Private Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, St John Basilica & Lunch

An all-in-one private tour of Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, and St. John Basilica at a reasonable $59 per person

This private day trip in Kusadasi offers a comprehensive exploration of some of Turkey’s most famous ancient sites and religious landmarks. Priced at $59.00 per person, it combines luxury transportation, a licensed guide, and a delicious Turkish lunch, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive yet relaxed experience. The tour lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours, with flexible timing to suit your schedule, and attracts bookings about 59 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

Designed for visitors who want to see Ephesus’ archaeological wonders, visit the House of Virgin Mary, and explore the St. John Basilica without the hassle of queues, this tour guarantees a skip-the-line experience with pre-purchased tickets. The inclusion of hotel or port pickup, comfortable air-conditioned transportation, and an authentic Turkish lunch make it a convenient and value-packed option. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and efficient scheduling in a private setting.

Key Points

• Private full-day Ephesus tour with skip-the-line access
• Includes visits to Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, St. John Basilica, and Temple of Artemis
• Transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes van with hotel or port pickup
• A delicious Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, with parking fees included
• Expert licensed guide available, with optional Bible-oriented guiding
• Flexible duration from 6 to 9 hours, with guaranteed on-time return

Starting from Kusadasi: Convenient hotel or port pickup

This tour departs from your hotel lobby in Kusadasi or Kusadasi Cruise terminal with a pre-arranged pickup. The tour guide, a licensed professional, meets guests holding a name sign, ensuring a smooth start. The air-conditioned Mercedes van provides a comfortable ride throughout the day, whether traveling to the ancient ruins or religious sites. The tour is private, so only your group participates, allowing for a tailored experience.

The pickup timing is flexible within operational hours from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, accommodating early risers or late risers. The logistics are straightforward, with dedicated drop-off back at your hotel or cruise port, making the whole day seamless and stress-free.

Visiting the Virgin Mary House, a pilgrimage site with historical significance

The first stop after pickup is the House of Virgin Mary, about 25 minutes from Kusadasi. This site is regarded as a significant pilgrimage destination for Christians, believed to be the place where Virgin Mary spent her last days and passed away. The shrine has been visited by several popes, including Pope Paul VI in 1967, and Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI.

Although admission to the Virgin Mary House is free, visitors often spend about 45 minutes here exploring the site, which offers a peaceful atmosphere with its religious importance. The guide provides context about the site’s relevance, making it a meaningful and contemplative stop. Since admission tickets are not included, guests can choose to spend as much or as little time as they wish.

Exploring Ephesus’ ancient ruins with skip-the-line tickets

The highlight of the tour is the expedition through Ephesus, a city famed for its Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The drive to Ephesus takes roughly 30 minutes, leading to the upper Magnesia Gate, the traditional starting point for exploring this impressive ancient city.

The itinerary includes more than five key sites: the Forum, Odeon, Library of Celsus, Thermal Baths of Scolastika, and the Great Theater. The theater, famed for its remarkable acoustics, once hosted sermons by Paul and modern concerts like Sting’s.

Thanks to pre-paid tickets, visitors bypass long queues, maximizing their time at each location. The guide’s insights help bring the ruins to life, providing historical context and interesting stories. The walk is engaging but requires moderate walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Optional visit to the Ephesus Terrace Houses

For those with extra time and interest, the Terrace Houses offer a peek into the luxurious lifestyle of Ephesus’ wealthy residents. The visit lasts around 45 minutes and provides an up-close look at well-preserved mosaics and frescoes. Admission tickets are not included in the base price but can be added on request.

This optional stop adds depth to the Ephesus experience, offering a more intimate view of ancient domestic life. Be aware that it may require additional walking and stair climbing, so travelers with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.

Enjoying authentic Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant

A highlight of this tour is the delicious homemade Turkish lunch included in the price. The meal is served at either Bizim Ev Hanmeli Restaurant or Selcuk Köftecisi, both known for their traditional Turkish dishes. The 45-minute lunch break provides a relaxing pause to enjoy authentic flavors amid a friendly local atmosphere.

Guests often appreciate the quality and authenticity of the food, which complements the historical immersion of the day. The lunch includes parking fees and is a key part of the overall value, ensuring a complete cultural experience.

Visiting the Basilica of Saint John, where the evangelist is believed to be buried

After lunch, the tour continues to Saint John Kilisesi, situated on the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill. This basilica is believed to be the final resting place of St. John, the evangelist. The visit lasts around 30 minutes, offering a chance to explore the ruins and absorb the spiritual atmosphere.

While admission to the basilica is not included, the guide shares historical insights about its significance and connection to the early Christian community. The site’s peaceful setting makes it a memorable stop for those interested in religious history.

The Temple of Artemis — one of the Seven Wonders

The Temple of Artemis is a short 20-minute visit, providing a glimpse of one of the ancient world’s most famous monuments. Though only scattered remains are visible today, the site’s historic importance endures.

The guide explains its history and what once made it one of the seven wonders of antiquity. This quick stop allows visitors to reflect on the grandeur of ancient architecture and religious devotion before the day winds down.

Wrapping up at the Caravanserail and transfer back to Kusadasi

The tour concludes with a pass through the Club Caravanserail, a historic site that adds to the day’s cultural richness. This 15-minute drive takes visitors back toward Kusadasi, with drop-off at the port or hotel included in the service.

Travelers can relax and share their impressions during the return journey, knowing that the tour guarantees on-time return and a hassle-free end to the day.

Who should consider this tour?

This private tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive yet flexible day exploring Ephesus and its surrounding landmarks. The skip-the-line tickets and professional guide save time, making it ideal for cruise travelers or visitors with limited days. The inclusion of lunch and transportation offers good value and comfort.

However, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking and uneven surfaces at the ruins. The tour’s personalized nature suits those interested in history, archaeology, and religious sites, and who prefer a private, tailored experience over large group excursions.

The Sum Up: A well-rounded, engaging day in Kusadasi

This private Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, and St. John Basilica tour provides an efficient and enriching way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic sites. Its skip-the-line tickets, comfortable transport, and delicious lunch make it a practical choice for visitors who value ease and authenticity.

The knowledgeable guide enhances the experience with insightful commentary, while the flexibility in timing allows for a personalized visit. The inclusion of notable sites like the Temple of Artemis and optional Terrace Houses adds depth for those with extra interest.

While it’s a full day that involves moderate walking and some standing, the overall experience is both educational and enjoyable. Suitable for history enthusiasts, religious pilgrims, and anyone looking for a well-curated, private day tour in Kusadasi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel or port pickup is included and arranged in advance.

How long does the tour typically last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 9 hours, depending on pace and stops.

Are entrance fees included?
The guide has pre-paid tickets for major sites like Ephesus to skip lines. Entrance fees for Virgin Mary House and St. John Basilica are not included.

Can I add the Terrace Houses to my tour?
Yes, the Terrace Houses can be added as an optional stop for about 45 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Absolutely, as it offers guaranteed on-time return and pickup at the cruise port.

What does the Turkish lunch include?
The lunch features authentic homemade Turkish dishes served at a local restaurant.

What should I wear for the ruins?
Comfortable, supportive footwear is recommended due to uneven surfaces and walking.

Can I request a Bible-oriented guide?
Yes, a Bible-oriented guide can be arranged without extra charge if requested at booking.