Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir
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Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir

Active
(169 reviews)
5h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Give yourself a chance to enjoy a full day tour of Ephesus, Virgin Mary House and The Temple of Artemis o a day trip from Izmir
Visit the House of Virgin Mary where she might spend her last days and learn about her life
Explore the well-preserved UNESCO Heritage site of Ephesus
Step into the past and walk on the marble streets as Romans did once
View the stunning Library of Celsus which was the third largest library of the Roman times
See the Temple of Artemis once one of the Seven Wonders of the World

Available options

Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance Fees of House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus ancient site
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

Step into the past and explore the historical sights in the ancient city of Ephesus and the Virgin Mary House on this day trip.
Be picked up from your centrally located hotel in Izmir around 07.45 am and take a one and a half hour drive to Ephesus.

2
Stop 2

The first stop of the tour is the House of Virgin Mary where she might spent the last days of her life. Indeed, she may have come in the area with Saint John, who spent several years in the area to spread Christianity. Paul VI was the first pope to visit this place in the 1960's. Later, in the 1980's, during his visit Pope John-Paul II declared the Shrine of Virgin Mary as a pilgrimage place for Christians. Being informed about the early Christianity and Virgin Mary's life have the chance to make a wish on the Wishing Wall.

3
Stop 3

Next start exploring Ephesus which was once one of the majör powers of the ancient world.Take a journey to the past walking on the marble streets, visitng the upper Agora.Then continue to the Odeon theater.Head to Domitian Square and view the gorgeous columns at the Temple of Domitian. Pass by the Fountain of Pollio.See the Hercules Gate before moving to the temple and fountain of Trajan. Marvel the Temple of Hadrian. Stroll by the Roman baths,latrines,market place and the ancient brothel house.See the stunning remains of the 3rd largest library in the Roman world at the Library of Celsus.See The Great Theater and imagine how it might be like watching a play at ancient times. . After Ephesus have a look at the one of Seven Wonders of the Ancient world at the Temple of Artemis. Return to your hotel with unforgettable memories.

4
Stop 4

Artemis, the Greek goddess, daoghter of Zeus & Leto and twin of Apollo was the goddess of wild animals, the hunt and child birth. She was widely worshipped in the Greek wolrd but her most famous cult site was the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The temple was destroyed on July 21 356 BC in an act of arson committed by Herostratus. According to the story that very same night, Alexander the Great was born. A noble Ephesian remarked that Artemis was too busy with Alexander's delivery to save her burning temple. Alexander later offered to pay for the Temple's rebuilding, but the Ephesians refused. Eventually, the temple was restored after Alexander's death in 323 BC. This reconstruction was itself destroyed during a raid by the Goths Then it was rebuilt but after thousands of years today not much left to see from the Artemision. Will pay a visit to imagine how magnificent the temple was once.

5

After all the visits enjoy a local lunch in a restaurant in Selcuk. During the tour, you will have a chance to explore local handicrafts of the Turkish tradition.

6

At the end of the day with unforgettable memories you'll be dropped back to the same location where you are picked up around 18.30 - 19.00 pm

What's not included

Gratuities
Drinks at the lunch
Entrance fee to Terrace Houses in Ephesus

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4
5 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
164 reviews
5★
157
4★
6
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

Adults
Age 7-99
1
Childs
Age 4-6
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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