Ephesus Trip from Istanbul
Active
14h - 18h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
FULL-DAY Trip from Istanbul to EPHESUS RUINS!
Discover the revered HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY, believed to be her final dwelling, and delve into the captivating ANCIENT CITY OF EPHESUS. Explore remnants like the TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS, once among the wonders of the Ancient World. Experience history's essence on this immersive journey through time.
• Starts with picking up from your Istanbul Hotel and ends with dropping off at your Istanbul Hotel
• Return Flights, Airport Transfers, Entrance Fees, Lunch, and Licensed Tour Guide Included
• Even you have a chance to explore local handicrafts besides visiting historical & cultural destinations
• Small-group tour limited to 15 people ensures a more personalized experience and have a chance to UPGRADE PRIVATE
• Explore the Local Life not the touristic-designed places
Available options
PRIVATE TOUR & TRANSFERS
PRIVATE TOUR: Private Tours are conducted only for the person who book this tour! You can manage your own timing and have better experience<br/>CUSTOMIZABLE: Private Tours allow you to MANAGE & CUSTOMIZE your own timing. Other travel fellows don't affect your experience negatively!
GROUP TOUR & TRANSFERS
GROUP TOUR & TRANSFERS: The services will be in Group up to 15 persons.
What's included
Return DOMESTIC FLIGHTS from/to Istanbul
LUNCH during the Tour
SMALL-GROUP TOUR up to 15 persons (can be upgraded to PRIVATE TOUR)
AIRPORT TRANSFERS (from Sultanahmet & Taksim Hotels)
Professional Licensed TOUR GUIDE
Transportation with A/C Minibus
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Our team will pick you up from your Istanbul Hotels around 04:00 - 04:30 am and then transfer you to Istanbul Airport. When you arrive to the airport, you make your self-check-in and take your flight to Izmir(Ephesus).
Upon landing to Izmir Airport, our team will meet you at the exit gate of the domestic terminal. Then, after an hour's transfer to the Ephesus, will meet the rest of the group and start your Full-Day Tour.
2
Stop 2
During the day, you are going to visit places below;
• Ephesus Ruins (Approx. 2 hours)
• House of Virgin Mary (Approx. 1 hour)
• Temple of Artemis (Approx. 20 minutes)
• Local Handicraft-Gallery (depending on interest)
• Isabey Mosque (Panoramic View in a distance)
• Basilica of St. John (Panoramic View in a distance)
• Selcuk Castle (Panoramic View in a distance)
Midday, we will have our Lunch and during the tour, you will also have a chance to explore famous local handicrafts made by the villager ladies.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
At the end of the Tour, we will make our way back to Airport with an hour's drive and you will have your flight back to Istanbul. When you land to Istanbul Airport, our team will meet you at the exit gate of the domestic terminal. Then transfer back to your Hotel in Istanbul.
PLEASE NOTE THAT YOUR ISTANBUL HOTEL SHOULD BE IN SULTANAHMET OR TAKSIM REGIONS. You might see more details on the section of "PICK-UP & DROP-OFF"
What's not included
Gratuities (recommended)
Drinks during Lunch (if preferred)
Museum Entrance Tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
43 reviews
5★
41
4★
0
3★
2
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
85 reviews
5★
82
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pick up and Drop off services available from the Hotels which is located in the Sultanahmet and Taksim Regions. While booking this package, please indicate your Istanbul Hotel. The travelers who stay out of the pick-up & drop off zone may handle their own transportation to/from the Airport.
After we received your booking, our team will contact you to request copies of your passports in order to book your domestic flights. Please send us the copies of your passports as soon as possible to complete your reservation, this is very important to have a smooth-running operation. Your reservation may be canceled or operational disruptions may occur due to information not sent on time. Our company is not responsible for such situations.
Meeting point
Hotels located in Taksim/Karaköy/Sisli/Besiktas region.
Important notes
- Pick up and Drop off services available from the Hotels which is located in the Sultanahmet and Taksim Regions. While booking this package, please indicate your Istanbul Hotel. The travelers who stay out of the pick-up & drop off zone may handle their own transportation to/from the Airport.
.
- After we received your booking, our team will contact you to request copies of your passports in order to book your domestic flights. Please send us the copies of your passports as soon as possible to complete your reservation, this is very important to have a smooth-running operation. Your reservation may be canceled or operational disruptions may occur due to information not sent on time. Our company is not responsible for such situations.
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
