Private Ephesus Tour from Izmir
Active
5h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
"Spend a day exploring Ephesus on this private tour from Izmir. See the Agora, Curetes Street, Hadrian’s Temple, Celsus Library, and the Grand Theater. Visit the Terrace Houses where rich Ephesians once lived, and the House of the Virgin Mary on Bülbül Mountain with amazing views. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a local restaurant and hear stories from your expert guide. Your guide will have entrance tickets ready, so you can skip the lines and choose the places you want to visit—make the day your own!"
Available options
Private Ephesus Tour from Izmir
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Local guide
Private tour
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your guide will meet you in Izmir; there is 1 hour driving to Ephesus area. We will first visit Ephesus (we usually spend about 2 hours there); afterwards, depending on your interests and available time, you can have lunch and then visit other sites in the area: House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Basilica of St. John, Ephesus indoor Museum and Terrace Houses.
This is a private tour so you can decide about the itinerary. We do not limit your time for sightseeing. At the end of the tour we will drop you off to Izmir.
2
Stop 2
"You’ll visit the House believed to be where the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, lived for a time. Our guide will share fascinating details and stories about this sacred place."
3
Stop 3
"You’ll see the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Our guide will share its fascinating history—though only one pillar remains today, learning about this magnificent temple helps bring Ephesus’ past to life."
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Food and drinks
entrances
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
11 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
29 reviews
5★
29
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Entrance fees (free for children until the age of 7); please do not forget to bring their id or passport copy as an age proof)
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
