Private Ephesus Tour with Virgin Mary House by Vip Minivan

This Private Ephesus Tour with Virgin Mary House by Vip Minivan offers a well-rounded exploration of one of Turkey’s most iconic archaeological sites, all from the comfort of a private vehicle. Priced at $210.16 per person, this tour is designed for those who want a personalized experience, with pickup included and a flexible schedule ranging from 5 to 10 hours. With a 5.0 rating based on one review, it stands out for its attentive guide service, smooth transportation, and comprehensive itinerary.

The tour departs from Bodrum and takes you on a journey through ancient history, stopping at notable sites like the Ephesus Museum, the Temple of Artemis, and the House of Virgin Mary. An added perk is the option for shopping at a nearby village, where you can buy Turkish rugs or flying carpets. While this is a full-day adventure, it’s suitable for visitors with moderate physical fitness, and the tour keeps things comfortably paced with included meals and drinks.

Key Points

• Private guided experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility
• Includes entrance fees for Ephesus and Virgin Mary House, plus lunch and drinks
• Visits key sites like the Temple of Artemis and Ephesus Museum
• Comfortable transportation with parking fees covered
• Book well in advance—average booking is 72 days ahead
• Total duration varies from 5 to 10 hours, depending on your pace

How the Tour Begins: Pickup and Transportation in Bodrum

This tour starts with pickup from your Bodrum accommodation or designated meeting point, ensuring a hassle-free beginning. The transportation is a private van that comfortably seats your group, and the guide, along with the driver, are praised for their professionalism and punctuality. The drive to Ephesus takes approximately 2 hours, giving travelers time to relax and enjoy the scenic views of Turkey’s countryside.

The parking fees are included, so there are no surprises along the way. The vehicle setup is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking during site visits, but the overall pace is manageable for most.

Exploring Ephesus: The Open-Air Museum of the World

Once at Ephesus, the tour hits its highlight — the largest open-air museum in the world. The admission is included, and the guide provides insights into the historical significance of structures like the Celsus Library, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis. Since the site is a UNESCO World Heritage location, the architecture and ruins are well-preserved, offering a vivid picture of ancient life.

Visitors typically spend around 2 hours exploring the ruins. The site is extensive, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The guide’s commentary helps bring the ruins to life, but the open-air nature means you should prepare for weather conditions, whether sun or wind.

Visiting the Ephesus Museum: Artifacts and Exhibits

Following the ruins, the Ephesus Museum is your next stop — an open-air exhibit showcasing artifacts unearthed from the ancient city. This included entrance allows for approximately 2 hours of discovery. Here, you’ll see sculptures, columns, and relics that tell the story of Ephesus’s historical development.

The museum enhances the visit by providing a broader context for the ruins, with displays that detail the city’s Hellenistic and Roman periods. It’s a worthwhile stop for those eager to understand the archaeological background more deeply.

The Temple of Artemis in Selcuk: A 15-Minute Visit

Next, the tour includes a quick 15-minute stop at the Temple of Artemis in Selcuk. This ancient temple was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though now only a few columns remain. Despite its modest current state, the site holds historical importance and offers a picturesque setting for photos.

This short visit is included in the itinerary and is ideal for appreciating the temple’s significance without a lengthy detour. There’s an admission fee included, and visitors should be prepared for a brief walk and some standing outdoors.

Shopping at Purple Jewelry and Turkish Rugs

A 10-minute shopping stop is available at Purple Jewelry and Rug shop, where visitors can browse handmade Turkish rugs, kilims, and carpets or jewelry. If you’re interested in Turkish craftsmanship or souvenirs, this shop offers authentic, first-hand products.

This stop is optional; if shopping is not desired, it can be skipped, and the guide will accommodate your preferences. It’s a good place to pick up a unique keepsake from Turkey.

Visiting Meryemana: The House of Virgin Mary

The tour’s spiritual highlight is the 30-minute visit to Meryemana (House of Virgin Mary), located just 15 minutes from Ephesus. This site is believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her last days. The house is now a small shrine where visitors can pray or reflect.

The site features a peaceful atmosphere, with a small garden and panoramic views. The entrance fee is included, and the brief stop allows for meaningful reflection without extending the day excessively.

Food and Drinks: Included Meals and Refreshments

Throughout the day, the tour includes lunch, as well as soda, bottled water, coffee, and tea. The meals are served at local restaurants, offering Turkish cuisine. The inclusion of non-alcoholic drinks keeps the day energized and refreshing, especially on warmer days.

This comprehensive catering makes the tour more convenient, removing the need to search for food independently during the day’s busy schedule.

Additional Shopping and Flexibility

If time allows or if requested, the guide can make additional stops for shopping or sightseeing. The tour emphasizes flexibility, allowing you to customize your experience within the outlined itinerary. The private nature of this tour ensures you can linger longer at favorite sites or skip sections as preferred.

End of the Tour and Return to Bodrum

The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point in Bodrum, making for a straightforward end to a full day of sightseeing. The drop-off is at the same location where pickup occurred, with the drive taking approximately 2 hours again.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private tour suits travelers who want a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. It’s ideal for those interested in history and archaeology, and who appreciate comfort and flexibility. The inclusion of meals, drinks, and entrance fees adds convenience, making it a good value.

However, it requires moderate physical fitness due to walking and site exploration. Those seeking a quick overview or on a tight schedule may find the full duration challenging, but the option for shorter or longer timeframes provides some flexibility.

Final Thoughts on the Private Ephesus Tour

This full-day experience from Bodrum delivers a detailed look at Ephesus and its surroundings, with the benefit of private transportation and a dedicated guide. The highlights, including the House of Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis, are well-placed within the itinerary, offering a comprehensive cultural outing.

The positive review citing excellent guide service, comfortable vehicle, and great lunch underscores the overall quality. The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, allowing adjustments if needed.

For travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free day of exploring Turkey’s ancient sites, this tour provides a balanced mix of history, culture, and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves some walking and site exploration, so it’s best suited for individuals with moderate physical fitness. Elderly travelers should consider their mobility levels.

Are beverages included during the day?
Yes, soda, bottled water, coffee, and tea are provided as part of the included refreshments.

Can I skip the shopping stop?
Absolutely. The shopping stop at Purple Jewelry and Rug is optional, and guides are willing to accommodate your preferences.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
The average booking time is 72 days prior, so early reservation is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and interests.

This Private Ephesus Tour with Virgin Mary House offers an enriching day of exploring Turkey’s legendary ruins with the comforts of private transport and a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences.