Ephesus Day Tour with Terrace Houses and House of Virgin Mary
Description
⭐ Explore Ephesus Ancient City, including the spectacular Terrace Houses ⭐ Step into history at the immersive Ephesus Experience Museum ⭐ Visit the House of the Virgin Mary with entrance fees and lunch included Discover the highlights of Ephesus on a carefully designed full-day experience that combines the ancient city’s legendary ruins with immersive storytelling and one of its most revered sites. Walk through the remarkably preserved streets of Ephesus and explore the exclusive Terrace Houses, then bring the ancient world to life at the Ephesus Experience Museum before visiting the House of the Virgin Mary. With entrance fees and lunch included, the tour is available with departures from Izmir, Kusadasi, Bodrum, or Istanbul. The Istanbul option also includes round-trip domestic flights between Istanbul and Izmir and airport transfers in Istanbul, making this an easy and seamless way to experience Ephesus even on a short stay.
Tour Options
Itinerary
This carefully crafted tour offers departure options from Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, and Kusadasi, making it easy to experience the ancient wonders of Ephesus from multiple destinations. The Istanbul departure option includes round-trip domestic flights between Istanbul and Izmir, as well as airport transfers, providing a seamless and convenient experience from start to finish.
Ephesus was one of the most important harbor cities in antique world and also it is mentioned in the book of Revelations as one of the seven churches. Also Celsus Library and theater in Ephesus are the other highlights. You will see and visit the Celsus Library, Temple of Hadrian, the fountain of Trajan, Grand Theater, Hercules Gate, Odeon, Ancient Toilets and many important historical buildings in this UNESCO-listed ancient city.
Ephesus Experience Museum, where you will travel back in time and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the ancient world. With innovative approach of this amazing museum, we offer an entirely mesmerizing experience where time breaks free from its static confines and dances in perpetual motion, bringing historical artifacts to life and presenting interactive visual spectacles that will leave an indelible imprint on your memory.
Ephesus Terrace Houses are luxurious homes from the Roman era, located on the slopes of Bülbül Mountain. Built between the 1st century BC and 7th century AD, they feature intricate frescoes, mosaics, and advanced plumbing. These well-preserved homes offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Ephesus' wealthy citizens and are a key highlight for visitors to the ancient city.
Your lunch is included in the tour. Enjoy a delicious meal featuring some of the finest examples of Turkish cuisine before visiting one of the local cooperatives in the region. Here, you will have the opportunity to discover the centuries-old tradition of Turkish carpet weaving, an art form deeply rooted in Türkiye’s cultural heritage and renowned around the world for its intricate craftsmanship, distinctive designs, and vibrant symbolism. Learn how these beautiful handmade carpets are traditionally woven and gain insight into the artistry, cultural stories, and techniques passed down through generations.
The next visit of your tour will be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Once you arrive there you will be thrilled by the natural beauty that surrounds the monument. The House of Virgin Mary is located on the Aladag Mountains 5 miles away from Ephesus. At the third Ecumenical Council on 431 AD in Ephesus, it was claimed that Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. After the discovery of the house, the Archbishop of Izmir declared there as a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there.
At the end of tour, you will be comfortably returned to your hotel in the departure city selected when booking. For guests departing from Izmir, Bodrum, or Kusadasi, a private transfer will take you directly back to your hotel. Guests who choose the Istanbul departure option will first be transferred to Izmir Airport for their return domestic flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival in Istanbul, a separate driver will meet you at the airport and provide a comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Istanbul, completing your journey seamlessly.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Pick-up and drop-off services are available from centrally located hotels and Airbnb properties in Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, and Kusadasi. Hotels are listed in the search box above; however, some properties may not appear due to updates in the address system. If your hotel is not listed, please specify it in the "Special Requests" section when booking.
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Round-trip Izmir/Ephesus flight tickets from Istanbul, along with round-trip airport transfers in both Istanbul and Izmir/Ephesus, are included only for bookings that select the "Round-Trip from Istanbul" option. If this option was not selected at the time of booking, these services are not included in your reservation.
- The supplier may request certain passport details to arrange your domestic flight tickets. Please provide the requested information promptly. If these details are not received, your domestic flight tickets cannot be issued, and your booking may be affected.
- The supplier will send your domestic flight e-tickets one day before your tour date. There is no need to print your e-tickets. For airport check-in, simply present your passport and the reservation (PNR) number shown on your ticket. Please note that online check-in is not completed by the supplier, as seat selection and other check-in preferences vary from guest to guest. Guests are responsible for completing their own check-in.
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults. If you will be 1 adult + 1 child, the supplier can request & charge the amount of 2 adults.
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
