Selçuk , Turkey

NEW Ephesus Tour from Istanbul Bodrum

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About this experience

This private Ephesus tour is available for departures from your hotel in Istanbul or Kusadasi or Selcuk or Bodrum. You can create your own Turkey travel plan with this flexible daily trip. The highlights of this private tour are UNESCO-listed ancient city of Ephesus, Sirince village, Temple of Artemis which one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The lunch is including in a traditional local restaurant. Also, entrance fees are included and you will be skipped the long ticket lines.

Available options

Private Tour

Class of service: You will not be sharing the tour car or tour guide service with any other passengers or travelers.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle

Port pick-up and drop-off

Professional tour guide who licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism

Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Detailed itinerary

Your private guide will meet you at the exit gate of Kusadasi port at your scheduled meeting time, holding a signboard with "YOUR NAME" on it.

Once you meet your private guide, you will drive to the town of Selcuk to visit the ancient city of Ephesus and its surroundings. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes.

Stop 3

Your first stop will be Ephesus, one of the most important harbor cities of the ancient world, mentioned in the Book of Revelations as one of the seven churches. Highlights include the Celsus Library and the Grand Theater. You'll explore the Celsus Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan, the Grand Theater, Hercules Gate, the Odeon, ancient toilets, and many other significant historical structures in this UNESCO-listed city.

Afterward, you will drive back to Kusadasi and make a stop at Gazi Begendi Park (Hill) to capture stunning photos of Kusadasi Bay and your cruise ship.

Stop 5 Pass by

The caravanserai was commissioned by Grand Vizier Okuz Mehmed Pasha to bolster maritime trade in the region. Positioned directly across from Kusadasi cruise port, you can explore this historic building independently after being dropped off at the port. Please note, visiting this site is not part of the tour package. It's only 130 meters away from Kusadasi cruise port.

Stop 6 Pass by

This picturesque Byzantine fortress, a small castle standing on the causeway-connected Guvercin Adasi (Pigeon Island), has recently undergone renovations. From Gazi Begendi Park (Hill), you can capture panoramic photos of this castle. After being dropped off at the port, you can also take a leisurely walk to explore this charming site. Please note, visiting this place is not included in the tour package. It's located just 500 meters from Kusadasi cruise port.

Once you are dropped off at the cruise port of Kusadasi, our services for your experience will conclude. We hope to welcome you back to Turkey soon for more unforgettable tours.

What's not included

Meals & Drinks

Entrance Fees (Your guide will have pre-paid tickets that allow you to skip the line.)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

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

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults.

Tour Durations (Approximately) : from Kusadasi to Kusadasi 7 hours // from Istanbul to Istanbul 15 hours // from Istanbul to Kusadasi 12 hours // from Bodrum to Bodrum 11 hours.

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.

Infant meals not included.

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required.

Meeting point

Important notes

The tour guide will give the entrance tickets to the guests before entry to the museums and ancient ruins and religious places.

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.