Bodrum: Ephesus, Selcuk, & Virgin Mary House Tour w/ Lunch

Discover Ephesus and the Virgin Mary House on a Full-Day Tour from Bodrum

This full-day tour from Bodrum offers an exciting chance to explore the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with the last home of the Virgin Mary. The tour, priced at $54 per person, lasts approximately 15 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, and lunch.

Travelers should be prepared for a long day of sightseeing, with around 2.83 hours of guided visits in Ephesus itself and extra time allocated for breaks, shopping, and photo stops. While the tour involves some stops at shops, the highlight remains the impressive ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. A notable consideration is the entrance fees, totaling $40 for Ephesus and additional costs for Virgin Mary’s House.

This tour suits those eager to combine history, archaeology, and spiritual sites into a single day, with the comfort of hotel transportation and the guidance of an English-speaking guide. However, be aware of the long travel times between Bodrum and Ephesus—around 3.5 hours each way—which can make for a very full day.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $54 per person, the tour lasts about 15 hours.
• Departure and Return: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Bodrum, with 7 pickup and 7 drop-off locations.
• Main Attractions: Explores the ancient city of Ephesus, the Library of Celsus, Roman baths, Temple of Hadrian, and the House of the Virgin Mary.
• Guided Experience: Led by a professional English-speaking guide who provides commentary on the history and significance of each site.
• Additional Fees: Entrance to Ephesus costs $40, with an extra fee for Virgin Mary’s House; these are not included in the tour price.
• Shopping Stops: The itinerary includes two sponsored shop visits which may involve some time away from the ruins but support the overall tour costs.

Starting the Day: Pickup and Morning Journey

The tour begins with hotel pickup from Bodrum at one of seven designated locations. Expect to be on the bus for around 1.5 hours before arriving at a local café for a 30-minute breakfast break. After breakfast, the journey continues for about 1 hour and 50 minutes to Ephesus.

This early part of the day is crucial for setting a relaxed pace, allowing travelers to settle in before the main sightseeing begins. The long drive is a necessary part of the experience, as Ephesus is situated about 220 km from Bodrum.

Exploring Ephesus’ Ruins: Marvel at the Ancient City

Once in Ephesus, you’ll spend nearly three hours exploring its marble streets, mosaics, and frescoes still visible on some Roman houses. The Library of Celsus is a standout structure, famous for its impressive facade and historical significance as a Roman library.

The Great Theatre, capable of seating 25,000 spectators, provides a dramatic backdrop for the site’s history of theatrical performances and gladiator clashes. Visitors also see the Temple of Hadrian, Roman baths, and the brothel, each offering a glimpse into daily ancient life.

The guided commentary enhances the experience, providing context about the city’s past as a major commercial, religious, and social hub of antiquity. The overall site is remarkably well-preserved, making it one of the best-preserved archaeological sites worldwide.

Lunch and Cultural Break at a Local Restaurant

After touring the ruins, the group enjoys a 30-minute lunch at a local restaurant. This serves as a welcome break and a chance to sample local cuisine. The meal is included in the tour price, making it a convenient way to refuel before the afternoon activities.

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House of the Virgin Mary: A Spiritual Stop on Mount Koressos

Post-lunch, the tour proceeds to the House of the Virgin Mary. Located on Mount Koressos, this humble house is believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final days. Visitors are encouraged to experience the spiritual atmosphere of this revered site, which is a significant destination for religious pilgrims.

The visit provides a serene contrast to the bustling ruins of Ephesus, with plenty of photo opportunities and time for reflection. The house has a simple structure, but its historical and spiritual importance makes it a meaningful stop.

Afternoon Sightseeing and Photo Stops

The tour continues with additional sightseeing opportunities, including photo stops and free time in other scenic locations. These stops are designed to give a broader sense of the region’s landscape and cultural heritage, as well as chances to capture memorable photos.

Expect to be back on the bus for approximately 2 hours as the journey heads back towards Bodrum. Along the way, the itinerary includes two more shop visits—sponsored stops that contribute to the tour’s affordability but may involve some additional time outside the main attractions.

Practical Details: Transport, Pacing, and Shop Stops

The entire round trip from Bodrum to Ephesus involves about 3.5 hours each way, so travelers should be prepared for a long day. The pace is steady, with scheduled breaks to prevent fatigue, but the travel time makes this tour ideal for those comfortable with full days of activity.

The sponsored shop visits are part of the route, offering opportunities to purchase souvenirs, gemstones, and Turkish delights. While these stops support the tour’s affordability, they also extend the day’s duration and may influence the overall experience.

Considerations and Tips for Travelers

The tour’s entrance fees for Ephesus and Virgin Mary’s House are not included—costing $40 and an extra fee for Virgin Mary—so budget accordingly. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, but reviewers note that time spent at shops can be excessive and might detract from the sightseeing.

Since the tour involves long hours, travelers should wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be prepared for some walking and standing. Accessibility details are not specified, so those with mobility concerns should inquire directly.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts, spiritual visitors, and those wanting a comprehensive day trip from Bodrum. It combines archaeological exploration with cultural and spiritual experiences, making it ideal for visitors eager to see key highlights in a single day.

However, those looking for a more relaxed pace or minimal travel time may find the long bus rides challenging. It’s an active day, with plenty of walking and sightseeing, so stamina is recommended.

Bodrum: Ephesus, Selcuk, & Virgin Mary House Tour with Lunch — Final Thoughts

This tour offers a value-rich experience, with guided insights into one of the most significant archaeological sites in Turkey. The included lunch and hotel pickup add convenience, while the scheduled stops at key sites make the day both educational and inspiring.

While the long travel times and additional shop visits are worth considering, the impressive ruins of Ephesus and the serene Virgin Mary House are highlights that justify the trip. It’s a suitable choice for those eager to combine history, spirituality, and culture into one full day from Bodrum.

For travelers comfortable with full days and long journeys, this tour delivers a thorough and engaging exploration of Turkey’s ancient past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entrance fee to Ephesus included in the tour price?
No, the $40 entrance fee for Ephesus is not included and must be paid separately.

Does the tour include transportation from Bodrum?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from designated locations in Bodrum.

How long do I spend at the Ephesus ruins?
You will have approximately 2.83 hours to explore the archaeological site with a guided tour.

Are shopping stops part of the itinerary?
Yes, there are two sponsored shop visits along the route, which add to the day’s length and experience.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there is a good amount of walking on marble streets and uneven surfaces.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Details on accessibility are not specified, so travelers with mobility concerns should inquire beforehand.

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