From Izmir: Ephesus and Virgin Mary House Guided Day Trip

Discover the rich historical and religious significance of two iconic Turkish destinations on this guided day trip from Izmir. Explore the remarkably well-preserved ancient ruins of Ephesus, once a thriving commercial center, and visit the revered House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence. With seamless transportation, knowledgeable guidance, and time to shop in Selcuk, this experience offers an immersive glimpse into Turkey’s captivating past. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this journey?

Key Points

• This guided day trip from Izmir explores the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary, two of the region’s most significant historical sites.
• The 6-hour tour includes pickup from Izmir and Özdere, guided tours of the key sites, and free time for shopping in Selcuk.
• Ephesus Ancient City is the second-largest open-air museum in the world and the best-preserved Roman city in the Mediterranean region.
• The House of Virgin Mary is believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary, a important pilgrimage site.
• The tour is priced at $339.78 per group of up to 6 participants, with a free cancellation policy and the option to pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Ephesus and Virgin Mary House Guided Day Trip is priced at $339.78 per group, accommodating up to 6 participants.

This 6-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Participants can reserve their spot and pay later, with pickup included from the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Itinerary and Highlights

This tour’s itinerary takes participants to some of the most significant historical sites in the Izmir region.

The tour starts with pickup locations in Izmir and Özdere. Key sites include the Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Basilica of St. John, and Isa Bey Mosque.

The tour starts with pickup locations in Izmir and Özdere, visiting key sites like Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, and more.

Guided tours cover the Virgin Mary House, Ephesus Ancient City, Temple of Artemis, and Basilica of St. John. Participants also get free time and shopping opportunities in Selcuk.

This comprehensive itinerary provides an in-depth exploration of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Ephesus Ancient City

Considered the second biggest open-air museum in the world, Ephesus Ancient City offers an unparalleled glimpse into the grandeur of the Greco-Roman era. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s the best-preserved Roman city in the Mediterranean, surpassing even Rome in its ruins. Visitors can walk the marble streets, marvel at the iconic Library of Celsus, and imagine the bustling commercial hub it once was.

| Key Facts | | |

| — | — | — |

| Ranking | Second largest open-air museum | In the world |

| Preservation | Best-preserved Roman city | In the Mediterranean |

| Significance | More impressive than | Rome’s ruins |

Historical Significance of the Sites

While the House of Virgin Mary is believed to be the place where she spent her last days, the Temple of Artemis was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

This magnificent temple was rebuilt by Alexander the Great, but today only a teetering pillar and foundation fragments remain.

The Basilica of St. John, built by Emperor Justinian, houses a fourth-century tomb and is a significant pilgrimage site.

These historical sites offer visitors a unique glimpse into the past, providing insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• The House of Virgin Mary is believed to be where she spent her final days.

• The Temple of Artemis was once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

• The Basilica of St. John is a fourth-century tomb and an important pilgrimage destination.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes a professional licensed guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, parking fees, entrance fees, and all taxes. Lunch is not included, but there are options available. A customer review praised the tour for its excellent service, flexibility, knowledgeable guide (Oscar), and unique experiences.

| Included | Not Included |

| — | — |

| Professional licensed guide | Lunch |

| Air-conditioned vehicle | – |

| Private transportation | – |

| Parking fees | – |

| Entrance fees | – |

| All taxes | – |

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided a 5/5 rating for this tour, praising its excellent service, flexibility, and the knowledgeable guide named Oscar.

Customers have provided a 5/5 rating for this tour, praising its excellent service, flexibility, and the knowledgeable guide named Oscar.

Reviewers highlighted several key aspects that contributed to their positive experience:

• The guide, Oscar, was knowledgeable and provided unique insights during the tour, enhancing the overall educational value.

• The tour’s flexibility allowed for a comfortable pace and the ability to tailor the experience to individual preferences.

• The seamless organization and logistics, including transportation and entrance fees, made for a stress-free and enjoyable day.

What to Expect

Embarking on this guided tour, participants can expect a comprehensive exploration of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary.

The itinerary allows ample time to visit key historical sites, including Ephesus’ well-preserved ruins, the House of Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis, and the Basilica of St. John.

Tour guides provide expert commentary, bringing these ancient wonders to life.

With comfortable transportation and free cancellation, the tour is designed for seamless experiences.

Travelers will enjoy learning about the sites’ rich history and significance, all while appreciating the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Flexibility is built-in, with an optional shopping break in Selcuk.

Getting There and Back

Although the tour pickup locations are İzmir and Özdere, the provided transportation ensures a seamless start to the day. Participants can simply wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, and the air-conditioned vehicle will arrive to whisk them away.

The tour includes:

• Private transportation to all sites throughout the day

• Convenient pickup and drop-off at the specified locations

• Stress-free navigation, as the driver and guide handle all the logistics

At the end of the immersive experience, the tour returns participants to their original pickup points, allowing for a comfortable and efficient conclusion to the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the tour to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust the itinerary and activities to suit your interests and needs during the 6-hour guided excursion.

Will There Be Breaks for Meals and Rest?

Yes, the tour includes a break time and shopping opportunity in Selcuk for about 1 hour. This allows participants to have a meal and rest during the 6-hour guided excursion.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with the tour guide and vehicle equipped to accommodate guests with mobility needs. All major sites on the itinerary can be accessed by wheelchair.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes free pickup, guided visits, and entrance fees, but doesn’t provide lunch. Participants are welcome to bring their own meals and refreshments for the day.

What Should I Wear and Bring for the Tour?

One should wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. Light layers are recommended, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor sites. Bringing snacks is optional, as lunch is not included.

The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Izmir provides an immersive experience, exploring Ephesus’ well-preserved ruins and the House of Virgin Mary. With a professional guide, travelers can explore the rich history of these iconic sites. The tour’s seamless transportation and free cancellation policy offer convenience and flexibility, making it an appealing option for those seeking to discover Turkey’s cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: