All INCLUSIVE with Lunch : Private Ephesus, Virgin Mary, Artemis

Explore Kusadasi’s Top Historical Sites with Ease and Comfort

This all-inclusive private tour offers a seamless way to visit three of Kusadasi’s most iconic attractions: Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, and Temple of Artemis. Priced at $79.20 per person, it provides a luxurious, personalized experience with professional guides, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees paid upfront. With a typical duration of 5 to 6 hours, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of these historic sites, without the hassle of ticket lines or crowded groups.

What makes this tour particularly attractive is its private setting—you and your party will enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Plus, the lunch included is a significant bonus, allowing you to experience Turkish cuisine mid-journey. The tour departs from Kusadasi port or designated hotels, and after the last stop at the Temple of Artemis, the rest of the day is yours for last-minute shopping or relaxing. This tour is perfect for those who value comfort, convenience, and in-depth knowledge.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive experience with pre-paid entrance fees and lunch included
• Visits to Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, and Artemis Temple in just half a day
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles between sites
• Guided tour led by licensed professionals who share detailed insights
• Flexible pacing at each location, perfect for those who want a personalized experience
• Departs from Kusadasi port or hotels, with guaranteed on-time return

Convenient Pickup and Transportation in Kusadasi

The tour begins with a pickup from Kusadasi port or hotels at your preferred time, marked by a sign with your name. The private transportation ensures a comfortable, air-conditioned ride between the stops, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views without any worries about navigation or crowds.

The close coordination of pickup and drop-off means your day is smooth, and there’s no need to worry about arranging separate transport. This setup is especially helpful for cruise passengers or those staying nearby, making the experience stress-free from start to finish.

The Ancient City of Ephesus: Walking Through Greece and Rome

The main highlight of this tour is the Ancient City of Ephesus, located near Izmir and a major port city of antiquity. Your guide takes you here after a 20-minute drive from Kusadasi. You’ll walk along marble streets lined with grand public buildings, such as the Library of Celsus, built in the early 2nd century AD as a memorial to Gaius Julius Celsus.

Other key sights include the Baths of Scholastica, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Grand Theater, which dates back to the 3rd century BC and was expanded in Roman times to seat 24,000 spectators. The impressive architecture and the scale of these ruins provide a vivid picture of life in ancient Greece and Rome.

The admission tickets are included in the tour price, and your guide ensures you spend about two hours exploring at a comfortable pace, sharing stories and facts that bring the site to life. This stop offers a rare opportunity to walk among landmarks that once buzzed with commerce, politics, and entertainment.

Visiting the House of Virgin Mary: A Spiritual Stop on the Mountain

After exploring Ephesus, the tour continues about 5 miles away to the House of Virgin Mary on the Aladag Mountains. This site gained recognition after the discovery of Mary’s house and is now a pilgrimage destination. The archbishop of Izmir declared it a sacred place in 1892, and it was visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967.

The site’s significance comes from the belief that Mary lived here with St. John from 37 A.D. until her death in 48 A.D. Visitors find this spot deeply moving, with the house set in a peaceful, scenic mountain environment. The admission fee is included, and you’ll spend about an hour absorbing the spiritual atmosphere, with time for personal reflection or prayer.

This stop offers a calm contrast to the bustling ruins of Ephesus, emphasizing the religious and cultural history of the area. The guide provides insights into religious traditions and the history of the site, making it a meaningful part of the half-day tour.

The Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders

Post-lunch, the tour makes a brief stop at the Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient world’s seven wonders. Although only a few remains of the temple exist today, the site holds tremendous historical significance as a symbol of ancient craftsmanship and devotion.

This 15-minute visit offers a chance to see the archaeological site and learn about its legendary status. The admission fee is included, and the stop provides a quick but impactful glimpse into ancient religious practices and architectural grandeur.

Enjoying a Traditional Turkish Lunch

A key highlight of this tour is the included Turkish lunch, served near Ephesus. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy authentic local flavors, and recharge for the afternoon. The lunch is part of the package, with no extra cost, making the tour excellent value.

The lunch break also offers an opportunity for interaction with your guide and fellow travelers, providing insights into Turkish cuisine and culture. The meal’s quality and the setting contribute to the overall pleasurable experience.

Free Time for Shopping and Relaxation in Kusadasi

After completing the visits, the tour concludes back in Kusadasi. You’ll be dropped off at your starting point or at the Kusadasi town center for last-minute shopping or personal exploration. This 15-minute window allows you to browse local markets or pick up souvenirs before ending your day.

The tour guarantees an on-time return, so you can plan your evening activities or further sightseeing without worry. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for cruise passengers or travelers with tight schedules.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Options

Unlike larger group excursions, this private tour offers a more personalized experience, with a licensed guide who shares detailed stories and answers questions. The pre-paid entrance fees mean no waiting in lines, and the lunch included adds significant value.

The comfortable A/C transport and the flexibility to explore at your own pace enhance the overall experience. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views at each site, making this tour a trusted choice for visitors seeking depth and comfort.

Who Would Love This Tour

This all-inclusive private experience suits history enthusiasts, spiritual visitors, and culture seekers. It’s perfect for those who prefer relaxed pacing and personalized attention. The tour also works well for cruise passengers or short-stay travelers who want to maximize their time without missing key sights.

Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as some walking and standing are involved, though the tour is designed to be manageable for most. This experience provides a hassle-free way to see Kusadasi’s most famous sites in comfort.

The Sum Up: A Relaxed, Informative Journey Through Ancient Kusadasi

This private, all-inclusive tour offers an excellent mix of history, spirituality, and culture. The guided visits to Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, and Artemis Temple are all carefully curated, with entrance fees paid upfront and lunch included, providing great value for the price of $79.20 per person.

The comfortable transportation and flexible pace make it ideal for those seeking a stress-free experience with personalized service. Whether for a quick culture or a meaningful spiritual journey, this tour delivers on both fronts, with the added bonus of highly praised guides and scenic stops.

While the tour is not designed for strenuous activity, it covers significant historical sites in a manageable timeframe, making it a smart choice for most visitors. For anyone wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Kusadasi’s highlights, this private tour stands out as a reliable, value-packed option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers with moderate physical fitness, but some walking is involved at each site.

Are entrance fees included?
Absolutely. All entrance fees are paid in advance, and guides carry pre-paid tickets to skip lines.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes private licensed guide, air-conditioned transportation, all entrance fees, lunch, and parking and facility fees.

Can I customize the departure time?
Yes, you can decide on the departure time when booking, providing flexibility to fit your schedule.

What if I want to shop or explore Kusadasi more after the tour?
You are dropped off at Kusadasi town center or your starting point, giving you free time for shopping or additional sightseeing.

Is this tour available for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the tour starts from Kusadasi port, making it an excellent option for cruise travelers looking for a private, efficient experience.