Private Ephesus Tour with Cruise Ship Return Guarantee

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4 to 6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: German and 5 more

Step into history on this private Ephesus tour with your own licensed local guide. Explore the awe-inspiring ruins of the UNESCO-listed Ancient City, where marble streets, temples, and the grand theater reveal the legacy of Rome and Greece. Visit the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary and imagine ancient rituals at the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

This exclusive experience gives you full flexibility. Choose to visit the beautifully preserved Terrace Houses or enjoy an authentic Turkish lunch. With skip-the-line access, a private air-conditioned vehicle, and seamless port pickup and return, this is a hassle-free day of discovery.

Ideal for travelers who love history, archaeology, and personalized travel. Let the past come alive as your guide shares stories and secrets of one of the world’s greatest ancient cities.

What's Included

Port pickup and drop-off.
Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide.
Comfortable private vehicle with air conditioning and personal driver.
All Taxes & All Parking fees.
Entrance fees. (We will arrange tickets of Ephesus in advance, so you will skip long ticket lines)
Personal expenses.
Tips and gratuities. (optional)

Meeting and pickup

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

Meeting and Return Details: We recommend cruise guests meet us at the port approximately 30 minutes after docking. This gives you the advantage of starting early, avoiding crowds, school groups, and the afternoon heat—making for a more relaxed and rewarding visit to Ephesus. We guarantee a safe and on-time return to your cruise ship. Why Choose a Private Tour Over a Group Tour: This might be your one and only visit to Ephesus—make it count with a tour built around you. In large group tours, delays from others (like someone feeling unwell or falling behind) can disrupt the entire experience. With a private tour, you control the pace and the plan. Start when you like, see what truly interests you, and spend your time where it matters most. Group tours often skip fascinating details that guides can't share with a large crowd. Private tours allow for deeper storytelling and personal engagement. No waiting on slow walkers or large groups taking endless photos. Struggling to hear your guide or keep up? In a group, that’s your problem. In a private tour, you’re never left behind. Your guide will handle tickets and logistics—no waiting in long lines. You travel in comfort with your own Mercedes vehicle and a licensed expert local guide. No sharing, no stress. Just you and the history of Ephesus.

Itinerary

Duration: 4 to 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Kuşadası Port Türkiye

    Kusadasi Port Tours: Port Tours will meet you at cruise port

    15 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Ephesus Terrace Houses

    Timeless Roman Residences: Step into the private world of Ephesus' upper class. The Terrace Houses reveal stunning mosaics, intricate frescoes, and rare examples of Roman interior design. This remarkably preserved site offers a rare glimpse into daily life, wealth, and aesthetics in ancient Anatolia. (Optional visit with additional entry fee)

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 3
    Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)

    Legacy of the Virgin Mary: Located in the tranquil hills near Ephesus, this sacred site is believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final years. Honored by multiple Popes, the house is a revered pilgrimage destination for Christians around the world. Visitors can see papal gifts and experience the site's spiritual atmosphere. Entry ticket is not included and must be paid on the day of the visit.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 4
    Ancient City of Ephesus

    Legendary Ruins of Ephesus: Walk through one of the world’s best-preserved Greco-Roman cities. Discover monumental structures like the grand Odeon, the Temple of Domitian, the Celcus Library, and the 24,000-seat Great Theater where St. Paul once spoke. Explore Roman baths, fountains, the agora, public latrines, and traces of daily life in this once-flourishing metropolis.

    2 hours • Admission ticket not included
  • 5
    The Temple of Artemis

    Glory of Artemis: Visit the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Once the grand sanctuary of the goddess Artemis, this legendary temple stood as a symbol of devotion, power, and architecture. Though only ruins remain, its scale and history still captivate every traveler who walks its sacred grounds.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • Kusadasi Castle (Pass by)

    Kusadasi Castle: Kusadasi Castle, as called Pigeon Island, is located next to port. You can see from your boat or do your own after the tour.

    Admission ticket free
  • Kusadasi Shopping Center (Pass by)

    Explore Kusadasi Markets: After the tour, enjoy free time near the port to explore Kusadasi’s local shopping center, just a short walk away. Your guide will highlight the best spots for authentic handicrafts and souvenirs. A perfect way to wrap up your day with local charm and culture.

    Admission ticket free
  • Okuz Mehmet Pasa KervansarayI (Pass by)

    Caravanserai Sightseeing: We will drive past the historic Okuz Mehmet Pasa Caravanserai, just a short walk from the port. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore the area on your own if you wish.

    Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Kuşadası Port Türkiye

    Finish Your Journey Here: Kusadasi is the charming town where your ship docks. From here, your adventure to ancient wonders begins.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Goodman Tours

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Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Archaeology Tours
DSA non-compliant
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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