Izmir Shore Excursion: Private Tour to Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary

Izmir , Turkey

Izmir Shore Excursion: Private Tour to Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary

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(4 reviews)

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

When your cruise docks in the Izmir port, see some of the most popular sights in Turkey on a private shore excursion to Ephesus. Your private tour guide will lead you to the major historical landmarks of the ancient city, such as Odeon, the Celsus Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theater. You will also visit the House of Virgin Mary, where Mary spent the last days of her life.

Available options

Option 1

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by private vehicle and professional driver

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Professional guide

Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Arrival to Ephesus - Enter through the Magnesia Gate and begin a slow, downhill walk with your guide into the ruins of this Roman provincial capital. Your route takes you past the Odeon, the Celsus Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theater. The theater had seating for 24,000, which was the site where it is believed St. Paul preached to the Ephesians, and is used today for a local spring festival.

Stop 2

House of the Virgin Mary - The Vatican has recognized this small house in the Solmissos Mountains as the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. A small shrine dedicated to St. Mary was found when the ruins of the house were first discovered.

Stop 3

The Temple of Artemis, which had been built at first during the Archaic period, today it's known one of the Seven Wonders of Ancient World.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

At time of booking, Cruise Ship passengers must provide the following details under Special Requirements: Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

Not recommended for children aged 4 and under

Children 18 years and under must be accompanied by an adult

Please enter your preferred pickup time in the Special Requirements box at the time of booking, and reconfirm 48 hours prior to the tour’s departure time

Children who do not occupy a seat are free of charge. Children who occupy a seat and are up to 11 years old, benefit from a discount

Important notes

If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier a your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time within 3 days of booking if possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made:
• Email: info@achtypistours.gr
• Locally on 26 210 26301
• Internationally on +30 26 210 26301

In order to define the departure time of the tour, you must send an email with the booking reference to info@achtypistours.gr

If you do not contact the local supplier in due time before your activity to arrange a departure time, your guide and transportation will be waiting at specified meeting point half an hour after the indicated by you (in the booking form) disembarkation time. In this case guide/vehicle in service will be standing-by at meeting point, no longer than 1 hr 15min after your disembarkation time (after this time frame client will be considered as "non show" and staff will leave)

Opening hours are:

09:00 - 14:00 Monday to Friday

This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.

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