Izmir , Turkey

Ephesus Day Tour from Izmir with Lunch

Active

(96 reviews)

8h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ephesus is an exceptional testimony to the cultural traditions of the Hellenistic, Roman Imperial and early Christian periods. Ephesus is an important site for Christianity; being one of the seven Churches of Revelation. In eight hours, you will be able to explore the ancient city, the House of Virgin Mary, and Temple of Artemis with a pick up and drop off service from Izmir

Available options

Ephesus Day Tour from Izmir with Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance Fees

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

House of Virgin Mary is the place where Mary may have spent her last days. Indeed, she may have come in the area together with Saint John. This place was offically declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church in 1986, and since then it has become a popular place of pilgrimage. Pope Paul VI visited shrine in 1967.

Stop 2

Ephesus is an exceptional testimony to the cultural traditions of the Hellenistic, Roman Imperial and early Christian periods. Ephesus is an important site for Christianity; being one of the seven Churches of Revelation. Apostle Paul probably spent two and half years in Ephesus during his third missionary journey.

Our tour includes Odeon, State Agora, Prytaneion, Memmius Monument, Domatian Temple, Hercules Gate, Curetes Street, Hadrian Temple, Latriens, Celsus Library, Marble Road, Commercial Agora, Great Theather, and Arcadine (Harbour Road).

Stop 3

Ancient luxurious residential villas, built according to the Hippodamian plan where the roads transect each other at right angles. Houses feature drawings showing gladiators, caricatures, and animals and grafiti of names of persons, poems, and the declarations of love.

The visits to Private House (so-called brothel, 'Terrace Houses’) is an optional visit for an extra 25 ₺/person and your guide should be informed before hand.

Stop 4

After lunch; we will carry on with the visit to Temple of Artemis; which is one of the Seven Wonders of antiquity. Here, there will be good chance to shoot photos of Church of St. John and Mosque of Isa Bey from the best angle as well.

An old village on the hills of Selcuk famous for fruit flavored wine production and traditional houses. It was once inhabited by 'Rum' (Byzantine Greeks) who were exchanged with the Turkish from the Greek mainland after the peace treaty following the Turkish National War.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Entrance fee for the Terrace Houses

Gratuities

Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

88 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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 Izmir

Izmir is a vibrant coastal city on Turkey's Aegean coast, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. As one of Turkey's most cosmopolitan cities, it offers a blend of ancient ruins, modern amenities, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.

Top Attractions

Agora of Smyrna

An ancient Roman agora located in the heart of Izmir. It's one of the most important historical sites in the city.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kadifekale

A historic castle offering panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Izmir Archeological Museum

A museum showcasing a vast collection of artifacts from the region's ancient history.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (around 50 TRY)

Kordon

A beautiful waterfront promenade stretching along the Aegean coast.

Beach Flexible, can be enjoyed at any time Free

Çeşme

A popular beach resort town near Izmir, known for its beautiful beaches and thermal springs.

Beach Full day Varies by activity and accommodation

Must-Try Local Dishes

Köfte

Grilled or fried meatballs made from ground beef or lamb, often served with rice or bread.

Main Course Contains meat

Boyoz

A type of pastry filled with a spiced beef mixture, typically eaten for breakfast.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Kumru

A sandwich made with a special type of bread, filled with various ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, and peppers.

Sandwich Vegetarian options available

Midye Dolma

Stuffed mussels filled with spiced rice and pine nuts.

Snack Contains seafood and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Water sports in Çeşme Sunbathing on the beach Visiting thermal baths in Pamukkale Exploring ancient ruins in Ephesus Visiting museums in Izmir Swimming in the Aegean Sea Boat trips to nearby islands

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant nightlife. It's ideal for beach activities and outdoor events.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Turkish
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Izmir is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter being turned on
• Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Adnan Menderes Airport • 20 km south of the city center

By train

Basmane Railway Station

By bus

Izmir Otogar (Main Bus Terminal)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, with frequent services. Buses are the most common form of public transport in Izmir.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Alsancak Karsiyaka Gözlüce Bornova

Day trips

Çeşme

90 km • Full day

A popular beach resort town with beautiful beaches and thermal springs.

Selçuk

80 km • Full day

A town near Izmir with significant historical and archaeological sites.

Sirince

70 km • Full day

A charming village known for its wine production and traditional architecture.

Festivals

Izmir International Festival • July to August Izmir Short Film Festival • April Izmir Jazz Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Agora of Smyrna early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
Try local street food like kumru and midye dolma for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture
Attend a local festival or event to immerse yourself in Izmir's vibrant cultural scene
Take a day trip to Çeşme or Selçuk for a relaxing beach getaway or a historical adventure