Private Tour to House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus with Selcuk Museum

Discover the Private Ephesus and Virgin Mary Tour at $113.74 per Person

This private tour offers an in-depth exploration of Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most captivating archaeological sites, along with visits to the House of Virgin Mary and the Selcuk Museum. Priced at $113.74 per person, the tour spans approximately 7 to 15 hours and includes round-trip flights between Istanbul and Izmir for those departing from Istanbul. The experience is tailored for those who want a personal guide and flexible schedule, with the chance to skip long lines thanks to pre-booked tickets.

A standout feature is the professional guide who explains the history and significance of each location in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. The tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and exploring outdoor ruins. While the admission fees for the Ephesus Ancient City and the Virgin Mary House are not included, the overall package offers good value with private transportation and lunch at a local restaurant. This tour is ideal for those interested in history, archaeology, and authentic cultural experiences.

Key Points

• Private guided experience with expert explanations in multiple languages
• Includes flights from Istanbul to Izmir for the Istanbul departure option
• Visit Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its historical importance
• Explore the House of Virgin Mary, a significant religious site with beautiful surroundings
• Skip long lines with pre-booked tickets for major attractions
• Flexible schedule ranging from 7 to 15 hours, with optional group discounts

Starting in Istanbul with Flight Included

This tour begins in Istanbul, where a driver picks you up from your hotel or Airbnb and transfers you to the airport for your flight to Izmir. The round-trip flight tickets are included only if you select the from-to Istanbul Hotels option, making it a convenient start for visitors based in Istanbul. Once in Izmir, the private guide meets the group, ready to begin an engaging day of exploration.

For those departing from Kusadasi or Bodrum, the tour offers seamless transfers from cruise ports or hotels, with respective stops at Kusadasi Cruise Port or Bodrum City. These options include shorter durations—around 30 minutes in Kusadasi and 2 hours in Bodrum—focused on transportation and orientation before heading to Ephesus.

Exploring the Ruins of Ephesus

The highlight of this tour is the Ancient City of Ephesus, a site once vital as a harbor city in antiquity. The guide leads visitors through iconic ruins, including the Celsus Library and the ancient theater. The admission fee of $40 per person is not included, but pre-booked tickets allow for quick entry, avoiding long queues.

Visitors can expect to spend about 1 hour 45 minutes at the site, with plenty of time to appreciate the grandeur of the ruins and learn about their historical roles. The site’s significance is amplified by its mention in the Book of Revelations as one of the seven churches.

Visiting the Ephesus Experience Museum

After experiencing the ruins, the tour includes a visit to the Ephesus Experience Museum, which offers a modern take on ancient history. In 20 minutes, guests are transported back in time through innovative exhibits and multimedia displays that bring the past to life. Admission to this museum is free, making it a worthwhile addition to the day’s activities.

Walkthrough of the Terrace Houses

The tour involves a walk past the Terrace Houses of Ephesus, with the guide providing insights into the homes of the wealthy residents of ancient Ephesus. Although there is no direct visit inside the Terrace Houses during this guided experience, the guide shares details about their architecture and the lives of their inhabitants.

The Significance of Meryemana (House of Virgin Mary)

A key highlight is the visit to Meryemana, believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Set amidst beautiful scenery, the site offers a peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance. The 45-minute visit includes insights into its history and surroundings. Entrance to the House of Virgin Mary requires an admission fee of $11 per person, which is not included in the tour price.

Lunch and Local Crafts in Selcuk

Midway through the day, the tour pauses at a traditional Turkish restaurant in Selcuk for a delicious lunch. Afterward, participants can explore a handcraft co-operative, where they learn about local arts and crafts. This one-hour stop provides cultural insight and a chance to appreciate regional traditions, with free admission to the craft experience.

Visiting the Ephesus Museum in Selcuk

Post-lunch, visitors stop at the Ephesus Museum, a well-organized venue that displays artifacts from ongoing excavations at Ephesus, as well as items from other nearby sites like the Cukurici Mound and St. John’s Basilica. The museum visit lasts 45 minutes, with an admission fee of $10 per person, which is not included in the tour fee.

End of the Day and Return to Istanbul

After a full day of exploring, the tour wraps up with a pass by the Ephesus archaeological site to view the ruins from a distance. The group then departs for the return transfer to Izmir Airport, where a driver takes guests back to their hotel in Istanbul if that option was selected. The 1-hour transfer concludes a comprehensive day of discovery.

Practical Details and Booking Information

This tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking through outdoor sites and some uneven terrain. The entire experience includes fully air-conditioned, non-smoking private transportation for comfortable travel between stops. Group discounts are available, and the tour can be customized to suit specific interests or preferences.

Booking generally requires a minimum of two people, and the confirmation is immediate. Travelers should advise of any dietary restrictions, with vegetarian options available upon request. For cruise port departures, the operator requests ship details and docking times to coordinate transfers smoothly.

Why Choose This Tour?

The private nature of this tour provides a more personalized experience, guided by a licensed professional who shares detailed insights about each site. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets saves valuable time, especially in the busy summer months. The option to fly from Istanbul makes this a practical and efficient way to see Ephesus and the Virgin Mary site in a single day.

While the admission fees are extra, the overall cost offers good value given the guided tours, transportation, and lunch included. This experience works well for history enthusiasts, groups, or travelers seeking a comfortable, flexible, and informative day exploring Turkey’s ancient highlights.

Visiting Ephesus and Its Surroundings — A Memorable Journey

This tour combines history, culture, and religion into one comprehensive package. The expert guides make the ruins come alive with stories about Roman architecture and early Christian history. The scenic setting of Meryemana and the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus make it a compelling choice for anyone interested in archaeology or religious heritage.

The flexible schedule and private transportation ensure a relaxed experience, avoiding the crowds and rush often associated with large group tours. The cultural stops in Selcuk add a layer of local authenticity, making each part of the day meaningful and engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the flight from Istanbul to Izmir included?
Yes, if you select the from-to Istanbul Hotels option, the tour includes round-trip flight tickets between Istanbul and Izmir.

Are admission fees included?
No, the admission fees for Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, and the Archaeological Museum are not included and payable separately.

How long does the entire tour last?
The duration varies between 7 and 15 hours, depending on the selected options and pace of the group.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness due to walking and outdoor exploration, so it’s most suitable for teenagers and adults.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, this is a private tour, allowing for some customization based on preferences or specific interests.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 38 days in advance, and early booking helps secure the best times and prices.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and any personal essentials. Optional vegetarian meals can be arranged if specified during booking.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund available if canceled in time.

How do I find my guide at each stop?
The guide will meet you at designated points, such as hotel receptions or cruise port exits, and will be holding identifiable signs or wearing recognizable attire.

This private Ephesus and Virgin Mary tour offers a balanced mix of historical insight, cultural exploration, and comfort, making it a valuable choice for those wanting an intimate and well-organized experience of Turkey’s archaeological treasures.