Shore Excursion Highlights of Ephesus Tour
Start your journey from Kusadasi Port to the House of the Virgin Mary, explore Ephesus’ ancient ruins including the Temple of Hadrian, and visit the Basilica of St. John. End with a traditional Turkish carpet demonstration.
Service Provider: Crossroads
Service Details
Your journey begins at the port of Kusadasi, where you will meet your guide and embark on a scenic drive towards the House of the Virgin Mary. As you make your way through the picturesque countryside, enjoy stunning views of the Byzantine fortress in Selcuk and the Temple of Artemis.
A long and winding road leads you through the valley to the Shrine of St. Mary, nestled in the Solmissos Mountains. Recognized by the Vatican as the final resting place of the Virgin Mary, this small, serene house offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Next, your tour continues to ancient Ephesus, where you’ll enter through the arched Magnesia Gate and begin your downhill walk through the ruins of this once-glorious Roman provincial capital.
As you explore, your knowledgeable guide will point out significant sites such as the Temple of Hadrian, the majestic Trajan Fountain, the Odeon Theater (used for both political events and entertainment), and the grand Celsus Library, with its beautifully preserved Corinthian-style columns.
One of the most iconic structures of Ephesus, the Great Theater, is still used for performances today and has a capacity of 25,000. Once the site of gladiator games, it now hosts annual spring festivals.
Your exploration will continue to the Basilica of St. John, a grand site despite its ruinous state. Admire the remnants of the church built by Emperor Justinian, with large columns, frescos, and mosaics still visible. This basilica was constructed in the shape of a cross, with six individual domes, the central one thought to cover the burial site of St. John himself.
To conclude the day, you’ll enjoy a traditional Turkish carpet demonstration, where you can witness firsthand how intricate Turkish carpets are handwoven. This hands-on experience will give you a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
Tour Highlights
Ephesus Ancient City, Temple of Artemis, House of the Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John, Library of Celsus, The Great Theater, Temple of Hadrian, Curetes Street, Odeon, State Agora, Commercial Agora
Why Book This Service
- Visit the House of the Virgin Mary: A spiritual and serene site recognized by the Vatican.
- Explore ancient Ephesus: Walk through ruins of this former Roman capital and admire the Temple of Hadrian and the Celsus Library.
- See the iconic Great Theater: Still used for performances, it seats 25,000.
- Marvel at the Basilica of St. John: A majestic ruin built during Emperor Justinian’s reign.
- Enjoy scenic views: Picturesque views of the valley, Byzantine fortress, and Temple of Artemis.
- Witness Turkish carpet-making: Experience the art of handmade Turkish carpets through a live demonstration
What's Included
• Pick up from/to Kusadasi Cruise Port
• Professional English speaking Official Tour Guide
• Entrance fees to the various sites
• Air Conditioned non-smoking luxury vehicle
Please Note
Guests must be able to walk approximately 1.5 miles over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, inclines and 10 - 30 steps. Comfortable shoes, a hat and plenty of sunscreen are recommended as shade is limited. The order of the tour itinerary may vary in order to avoid congestion. Guests should watch their step at all times in order to avoid injuries.
Meeting Point
At Kusadasi Cruise Port
Cancellation Details
Booking can be cancelled up to 3 day(s) before the tour start.
14 reviews for Shore Excursion Highlights of Ephesus Tour
Tour Pictures from Travelers
Polat was our guide was incredible!! He was so hilarious and charming and we enjoyed the history he told us as well as the information about the city and culture. Pick up from the port was very easy, and our transportation was nice. Ephesus & the Library were so amazing to see and having the guide to tell us the important things really helped understand the area and make it more impactful. Thank you to Polat!
One of the highlights of our entire Turkey trip. We’d absolutely recommend this tour to friends and family.
Seeing the Temple of Hadrian and the Fountain of Trajan up close was incredible. So much history in one compact area!
This tour was the perfect introduction to Ephesus! The Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater, and the Terrace Houses were absolutely breathtaking.
Our guide made ancient history come alive. You could tell he was passionate about Ephesus and proud to share it with us.
We appreciated the small group size, which made the tour feel personal and interactive.
The ancient streets of Ephesus are incredibly preserved. I was amazed at how easy it was to visualize life 2,000 years ago.
Uno de los mejores tours que hemos hecho. Cada detalle estaba pensado.
Our guide was knowledgeable and engaging. We learned so much about Roman history and daily life during the ancient times.
Increíble recorrido lleno de historia. Aprendimos muchísimo en cada parada.