For history buffs and culture enthusiasts, this tour from Izmir promises an immersive experience exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the revered House of Virgin Mary. With entry tickets and a delectable local lunch included, it’s an opportunity to uncover the captivating past while savoring authentic culinary traditions. Led by a professional guide, this small-group journey offers a personalized exploration, ensuring an enriching and engaging experience. Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger or an independent traveler, this tour provides a convenient way to explore the region’s remarkable heritage.
Key Points
- Full-day tour visiting Ancient Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary, and the Temple of Artemis, with prepaid entry tickets and lunch at a local restaurant.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off options from 19 locations, including hotels and Izmir Port, for cruise ship passengers.
- Tour led by a professional licensed guide, with transportation in high-quality vehicles and a group size limited to 10-12 people for a personalized experience.
- Tour offers up to 20% savings on pricing, with a range from $92.27 to $73.82 per person, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes parking fees and local taxes, with the option to reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.
Tour Highlights
Visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved ruins of Ancient Ephesus, once the second-largest city in the Roman Empire with over 250,000 inhabitants in the 1st century AD.
They’ll discover the impressive House of Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.
This tour also includes a delightful lunch at a local family-owned restaurant, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s authentic culinary traditions.
With convenient pickup and drop-off options, this comprehensive tour provides an engaging and informative experience of Ephesus and its historical wonders.
Looking for more options in Pamukkale Hot Springs? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Duration
The tour begins with a visit to the remarkably well-preserved ruins of Ancient Ephesus, once the second-largest city in the Roman Empire with over 250,000 inhabitants in the 1st century AD.
Next, the group will explore the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be her last residence, where a church was built on 1st-century foundations.
The final stop is the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, featuring 127 Ionic columns and considered the earliest bank.
The full-day tour lasts approximately 7 hours, providing ample time to discover these remarkable historical sites.
Transportation and Pickup/Drop-off
For this Ephesus and House of Mary Tour, travelers are provided with convenient pickup and drop-off options from 19 locations, including hotels and the Izmir Port.
The tour utilizes high-quality vehicles for transportation. After the tour, guests are dropped off at the same 19 locations.
The group size is limited to 10-12 people, making it ideal for cruise ship passengers. This ensures a personalized and comfortable experience throughout the day’s activities.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a professional licensed guide, lunch at a local family-owned restaurant, land transportation, entry tickets (if selected), parking fees, and local taxes.
Guests can enjoy the following benefits:
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Prepaid entry tickets for skip-the-line access to the ancient sites.
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Beverages during lunch aren’t included, allowing guests to choose their own preferences.
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Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or additional food and drinks, are also not part of the package.
Pricing and Savings
This tour offers up to 20% savings, with prices ranging from $92.27 down to $73.82 per person.
The 7-hour experience includes a visit to the ancient Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary, and the Temple of Artemis.
Travelers can choose to prepay for skip-the-line entry tickets or pay on the day of the tour.
Lunch at a local family-owned restaurant is also included.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides flexibility and value for those exploring Izmir’s renowned historical sites.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Customers can cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy ensures customers have the freedom to adjust their plans without incurring unnecessary costs.
Customers can cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to adjust their plans.
The tour offers a few key benefits:
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Reserve now and pay later option available, providing flexibility in booking.
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Ideal for cruise ship passengers with the tour’s convenient pick-up and drop-off locations at the Izmir Port.
This cancellation and refund policy allows customers to book with confidence, knowing they can easily make changes if needed.
Important Visitor Information
Visitors are advised to bring their passport or ID for children, as this documentation may be required. Cash for personal expenses is also recommended.
Smoking is strictly prohibited in the tour vehicle. Children 8 years and under enjoy free entry, but their passport is necessary.
Travelers have the option to prepay for entry tickets to skip the lines or pay on the day of the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has no specific dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Modesty is recommended when visiting religious sites.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes a complimentary lunch at a local restaurant. Consuming personal food and beverages is permitted during the tour, but not inside the tour vehicle.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
Yes, there is an option for a private tour. The tour operator offers private tours for groups, allowing for a more personalized experience. Pricing and group size may vary for the private tour option.
Do You Provide Any Tour Guide Tips or Gratuities?
The tour does not include any tips or gratuities for the tour guide. However, leaving a tip is customary to show appreciation for their service, and the amount is at the discretion of your.
Can I Leave the Group During the Tour?
Guests can generally leave the group during the tour, but should coordinate with the tour guide first. Unscheduled departures may impact the group schedule and transportation arrangements, so communication is key to ensure a smooth experience for all.
The Sum Up
This full-day tour from Izmir is an excellent way to explore the captivating history of Ephesus. With a small group, professional guide, and convenient transportation, visitors can experience the ancient ruins, House of Virgin Mary, and Temple of Artemis, while also enjoying a delicious local lunch. The tour’s comprehensive inclusions and easy logistics make it a practical choice for cruise ship passengers and history enthusiasts alike.
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