Private Ephesus & Virgin Mary Tours for Cruisers - Skip The line
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Private and Mini group Options
You can choose private option to travel with your family and friends
You can include Terrace Houses into your program by choosing with Terrace Houses option
Professional licenced English speaking guide , Parking fees, A/C Transportation are included.
Available options
Private with Terrace Houses
Private Tour w/ Terrace House: You can choose private option to travel with your family and friends.<br/>Pickup included
Mini Group without Terrace H.
Without Terrace Houses 4 hours: Pick up time is 30 to 60 minutes after your arrival at Kusadasi Port. Scheduled time will be emailed with in 24 hours.<br/>Pickup included
Mini Group with Terrace House
Mini Group with Terrace Houses: Pick up time is 30 to 60 minutes after your arrival at Kusadasi Port. Scheduled time will be emailed with in 24 hours.<br/>Pickup included
Private without Terrace Houses
Private Option for Your Family: Private for your family and Friends. You will have private tour guide
This option is not included Terrace Houses.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
GUARANTEED On Time Return to PORT
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Professional Licenced English speaking tour guide
Parking Fees
Transportation with A/C vehicles
Detailed itinerary
1
Our guide will meet you at Kusadasi Port / Hotel with EPHESUS SHUTTLE sign. Meeting times are differ for each cruise line. Meeting time will be given during your confirmation.
2
Stop 2
We will have 30 min. drive to The House of Virgin Mary is located on the Aladag Mountains 5 miles away from Ephesus. At the third Ecumenical Council on 431 AD in Ephesus, it was claimed that Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. After the discovery of the house, the Archbishop of Izmir declared there as a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there.
3
Stop 3
We will have 10 mins drive to Ephesus from The House of Virgin Mary. We will start visiting one of the main highlights in Turkey, Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionian League (an ancient Greek district on the western coast of Asia Minor) is located near Izmir. As a port city it was a major departure point for trade routes into Asia Minor.
Walk through history along marble streets lined with wonderful public buildings, among them the Baths of Scholastica, the Library of Celsus; it was built in the beginning of the 2nd century A.D. by Gaius Julius Aquila to be a memorial to his father Gaius Julius Celsus Polemanus, the proconsul of Province of Asia. , the Temple of Hadrian and The Grand Theater are two of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus. Grand theatre was built in 3rd century B.C and it was later expanded to 24.000 spectators by the Romans in the 1st century A.D.
4
Stop 4
Terrace houses included in " with Terrace Houses options " only. Not included in other options.
Terrace Houses is located on skirt of Pion Mountain. There are 6 residential units which were built on three man-made terraces. These houses were settled by wealty citizens of Ephesus. These houses were very fancy decorated with wall frescoes and floor mosaics. There are many steps to ascend from bottom to top.
Not recommended for people who has walking difficulties and acro-phobia (fear of heights).
5
Stop 5
We will stop at Artemission Temple where used to be one of the seven wonders of the ancient world as our last stop before drive back to your hotel / Kusadasi town center and port.
6
Drive to Port through Kusadasi Marina. Arrival and the end of services
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Entrance fees (Our guide will have pre-paid tickets to skip lines)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
53 reviews
5★
49
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
118 reviews
5★
115
4★
2
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Professional licenced English speaking guide , Parking fees, A/C Transportation are included.
You can choose private option to travel with your family and friends
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your hotel name or Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
About Kusadasi
Kusadasi is a vibrant coastal city on the Turkish Riviera, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and proximity to ancient ruins. It offers a blend of modern resort amenities and traditional Turkish culture, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Top Attractions
Lady Mary's Bath
A historic hamam (Turkish bath) built in 1640, offering traditional Turkish bath experiences and spa treatments.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate
Kusadasi Castle
A medieval castle with a rich history, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Long Beach (Long Beach)
A popular beach with golden sand, clear waters, and a variety of water sports and activities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to Moderate (for amenities and water sports)
Ephesus Ancient City
One of the most famous ancient cities in the world, featuring well-preserved ruins and significant historical sites.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (entry fee applies)
Pigeon Island (Kusadasi Castle)
A small island connected to the mainland by a causeway, featuring a historic castle and beautiful views.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to enter, moderate for activities
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gözleme
A traditional Turkish flatbread filled with various ingredients like cheese, spinach, or potatoes
Breakfast/Snack
Vegetarian options available
Kusadasi Köfte
Spicy meatballs made with ground beef, onions, and spices, often served with rice or bread
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains nuts
Popular Activities
Scuba diving
Parasailing
Jet skiing
Hiking in nearby nature parks
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga on the beach
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant nightlife. The sea is at its warmest, perfect for swimming and water sports.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Turkish
- Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kusadasi is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Adnan Menderes Airport • 75 km south of Kusadasi
By bus
Kusadasi Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent minibuses that follow set routes. Easy to use but can get crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Gett
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Kadınlar Denizi
Davutlar
Day trips
Ephesus
20 km • Half day to full day
One of the most famous ancient cities in the world, featuring well-preserved ruins and significant historical sites.
Pamukkale
160 km • Full day
A natural wonder featuring terraces of white travertine pools filled with thermal water.
Sirince
30 km • Half day
A charming village known for its wine production, fruit wines, and traditional architecture.
Festivals
Kusadasi International Music Festival • July
Kusadasi International Kite Festival • May
Pro tips
- Visit Ephesus early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try the local street food, especially simit and kebabs
- Bargain politely when shopping in bazaars
- Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use dolmuş (shared taxis) for affordable and convenient transport within the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
