Ephesus & Virgin Mary & St John Basilica + Lunch Opt Turkish Bath

Meeting at the Ege Port. Your guide will be waiting at the exit gate holding a board with your name on it.

Located in the Aladağ Mountains, just 5 miles from Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary is a significant pilgrimage site. According to tradition, Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. The site was recognized as a place of pilgrimage by the Archbishop of Kusadasi in 1892, following the discovery of the house. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited and prayed at this sacred location, cementing its importance for visitors from around the world.

Discover the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Turkey. Walk through the Library of Celsus, explore the Great Theatre, and visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Our Ephesus tours from Kusadasi offer a unique chance to experience Roman history, biblical heritage, and the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Perfect for travelers looking for the best Ephesus excursions, day trips, and guided tours in Kusadasi.

Our tours from Kusadasi include a complimentary lunch with authentic Turkish food, a highlight for many of our guests. Afterward, we visit a Turkish handicrafts cooperative, where you can explore local culture and crafts. Entrance is free, and there is no obligation to buy anything—just enjoy this unique cultural experience.

Once counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was a magnificent sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Artemis, protector of women and fertility. Originally built in the 6th century BCE, it was one of the largest temples of the ancient world, famed for its grand scale and ornate marble columns. Though only a single column remains today, the site holds immense historical significance and offers a glimpse into the glory of ancient Ephesus and its religious heritage.

Located on Ayasuluk Hill in Selçuk, the Basilica of St. John was built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian over the believed burial site of St. John the Apostle. Once a grand domed structure rivaling the Hagia Sophia, the basilica was a major pilgrimage destination in the Byzantine era. Today, visitors can explore its remains — including elegant arches, column fragments, and the symbolic tomb of St. John — all set against panoramic views of Selçuk and the surrounding countryside. The site offers a powerful glimpse into early Christian history and the region’s spiritual legacy.