Small Group Ephesus and Sirince Day Tour from Kusadasi/Selcuk

Discover Ephesus and Sirince in a Small-Group Setting from Kusadasi

This Small Group Ephesus and Sirince Day Tour offers a comprehensive journey through some of Turkey’s most iconic sites, all for $117.50 per person. Departing from Kusadasi or Selçuk, the tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, with a maximum of 14 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. With pickup and drop-off at your hotel included, and group discounts available, it’s an accessible choice for those eager to explore without the hassle of self-navigation.

The tour is especially well-suited for those interested in history, religion, and local culture. It provides a seamless blend of ancient ruins, religious sites, and traditional village charm, complemented by a delicious Turkish-style lunch and wine tasting. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and a well-paced itinerary, making it a reliable option for a day trip around Ephesus.

Key Points

• Small-group experience capped at 14 travelers for personalized attention
• Includes all entrance fees, lunch, and transportation
• Visits to Virgin Mary’s House, Ephesus ruins, and Artemis Temple
• Optional tour of Terrace Houses for an extra fee
• Wine tasting and free time in Sirince village
• Ideal for history buffs and cultural explorers

Pickup and Transportation from Kusadasi or Selçuk

The tour begins with convenient pickup at your hotel, thanks to the transport included in the package. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride between sites, with parking fees covered. This setup relieves the stress of planning logistics and allows you to focus on the sights.

Travelers often appreciate the seamless transfers and the intimate size of the group, which enhances the overall experience. The maximum of 14 participants means fewer crowds and more opportunities to ask questions and interact with the guide.

Visiting Meryemana: House of the Virgin Mary

The first stop is Meryemana, the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be where Mary may have spent her final days. Officially declared a shrine of the Roman Catholic Church in 1986, this site attracts many pilgrims. Your admission ticket covers a 45-minute visit, during which you can explore the small church and serene surroundings.

Historically significant, the site was visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal beginning to the day, setting a reflective tone before heading into the bustling ruins of Ephesus.

Exploring the Ancient City of Ephesus

The main highlight of the tour, the Ephesus ruins, covers an area rich in history from the Hellenistic, Roman Imperial, and early Christian periods. You’ll walk along marble streets and see key monuments like the Odeon, State Agora, Prytaneion, and the Celsus Library—a sight that impresses even seasoned travelers.

The guide leads you through notable sites such as the Hercules Gate, Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre. An optional visit to the Terrace Houses can be added for an extra 25 per person, providing a glimpse into the homes of ancient elites. This optional tour requires prior notice, and it’s a worthwhile addition for those interested in ancient architecture.

Your exploration continues through the Marble Road, Commercial Agora, and the Harbor Road (Arcadiane), showcasing the city’s bustling life during its peak.

The Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders

Next, the group visits the Temple of Artemis, famed for being one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While only a few ruins remain today, the site offers excellent photo opportunities of the Church of St. John and Mosque of Şa Bey from different vantage points.

A 30-minute stop allows time to appreciate this iconic monument’s historical significance and snap photos from optimal angles, capturing the site’s majesty despite its partial remains.

Strolling Through Sirince Village

Following the archaeological sightseeing, the tour ventures to Sirince, a hilltop village about 7 km from Ephesus. Once inhabited by Byzantine Greeks, Sirince is now a Turkish village renowned for its traditional houses and fruit-flavored wines.

You’ll have approximately 2 hours to explore the charming streets, admire centuries-old architecture, and enjoy a free wine tasting. The village’s relaxed pace offers a chance to soak up local culture and perhaps pick up a bottle or two as a souvenir.

Lunch with Turkish Cuisine and Local Wine Tasting

A highlight of the tour is the Turkish-style lunch, included in the price. The meal features authentic dishes, providing a taste of the region’s culinary traditions. Afterward, during the visit to Sirince, you can indulge in local wine tasting, a popular activity that complements the village’s reputation for fruit wines.

This combination of food and drink helps round out the day, offering a flavorful break and a chance to appreciate local craftsmanship.

Tour Inclusions and Practical Details

The tour package includes all entrance fees, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional English-speaking guide. The group size is deliberately kept small, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

Parkings fees, lunch, and entrance tickets are covered, but visitors should plan for personal expenses such as additional drinks or souvenirs. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join, though physical mobility should be considered for walking on uneven ancient streets.

The Experience of the Guide: Knowledge and Engagement

Multiple reviews praise the guide Nizam (or Nazim) for being very knowledgeable, personable, and entertaining. His storytelling style and timing help keep the group engaged, even during busy or hot days. Guests appreciate how he keeps the group ahead of cruise ship visitors and out of the midday sun.

This attentive guiding style, combined with the small group size, ensures that participants can ask questions and enjoy a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation Policy

At $117.50 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering all included activities and transportation. Most bookings are made about 31 days in advance, indicating a popular choice among travelers.

The free cancellation policy allows canceling up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of unforeseen changes.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This small-group tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, religious pilgrims, and those seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive day trip. The personalized guide and well-paced schedule suit travelers who prefer avoiding large crowds and want to learn about each site in depth.

The wine tasting in Sirince and the optional Terrace Houses visit add a layer of culture that appeals to those wanting more than just ruins.

Final Thoughts on the Small Group Ephesus and Sirince Day Tour

This tour from Kusadasi or Selçuk offers balanced exploration of ancient and modern Turkey. With all logistics taken care of, you can focus on absorbing Ephesus’s grandeur, experiencing local village life, and enjoying authentic Turkish cuisine.

While the price may seem modest, the small group size, knowledgeable guide, and carefully curated itinerary make it a reliable and enriching choice. The tour is particularly suited for those who value personal interaction and authentic experiences over generic group sightseeing.

If you’re interested in history, archaeology, or wine, and prefer a small-group atmosphere, this tour will meet your expectations while offering a comfortable, informative day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and English-speaking guide are included in the $117.50 fee.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes approximately 7 to 8 hours.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider walking on uneven ancient sites.

Can I visit the Terrace Houses?
Yes, the Terrace Houses can be visited as an optional add-on for extra 25 per person.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made about a month in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your Selçuk or Kusadasi hotel are part of the package.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are drinks or souvenirs included?
No, personal expenses such as additional drinks and souvenirs are not covered.

How knowledgeable is the guide?
Reviews consistently praise the guide for being friendly, informative, and engaging, especially in storytelling.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, travelers have free time in Sirince to explore and taste local wines.

Can I customize the tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but the optional Terrace Houses visit can be scheduled with prior notice.