Private Tour FOR CRUISE GUESTS: Best of Ephesus Private Tour / SKIP THE LINE

Selçuk , Turkey

Private Tour FOR CRUISE GUESTS: Best of Ephesus Private Tour / SKIP THE LINE

Active

(43 reviews)

4h - 6h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

THIS IS A PRIVATE TOUR ONLY FOR YOU AND YOUR TRAVEL COMPANIONS / Enjoy your full day,private guided tour that combined ancient Roman and Biblical history in Ancient City of Ephesus, House of the Virgin Mary and Temple of Artemis. This private tour will give you the opportunity to understand typical life of the Romans. Walk on the streets that Apostle Paul walked, see the Grand Theatre of Ephesus that St. Paul preached to Ephesians, take great pictures of Celsus Library,explore Roman Baths,Temple of Hadrian, Public Toilets, Marble Street, etc. Feel very peaceful atmosphere of House of the Virgin Mary; see the Temple of Artemis that was one of the seven wonders of ancient world. Ensure a personalized experience with your knowledgeable guide. It is a private tour, so you can spend your time in the sites as much as you wished, take pictures from the best foto ops that are shown by your guide, ask your questions to your private guide who will be with you entire day.

Available options

Private Tour FOR CRUISE GUESTS: Best of Ephesus Private Tour / SKIP THE LINE

Pickup included

What's included

Fully Air-conditioned Brand new vehicle with Separate Driver

Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide

Port / Hotel pickup and drop-off

Private tour

All Taxes

All Parking fees

100 % Satisfaction

Detailed itinerary

Ancient City of Ephesus

Stop 2

Ephesus Ancient City

Stop 3

House of the Virgin Mary

Stop 4

Terrace Houses

Stop 5

The Temple of Artemis

This is a small town that we met our guests from the cruise ships. We do not visit this town if our guests are from Izmir Airport / Hotels.

Ege Ports is the place where we met our guests from cruise ships that are docking to Kusadasi. We do not visit this place if our guests are from Izmir Airport / Hotels.

This is a town where we met our guests if their ship docks to here.

What's not included

Entrance fees ( We will arrange the tickets in advance, so you will skip long ticket lines

Food and drinks

Gratitude (suggested)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

37 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

No dress code

THIS TOUR FOR CRUISE GUESTS ONLY. IF YOU ARE NOT FROM A CRUISE SHIP, PLEASE CHECK OUR OTHER TOUR OPTIONS.

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.