Full-day Tour to Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Isabey Mosque, Temple of Artemis

Explore Ephesus and Historic Sites in a Single Day from Istanbul

This full-day private tour offers an efficient way to visit the famous ancient city of Ephesus along with key landmarks like the House of Virgin Mary, Isa Bey Mosque, and the Temple of Artemis. Priced at $201.29 per person, the experience includes round-trip flights between Istanbul and Izmir, air-conditioned transport, and a professional guide to bring the sites to life.

The tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive day trip with minimal hassle, thanks to hotel pickup and drop-off and skip-the-line tickets at major attractions. While the day can stretch from 7 to 15 hours, it is packed with highlights, making it ideal for travelers who value efficiency and expert insights. A key feature praised in reviews is the knowledgeable guides, who enhance the experience with detailed historical and biblical stories.

Most guests find the timing well-paced, though the length might be demanding for some. The tour’s strength lies in its seamless logistics and rich itinerary, perfect for those eager to see Turkey’s legendary sites in a single day, without sacrificing comfort or depth.

Key Points

• Includes flights between Istanbul and Izmir, saving time and effort
• Private guided tour with skip-the-line access to major sites
• Visit Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, Isa Bey Mosque, and Artemis Temple
• Lunch at a local restaurant in Selcuk with vegetarian options available
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Tour durations vary from 7 hours (Kusadasi) to 15 hours (Istanbul)

Starting from Istanbul with Airfare Included

This tour departs from Istanbul, with round-trip flights included for the Istanbul to Istanbul booking option. It begins with a hotel pickup in Istanbul, followed by a transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Izmir. Once in Izmir, an air-conditioned vehicle transfers travelers to Selcuk, where the tour officially begins. The entire process is smooth, with private transport making the transition between locations straightforward.

The flight tickets are pre-arranged, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The tour concludes with either a return flight or transfer to your hotel in Kusadasi or Bodrum, depending on your chosen option. For those not flying, a Kusadasi to Kusadasi or Bodrum to Bodrum option is available, with shorter durations.

Visiting the House of Virgin Mary: Pilgrimage and Serenity

The tour visits the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be her last residence. Located on the Aladag Mountains just five miles from Ephesus, this site is a peaceful spot surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Historically, it gained recognition after the 1892 declaration by the Archbishop of Izmir as a pilgrimage site, further validated by the 1967 visit of Pope Paul VI.

While the admission ticket is not included in the tour price, visitors get approximately 45 minutes here, allowing time for reflection and sightseeing. The serene atmosphere and the biblical significance make this stop especially meaningful for those interested in spiritual history.

Discovering Ephesus: The Ancient UNESCO Site

The highlight of the tour is the Ancient City of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as a major harbor city in antiquity, it is also mentioned in the Book of Revelations as one of the seven churches.

Visitors explore key features like the Celsus Library, renowned for its impressive facade, and the Grand Theater, which once seated thousands. Other highlights include the Temple of Hadrian, the fountain of Trajan, the Hercules Gate, the Odeon, and ancient toilets. With around 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated, this stop offers a deep dive into archaeological marvels and historical architecture.

The guide leads visitors through the well-preserved ruins, sharing stories that connect myth, history, and biblical references. Since admission tickets are pre-paid, visitors skip long lines, making this a comfortable and enriching experience.

Lunch in Selcuk: Traditional Turkish Cuisine

Following the exploration of Ephesus, the tour features a one-hour lunch break at a local Turkish restaurant in Selcuk. The restaurant offers vegetarian options, accommodating different dietary preferences. This stop provides a chance to relax, enjoy authentic Turkish dishes, and discuss the morning’s discoveries in a casual setting.

The lunch is included in the tour, adding value and convenience. It’s a taste of local flavors in a friendly environment, perfect for recharging before continuing the afternoon visits.

Visiting Isa Bey Mosque: An Architectural Masterpiece

The Isa Bey Mosque is a key stop that showcases late 14th-century Seljuk architecture. Recognized as one of the most important examples of the era, the mosque reflects the transition from Seljuk to Ottoman influences.

Visitors spend about 30 minutes exploring the mosque’s intricate stonework and spacious courtyard. Its historical and architectural significance makes it a highlight for those interested in Islamic art and Turkish heritage. The guide provides insights into its construction and role within the region’s history, enriching the visit.

The Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders

Next, the tour visits the Temple of Artemis, famously listed as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Although only remnants remain, the site stands next to the ruins of Ephesus itself, offering a sense of wonder and awe.

This 15-minute stop allows visitors to see the columns and foundations that once supported this grand temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Its historical importance and mythological fame make it a compelling photo opportunity and a reminder of ancient craftsmanship.

Final Transfers to Kusadasi or Bodrum

Depending on your booking choice, the tour concludes with a drop-off in Kusadasi or Bodrum. For Kusadasi bookings, guests are transferred directly to their hotel. For Bodrum, a similar transfer is arranged.

For those who selected the Istanbul to Istanbul option, the tour finishes with a return flight to Istanbul, including airport transfer. The entire process emphasizes comfort and convenience, ensuring that travelers end their day relaxed and satisfied with the experience.

The Experience in Context: Strengths and Considerations

This private tour stands out for its comprehensive itinerary, combining famous archaeological sites with historic landmarks like Virgin Mary’s House and Isa Bey Mosque. The inclusion of flights makes it suitable for those who want to maximize their time without long travel days.

The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and storytelling, adding depth to every stop. The skip-the-line tickets further streamline the experience, avoiding long queues at busy sites.

However, the length of the day—up to 15 hours for the Istanbul option—may be demanding for some. Travelers should be prepared for a fast-paced schedule and moderate physical activity at sites with uneven terrain.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, biblical scholars, and culture seekers eager to see Turkey’s legendary archaeological sites. It is especially suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and walking. The private guide ensures personalized attention and deeper insights, making this experience both educational and engaging.

Final Thoughts on the Ephesus Tour from Istanbul

This full-day private trip offers a comprehensive and efficient way to explore Ephesus and related sites from Istanbul. The combination of flights, expert guides, and well-planned stops delivers a rich overview of Turkey’s ancient past.

While the timing can be long, the quality of the sites and the depth of guided narration make it worth the effort. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see a lot in one day without sacrificing comfort or historical detail. This experience provides a reliable, informative, and memorable journey into Turkey’s legendary history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are flights included in the tour price?
Yes, for the Istanbul to Istanbul option, the price includes round-trip tickets between Istanbul and Izmir.

How long does the entire tour last?
The duration varies from 7 hours if departing from Kusadasi, up to 15 hours if starting from Istanbul.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a lunch at a local Turkish restaurant is included, with vegetarian options available.

Do I need to pay entrance fees at sites?
Entrance tickets are pre-paid and included in the tour for the sites visited, allowing you to skip long lines.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include Ephesus, the Virgin Mary House, Isa Bey Mosque, and the Temple of Artemis.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour requires moderate physical activity; families should consider this when planning, especially for younger children.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel/airport pickup and drop-off are included, along with air-conditioned vehicle transfers between sites.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
The guides are licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and are highly praised for their expertise and storytelling skills.