Private Ephesus Sirince Village Tour

Meet your private guide at Kusadasi Port or your hotel and begin a 20-minute scenic drive to the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site believed to be where she spent her final years. Recognized by Pope Paul VI in 1967, this peaceful location invites visitors to experience its spiritual atmosphere.

You will have approximately one hour to explore the small chapel and take in the serenity of this holy place. A short five-minute drive brings you to the upper gate of Ephesus, where your guided walking tour begins. Your private driver will meet you at the lower gate while you and your guide explore the city on foot.

The tour of Ephesus, including the Terrace Houses, takes approximately three hours and covers the city’s most significant sites. Before entering, there will be a brief stop at the upper souvenir area, with additional shopping opportunities at the lower exit. As your guide leads you through Ephesus, key highlights include: The Great Theatre, dating back to the 3rd century BC, with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. It holds great religious significance as the place where Saint Paul the Apostle preached to the Ephesians.

The State Agora, which once served as the city’s administrative and commercial hub, featuring the Augustus Basilica, a grand colonnaded structure. The main streets of Ephesus, lined with statues, fountains, and monumental temples dedicated to Emperors Domitian, Trajan, and Hadrian.

The Celsus Library, the third-largest library of the ancient world, once home to over 12,000 scrolls and an architectural masterpiece of the Roman period. The Hercules Gate, marking the entrance to Ephesus’ elite residential area. A highlight of this tour is the Terrace Houses, an exclusive section of Ephesus located on the slopes of Bülbül (Coressus) Mountain.

These luxurious Roman homes showcase remarkable frescoes, mosaics, and an advanced private heating system, reflecting the wealth of the city’s elite. There is a separate entry fee for the Terrace Houses, but this tour includes the visit. A series of 80 steps lead through the complex, offering a unique perspective on ancient Roman life.

As you leave the old city, there will be a stop at the souvenir area, where restrooms and small shops are available. Following Ephesus, take a 15-minute drive to Sirince Village, a charming hillside town known for its Greek and Ottoman-era homes, boutique shops, and traditional wineries.

Spend one hour exploring its cobblestone streets, sampling locally produced fruit wines, and experiencing the relaxed village atmosphere. Your guide will recommend a local restaurant for lunch and share insights into traditional customs, crafts, and activities in the region.

Depending on your interests, you may also have the opportunity to visit a weaving school or a ceramic art center, where you can observe local artisans at work and learn about Turkey’s traditional crafts. The tour concludes with a return to Kusadasi.