Visit the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of Mother Mary on this half-day, private guided tour. Travel in comfort with your small group, in a private vehicle that accommodates 12 passengers.
Important notice: Tour service starts between 8:00 and 10:00 am and finishes in between 17:00 or 18:00
Pickup included
Ephesus Ancient City, which contains the symbols that shed light on the superior urbanization, architecture and religious history of the Hellenistic and Roman periods, has the most important architectural and urban planning examples from different periods. The ancient city, which is completely made of marble, is also very impressive with its architectural structures. Where you will see one of the most magnificent excavations in the world, the ancient city of Ephesus is a remarkable ancient site and you will be able to see every step of the dozens of historical artefacts that include The Odeon, The Fountain of Trajan, The Terraces of Apartment Houses, The stream baths of Scholastika, The temple of Hadrian and impressive Celsus Library which is adorned with columns and statues, and let's not forget about The Magnificent Grand Theater, where Saint Paul preached and is the largest theatre is antiquity with capacity of 24.000 seats.
In the House of Virgin Mary, declared holy by the Vatican, Muslims as well as Christians from all over the world pray and make offerings to fulfil their pilgrimage. In the Virgin Mary House, which is a sacred place for Christians all over the world, believers from all religions pray, and tourists make their visits. Olive trees on both sides of the path leading to the house of the Virgin Mary were planted by Lazarist monks in 1898. The statue of Mary, located at the end of the road with olives, is the gift of a religious community in Izmir and bears the date of 1867. The visit to the Virgin Mary House ends with three fountains reached by descending the stairs on the right after leaving the church. Drinkable water flows from the fountains and from the wells next to the church. Visitors do not only taste this water in the belief that it is healing but also take it with them.
St-Jean Church is located in the south of Ayasuluk hill in Izmir's Selcuk district, right next to the Seljuk Castle. As soon as we enter through the monumental gate called the follower gate, we find ourselves in historical breezes. Saint-Jean, one of the 12 apostles of the Prophet Jesus, is buried on Ayasuluk hill after his decease. A wooden-roofed church was built on his tomb in the 4th century. Instead of the destroyed wooden roofed church, the emperor Justinianus (525-527) and the empress Theodora built the 6-domed church, whose ruins we visit today. St Jean's cathedral became the "Church of the Cross", frequented by Christian pilgrims in the Medieval. Throughout the Middle Ages, Christians, who believed in the healing properties of the dust from the grave of the Saint, accepted it as a pilgrimage place. Monograms of Emperor Justinian and his wife Empress Theodora can still be seen on the column headings of this magnificent church, which was built on two floors.
The Temple of Artemis or Artemision, also known as the Temple of Diana, was a Greek temple dedicated to an ancient, local form of the goddess Artemis. It was located in Ephesus.
The İsa Bey Mosque, constructed in 1374–75, is one of the oldest and most impressive works of architectural art remaining from the Anatolian beyliks. The mosque is situated on the outskirts of the Ayasluğ Hills at Selçuk.
we use an electronic ticket system managing by the tour guide.
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.
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.
The Selçuk Basilica is an ancient Christian church with well-preserved mosaics and architectural details, offering insights into the region's early Christian history.
İsa Bey Mosque is a 14th-century Ottoman mosque with beautiful Seljuk architecture, featuring intricate tile work and a serene courtyard.
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.
The Ephesus Museum houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Ephesus, including sculptures, mosaics, and coins.
A traditional dish made with minced lamb or beef, onions, and spices, cooked on a skewer over an open flame.
A stuffed eggplant dish made with minced meat, onions, tomatoes, and peppers, topped with a rich tomato sauce.
A traditional dish made with green peppers, tomatoes, and onions, cooked with minced meat and topped with a yogurt sauce.
Stuffed mussels filled with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and spices, served with a lemon wedge.
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.
Turkish Lira (TRY)
GMT+3
220VV, 50HzHz
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.
Selçuk Railway Station
Selçuk Bus Terminal
Local buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Selçuk, connecting the town center to major attractions and nearby towns.
Available • Apps: BiTaksi
Car, Bike, Scooter
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 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 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.
Price varies by option