Private & Group: Ephesus, Mary’s House WITH ENTRY TICKETS + LUNCH

Discover the Perfect Day Trip to Ephesus and Mary’s House in Kusadasi

This full-day tour offers a detailed exploration of Ephesus Archaeological Site and Mary’s House, starting from Kusadasi Port. Priced at $55 per person, it provides a balance of culture, historical insight, and local flavor, making it ideal for cruise passengers and visitors short on time. The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, with pickup and drop-off included to ease logistics.

What truly sets this tour apart is its private and group options—with tickets included in the guided experience. The expert guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, ensuring that every site is explained clearly and engagingly. The tour also features a delicious local lunch and visits to significant landmarks, including the Temple of Artemis and St. John’s Basilica. With reviews rating it a perfect 5.0, this experience combines convenience, education, and local charm for a memorable day.

Key Points

• Flexible tour options: Private or group tours tailored for cruise guests.
• All-inclusive pricing: Entry tickets, professional guides, and lunch included.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup and drop-off from Kusadasi Port guarantee stress-free planning.
• In-depth highlights: Visit Ephesus’ well-preserved ruins, the House of Mary, and Temple of Artemis.
• Expert guides: Tours led by knowledgeable, engaging local guides praised for their storytelling.
• Pacing and crowd management: Guides adjust schedules to avoid crowds, enhancing the experience.

Starting from Kusadasi Port with Seamless Pickup

This tour begins with a pickup at Kusadasi Cruise Port, making it an effortless choice for cruise travelers. The guided journey is designed to maximize sightseeing within a flexible 4 to 6-hour window. The pickup is scheduled based on your ship’s arrival time, ensuring punctuality and a smooth start.

Once picked up, travelers are transported comfortably to the various sites, with local taxes and parking fees already covered. The small group size (up to 10-12 people) allows for personalized attention, while private options offer even more flexibility for your party. The guaranteed on-time return ensures peace of mind for cruise schedules.

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Ephesus Archaeological Site

The highlight of the tour is the Ancient City of Ephesus, considered the best-preserved classical city in the Eastern Mediterranean. In its prime during the 1st century AD, Ephesus was a thriving commercial hub, second only to Rome with over 250,000 citizens. The city’s large harbor, trade significance, and connection to notable figures like Mark Antony and Cleopatra make it a compelling visit.

Visitors walk among imposing monuments such as the Celsus Library, the Great Theater, and the Roman Theatre, which is the largest on the Asian continent. The well-preserved streets evoke a sense of stepping back in time, with many ruins accessible for exploration. The admission tickets are included, allowing for skipping lines and focusing on the experience.

Visiting Mary’s House: A Sacred Stop 6km from Ephesus

The tour includes a visit to Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House), declared the final residence of Mary by the church. Located 6 km north of Ephesus, the built church dates back to the 6th century AD, with foundations from the 1st century. This site provides a tranquil atmosphere, and the admission is included in the tour.

Here, visitors can reflect in a site considered sacred by many, with the opportunity to see the small church built over the house, along with surrounding gardens. The peaceful setting contrasts with the bustling ruins of Ephesus, offering a moment of spiritual connection and historical curiosity.

Visiting the Basilica of St. John and the House of Mary

A short drive from Ephesus takes visitors to the Basilica of St. John, reconstructed in the 6th century AD by Emperor Justinian. The impressive ruins of this basilica sit atop a large plateau and are noteworthy for their large columns and historical significance.

Nearby, the House of Mary offers a peaceful retreat. Situated below a Turkish castle and above the Temple of Artemis, the site is a serene and less crowded location, especially in December. The tour guide highlights the various historical layers of these ruins, making the visit both informative and reflective.

Lunch at a Handicraft Carpet Demonstration Village

The tour includes a 45-minute lunch break at a local restaurant in a handicraft carpet demonstration village in Selcuk. The meal features traditional Turkish cuisine, praised for its freshness and authenticity. During lunch, visitors can also explore local carpet weaving demonstrations, learning about Turkish rug-making techniques.

Guests have the option to observe or test the craftsmanship firsthand, making this stop both a culinary and cultural experience. The free admission to the village complements the overall value of the tour.

Visiting the Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders

The Temple of Artemis, located just 3 km from Ephesus, is one of the most famous landmarks on the tour. Known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it once featured 127 Ionic columns standing 19 meters high. Though only ruins remain today, the site’s historic importance as a pilgrimage site and bank of the ancient world remains clear.

The 30-minute visit allows for photos and a glimpse into ancient religious practices. The admission is free, and the guide shares stories about the temple’s grandeur and its role in antiquity.

Flexibility and Personalization of the Tour

Both group and private options are available, with tickets included or excluded based on your preference. Private tours are tailored to your interests, allowing extra time at favorite sites or adding visits if time permits.

Guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and ability to adapt—ensuring a comfortable pace for all participants. The small-group setup fosters a more personalized experience, while the private option guarantees exclusivity.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Accessibility

The tour is booked on average 66 days in advance, indicating solid interest and availability. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with full refunds, provides peace of mind. The tour provider, Tour Altinkum Travel, offers easy contact options for inquiries and support.

Suitable for most travelers, the tour is accessible, with pickup from public transportation nearby. Kids 8 years and below enter free with a passport, making this experience family-friendly.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Journey Through History and Culture

This $55 tour delivers a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s most iconic sites—Ephesus, Mary’s House, and the Temple of Artemis—with the convenience of all tickets, lunch, and transportation included. The positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, smooth logistics, and delicious local cuisine.

While the tour’s duration limits in-depth exploration of some sites, the personalized approach and crowd-avoidance strategies ensure a quality experience. It suits those seeking an educational, comfortable, and efficient way to explore ancient wonders during a cruise or short visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 8 years and below enter free with a passport. The tour is designed to be family-friendly, with engaging guides and manageable pacing.

Are tickets included in the tour price?
It depends on the option chosen. The standard ticket option includes tickets, while the without ticket option excludes them.

Does the tour start at Kusadasi Port?
Yes, pickup occurs at Kusadasi Cruise Port, with timings adjusted based on your ship’s arrival.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on the pace and additional time at sites.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, private tours can be tailored to your interests, with extra sites added if time permits.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is included at a local restaurant in Selcuk.

What sites are visited on the tour?
You visit Ephesus, Mary’s House, St. John’s Basilica, the Temple of Artemis, and enjoy a lunch stop in Selcuk.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, with comfortable transportation arranged for your group.

What is the booking process?
Bookings can be made in advance—most often 66 days ahead—and the tour is fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Are guides knowledgeable about the sites?
Absolutely; guides are highly praised for their expertise, storytelling skills, and ability to adapt to guest interests.