/TO IZMIR: Best of Ephesus Private Tour
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
• GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN TO THE SHIP
• PRIVATE TOUR ONLY FOR YOUR PARTY, MORE PERSONALIZED SERVICE
• REASONABLE THAN SHORE EXCURSIONS
• FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE ACCORDING TO YOUR PREFERENCES
Your way, your pace. Experience the timeless beauty of Ephesus on a private tour tailored to your preferences. Our expert guide will accompany you through the ancient ruins, sharing fascinating insights and answering your questions. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, our private tour offers the flexibility and attention to detail you deserve. This is a PRIVATE TOUR including only your own PARTY. Once you meet your guide, you can tailor your day. You can visit any or all of the above places depending on your interest;
• EPHESUS ANCIENT CITY,
• THE HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY,
• TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS,
• LOCAL HANDICRAFTS,
• AUTHENTIC TURKISH LUNCH,
Available options
INCL. MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS
MUSEUM TICKETS: INCLUDING MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS for Ephesus Ancient City and the House of Virgen Mary.<br/>Pickup included
EXCL. MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS
MUSEUM TICKETS: On the day of your tour, you can choose the Museums you are interested in visiting and pay the entrance fees on-site.<br/>PRIVATE TOUR: Tailor-made Private Tour excluding the Museum Entrance Tickets.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transportation with A/C Minivans with separate Driver
GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS
Professional LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE
SKIP-THE-LINE ENTRANCE TICKET (according to the option chosen), allow you to bypass long lines
Pick-up & Drop-off available only from Mentioned Places
PRIVATE TOUR that ensures more personalized service
Detailed itinerary
1
We meet you at the Cruise Port! Our team will be waiting next to Information Desk at the Exit Gate of Cruise Port by holding a sign which is your name written on it.
After booking this tour, please contact our team to agree on your meeting time. There are several Cruise Ships with different timings. So, you might decide about the best meeting time which is fitting your schedule. Upon meeting with our team, you will hit the road and will drive approximately 1hr 30min to Ephesus. On the way, your guide will keep informing you about Turkey.
2
Stop 2
The House of Virgin Mary is one of the pilgrimage centres of Christians where the Mary came to Ephesus with John the Apostle and lived her last 10 years.
Pope Paul VI visited the shrine in 1967, and 'unofficially' confirmed its authenticity. Pope John Paul II also visited the shrine in 1979. Pope Benedict XVI visited this shrine in 2006.
Whether or not she died in Ephesus was not known until Anne Catherine Emmerich’s vision. A disabled German nun who had never been to Ephesus, had a vision of the House of the Virgin Mary and described it in detail to the German writer Clemens Brentano who later published a book about it. Catherine Emmerich died in 1884. In 1891 Paul, Superior of the Lazarists from Izmir read about her visions and found a little building which corresponded with Emmerich’s descriptions. Then, the archeological works started which allows us to visit Mary's House and see the result today!
3
Stop 3
Ephesus Ruins is the largest open-air museum of Turkey which is dated to the Greek and Roman periods. Inside the Ruins of Ephesus, we explore Senate Building, Ancient Hospital, Domitian Temple, Nike Statue, Hercules Gate, Trajan Fountain, Hadrian Temple, Celsus Library, Grand Theatre of Ephesus and many more...
4
Stop 4
Artemis was the Greek goddess, the virginal huntress and twin of Apollo, who replaced the Titan Selene as Goddess of the Moon.
The ancient temple was built around 650 BC to the cult of Artemis, was constructed on a site already sacred to the Anatolian Mother Goddess, Cybele. The temple was financed by the wealthy king of Lydia and the marshy ground was selected for the building site as a precaution against future earthquakes.
During the time, it has been destroyed and collapsed many times due to the natural disasters.
5
We will pass by Selcuk Town, and you will be able to see the local life in this tiny town located next to Ephesus Ruins.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
You are able to see local handicrafts and experience local shopping if preferred. You will be also able to collect informations from your Local Tour Guide about: the best traditional handicrafts, best places to go, things to be carrefull, and best tips for hassle free experience...
7
In the end of our tour, we will hit the road back to Izmir and drop you. Please note that the pick-up & drop-off places; Izmir Cruise Port, Izmir Airport, and Izmir Centerally located Hotels.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you join this tour from Izmir Cruise Port, or from Airport, OUR TOUR OFFERS YOU GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN!
What's not included
Gratuities recommended
Food and Drinks (optional)
Entrance Fees if the option is not selected
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.7
14 reviews
5★
13
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pick up and Drop off services available from the below mentioned places;
* Centrally located Hotels in Izmir * Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport * Izmir Cruise Port
Important notes
- Pick up and Drop off services available from the below mentioned places;
* Centrally located Hotels in Izmir
* Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport
* Izmir Cruise Port
- The travelers who stay out of the above mentioned pick-up & drop off list may handle their own transportation to agreed meeting place.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
