Private Ephesus Tour - NO MANDATORY RUG STORE VISIT

Selçuk , Turkey

Private Ephesus Tour - NO MANDATORY RUG STORE VISIT

Active

(1 reviews)

5h - 6h

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

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

OUR TOURS DOES NOT HAVE MANDATORY RUG STORE VISIT OR FREE LUNCH AT RUG (CARPET) SHOP TO MAKE THE TOUR CHEAPER. OUR MAIN GOAL IS QUALITY SERVICE AND SATISFACTION OF OUR CLIENTS. OUR CLIENTS ARE FREE TO DO THEIR PRIVATE TOUR. YOU ARE FREE FOR SHOPPING AT LOCAL PLACES.

You will be fascinated by the architecture and history of the Ancient World with our experienceful tour guides. You can find the time to discover Celsus Library, Hadrian's Temple, Great Theater and Temple of Artemis. You can taste the holy water next to the House of Mary, where she reested in her last years.

*Please, note that we are flexible to plan your time and visits with your tour guide by your choises.

*We provide Private Tour Guide and Vhicle for your part.

*Personal Services with High Quality.

Available options

Private English Tour

Private<br/>Duration: 6 hours<br/>Complimentary Lunch<br/>Minivan, Minibus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Professional Licensed Tour Guide

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Meet with your guide at the Kusadsı Port and drive to Ephesus

Stop 2

Ancient historians believed that Ephesus was founded by the Amazons, but now, it is believed to have been the Hittite city of Apasas.

With your private tour guide, you will see the Odeon, where the advisory council held its meetings and the Roman Baths, as well as many other columns, monuments, and ruins, including the Celsus Library and the Grand Theater of Ephesus.

After our compliemtary lunch, enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity.

Stop 3

See the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world. Then a visit to Ephesus is a visit to one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.

Break for rest and meet with locals to have experience with their arts and works.

In the afternoon, visit the House of Mother Mary, where she rested in her last years on the top of the Mount Nightengale.
Afterwards drive back to Kusadası Port or Hotel.

Afterwards drive to Kusadsı Port.

What's not included

Meals and Beverages

Gratuities

House of Virgin Mary (Pay in Cash)

Ancient City of Ephesus (Pay in Cash)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The duration of the tour is 6-7 hours, a flexible time for some guest that wants to extend few minutes on some location.

Meeting point

You can wait in front of Selcuk Hospital where there is Ziraat Bank ATM (in front of Entrance Gate of Hospital- Not Emergency Entrance)

Important notes

The tour guide will have pre-paid for skip-the-line tickets to avoid long ticket queues. The cost of the entry tickets can be paid to your guide directly in cash in euros, dollars, or Turkish Lira.
The admission fee per person for the Ancient Ephesus is 23USD.
The admission fee per person for the House of Mother Mary is 12 USD.

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.