Set out on a captivating day trip from Istanbul to uncover the rich historical treasures of Ephesus and the revered House of Virgin Mary. This 13-hour excursion promises an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Priced at £301.24 per person, the tour includes round-trip flights, expert-guided explorations, and a delectable open buffet lunch. Discover the ancient ruins, stroll through local markets, and gain insight into the significance of this legendary destination. What secrets will you uncover on this unforgettable journey?

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Key Points

A 13-hour day trip from Istanbul to explore the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary, priced from £301.24 per person.
Includes round-trip flights, transportation, guided tour, and lunch, with a 4.8/5 rating for excellent value.
Itinerary includes a 1-hour visit to the House of Virgin Mary and 2-hour exploration of Ephesus, followed by a stop in Selcuk.
Highlights include the Archaeology Museum, Temple of Artemis, and Isa Bey Mosque, with an opportunity for shopping and traditional Turkish cuisine.
Tour is wheelchair accessible but may have limited shade and uneven terrain, with recommendations to wear comfortable shoes and apply sunscreen.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Istanbul to Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary offers travelers the opportunity to explore some of Turkey’s most significant historical and religious sites.

Priced from £301.24 per person, the 13-hour excursion includes round-trip flights, transportation, an expert guided tour, and lunch.

Priced from £301.24 per person, this 13-hour excursion includes round-trip flights, transportation, an expert guided tour, and lunch.

Guests can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The trip’s convenient reserve now, pay later option allows travelers to secure their spot without upfront payment.

With a 4.8/5 rating from past visitors, this day trip provides an immersive experience at an excellent value.

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Itinerary and Transportation

Beginning at 5 AM to 5:30 AM, guests are picked up from their hotels in Istanbul to start the day trip.

They’ll fly from Istanbul to Izmir, a 1-hour journey. Transportation for the day includes bus/coach and a private driver.

The first stop is the House of Virgin Mary, where guests will spend 1 hour.

Next, they’ll visit the ancient city of Ephesus for 2 hours.

After, they’ll spend 1 hour in Selcuk before returning to Istanbul on the flight back.

Highlights and Activities

The day trip offers the chance to explore Ephesus, a significant archaeological site in Turkey.

Visitors will tour the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary. The itinerary also includes stops at the Archaeology Museum, the Temple of Artemis, and the Isa Bey Mosque.

Highlights of the trip include:

Guided tour by a professional, licensed guide
Opportunity to experience traditional Turkish cuisine during an open buffet lunch
Time for shopping and browsing the local markets in Selcuk

Throughout the day, travelers will gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Accessibility

The day trip includes airport transfers in both Istanbul and Izmir, as well as round-trip domestic flights.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, and parking fees are covered. An open buffet lunch and drinks are included, as are gratuities and souvenir photos available for purchase. The entrance fees to all sites are also covered.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but travelers should note that there may be limited shade and uneven terrain at the historical sites.

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Customer Reviews and Recommendations

With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 16 reviews, this Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary day trip receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers.

Highlights include:

Guide rating of 4.8/5 for their organization and historical knowledge
Transportation rating of 4.8/5
Value for money rating of 4.5/5

Reviewers recommend wearing comfortable shoes, bringing a hat, and applying sunscreen due to limited shade at the sites.

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Exploring Ephesus: A Journey Through History

As one of the most significant archaeological sites in Turkey, Ephesus captivates visitors with its remarkable ancient ruins and rich historical legacy. Wandering through the sprawling city, travelers discover the iconic Library of Celsus, the monumental Great Theater, and the Odeon, a small concert hall. The site’s highlights also include the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan, and the Terrace Houses, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Ephesians. Exploring Ephesus is a captivating journey through the past, offering a window into the grandeur and sophistication of this ancient Greco-Roman metropolis.

| Highlight | Description | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Library of Celsus | Impressive facade of ancient library | 30 mins |

| Great Theater | Expansive theater that held 25,000 | 45 mins |

| Terrace Houses | Well-preserved Roman residences | 1 hour |

The Significance of the House of Virgin Mary

Although less renowned than the iconic Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary holds immense significance for Christian pilgrims and historians alike. This humble shrine is believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ.

The site’s significance stems from:

Its connection to the life of the revered religious figure
Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural and historical value
Its status as a place of spiritual devotion and pilgrimage for millions of Christians worldwide

Exploring this sacred site offers visitors a unique window into the early history of Christianity and its most venerated figures.

Planning Your Unforgettable Day Trip From Istanbul

Setting out on a day trip from Istanbul to explore the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the revered House of Virgin Mary is a captivating adventure that awaits travelers.

The tour offers convenience, efficiency, and excellent value, with a 10% savings and hassle-free transportation. Guests will be whisked away early in the morning, enjoy a scenic flight to Izmir, and explore the archaeological site of Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary, and the charming town of Selcuk.

With a knowledgeable guide, traditional Turkish lunch, and ample time to shop, this day trip promises an unforgettable culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Day Trip?

The maximum group size for this day trip is not specified in the provided information. The details focus on the itinerary, pricing, and inclusions without mentioning the group size.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

The tour’s itinerary and activities are pre-set, so customers can’t customize them. However, they may request special accommodations or have the option to explore on their own during free time in Selcuk.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Price?

There are no additional costs beyond the tour price, which covers flights, transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and gratuities. However, guests may opt to purchase souvenir photos or make personal purchases during the shopping stops.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Trip?

The tour provider allows passengers to store their luggage during the trip. You can leave your bags with the driver or at the meeting point before the tour starts. This service is included in the tour price.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is available in other languages besides English. According to the information provided, the guided tour is conducted by a professional licensed guide, so it’s likely that the tour can be offered in multiple languages to accommodate different customers.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Istanbul to uncover the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary. This captivating excursion offers a glimpse into history, culture, and spirituality, all while providing comfortable transportation and expert guidance. With an open buffet lunch and local market visits, this day trip is a must-do for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.