PRIVATE EPHESUS & MARY'S HOUSE TOUR from Izmir Cruise Port
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PRIVATE EPHESUS & MARY'S HOUSE TOUR from Izmir Cruise Port

Active
(3 reviews)
5h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A PRIVATE TOUR BY LOCALS ONLY FOR YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS!

Your way, your pace. Experience the timeless beauty of Ephesus on a private tour tailored to your preferences. Our expert guide will accompany you through the ancient ruins, sharing fascinating insights and answering your questions. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, our private tour offers the flexibility and attention to detail you deserve. This is a PRIVATE TOUR including only your own PARTY. Once you meet your guide, you are able to tailor your day. You are able to visit any or all of above places depending on your interest;

• EPHESUS ANCIENT CITY,
• THE HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY,
• TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS,
• LOCAL HANDICRAFTS,
• AUTHENTIC TURKISH LUNCH,

Available options

PRIVATE TOUR

INCLUDING: Professional Tour Guide and Transportation throughout your Tour. Top-level service quality! <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Cruise Port/Hotel Pick-up & Drop-Off (mentioned on the details)
Transportation with A/C Minivans with separate Driver
GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS
Professional LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE
PRIVATE TOUR that ensures more personalized service

Detailed itinerary

1

We will meet you at the Cruise Port!
Once your tour is confirmed, we will promptly contact you with your personalised meeting time and exact pickup location, carefully planned according to your cruise ship’s arrival and departure schedule. After greeting our team at the port, you will begin your journey with a comfortable 1-hour drive to Ephesus. Along the way, your guide will share valuable insights about Turkey, the region, and what to expect during your tour.

2
Stop 2

The House of the Virgin Mary (or Meryem Ana Evi in Turkish) is a place where, according to the beliefs of many people Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent the last years of her life. She was supposed to arrive at Ephesus together with St. John and lived there in the years 37-45 CE until her Assumption (according to Catholic doctrine) or Dormition (according to Orthodox belief).
Currently, the restored house serves as a chapel. Typically, the chapel is crowded by huge numbers of tourists who visit Meryemana while on their way to or from Ephesus. The place is under the care of the Franciscan order. The House of the Virgin Mary also has enormous significance for the Muslims, for whom Mary was the mother of one of the great prophets of Islam, called İsa Peygamber (i.e. Jesus).

3
Stop 3

Ephesus Ruins is the largest open-air museum of Turkey which is dated to the Greek and Roman periods. Inside the Ruins of Ephesus, we explore Senate Building, Ancient Hospital, Domitian Temple, Nike Statue, Hercules Gate, Trajan Fountain, Hadrian Temple, Celsus Library, Grand Theatre of Ephesus and many more...

4
Stop 4

Temple of Artemis, also called Artemesium was one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
You can see Saint John Basilica and Isa Bey Mosque from a distance. It is believed that the Evangelist St. John had spent his last years in the region around Ephesus and buried in the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill.

5
Stop 5 Pass by

You will also have the chance to explore authentic local handicrafts and, if you choose, enjoy a truly genuine shopping experience. Your professional local tour guide will be by your side to offer valuable insights—highlighting the finest traditional crafts, recommending the most reputable places to visit, and providing expert tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and completely hassle-free experience.

6

At the end of our tour, we will return to the Cruise Port.
PLEASE NOTE THAT: There are several Ships with different arrival and departure times. We carefully check all the timings, confirm with the passengers, and coordinate the return time.

OUR TOURS ARE WITH GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN TO THE BOAT!

What's not included

Gratuities recommended
Museum Tickets (we will send pre-purchased museum tickets, so you can skip-the long ticket lines)
Ephesus Ruins
Mary's House

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We highly recommend you to meet our team, after 30/45 minutes your ship docked to the Port. So, you might beat the crowds, school buses, and hot weather in order to have a better experience during your Tour in Ephesus.
After you complete your booking, please contact our reservation team via our e-mail or WhatsApp and coordinate your meeting time.

Important notes

• Please note that there are several Ships with different timings. In this regard, after booking, we highly recommend you contacting our team and coordinating your meeting time. So, you might have zero stress during your experience.

• We highly recommend you to meet our team, after 30/45 minutes your ship docked to the Port. So, you might beat the crowds, school buses, and hot weather in order to have a better experience during your Tour in Ephesus.

About Izmir

Izmir is a vibrant coastal city on Turkey's Aegean coast, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. As one of Turkey's most cosmopolitan cities, it offers a blend of ancient ruins, modern amenities, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.

Top Attractions

Agora of Smyrna

An ancient Roman agora located in the heart of Izmir. It's one of the most important historical sites in the city.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Kadifekale

A historic castle offering panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Izmir Archeological Museum

A museum showcasing a vast collection of artifacts from the region's ancient history.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (around 50 TRY)

Kordon

A beautiful waterfront promenade stretching along the Aegean coast.

Beach Flexible, can be enjoyed at any time Free

Çeşme

A popular beach resort town near Izmir, known for its beautiful beaches and thermal springs.

Beach Full day Varies by activity and accommodation

Must-Try Local Dishes

Köfte

Grilled or fried meatballs made from ground beef or lamb, often served with rice or bread.

Main Course Contains meat

Boyoz

A type of pastry filled with a spiced beef mixture, typically eaten for breakfast.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Kumru

A sandwich made with a special type of bread, filled with various ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, and peppers.

Sandwich Vegetarian options available

Midye Dolma

Stuffed mussels filled with spiced rice and pine nuts.

Snack Contains seafood and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Water sports in Çeşme Sunbathing on the beach Visiting thermal baths in Pamukkale Exploring ancient ruins in Ephesus Visiting museums in Izmir Swimming in the Aegean Sea Boat trips to nearby islands

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant nightlife. It's ideal for beach activities and outdoor events.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Turkish
  • Widely spoken: English, German
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Izmir is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty crime.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter being turned on
  • • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air
  • Adnan Menderes Airport • 20 km south of the city center
By train

Basmane Railway Station

By bus

Izmir Otogar (Main Bus Terminal)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, with frequent services. Buses are the most common form of public transport in Izmir.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Alsancak Karsiyaka Gözlüce Bornova

Day trips

Çeşme
90 km • Full day

A popular beach resort town with beautiful beaches and thermal springs.

Selçuk
80 km • Full day

A town near Izmir with significant historical and archaeological sites.

Sirince
70 km • Full day

A charming village known for its wine production and traditional architecture.

Festivals

Izmir International Festival • July to August Izmir Short Film Festival • April Izmir Jazz Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Visit the Agora of Smyrna early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
  • Try local street food like kumru and midye dolma for an authentic culinary experience
  • Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture
  • Attend a local festival or event to immerse yourself in Izmir's vibrant cultural scene
  • Take a day trip to Çeşme or Selçuk for a relaxing beach getaway or a historical adventure
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 5-99
1
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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