Exclusive Private Tour of Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary
Step into the heart of ancient history on this unforgettable journey through Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and well-preserved Roman cities in the world. As your expert archaeologist and guide, I will lead you through grand marble streets once walked by emperors, philosophers, and early Christians.
Stand in awe before the Library of Celsus. Admire the vastness of the Great Theatre. Imagine the ancient world coming to life around you. At the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, you will feel the power and mystery of classical antiquity.
We will visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful spiritual retreat nestled in the hills, believed to be her final home. The air here is quiet, sacred, and deeply moving.
This tour is ideal for lovers of history and archaeology. With expert storytelling and smooth planning, you will not only see the ruins but truly connect with them. Let the echoes of the past guide your journey through Ephesus.
Options
Private - Your Party Only
Pickup included.
Pickup included
What's included in Exclusive Private Tour of Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Kusadasi
Kusadasi: Visit to Ephesus Travel Agency warmly welcomes cruise passengers at the main port exit gate with a personalized sign. Hotel guests are met directly in their hotel lobby for added convenience. After booking your tour, we kindly ask you to contact our team with your cruise ship name and exact arrival and on-board times. This helps us suggest the most suitable meeting time based on port schedules and local conditions. If you are unsure about timing or need help finding the right option, our team will gladly assist you. Every detail is carefully arranged to ensure your experience begins smoothly and without stress.
Kusadasi CastlePass-by Only
Fortress by the Sea: Kusadasi Castle on Pigeon Island, take a moment to admire its powerful presence along the Aegean coast. This Ottoman-era fortress was originally built to protect the shoreline from pirates and naval threats. Surrounded by clear blue waters, the castle stands as a reminder of Kusadasi’s maritime legacy. Its walls once guarded the harbor, and today they continue to tell stories of resilience and coastal life. The castle’s striking position offers an unforgettable visual connection to the region’s rich history.
Okuz Mehmet Pasa KervansarayIPass-by Only
Kusadasi Trade Heritage: As you pass by the Okuz Mehmet Pasa Caravanserai, you will witness a striking example of Ottoman architecture and trade history. Built in 1618, this grand structure once served as a safe haven for merchants traveling between continents. Its solid stone walls and large arched entrance offered protection and rest for traders and their goods. The caravanserai was more than a shelter. It was a symbol of economic life and cultural exchange during the height of Ottoman power. Today, it stands proudly in the heart of Kusadasi, offering a glimpse into a vibrant past shaped by commerce and connection.
Inclusions
- Guaranteed On-Time Return, Ensuring Cruise Passengers Get Back in Time for Departure.
- Cruise Port Pick-Up & Drop-Off, with Convenient Service as Outlined in the Itinerary.
- Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide, Authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
- To Skip Ticket Lines, Ask Your Guide to Arrange Tickets and Pay the Fee in Cash to Your Guide.
- Beverages During Lunch.
- Personal Expenses.
- Entrance Fees to the Museums and any Sites.
- Gratuities.
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 30 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
Meeting point is the Kusadasi Cruise Terminal, designated specifically for cruise passengers. This is an exclusive private tour for your party only, with no sharing with other groups. You’ll enjoy a fully personalized journey designed around your interests, offering maximum flexibility, comfort, and privacy. If you'd like, you can invite friends or fellow cruise travelers to join and explore Ephesus together, entirely on your terms. For cruise guests, we recommend meeting approximately 30 minutes after your ship docks. This timing helps you avoid the crowds and the heat of the day, making your tour of Ephesus more relaxed and enjoyable. We guarantee your on-time return to the ship, so you can explore with peace of mind, knowing you’ll be back well before departure. Choosing a private tour over a group or bus tour comes with many advantages. Since your visit to Ephesus may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a private tour ensures you make the most of it with a flexible and personalized schedule. You control what to see, when to start, how long to stay at each site, and when to conclude the tour. Your guide is fully dedicated to you and your group, providing undivided attention and deeper insights throughout the experience. With no waiting for large groups to gather or unnecessary delays, the tour flows smoothly and efficiently. You’ll enjoy the exclusive comfort of your own private van and licensed local guide, without the need to share space with others. Your guide also takes care of entry tickets and logistics, so you can focus entirely on enjoying the ancient ruins, museums, and stories of Ephesus. With better opportunities for questions and conversation, a private tour creates a more meaningful and memorable connection to the history and culture around you.
