Experience the Private Ephesus, İrince, Virgin Mary House Tour for a full day of exploring Turkey’s ancient and cultural highlights. Priced at $647 per group up to 7 people, this tour offers a personalized journey starting from Izmir, with transfers included. The trip lasts approximately one full day, making it a convenient way to see key historical sites and picturesque villages with a private guide.

Designed for travelers who appreciate comfort and tailored experiences, this tour features visits to iconic locations such as Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary, and İrince Village. It’s ideal for those seeking in-depth insights from expert guides, along with free time to soak in the charming streets and scenic views. Keep in mind, entrance fees to sites and museums are not included, so budget accordingly.

Key Points

Private group experience with a maximum of 7 participants ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
Visit the House of Virgin Mary on Bülbül Mountain, a sacred site with opportunities for vows and water from the Sacred Fountain.
Explore the marble ruins of Ephesus, including the Celcus Library, Trajan Fountain, and the City Theatre.
Optional entrance to Terrace Houses provides insight into ancient Roman residential life with mosaics and murals.
Free time in İrince Village allows for photos, relaxation, and tasting local wines.
Transportation, parking, and a professional guide are included, making logistics smooth and stress-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting from İzmir for a Day of History and Charm

The tour departs from İzmir at 08:00 AM, beginning with a comfortable transfer to maximize your sightseeing time. This early start helps avoid crowds at the popular sites, and the private nature of the tour means your guide can tailor the pace to your interests. The trip duration makes it suitable for a full, enriching day without feeling rushed.

The journey involves a brief break before arriving at the House of Virgin Mary, located on Selçuk Bülbül Mountain. This site is recognized for its historical significance, having been discovered by Lazarist priests in 1891 and accepted as a Christian cross-center after Pope VI’s acknowledgment in 1967. Visitors can make vows on the Wish Wall and drink from the Sacred Fountain, enhancing the spiritual experience.

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Exploring the House of Virgin Mary in Depth

The House of Virgin Mary is a key highlight, offering a guided tour lasting approximately one hour. The site is regarded as sacred by Muslims and Christians alike, making it a meaningful stop for many. The guide explains its history, including its discovery and significance through the ages.

Visitors can leave votive papers on the Wish Wall, a tradition believed to fulfill wishes or prayers. Drinking water from the Sacred Fountain adds a special dimension to the visit. The location’s peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for reflection and appreciation of its spiritual importance.

Walking Through the Marvels of Ephesus

Next, the tour takes you to the astonishing Ancient City of Ephesus, built entirely of marble. The guided tour lasts around three hours, covering the city’s most famous monuments. Key sights include the Hadrian Temple, Domitian Temple, and the Trajan Fountain. The Great Celsus Library impresses with its size, murals, and mosaics, offering a glimpse into Roman scholarly life.

If interested, visitors can choose to visit the Terrace Houses, which are nearby the Celsus Library. These six houses boast mosaics and murals, providing insight into the residential life of the elite during Roman times. The guide accompanies guests through this area, highlighting the intricate artwork and architectural features.

The spaciousness of Ephesus and its well-preserved ruins provide ample photo opportunities and a sense of walking through history.

Lunch and Cultural Discoveries in Selçuk

After touring Ephesus, the group travels to Selçuk for a local lunch. The meal offers a chance to relax and enjoy regional flavors, fueling the afternoon exploration. The Ephesus Museum follows, with free entry using the museum card, which is valid at the entrance, and offers further context about the ancient city and local artifacts.

In Selçuk, visitors also visit the St. John Basilica, where the guide explains its historical background and significance. Nearby, the Bey Mosque adds an Ottoman architectural touch, rounding out the cultural experience.

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Visiting the Legendary Artemis Temple

A short stop at the St. John Basilica allows visitors to see the remains of the Artemis Temple, one of the ancient world’s seven wonders. Though only ruins remain, the guide provides details about this monumental temple dedicated to Artemis, giving visitors a sense of its scale and importance in antiquity.

This site connects the ancient religious practices of the region with its rich archaeological history, adding depth to the overall tour.

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Relaxing in İrince Village with Local Flavors

The final stop is İrince Village, famous for its wines and historic houses. Here, visitors enjoy free time for photos, strolling along the old streets, and soaking in the village’s relaxed ambiance. The charming houses and scenic views make it a perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

The village’s reputation for wine adds a local flavor, but the tour emphasizes the atmosphere and scenery, making it suitable for those interested in authentic, laid-back experiences.

Practical Details: Logistics and Booking

This private tour includes transportation, parking, and service fees, ensuring a hassle-free day. It’s led by a professional guide fluent in Turkish, English, Spanish, and German, enhancing understanding and engagement. Travel insurance is also part of the package for added peace of mind.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and exploring outdoor sites. The pickup is arranged at a convenient location in İzmir, and the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others?

This full-day private experience offers the advantage of personalized attention, flexible pacing, and expert guidance. The combination of historical sites, spiritual locations, and scenic village stops makes it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of the region. The inclusion of free time in İrince Village and the optional visit to Terrace Houses enhances the value.

Compared to similar experiences, this tour’s focus on private group size and detailed site visits make it suitable for those who prefer an intimate, in-depth approach to Turkey’s ancient attractions.

Final Thoughts on the Private Ephesus, İrince, Virgin Mary House Tour

This tour provides a balanced mix of history, spirituality, and local culture within a single day. Its private nature ensures tailored attention and comfort, while the itinerary covers all the major highlights of the region. The price of $647 reflects the personalized service, transportation, and guided insights.

While entrance fees are not included, the overall experience offers good value for those interested in spending quality time in key sites without the crowds. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a flexible, informative, and relaxed exploration of Ephesus, Virgin Mary’s House, and İrince Village.

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Private Ephesus,irince,Virgin Marry House Tour

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entrance fees to the sites?
No, entrance fees to historical sites and museums are not included; visitors can pay at each location as preferred.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Turkish, English, Spanish, and German, providing accessible explanations across different languages.

How long is the visit to the House of Virgin Mary?
The guided tour of the Virgin Mary’s House lasts approximately one hour.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
While most sites are accessible by walking, some outdoor areas may involve uneven surfaces, so mobility considerations should be taken into account.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning options.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with any personal items needed for the day’s excursions.