From Izmir: PRIVATE Best of Ephesus Tour (Skip-the-Line)

Izmir , Turkey

From Izmir: PRIVATE Best of Ephesus Tour (Skip-the-Line)

Active

(21 reviews)

7h - 9h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience an unforgettable day in one of the world’s oldest cities during this PRİVATE tour of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary from Izmir hotels or Izmir airport. After getting picked up from the hotel or airport., head for the famous House of the Virgin Mary, where the biblical figure is believed to have last lived. Next it’s off to the ancient city of Ephesus, a former Greco-Roman empire and the most well-preserved ancient city in the world. Wander around the Temple of Domitian, the Temple of Hadrian, the Agora and the Odeon, among other popular sites. Explore the Terrace Houses and the Arcadian. After Ephesus, you will visit the temple of artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

-Wander the historic city of Ephesus
-See to Library of Celsus and Grand theatre
-Explore the House of the Virgin Mary
-Hear live commentary from your guide
-Travel in comfort by air-conditioned vehicle
-Includes private transportation from Izmir

Available options

Best of Ephesus Day tour

Pickup included

What's included

Transfers from and transfers to your hotel, Airport or cruise in Izmir

Private transportation

Professional English Speaking Tour Guide.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Local Taxes.

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. The visit to the House (church) takes about 45 minutes and after our visit; there will be a 5 min drive to Ephesus.

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. In two hours, you will be exploring the city by walking on the marble streets, accompanied by our English speaking tour guide.

In our tour, we will be seeing Odeon, State Agora, Prytaneion, Memmius Monument, Domatian Temple, Hercules Gate, Curetes Street, Hadrian Temple, Latriens. 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. After Terrace Houses, we will carry on with our exploration with Celsus Library, Marble Road, Commercial Agora, Great Theather, Arcadiane (Harbour Road).

Stop 3

Terrace Housesin Ephesus on the Curetes street belonged to prominent people of the city. They are dated back to 1C AD and some were inhabited up to 7C AD. They were luxirious private houses with mosaic floors, fountains and central heating.After the Terrace Houses, we will continue our tour withCelsus Library,Marble Road,Commercial Agora,GreatTheather, andArcadine (Harbour Road).

Stop 4

We will carry on with Temple of Artemis; which is one of the Seven Wonders of antiquity. In our visit, you will have a chance to take good photographs of Church of St. John and Mosque of Isa Bey from the best angle.

What's not included

Lunch and Drinks

Personal expenses.

Ephesus Entry ticket

House of Virgin Mary entry ticket

Terrace houses entry ticket

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

20 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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