Selcuk: Full-Day Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour

The "Selcuk: Full-Day Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour" provides a chance to uncover the rich history and cultural significance of these renowned sites. Priced at $141.75 per person, the 8-hour guided tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the ancient city of Ephesus, the revered House of the Virgin Mary, and the impressive Temple of Artemis. With skip-the-line access, a delicious lunch, and comfortable transportation, this UNESCO-listed experience promises an enriching exploration for history enthusiasts. What secrets might these iconic landmarks hold?

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary near Selcuk, Turkey.
• Highlights include the Temple of Hadrian, Library of Celsus, and the revered House of the Virgin Mary.
• The tour is led by a professional, English-speaking guide and includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan.
• Lunch with drinks is provided, and the tour maximizes time at the historical landmarks by skipping ticket lines.
• While wheelchair accessible, the tour involves extensive walking and exploration of ancient sites, which may not be suitable for those with mobility or respiratory issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Selcuk: Full-Day Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour," is priced from $141.75 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours.

Pickup from your hotel in Selcuk is included, and a reserve now, pay later option is available. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Pickup from your hotel in Selcuk is included, and a reserve now, pay later option is available. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour highlights include UNESCO sights such as the ancient city of Ephesus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, the Temple of Artemis, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Isa Bey Mosque.

The tour is guided by a professional, English-speaking guide and includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan.

Tour Highlights

Explore UNESCO sights during this comprehensive tour.

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, marveling at the well-preserved ruins, including the iconic Temple of Hadrian and the impressive Library of Celsus.

Step inside the Great Theatre, once a hub for public performances.

Discover the remnants of the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Visit the revered House of the Virgin Mary, a popular pilgrimage site.

Your exploration also includes the serene Isa Bey Mosque, showcasing the region’s diverse cultural and religious heritage.

Tour Experience

During this comprehensive tour, you’ll be guided by a professional, English-speaking guide who’ll bring the ancient sites to life with their captivating storytelling.

You’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Ephesus, including the iconic Library of Celsus and Great Theatre. The tour also takes you to the House of the Virgin Mary, a popular pilgrimage site.

Throughout the day, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, and enjoy a delicious lunch with drinks included.

This seamless experience allows you to skip the ticket lines, maximizing your time at these remarkable historical landmarks.

Exploring the Ancient City of Ephesus

Visitors to the ancient city of Ephesus will be captivated by its well-preserved ruins, which offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Greco-Roman world. The city’s most impressive structures include the massive Great Theatre, the ornate Library of Celsus, and the iconic Temple of Hadrian. Wandering the marble-paved streets, guests can imagine the bustling marketplace and vibrant civic life that once thrived here. The following table highlights some of the key landmarks and their significance:

| Landmark | Description |

|———-|————-|

| Great Theatre | Largest theater in the ancient world, seating over 25,000 people |

| Library of Celsus | Beautifully decorated façade, once housed 12,000 scrolls |

| Temple of Hadrian | Dedicated to the Roman emperor, showcases intricate carvings |

| Temple of Artemis | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World |

| Isa Bey Mosque | 14th-century Ottoman mosque, blending Islamic and Byzantine elements |

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the House of the Virgin Mary

The House of the Virgin Mary is a popular pilgrimage site located just a few miles from the ancient city of Ephesus.

Believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary, this modest stone structure attracts visitors of all faiths.

The tour includes a visit to the shrine, where pilgrims can light candles and leave written prayers.

Nearby, there’s a small garden and fountain that are said to have healing properties.

While the site may not be as grand as Ephesus, it offers a chance to reflect on the religious significance of the area and its rich history.

Discovering the Temple of Artemis

After visiting the humble House of the Virgin Mary, the tour continues its exploration of Ephesus’ ancient wonders by turning to the awe-inspiring remains of the Temple of Artemis.

Once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this impressive temple was dedicated to the goddess Artemis.

Today, only a single column stands as a testament to the structure’s former grandeur.

Yet, even these sparse ruins convey the immense scale and significance of this sacred site, providing visitors with a glimpse into the city’s rich religious heritage.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Although the tour is wheelchair accessible, it may not be suitable for individuals with heart problems or respiratory issues.

This full-day Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary tour involves extensive walking and exploration of ancient sites. Visitors should be prepared for a physically demanding itinerary that includes navigating uneven terrain and climbing stairs.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility limitations or respiratory conditions that could be exacerbated by the tour’s activities. Participants are advised to consider their physical abilities before booking to ensure they can fully enjoy the historic sights and cultural experiences.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Based on the 12 reviews for this Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary tour, customers have given it an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

The guide received a 4.6/5 rating, with positive feedback on their storytelling.

Transportation was also highly rated at 4.8/5.

Customers felt the tour offered good value for money, with a 4.7/5 rating in this category.

The tour offered good value for money, with a high 4.7/5 rating from customers in this category.

However, some noted there were sales pitches during the tour, which was seen as a downside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The tour provider offers private group options, allowing you to customize the experience to your group’s needs and schedule.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

The tour provider doesn’t explicitly offer discounts for students or seniors. However, they may be willing to negotiate a discounted rate for larger groups or private bookings. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour company about any available discounts.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Customers can’t customize the tour itinerary. The tour has a set schedule that covers the key highlights. However, guests can discuss their interests with the guide to ensure they get the most from the experience.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites?

When visiting religious sites, it’s generally expected to dress conservatively. Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing. Some sites may require head coverings for women, so it’s best to check beforehand.

Are There Any Additional Costs During the Tour?

Additional costs during tours are usually limited. Tour providers generally include all major expenses, such as admission fees and transportation, in the tour price. However, travelers should expect to pay for personal expenses like meals, souvenirs, and tips for the guide.

The Sum Up

The Selcuk: Full-Day Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour offers an immersive experience for history enthusiasts, featuring visits to UNESCO-listed sites like Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. With a 4.3-star rating, the tour provides captivating storytelling, skip-the-line access, and a delicious lunch, all while exploring the ancient wonders of Selcuk in a comfortable minivan. It’s a must-do for those seeking a comprehensive and enriching historical adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: