Private Ephesus Day Tour from Cesme Port/Hotels

9 to 10 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

The Ephesus Heritage Tour is more than a historical exploration; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of ancient civilizations. From uncovering the secrets of Ephesus Ancient City to paying homage at the House of the Virgin Mary and marveling at the Temple of Artemis, this tour offers a profound connection to Turkey’s rich heritage.

Ephesus Ancient City: Begin your journey in what was once the Roman Empire’s second-largest city. Walk its ancient streets, marvel at landmarks like the Celsus Library and Great Theater, and experience the grandeur of a city that shaped history.

Temple of Artemis: Discover the remnants of this Seven Wonders of the Ancient World site, a testament to architectural brilliance and cultural significance.

House of the Virgin Mary: End your journey in this serene and sacred site, believed to be where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final days, offering spiritual inspiration and reflection.

What's Included

LUNCH IN THE COUNTRYSIDE, Enjoy a peaceful meal with authentic flavors in a serene rural setting.
TO SKIP TICKET LINES, ask your guide to arrange tickets; pay the fee in cash to your guide.
GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN, ensuring cruise passengers return on time for their departure schedule.
PARKING FEES, all parking fees are included in the tour price, for your convenience
PROFESSIONAL, LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE, Authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture
PRIVATE TOUR, ensures a more personalized and exclusive experience tailored to your preferences
PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION, travel with separate driver in an air-conditioned, non-smoking van.
CRUISE PORT / HOTEL PICK-UP & DROP-OFF, convenient service as detailed in the itinerary.
Gratuities for the guide and the driver
Personal Expenses
Entrance Fees to the Museums and any Sites
Beverages During Lunch
Ephesus
House of Virgin Mary

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

MEETING POINT: Cesme Cruise Terminal for cruise passengers and hotel lobbies for hotel guests. ---------------------------------- Please note that this tour lasts approximately 11 hours, and while we plan meticulously, potential delays due to traffic or other unforeseen issues may occur. BY BOOKING THIS TOUR, CRUISE PASSENGERS, ACKNOWLEDGE AND ACCEPT THESE RISKS AND CONSENT TO POSSIBLE DELAYS. ---------------------------------- for Hotel Clients there is no such a risk. ---------------------------------- EXLUSIVE PRIVATE TOUR FOR YOUR PARTY ONLY - NO SHARING WITH OTHER GROUPS! ---------------------------------- Enjoy a personalized journey tailored to your party. Want to make it even more enjoyable? Invite friends or cruise travelers to join and explore together on your terms with flexibility and comfort. ---------------------------------- FOR CRUISE GUEST! ---------------------------------- We highly recommend meeting at the port approximately 30 minutes after your ship docks to avoid crowds, and the afternoon heat. Meeting early ensures a more enjoyable and relaxed tour. ---------------------------------- ADVANTAGES OF PRIVATE TOURS OVER GROUP OR BUS TOURS ---------------------------------- A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPURTUNITY: Your visit to site may be a unique experience. A private tour allows you to make the most of it with a personalized itinerary. ---------------------------------- FLEXIBLE AND PERSONALIZED SCHEDULE: Unlike group tours, this tourv give you full control over what to see, when to start, and when to conclude. You set the pace, ensuring a tour tailored to your interests. ---------------------------------- DEDICATED ATTENTION: In this tour, the guide focuses entirely on you and your group, ensuring you don’t miss any fascinating details or key highlights. ---------------------------------- NO WAITING OR DELAYS: You won’t have to wait for large groups to gather or stop for unforeseen situations. this tour keep the experience seamless and efficient. ---------------------------------- EXCLUSIVE COMFORT: Enjoy your own Van and expert local tour guide without the need to share with groups. ---------------------------------- HASSLE-FREE EXPERIENCE: Your guide will handle tickets and entry arrangements (if any), saving you time and effort while you focus on enjoying the ruins and museums. ---------------------------------- OPTIMAL LEARNING AND INTERACTION: this tour provide better opportunities to ask questions, hear the guide clearly, and engage deeply with the history and culture of the site.

Itinerary

Duration: 9 to 10 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Visit to Ephesus Travel Agency will warmly welcome cruise passengers at the port's main exit gate, holding a sign with your name and Hotel's lobby for hotel Guest. After booking your tour, please contact our team to confirm and arrange your meeting time by providing your cruise ship name and arrival & on-board times. This information will help us suggest the best timing for your tour. If you encounter any difficulties finding a suitable time option, we will gladly assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)

    Nestled near Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary is a revered pilgrimage destination, believed to be the place where Mary spent her final days before being assumed into heaven. According to Christian tradition, Apostle John brought Mary to Ephesus after the Resurrection of Christ, seeking refuge following the martyrdom of James and other apostles. The church, built on the foundation of Mary’s house, has gained global recognition through visits by three popes: Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006. Their symbolic gifts, preserved at the shrine, underscore its spiritual significance and authenticity. This tranquil and deeply spiritual site offers a profound connection to Christian history and faith, inspiring pilgrims and visitors from around the world. Its serene atmosphere and rich heritage make it an essential stop for those exploring Turkey’s biblical landmarks.

    45 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 3
    The Temple of Artemis

    The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stood as a magnificent tribute to Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt and moon. Constructed around 650 BC on a site sacred to Cybele, the Anatolian Mother Goddess, it was financed by King of Lydia and skillfully engineered on marshy ground to withstand earthquakes, showcasing ancient architectural innovation. The temple bore witness to significant historical events, including the murder of Arsinoe IV, Cleopatra’s sister, in 41 BC under the orders of Mark Antony. While only columns and ruins remain today, the legacy of this monumental structure rivals the grandeur of the Parthenon, reflecting its former glory and cultural significance. Visitors to the site can explore its remnants and connect with the rich history of ancient Ephesus, a testament to the artistic and religious achievements of antiquity.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Anadolu Rug

    Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local weaving school, immersing yourself in Turkey’s rich carpet-making tradition. Renowned for their intricate designs and unmatched craftsmanship, Turkish carpets are more than decorative—they are timeless works of art and valuable investments that appreciate over time. During your visit, witness the artistry of skilled local weavers as they demonstrate ancient techniques, creating stunning patterns that have been passed down through generations. This unique experience offers a profound connection to Turkey’s cultural heritage, blending history, tradition, and artistry in an unforgettable setting.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Ancient City of Ephesus

    Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, offers a remarkable glimpse into ancient history. Dating back to the Greek and Roman eras, its streets, still marked by chariot wheels, connect visitors to an array of impressive structures. Marvel at the Great Theater, a colossal venue seating over 20,000 people, where gladiatorial battles once enthralled audiences. Visit the Public Agora, where St. Paul preached, and explore its history as a bustling trade hub for Anatolian handicrafts, famed for their exceptional quality. Stroll along Marble Street to the iconic Celsus Library, the third-largest library of the ancient world, celebrated for its beautifully restored façade. Discover architectural marvels like the Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain, Domitian Temple, and the Odeon, a venue for musical performances. Ephesus embodies the innovation, cultural richness, and grandeur of ancient civilizations, making it a must-visit destination in Turkey.

    2 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 6
    Selcuk

    At the end of your tour, rest assured that we will guarantee your timely return to Cesme Cruise Port, well before your ship’s scheduled departure. With multiple cruise ships docking and departing at various times, we carefully monitor all schedules, confirm details with our guests, and coordinate return timings for a smooth and stress-free experience. If the tour cannot fit within your cruise schedule, we will inform you in advance. During your tour, enjoy a curated journey exploring must-see attractions and uncovering the best of traditional Turkish handicrafts. With expert guidance from your local guide, gain valuable insights, safety advice, and personalized tips to make the most of your visit. Discover exquisite handmade treasures, while immersing yourself in the cultural richness of the region. Our tours promise a seamless experience, allowing you to explore with confidence and peace of mind. We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable adventures!

    15 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Optimize Your Cruise Tour Experience – Meet Your Guide at the Perfect Time! For CRUISE GUEST, we recommend meeting your guide at the port promptly for a seamless and enjoyable tour. If your ship arrives before 7:00 AM, plan to meet at 7:30 AM. For later arrivals, aim to meet 30–45 minutes after docking. This ideal timing helps you avoid crowds from other cruise ships, escape the midday heat, and enjoy your tour comfortably, as much of it takes place in open areas. Start your Tour stress-free and make the most of your visit!
  • After booking your tour, please contact our team to confirm and arrange your meeting time by providing your cruise ship name and arrival & on-board times. This information will help us suggest the best timing for your tour. If you encounter any difficulties finding a suitable time option, we will gladly assist you to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Supplied by Guide of Ephesus

Tags

Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Shore Excursions
Additional fees
New Product
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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