Private Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary, Izmir Port /Cruisers Only

This private tour offers cruisers an exclusive opportunity to explore the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the revered House of Virgin Mary. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this personalized experience promises a captivating journey through the remarkable ruins and a serene visit to the spiritual site. With convenient transportation and an authentic countryside lunch, this hassle-free excursion ensures a memorable day immersed in the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. What’s more, the tour’s commitment to timely returns allows you to make the most of your time in Izmir.

Key Points

• Exclusive private tour for cruise passengers at Izmir Port, led by a licensed local guide and transportation in a private, air-conditioned van.
• Includes lunch with authentic Turkish flavors, as well as skip-the-line tickets to Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary.
• Highly recommended by travelers, with a 100% 5-star rating and a lowest price guarantee.
• Flexible, personalized itinerary based on interests, with dedicated attention from the guide and hassle-free experience.
• Timely return to the cruise ship, ensuring adherence to schedules, with the meeting time 30 minutes after docking.

Tour Overview

The Private Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary tour is available exclusively for cruise passengers at Izmir Port.

It’s 100% recommended by travelers with 11 reviews, all rated 5 stars.

A professional licensed local tour guide authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture will lead the tour.

Transportation is provided in a private, air-conditioned, non-smoking van with a separate driver.

The tour guarantees on-time return to the ship, ensuring adherence to cruise schedules.

Inclusions and Costs

Includes lunch in the countryside with authentic flavors. All parking fees are covered.

However, gratuities for the guide and driver, personal expenses, entrance fees to museums, and beverages during lunch aren’t included. The option to skip ticket lines is available by arranging tickets through the guide.

The tour price starts from £268.49 per person, varying by group size, with a lowest price guarantee. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

A reserve now and pay later option is also available for added flexibility.

Personalized Experience

Exclusive to your party, this private tour allows you to customize the itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

You’ll receive dedicated attention from the guide, who’ll focus solely on your group for optimal learning and interaction.

This hassle-free experience ensures the guide handles all tickets and entry arrangements, allowing you to make the most of your time.

Whether you’re keen on exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus or seeking a spiritual connection at the House of Virgin Mary, the guide will tailor the tour to your needs for a personalized and enriching experience.

Meeting and Timing Recommendations

To ensure a seamless experience, the tour recommends meeting at the İzmir Cruise Terminal approximately 30 minutes after the ship docks. This helps avoid crowds and beat the heat.

For ships arriving before 7:00 AM, the guide suggests meeting at 7:30 AM. For later arrivals, the meeting time is 30 minutes post-docking.

Cruisers are advised to contact the team after booking to confirm the meeting time with their cruise ship details. This personalized approach ensures the tour starts on time and maximizes the day’s activities.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The price for the Private Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary tour starts from £268.49 per person, with the final cost varying based on the size of the group. This private tour offers a lowest price guarantee. Guests can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours before the experience, free of charge.

Group Size	Price per Person
2 People	£268.49
4 People	£202.87
6 People	£184.62
8 People	£169.06

About Ephesus

Although once a prominent ancient Greek city, Ephesus is now an archaeological site located near the modern town of Selçuk in Turkey’s Izmir Province.

Visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved ruins, which include:

• The Great Theater, capable of seating 25,000 people
• The Library of Celsus, one of the most impressive structures in the ancient city
• The Odeon, a smaller theater used for political and musical events
• The Terrace Houses, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lives of Ephesus’ elite
• The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Significance of the House of Virgin Mary

According to historical accounts, the House of Virgin Mary holds deep significance for both Christians and Muslims.

It’s believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. For Christians, the site is a place of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection. Muslims also revere the Virgin Mary and consider the House a sacred site.

The House has been meticulously preserved, and visitors can explore the modest stone structure and its tranquil surroundings. The site’s serene atmosphere and religious importance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the legacy of the early Christian faith.

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors on the Private Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary tour can expect to enjoy the rich history and cultural significance of these two iconic sites.

The tour highlights include:

• Exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus, a legendary Greco-Roman city renowned for its well-preserved streets, temples, and Library of Celsus.

• Visiting the House of Virgin Mary, a revered Catholic and Muslim pilgrimage site believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary.

• Enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch in the countryside, savoring authentic flavors.

• Benefiting from the expertise of a professional, licensed local guide authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

• Traveling in a private, air-conditioned van with a dedicated driver, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Things To Know

How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Private Van?

The private transportation for this tour is provided in an air-conditioned van. The van’s capacity can accommodate your entire party, ensuring a personalized and hassle-free experience throughout the tour.

Can We Use the Restroom Facilities During the Tour?

The tour provides access to restroom facilities during the excursion. Guests can use the restrooms at various stops along the route, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience throughout the tour.

Does the Tour Guide Speak Fluent English?

The tour guide speaks fluent English. They are a licensed, professional guide authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture to provide guided tours for visitors.

Can We Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, you’re able to take photographs during the tour. The tour guide encourages guests to capture the historic sites and scenery along the way to create lasting memories of the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. The guide can customize the itinerary based on the group’s interests and preferences to accommodate a longer tour.

Sum Up

The "Private Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary" tour offers cruise passengers a unique and personalized experience. With a licensed local guide, visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the serene House of Virgin Mary, complemented by an authentic countryside lunch. This hassle-free excursion ensures a memorable day filled with culture, history, and spirituality, tailored to the interests of each guest.