Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi or Selcuk | Small Group & Private

Itinerary

This full-day Ephesus tour takes in the main sites, and if you are staying in Kusadasi or Selcuk you won’t have to make your own transport and sightseeing arrangements. The day takes you to Temple of Artemis, House of Virgin Mary, the Ancient City and Ephesus Experience Museum. Your guide will meet you at your hotel. If you prefer a more flexible pace, book the day privately or join a small-group tour.

Walk the marble streets of the ancient city of Ephesus, and you’ll find famous sites such as the Temple of Hadrian, the Great Theater, the Celsus Library, and the Fountain of Trajan. There is a separate charge to enter the Terrace Houses. At the end of the tour you will be transferred back to your hotel in Kusadasi or Selcuk.

Arriving by cruise ship? See our Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Cruise Port, planned specifically around cruise schedules and on-time return to the ship.

Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi / Selcuk

We will pick you up from your hotel in Kusadasi or Selcuk. First, we will visit the Virgin Mary’s House. The site, discovered by Lazarist priests after a German nun’s vision of the Virgin Mary’s final home, is now sacred to both Muslims and Catholics. The Lazarist Fathers maintain it and hold daily Mass there. We will explore the house, the chapel, and the gardens with the wishing wall.
Next, we will drive to Ephesus to explore this remarkable ancient city. Once one of the most significant harbor cities in the ancient world, Ephesus is also mentioned in the Book of Revelation as one of the seven churches. During our visit, we will highlight the iconic Celsus Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan, and the Grand Theater, showcasing the city’s historical and architectural brilliance. Also, we will visit the world-renowned Ephesus Experience Museum.
As you walk through Ephesus, you will pass the Terrace Houses. Guests who wish to visit them can add the Terrace Houses to the tour by paying the separate entrance fee.
We will visit Artemis Temple, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, which stands today next to Ephesus Ancient City. At the end of the tour, we will drop you off at your hotel.

Included / Excluded

All transportation is with air-conditioned, modern vehicles driven by a professional driver

English Speaking Professional Tour Guide

Entrance fees to the sites

Lunch

Entrance fee for Terrace Houses

Personal Expenses and tips

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the Ephesus tour?

This is a full-day tour, and the time spent on site exploration typically lasts 4 to 6 hours. This allows you ample time to explore the vast ancient city of Ephesus and all the nearby historical sites, including the Terrace Houses and the House of the Virgin Mary.

What should I wear for the Ephesus tour?

For the religious site (House of the Virgin Mary), please wear modest attire (shoulders and knees covered). For walking through the ancient city, comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the streets are made of uneven marble.

What should I bring with me on the tour?

Since the Ephesus archaeological site has very little shade, we strongly recommend bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. To stay hydrated, bringing a reusable water bottle is also highly recommended.

Is the entrance to the Terrace Houses included in the tour?

A visit to the Terrace Houses is highly recommended, as it offers a fascinating glimpse into the luxurious private homes of Ephesus's elite. However, please note that the entrance fee is not included in the main tour price and must be paid separately at the entrance of the Terrace Houses.

Where does the tour start from?

Pick-up is available from hotels in Kusadasi and Selcuk. Cruise passengers arriving at Kusadasi Port have a separate tour option planned around cruise ship arrival and departure times.

How much walking is involved at Ephesus?

The tour involves a good amount of walking, primarily on marble and uneven ancient roads within Ephesus. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

Are the sites stroller or wheelchair accessible?

The transfers and surrounding areas are accessible. However, the Ephesus archaeological site may be challenging due to uneven marble streets and stairs. Access may be limited to the lower, flatter sections of the ancient city, but your guide will happily assist you with the best available routes.

What is the difference between the Small Group and Private Tour options?

Both options offer the same high-quality itinerary and expert guide service. The Small Group Tour is a cost-effective choice that involves traveling with other guests (max. 12 people). The Private Tour option provides you and your party with an exclusive vehicle and guide for the entire day, offering maximum flexibility to start and end the tour when you prefer, and to set your own pace at the sites.

How can I book this tour?

To book this tour, please fill out the form with your details and click "Book Now." We will respond to your request within a few hours. For the fastest follow-up regarding your specific inquiry, you will find the "Continue on WhatsApp" button available after submission.