Ephesus Classic Full Day Tour From Kusadasi & Selcuk Hotels

Get a Deep Dive into Ephesus and Surroundings with a Well-Rounded Full-Day Tour

This full-day tour from Kusadasi and Selcuk offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus along with key nearby attractions. Priced at $73.37 per person, it provides fully air-conditioned transportation, professional licensed guides, and all-inclusive logistics. The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a manageable yet thorough way to experience some of Turkey’s most significant historical sites.

What makes this tour stand out is its small-group size of a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience that allows for engaging commentary and personalized attention. Plus, all visited attractions include complimentary admission, with the option to pay separately for skip-the-line tickets at certain sites. This is a strong choice for those seeking a balanced mix of history, culture, and comfort without the crowds or hassle.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day experience with all transportation included for $73.37
• Maximum 15 travelers for a more personal and engaging tour
• Expert licensed guide provides insightful commentary beyond guidebook facts
• Visits to major sites: Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, and more
• Includes lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant
• All-inclusive transportation with pick-up and drop-off at Kusadasi or Selcuk hotels
• Optional skip-the-line tickets available for certain attractions

Starting at Kusadasi or Selcuk with Convenient Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or port in Kusadasi, making it convenient to join without stressing over logistics. Once your group assembles, you’ll travel in a fully air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort on the approximately 7 to 8-hour journey.

The small group size guarantees a more relaxed atmosphere and the chance to ask questions or request extra details about each site. The professional licensed guide leads the way, offering explanations that go beyond basic facts, bringing the history of Ephesus and its surroundings to life.

Exploring the Ancient City of Ephesus

The main stop is the Ancient City of Ephesus, once the second largest city in the Roman Empire with a population of over 250,000. Built entirely of marble, the city’s scale and craftsmanship stand out even today. Visitors can stroll along Marble Street, see the Library of Celsius—the third largest library of the ancient world—and admire the Goddess Nike statue.

The amphitheater here was the largest in the ancient world, capable of seating over 25,000 spectators. The guide offers detailed insights into the city’s layout, the significance of its monuments, and stories about daily life during its peak.

Visiting the Temple of Artemis, a Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

A short 15-minute stop provides a chance to view the site of the Temple of Artemis, also called Artemision or Temple of Diana. This Greek temple was once one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Though only ruins remain today, the site’s historical importance and previous grandeur are well worth the visit.

There are no admission fees at this stop, making it an easy addition to the tour. Visitors can appreciate the scale of what was once a magnificent temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis.

Discovering the House of Virgin Mary

A meaningful highlight is the visit to the House of Virgin Mary (Meryemana Evi), believed to be the final residence of Mary, mother of Jesus. This site attracts many visitors for its spiritual significance and tranquil atmosphere. The tour allocates about an hour for exploration, with optional admission tickets available for purchase—though these are paid separately if desired.

The guide helps set the context for why this site remains an important pilgrimage location, and visitors can quietly reflect or pray amid the peaceful surroundings.

Visiting Isa Bey Mosque, a Testament to 14th-Century Architecture

The Isa Bey Mosque, constructed between 1374 and 1375, offers a glimpse into 16th-century Ottoman architecture. This impressive mosque remains one of the most well-preserved structures from the Beyliks period in Anatolia. The 45-minute stop allows for a walk-through of the mosque’s architecture and a chance to appreciate its historical craftsmanship.

The site is free to visit, and the guide provides insights into its construction and historical role in the region.

Cultural Lunch at a Traditional Turkish Restaurant

Included in the tour fee is a lunch at a traditional Turkish restaurant. This meal offers an authentic taste of regional cuisine, giving travelers a welcome break and the chance to relax while enjoying local dishes. The restaurant typically offers a variety of options, and the experience adds a flavorful dimension to the historical journey.

All-Inclusive Transportation and Hotel Pickup

The tour includes fully air-conditioned transportation from and back to Kusadasi or Selcuk hotels or ports, making the experience stress-free. The pick-up and drop-off service is a key feature, removing the need for self-navigation or additional planning.

Travelers benefit from group discounts and the personalized service afforded by the small-group format, creating a more engaging atmosphere where questions and conversation flourish.

Optional Skip-the-Line Tickets and Additional Fees

While admission to Ephesus costs 40 TRY, visitors can opt to pay for skip-the-line tickets through the guide for faster entry. The House of Virgin Mary charges an entrance fee of 500 TRY, which can also be paid directly or via the guide if desired. These costs are not included in the base price, and visitors should budget accordingly.

The Quality of the Guides and Overall Experience

The licensed guides are praised for their professionalism and knowledge. Reviews mention guides like Ceyda and Yesra as highly informative and friendly, capable of making the history come alive. The driver is also acknowledged for being courteous and well-mannered, contributing to the smooth flow of the day.

The tour reviews consistently highlight the well-organized nature, the informative commentary, and the personalized touch that small groups facilitate. Many travelers find the pace comfortable, with enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This full-day experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, spiritual visitors, and those seeking a comfortable and informative day trip. The small-group format benefits travelers who prefer a more personal interaction with their guide. The inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup makes it particularly suitable for visitors who want a stress-free and immersive sightseeing day.

The tour might be less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a luxury experience, given the costs for optional tickets and the need to walk around large archaeological sites.

Bergin Tours: Reliability and Customer Satisfaction

With a perfect 5.0 rating from 10 reviews and 100% of recommendations, Bergin Tours demonstrates a strong record of customer satisfaction. Many reviews emphasize excellent guides, good pacing, and well-maintained transportation. Their free cancellation policy adds flexibility, allowing travelers to plan confidently.

This tour’s consistent positive feedback underscores its trustworthiness and value, especially for those wanting an educational and enjoyable full-day trip discovering the highlights of Ephesus and its surrounding landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes fully air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off at Kusadasi or Selcuk hotels and ports.

Can I skip the line at Ephesus?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets are available for additional payment (payable through the guide), which can significantly reduce waiting times.

What sites are included in the tour?
The main stops are Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, the House of Virgin Mary, and the Isa Bey Mosque.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, providing ample time at each site along with a lunch break.

What is the cost of entrance fees?
The admission to Ephesus costs 40 TRY, and the House of Virgin Mary costs 500 TRY, both payable separately if not included in the ticket option.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but those with mobility challenges should consider site walking requirements and optional ticket costs.