Selçuk , Turkey

Ephesus Tour from Izmir Hotels

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(12 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Feel the comfort of your daily tour.
Find inner peace by praying in the holy Shrine of Mother Mary, which is one of the most important biblical sites in Turkiye.
Discover the must-see highlights of Ephesus Ancient City, such as The Great Theatre, Celsus Library, Temple of Hadrian, Roman Baths with your guide.
Imagine yourself; as an audience in the Great Theater, where St. Paul preached to the Ephesians, as a bookworm reading books in the Celsus Library, as an inhabitant walking in the Marble Streets to go shopping in the Agora.
Enjoy taking photos in the most beautiful photo spots that your guide recommends to you.
Admire the Temple of Artemis, used to be one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.
Realize how three religions’ houses of worship came together in the same neighborhood.
Learn much more than books thanks to your knowledgeable, local & licensed tour guide.
Book it now to experience...

Available options

Private Tour in Spanish

Private Tour with Spanish Speaking Tour Guide<br/>Pickup included

Small Group Tour English

Small Group Tour: Small Group Tour with English Speaking Tour Guide<br/>Pickup included

Small Group Tour in Spanish

Small Group Tour in Spanih: Small Group Tour with Spanish Speaking Tour Guide<br/>Pickup included

Private Tour in English

Private Tour with English Speaking Tour Guide<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Fully Air-conditioned Brand new vehicle with Separate Driver

Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide

Port / Hotel pickup and drop-off

All Taxes

All Parking fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover one of the most popular trade cities of ancient Greek and Roman Empire. Ephesus is probably the most famous ancient site in Turkey. It was a busy trade center as a port city. Ephesus had a great influence on the ancient world. Also as an important religious center of early Christianity and one of the seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelations. In Ephesus you will see, Celcus Library, Temple of Hadrian, the fountain of Trajan and the Theater and more.

Stop 2

These are exclusive residences situated on the slopes opposite the Temple of Hadrian along Curetes Street. Commonly known as the “rich houses,” they were uncovered during recent excavations. The houses near Curetes Street feature colonnaded porticoes, while step streets connected directly to the house entrances. We will stop at Terrace Houses and explore the Houses of Rich Ephesians.

Stop 3

The House of Virgin Mary is a Catholic and Muslim shrine located in Bülbüldağı, located in the vicinity of Ephesus. This sacred place was awarded to the visit of various popes and the Patriarchate Blessing.

Stop 4

Temple of Artemis, also known as the Temple of Diana. Only one or two pieces of marble remain from the temple, which is considered one of the seven wonders of the world.

Open buffet lunch in a local restaurant with traditional Turkish Food & vegetarian options in Selcuk.

We'll visit the Ephesus Experience Museum and step into the past with cutting-edge technology that brings the ancient city to life! Through incredible projections and interactive exhibits, you'll feel what it was really like to live in Ephesus during its prime—a perfect way to put the marble ruins you just saw into stunning historical context.

What's not included

Entrance fees (We will arrange tickets of Ephesus in advance, so you will skip long ticket lines)

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Selcuk Ephesus City Center

Important notes

Tour Guide will hand over entrance tickets during the tour and explain how to use it.

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.