BEST OF EPHESUS TOUR

The Best of Ephesus Tour is a must-do excursion for anyone visiting the Kusadasi region. This 6-hour private group tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through one of history’s most significant sites. With an expert local guide, visitors will explore the iconic House of Virgin Mary, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the impressive Temple of Artemis. Convenient transportation, delicious Turkish cuisine, and all entrance fees included make this an enriching and hassle-free experience. Prepare to be immersed in the captivating history and stunning landscapes that define this remarkable destination.

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Key Points

Comprehensive 6-hour guided tour exploring the top historical sites in Ephesus, including the House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus ruins, and Temple of Artemis.
Private group experience with an English-speaking local guide, providing in-depth insights and storytelling about the ancient city.
Includes luxury transportation, a local Turkish lunch, and all entrance fees, with convenient pickup and drop-off for cruise passengers.
Highlights notable sites such as the Library of Celsus, Great Theater, and Basilica of St. John within the Ephesus ruins.
Mixed customer reviews, with praise for the guide’s knowledge but some reports of a rushed experience and issues with booking confirmation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Best of Ephesus Tour" offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the ancient city’s most iconic landmarks.

Priced from €32.79 per person, this 6-hour tour departs from the Kusadasi Port, providing a private group experience led by an English-speaking local guide.

Highlights include the House of Virgin Mary, the impressive ruins of Ephesus, and the Temple of Artemis.

Throughout the day, guests will enjoy transportation in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, a local lunch, and all necessary entrance fees.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and immersive experience for cruisers and land-based travelers alike.

Looking for more options in Kusadasi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors first explore the House of Virgin Mary, a revered Catholic and Muslim pilgrimage site, with a guided tour lasting approximately 45 minutes. Next, they embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the iconic Ephesus, a well-preserved ancient city offering a glimpse into the past. The tour concludes with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, for a 15-minute guided tour.

| Site | Duration | Extra Fee |

| — | — | — |

| House of Virgin Mary | 45 minutes | ✓ |

| Ephesus | 2 hours | ✓ |

| Temple of Artemis | 15 minutes | ✓ |

Other notable sites along the tour include the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, and the Basilica of St. John.

Tour Features

A local licensed tour guide accompanies visitors throughout the tour. They provide expert commentary and insight into the historical significance of the landmarks.

Transportation is by air-conditioned luxury Mercedes Vito or Sprinter, with a private driver. Cruise passengers enjoy convenient pickup and drop-off service. All parking fees and taxes are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

A local lunch is provided, allowing visitors to savor authentic Turkish cuisine. Entrance fees to Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, and St. John Basilica are also covered, streamlining the tour logistics.

Important Information

Attractions at Ephesus open at 08:00, so visitors should plan accordingly. A minimum of 2 hours walking is required, so it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sun cream. Tripods are not allowed, and a pashmina is recommended for the House of Virgin Mary. Discounts are available for children under 8, but a valid ID is required for verification.

| Important Reminders | |

|——————-|——————-|

| Wear comfortable shoes | Bring a hat |

| Apply sun cream | Pack a pashmina |

This tour provides an immersive experience in the ancient city of Ephesus, but visitors should be prepared for the physical demands and follow the guidelines to ensure a memorable and comfortable visit.

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Customer Reviews

The tour has garnered a 3.8/5 overall rating based on 4 reviews, reflecting mixed experiences.

While some customers praised the guide’s knowledge and engaging storytelling, others found the tour rushed.

Notably, issues with booking confirmation led to last-minute cancellations for some customers.

The feedback suggests the need for improved communication and coordination to ensure a seamless experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Kusadasi

Getting to Ephesus

Getting to Ephesus starts with the tour’s convenient pickup location at the Kusadasi Port.

From there, travelers ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes van or Sprinter. The drive to the historic site takes about 30 minutes, allowing guests to relax and admire the scenic countryside.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, so there’s no need to worry about finding your own way back. With a private driver, the group can focus on exploring the ancient ruins without the hassle of navigating.

The tour’s pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless experience from start to finish.

Exploring the Ancient City

After arriving at the historic site, visitors embark on a guided tour exploring the ancient city of Ephesus.

The tour begins at the magnificent Library of Celsus, an iconic structure that showcases the city’s cultural heritage.

Moving on, the Great Theater captivates with its impressive size and remarkable acoustics.

Highlights also include the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights, bringing the ruins to life and offering a glimpse into Ephesus’ grand past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes a local lunch, but other food and drinks are not provided. Visitors are responsible for purchasing any additional snacks or beverages they may want during the tour.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water?

The tour includes a local lunch, but it’s recommended to bring your own water. Staying hydrated is important, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking in potentially hot weather.

Can We Take Photos Inside the House of Virgin Mary?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the House of Virgin Mary, but it’s important to be respectful and avoid using flash photography. The tour guide can provide more guidance on appropriate photography during the visit.

Is the Tour Available on All Cruise Ship Days?

The tour is available on most cruise ship days, but it’s best to check with the tour provider for specific availability. Some cruise schedules may conflict with the tour’s timing or operating hours.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The standard tour is 6 hours long, which may not be enough time for some travelers. Inquiring about possible extensions or customization options would be recommended.

The Sum Up

The Best of Ephesus Tour offers an enriching journey through one of history’s most significant locations. With an English-speaking local guide, visitors can explore iconic sites like the House of Virgin Mary, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the Temple of Artemis. Luxury transportation, authentic Turkish cuisine, and all entrance fees are included, making this a convenient and immersive experience for discovering the wonders of Ephesus.