Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour From Izmir

Exploring the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the sacred House of the Virgin Mary is a must-do experience for visitors to Izmir. This full-day tour promises a captivating journey through history, architecture, and culture. From the iconic Library of Celsus to the tranquil House of Mary, each stop offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. With efficient logistics, an expert guide, and a traditional Turkish lunch, this tour caters to both history enthusiasts and casual sightseers alike. Discover what lies beyond the tour’s enticing highlights and uncover the stories that have captivated travelers for centuries.

Key Points

• A full-day adventure to the UNESCO Heritage site of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
• Explore ancient city features like the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis, and visit the House of Virgin Mary with no long lines.
• Includes a traditional Turkish lunch with complimentary drinks, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Tour receives a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 111 reviews, with 98% of travelers recommending it.
• Priced at $141.69 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day adventure takes visitors to the UNESCO Heritage site of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary.

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, including the impressive Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis.

Visit the House of Virgin Mary, a significant religious site. There are no long lines for entrance, and all fees are covered.

A traditional Turkish lunch is included.

The tour is operated by Crowded House Tours and can accommodate a maximum of 15 travelers.

Pickup is available from selected locations or the meeting point at Mövenpick Izmir, with the tour ending back at the meeting point.

Logistics and Meeting Information

Where can travelers meet for this tour? Pickup for the Ephesus & Virgin Mary House tour is available from selected locations or at the meeting point at Mövenpick Izmir. Hotel pickups are scheduled between 7:30 and 8:00 AM. The tour ends back at the original meeting point.

Pickup Location	Pickup Time
Hotels in Izmir	7:30 – 8:00 AM
Mövenpick Izmir	Meeting point
Return Location	Tour The Sum Up
Selected Locations	N/A
Mövenpick Izmir	Meeting point

This tour is operated by Crowded House Tours and has a maximum group size of 15 travelers.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation.

Entrance fees for the House of Virgin Mary and the ancient site of Ephesus are covered. Guests can enjoy complimentary drinks during the included traditional Turkish lunch.

Tips and gratuities are also included, so there are no hidden costs. The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Reviews and Ratings

How does the tour fare with travelers according to the reviews and ratings? Based on 111 reviews, the tour receives an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating, with 98% of travelers recommending it.

Some key highlights from the reviews:

1. Highly praised guides and drivers for their professionalism, knowledge, and engaging tour experience.
2. Positive feedback on the inclusion of entrance fees, transportation, and traditional Turkish lunch.
3. Some complaints about undesired stops at leather shops.
4. The tour seems to deliver a memorable and well-organized experience for visitors to Ephesus and the Virgin Mary House.

Booking Information

What is the pricing for this tour? The Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour is priced from $141.69 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

It’s important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

With these details, interested travelers can make an informed decision and easily book this comprehensive tour to explore the historical wonders of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Exploring the UNESCO Heritage Site of Ephesus

As part of the tour, visitors are invited to explore the UNESCO Heritage site of Ephesus, a remarkable ancient city that offers a glimpse into the architectural and cultural marvels of the past.

The tour highlights include:

1. The Library of Celsus, a grand two-story marble structure that once housed over 12,000 scrolls and served as the cultural heart of the city.

2. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, known for its impressive size and intricate design.

3. The Terrace Houses, a collection of well-preserved Roman-era dwellings that provide insight into the daily lives of Ephesus’ inhabitants.

4. The Grand Theater, a massive structure that could seat up to 25,000 people and was used for various performances and events.

Visiting the House of the Virgin Mary

After exploring the iconic landmarks of the ancient city of Ephesus, the tour progresses to the revered House of the Virgin Mary.

This sacred site is believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus. Visitors can walk through the modest stone structure and experience the tranquility of this peaceful place.

The entrance fee is included in the tour, allowing easy access without any lines.

This serene destination provides a contemplative contrast to the grandeur of Ephesus, offering a meaningful conclusion to the day’s historical and spiritual exploration.

Traditional Turkish Lunch

Following the tour of the House of the Virgin Mary, travelers are treated to a traditional Turkish lunch.

The lunch features:

1. A selection of authentic Turkish meze, which are small appetizer dishes that often include items like hummus, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves.

2. A main course of a classic Turkish dish, such as kebabs, dolma, or a hearty stew.

3. Freshly baked Turkish bread, perfect for sopping up the flavorful sauces.

4. Traditional Turkish tea or Turkish coffee to complete the meal.

The lunch provides a delightful opportunity to savor the flavors of Turkish cuisine in a serene setting.

The Sum Up

The Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for visitors. Exploring the UNESCO Heritage site of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary, combined with a traditional Turkish lunch, provides a well-rounded and informative tour. With the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and a small group size, this tour ensures a personalized and hassle-free exploration of these historic and culturally significant sites.