Izmir : Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour

Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus and the Charm of Sirince with a Guided Tour from Izmir

This full-day tour from Izmir offers an enriching experience of Turkey’s historic sites, combining visits to the Virgin Mary House, the marble ruins of Ephesus, and the picturesque Sirince village. Priced at $51 per person, the 12-hour trip is led by professional licensed guides who share detailed insights into each destination.

The tour departs early in the morning at 8:00 AM from designated pickup points in Izmir and covers a broad itinerary, including free time for photos and exploration. The group size remains manageable, ensuring a more personal experience, and the tour includes transportation, guiding, and insurance. One clear advantage is the comprehensive coverage of key sites within a day, making it an efficient option for travelers with limited time.

While the tour offers excellent value and well-structured visits, it doesn’t include entry fees for the attractions, so travelers should plan to purchase tickets separately. The guided commentary and well-paced stops make this tour suitable for those eager to see major highlights without the hassle of arranging logistics independently.

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Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Izmir, covering Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, and Sirince village
• Includes transportation, professional guides, and insurance for a smooth experience
• Visit the marble ruins of Ephesus, including highlights like the Celcus Library and City Theatre
• Stop at Virgin Mary House, accepted as a Christian and Muslim sacred site, with options for vows and water from the Sacred Fountain
• Explore Sirince village, famous for its old houses and wines, with free time for photos and relaxation
• Not inclusive of entrance fees for sites and museums; tickets are purchased separately

The Departure and Pickup Locations in Izmir

This tour begins with pickups at three locations in Izmir: Basmane KamilKoç, Alsancak Train Station, and In front of Üçyol Kamilkoç. The bus journey lasts approximately 45 minutes to reach the first destination, setting a comfortable pace for the day.

The pickup points make it easy for travelers staying in different parts of Izmir, and the early 8:00 AM start ensures a full day of sightseeing. The group then heads toward Selçuk, where most of the key sites are located.

Virgin Mary House: A Sacred Christian and Muslim Site

The tour’s first stop is Virgin Mary House in Selçuk, found on Bülbül Mountain. Discovered in 1891 by Lazarist priests, this site gained significance after Pope VI recognized it as a Christian center following Paul’s visit in 1967.

Visitors can choose to leave votive papers on the sacred Wish Wall, drink from the Sacred Fountain, and reflect in the peaceful setting. The house’s religious importance is respected by both Christians and Muslims, making it a meaningful stop early in the day.

Guides offer insights into the history of the house, emphasizing its discovery and religious significance. The 1.5-hour guided visit provides enough time for reflection and photos.

Discover Ephesus’s Marble Ruins and Iconic Structures

The centerpiece of the tour is the Ancient City of Ephesus, built entirely of marble and once a bustling metropolis. Highlights include the Celcus Library, Hadrian Temple, Domitian Temple, Trajan Fountain, and the City Theatre.

The guide leads you through these remarkable ruins, narrating their historical roles and architectural details. Visitors have the option to explore the Terrace Houses nearby—a set of six homes decorated with mosaics and murals—if they wish to pay extra for entry, which the guide will assist with.

The roughly 3-hour guided tour of Ephesus allows ample time for sightseeing, photos, and soaking in the ancient atmosphere.

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Lunch in Selçuk and Visits to Ephesus Museum, St. John Basilica, and Bey Mosque

After exploring Ephesus, the group moves to Selçuk for lunch, giving everyone a chance to refresh. Post-lunch, the tour visits the Ephesus Museum, where your Museum Card grants entry, and displays artifacts from the region.

Next, the guide leads the group to St. John Basilica, where the ancient Artemis Temple once stood—an ancient wonder of the world. The basilica itself is significant for its historical and religious context, and offers a scenic view of the surrounding area.

The tour concludes with a visit to the Bey Mosque, rounding out the cultural and religious history of the region.

Relaxing in Sirince Village: A Picturesque End to the Day

The final stop is Sirince village, renowned for its old houses and wines. This charming village provides about 3 hours of free time for visitors to walk the cobbled streets, take pictures, taste local wines, and relax.

Sirince’s authentic atmosphere offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling ancient ruins, making it a favored spot for leisurely exploration and photos before heading back to Izmir.

The Return Journey and Drop-off Points

After a 45-minute bus ride back from Sirince, the tour wraps up with drop-offs at the initial pickup locations: Basmane KamilKoç, Alsancak Train Station, and In front of Üçyol Kamilkoç in Izmir. The day concludes around late afternoon or early evening, depending on group pace and traffic.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes transportation, professional guiding, travel insurance, and parking fees. However, entrance fees for the sites and museums are not included—visitors should budget separately for these.

Guests should bring comfortable shoes and clothing, as much of the day involves walking on uneven surfaces and exploring outdoor sites. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

How the Tour Is Rated and Its Strengths

With a 3.5 out of 5 rating based on 10 reviews, this tour is appreciated for its knowledgeable guides, especially highlighted in reviews that mention guides explaining the history clearly and politely. Good value for money and well-organized scheduling stand out as key merits.

While some visitors note the lack of included entrance fees, the overall experience delivers a rundown of Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, and Sirince within a manageable timeframe.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you want an affordable, guided day trip that combines significant religious, cultural, and historical sites, this tour is a practical choice. It suits travelers who appreciate organized visits with informative guides and are comfortable with shorter exploration periods at each site.

Those interested in more in-depth visits or museum tickets should consider supplementing this tour with separate entries. The rough pace and long day make it less suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer more relaxed travel.

Final Thoughts on the Izmir: Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour

This tour offers a structured and cost-effective way to see some of Turkey’s most important archaeological and religious sites near Izmir. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach shine through, making the experience enjoyable and educational.

While not covering entrance fees, the overall value for the price and wide range of highlights make it a popular option for travelers eager to experience Ephesus’s grandeur, Virgin Mary’s sacred house, and the peaceful charm of Sirince in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance fees included?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees for sites and museums. Tickets must be purchased separately.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as much of the day involves walking and outdoor exploration.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs.

What are the pickup options?
Pickup is available at Basmane KamilKoç, Alsancak Train Station, and In front of Üçyol Kamilkoç in Izmir. The journey lasts around 45 minutes to the first stop.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 8:00 AM and concluding in the late afternoon or early evening.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexible travel plans.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Guests can enjoy a meal in Selçuk after visiting Virgin Mary House and before continuing the tour.

What languages are available for guides?
Guiding is available in English and Turkish, ensuring clear communication for most visitors.

This comprehensive review highlights the main attractions, logistics, and practical tips for the Izmir: Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour, helping travelers decide if it fits their interests and travel style.

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