Kusadasi or Selcuk: Highlights of Ephesus – Small Group Tour

Exploring the ancient wonders of Ephesus is a captivating journey. This small group tour offers an immersive experience, blending history and culture. Visitors can uncover the House of the Virgin Mary, stroll through the iconic ruins, and discover the charming town of Sirince. With personalized attention and an English-speaking guide, this tour promises an engaging and memorable day in this iconic region. Priced affordably, it’s an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Ephesus’ past.

Key Points

• This small group tour provides an in-depth exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus, highlighting its Hellenistic, Roman, and early Christian heritage.
• Visitors can explore significant historical sites within Ephesus, including the Odeon, state agora, Prytaneion, Domitian temple, Hercules Gate, and the renowned Celsus Library.
• The tour includes a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a renowned Catholic shrine and important pilgrimage destination.
• Participants have the option to visit the Terrace Houses, which provide further insights into the daily life of Ephesus’ inhabitants.
• The tour also includes a visit to the charming town of Sirince, known for its traditional houses, fruit-flavored wines, and artisanal shops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Kusadasi or Selcuk: Highlights of Ephesus – Small Group Tour," is priced from $90.00 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours.

It’s a small-group experience, limited to 14 participants. Travelers enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch. An optional visit to the Terrace Houses costs an additional 320 ₺ per person.

Itinerary Highlights

When travelers book this tour, they’re picked up from their hotels in Kusadasi at 8:30 am or in Selcuk at 9:00 am.

The day begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a Catholic shrine since 1986. Next, they explore the ancient city of Ephesus, marveling at its significant Hellenistic, Roman Imperial, and early Christian periods.

Key sites include the Odeon, state agora, Prytaneion, Domitian temple, Hercules Gate, Hadrian temple, Celsus library, and commercial Agora. Travelers can also opt to visit the Terrace Houses for an additional fee.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of antiquity. The tour concludes with free time in the charming village of Sirince.

• Explore the House of the Virgin Mary

• Discover the ancient city of Ephesus

• Visit the iconic Celsus Library

• Admire the Temple of Artemis

• Enjoy free time in Sirince

The House of the Virgin Mary

According to the itinerary, the tour begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a Catholic shrine that has been revered since 1986.

The tour begins with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a Catholic shrine revered since 1986.

This sacred site is believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus. Visitors can explore the small chapel and peaceful surrounding gardens.

The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the religious and historical significance of this important pilgrimage destination.

Whether a devout Catholic or a curious traveler, the House of the Virgin Mary offers a chance to connect with an integral part of Ephesus’ rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Ephesus

After visiting the serene House of the Virgin Mary, travelers embark on a captivating exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus.

The tour guides bring the ruins to life, sharing insights into Ephesus’ rich Hellenistic, Roman, and early Christian heritage.

Key highlights include:

• The grand Odeon, an ancient Roman theatre

• The impressive state agora, a vast marketplace

• The awe-inspiring Prytaneion, a government building

• The intricately carved Domitian Temple and Hercules Gate

• The magnificent Celsus Library, an iconic symbol of Ephesus

The experience culminates with a visit to the once-towering Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

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The Temple of Artemis

The tour’s exploration of Ephesus’ rich history culminates with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This magnificent ancient Greek temple, dedicated to the goddess Artemis, stood as a testament to the architectural prowess and religious devotion of the era. Visitors can witness the grandeur of the temple’s ruins and learn about its significance in the cultural and religious landscape of the region.

| Emotion | Description |

| — | — |

| Awe | The sheer scale and majesty of the temple’s remains |

| Reverence | The reverence felt for the ancient goddess Artemis |

| Curiosity | The desire to uncover the temple’s fascinating history |

The Charming Town of Sirince

Following the tour of the majestic Temple of Artemis, the excursion ventures to the charming town of Sirince.

Following the tour of the majestic Temple of Artemis, the excursion ventures to the charming town of Sirince.

This picturesque village is known for its traditional houses, fruit-flavored wines, and serene atmosphere.

Visitors can:

• Stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the well-preserved Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.

• Sample the locally-produced fruit wines, including peach, cherry, and raspberry varieties.

• Browse the artisanal shops for handcrafted textiles, pottery, and leather goods.

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the family-owned restaurants, savoring regional cuisine.

• Take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and olive groves.

Customer Experience and Feedback

Travelers’ reviews of the Kusadasi or Selcuk: Highlights of Ephesus Tour paint a consistently positive picture, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 17 evaluations.

Customers praised the tour’s value for money and the knowledgeable guides. Some suggested bringing water, hats, or umbrellas during hot seasons.

A few travelers indicated they’d have liked more time at certain sites, such as Ephesus and the nearby areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour operator may allow you to customize the itinerary to focus on your specific interests. They can work with you to adjust the schedule and activities to suit your preferences within the available tour duration.

Are There Discounts Available for Seniors, Students, or Families?

The tour operator doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors, students, or families. However, they may be flexible on pricing for larger group bookings. It’s best to inquire directly about any potential discounts or package deals when making the reservation.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, modest clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Bringing a hat, sunscreen, and water can help visitors stay cool and comfortable during the outdoor portions of the tour.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Artisans or Businesses?

The tour includes free time in Sirince, a town known for its traditional houses and fruit-flavored wines. This provides an opportunity to interact with local artisans and businesses and experience the local culture.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Challenges?

The tour generally accommodates travelers with mobility challenges, though some sites like the Terrace Houses may be less accessible. Visitors should consult with the tour operator to discuss any special needs or accommodations required.

The Sum Up

The "Kusadasi or Selcuk: Highlights of Ephesus – Small Group Tour" offers a comprehensive exploration of Ephesus and its surrounding areas. With an engaging English-speaking guide, visitors can discover the House of the Virgin Mary, the ancient city of Ephesus, and the picturesque town of Sirince, all while enjoying the benefits of a small group setting. This tour provides an immersive and memorable experience for those eager to explore the rich history and culture of this iconic region.

You can check availability for your dates here: