Full-day Tour to Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Isabey Mosque, Temple of Artemis

Embark on an unforgettable journey to explore the captivating sites of Ephesus on this full-day private tour from Istanbul. Explore the rich history of this ancient city, including the House of Virgin Mary, Isabey Mosque, and the Temple of Artemis. With skip-the-line access and a professional guide, you’ll uncover the secrets of these iconic landmarks in comfort and style. Indulge in a delicious local lunch as you learn about the cultural tapestry of this mesmerizing region. Get ready to be captivated by the timeless beauty and remarkable heritage that await.

Key Points

• Enjoy a full-day private tour from Istanbul or Kusadasi to explore the ancient city of Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Isabey Mosque, and Temple of Artemis.
• Skip-the-line access and a vegetarian lunch at a local restaurant are included in the tour package.
• Transportation, guide, and roundtrip flights (for Istanbul tours) are provided, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking.
• The tour involves moderate physical fitness and is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or limited mobility.
• Flexible cancellation policies and the option to reserve now and pay later are available.

Tour Overview and Itinerary

The Ephesus Tour offers a comprehensive full-day private experience, taking visitors from Istanbul via domestic flight to the ancient city of Ephesus.

The tour includes skip-the-line access to popular sites like the House of Virgin Mary, Isabey Mosque, and the Temple of Artemis. Lunch at a local restaurant is provided.

The Ephesus Tour provides skip-the-line access to key sites like the House of Virgin Mary and Temple of Artemis, with a local lunch included.

The total duration is 7 hours from Kusadasi to Kusadasi, or 15 hours from Istanbul to Istanbul. For those starting in Istanbul, the journey takes 12 hours.

Those departing from Bodrum will enjoy an 11-hour tour. Transportation, guide, and roundtrip flights are all included.

Inclusions and Transportation

This Ephesus Tour includes a professional tour guide licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Guests will travel in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle with hotel/airport pick-up and drop-off.

For Istanbul to Istanbul tours, round trip flight tickets between Istanbul and Izmir are included.

For Istanbul to Kusadasi tours, a one-way flight ticket from Istanbul to Izmir is provided.

A vegetarian meal option is available upon request.

However, infant meals aren’t included, and a minimum of 2 people is required per booking.

Health and Accessibility Information

Although this Ephesus Tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or who are pregnant.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves walking over uneven terrain. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Infant meals aren’t included. A minimum of 2 people is required per booking.

Travelers should keep these health and accessibility considerations in mind when deciding if this tour is the right fit for their needs and abilities.

Booking and Payment Details

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this Ephesus Tour.

Payment for entrance fees must be made directly to the guide on the tour date, either in cash or by credit card.

Flexible cancellation policies allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

For those who prefer to reserve now and pay later, that option is available.

With a minimum of 2 people required per booking, this tour offers a convenient and customizable way to explore the historic sites around Ephesus.

Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews for this Ephesus Tour, with a 5.0 rating based on 2 assessments.

Reviewers praised the knowledgeable tour guides who offered insightful perspectives on Ephesus and Turkish history. Participants highlighted the enjoyable experience and informative nature of the tour, expressing satisfaction with the comprehensive itinerary.

The tour’s inclusions, such as skip-the-line access and a provided lunch, were also noted as valuable additions.

Exploring Ephesus

Visitors exploring the ancient city of Ephesus will be captivated by its well-preserved ruins, which offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Greco-Roman era.

The highlights include:

1. The Great Theater, an impressive structure that could seat 25,000 people and was the site of ancient performances and political rallies.

2. The Library of Celsus, a magnificent two-story building that once housed over 12,000 scrolls and is considered one of the most beautiful structures in Ephesus.

3. The Terrace Houses, intricately decorated homes of the elite, providing insights into the daily lives of the ancient city’s residents.

4. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, although only a single column remains as a testament to its former grandeur.

Visiting the House of Virgin Mary

Where does the House of Virgin Mary lie on the Ephesus tour itinerary? The House of Virgin Mary is the second stop on the day-long excursion.

According to historical accounts, this modest stone structure is believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary. Visitors can explore the chapel and gardens, lighting candles and reflecting on the sacred site.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary on the religious significance and architectural details of the house. With pre-paid tickets, the group can skip the line and spend ample time seeing the serene atmosphere of this holy place.

Discovering the Isabey Mosque and Temple of Artemis

After exploring the serene House of Virgin Mary, the tour moves on to the next stop – the Isabey Mosque and the Temple of Artemis.

The Isabey Mosque, a 14th-century Ottoman masterpiece, impresses with its intricate architecture and stunning interior. Visitors can admire the elegant columns, ornate calligraphy, and serene atmosphere.

Next, the group ventures to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The temple’s grand scale, impressive history, and connection to Greco-Roman mythology provide a powerful conclusion to the day’s culture.

The tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Ephesus’ diverse heritage.

• The Isabey Mosque’s 14th-century Ottoman architecture

• The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

• The temple’s grand scale and Greco-Roman mythology

• A well-rounded exploration of Ephesus’ diverse heritage

Ask Away

What Is the Earliest Departure Time From Istanbul?

The earliest departure time from Istanbul is not specified in the information provided. The tour options include a 15-hour tour from Istanbul to Istanbul and a 12-hour tour from Istanbul to Kusadasi, but the exact departure time is not mentioned.

Are There Any Optional Add-On Activities Available?

The tour does not appear to offer any optional add-on activities. It’s a comprehensive full-day itinerary focusing on the key historical sites around Ephesus. Travelers can request a vegetarian meal option, but there are no other customizable experiences mentioned.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour provider and make adjustments to the itinerary or inclusions. Personalized experiences are available upon request to ensure a tailored tour.

Is There a Group Size Limit for the Private Tour?

The private tour has a minimum of 2 people required per booking, but there is no set group size limit. Travelers can customize the itinerary to suit their preferences within the 7-hour duration.

Can the Tour Be Booked in Multiple Languages?

Yes, the private tour can be booked in multiple languages. The tour guide is licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, so they’re equipped to provide the tour in various languages to accommodate the needs of different travelers.

Final Words

Set out on a captivating full-day tour from Istanbul to uncover the ancient wonders of Ephesus. Explore the House of Virgin Mary, Isabey Mosque, and the Temple of Artemis with skip-the-line access, guided by a knowledgeable professional. Savor a delicious local lunch, and travel in comfort by air-conditioned vehicle. This immersive experience promises an unforgettable journey through the rich tapestry of history and culture.