Epic Ephesus Artemis Temple House of Mary Half Day Private Tour

Show all photos
4 to 5 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

This tour goes beyond standard sightseeing by offering a deeper, more engaging experience of Ephesus and its sacred surroundings. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you won’t just see ancient sites—you’ll hear the stories, legends, and historical context that bring them to life.

Unlike large, rushed group tours, this experience is thoughtfully paced, allowing you time to truly explore, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere at each stop. The itinerary combines history, culture, and spirituality, visiting iconic landmarks such as Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Temple of Artemis in one seamless journey. A typical Turkish lunch is also included ( only drinks are not included) at the Turkish carpet production center where the carpet art can be seen and experienced.

With personalized attention, clear explanations, and a focus on meaningful experiences rather than crowds, this tour offers a memorable way to discover one of Turkey’s most important historical regions.

What's Included

Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guiding
Insurance
Parking Fees
Entrance Fee of Ephesus (to be paid onsite)
Entrance Fee of House of Virgin Mary (to be paid onsite)
Soft and alcoholic drinks at lunch are extra
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

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

***Reservations from ONLY CRUISE PASSENGERS are accepted. Your guide will meet you at Kusadasi cruise port with a sign writing your name on.

Itinerary

Duration: 4 to 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Ancient City of Ephesus

    After booking this tour, you will step back in time and explore one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world: Ephesus. Walking through its marble streets, you’ll discover the impressive remains of a city that was once a major center of trade, culture, and religion in the Roman era. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, one of the most iconic structures of Ephesus, the Great Theater, where thousands once gathered for performances, and the Temple of Hadrian, showcasing beautifully detailed reliefs. You’ll also see ancient baths, fountains, and homes that offer insight into daily life in antiquity. As you explore the site, your guide will share fascinating stories about the city’s history, architecture, and the people who once lived here. There will be time to take photos and fully absorb the atmosphere of this remarkable archaeological site. By the end of the visit, you’ll have unforgettable memories from walking through the timeless ruins of Ephesus.

    2 hours • Admission ticket not included
  • 2
    Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)

    You will also visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful and sacred site located on Mount Koressos near Ephesus. Believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary, this important pilgrimage destination attracts visitors from around the world. During your visit, you’ll explore the modest stone house that has become a place of prayer and reflection. You’ll have time to light a candle, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and learn about the site’s religious and historical significance from your guide. Outside the house, you can visit the wishing wall, where visitors leave written prayers and wishes, and drink from the holy water fountain. Surrounded by nature and serenity, this visit offers a meaningful and spiritual experience, whether you come for religious reasons or cultural interest. By the end of the visit, you’ll leave with a sense of peace and a deeper understanding of the site’s importance in Christian history.

    1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 3
    The Temple of Artemis

    After booking this tour, travelers will visit the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Located near the ancient city of Ephesus, this site offers insight into the religious and cultural importance of the region in antiquity. Although only a few remains stand today, your guide will help bring the temple’s history to life, explaining its original grandeur, architectural features, and its role as a major center of worship dedicated to the goddess Artemis. You’ll learn how the temple was built, destroyed, and rebuilt several times over the centuries. During the visit, you’ll have time to walk around the site, take photos, and imagine the scale of what was once one of the largest temples of the ancient world. This stop provides a meaningful historical perspective and completes the story of ancient Ephesus. By the end of the visit, you’ll have a greater understanding of why the Temple of Artemis was considered one of antiquity’s greatest achievements.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Shore of Legend

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Archaeology Tours
Shore Excursions
Additional fees
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

Show more

from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}
Book Now