Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus. Visit the terrace houses, the House of the Virgin Mary, St. John’s Basilica, and other sites. Experience the world’s most spectacular open-air museum on a guided tour from Kusadasi or Izmir.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 7.5 hours
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- Spanish, English, Italian, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Russian
- Pickup included
- Pick-up is available at the port, airport, or your hotel. Please indicate your preference when booking.
Experience
Highlights
- Visit Ephesus, one of the world’s most spectacular open-air museums
- Learn about the history of the ancient city and explore the ruins
- See the terrace houses of the rich, the House of Virgin Mary, and St. John’s Basilica
Full description
You’ll meet your professional guide and head out on the drive to Ephesus-Selcuk. Ephesus is considered one of the most spectacular open-air museums in the world, and certainly a highlight of any visit to Turkey.
During this guided full-day tour, the ancient city will come alive as you walk through the 2,000-year-old marble streets. Admire the Library of Celsius, Hadrian's Temple, the Fountains of Trajan, the temples of Hadrian and Domitian, and more. See the great theater that had a seating capacity of 24,000 spectators.
Visit the terrace houses, located on the slopes of Bulbul Mountain, opposite the Hadrian Temple. The terrace houses were residences of the wealthy, and featured beautiful frescoes and mosaics in their interiors.
After visiting the Ephesus ruins, you’ll continue on to the House of the Virgin Mary. The Vatican has recognized this small house in the Solmissos Mountains as the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. A small shrine dedicated to St. Mary was found when the ruins of the house were first discovered.
Your final visit will be to the Basilica of St. John, built by the Emperor Justinian over the tomb of St. John the Apostle. The basilica, now in ruins, once rivaled St. Sophia in Istanbul in size.
Includes
- Licensed professional guide in English or other preferred language
- Air-conditioned luxury vehicle with professional driver
- Pick-up and drop off service
- Entrance fees to museums and sites according to the description
- Items of a personal nature
- Any items not specifically mentioned as included
- Gratuities for guide and driver
Not suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Important information
What to bring
- Passport or ID card
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
Know before you go
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and you should bring a sunhat and a camera.
