Visiting ancient Selcuk is most rewarding with a guided experience. Three standout tours make exploring Ephesus hassle-free and meaningful. The 6-hour Ephesus Ancient City Tour from cruise ships hits all the must-sees – you’ll walk Marble Street and marvel at the Celsus Library with an expert guide. I especially love the Private Guided tour for its flexibility and included lunch, perfect when you’re on a tight cruise schedule. For those coming from Izmir, the Guided Ancient City tour offers great value with its included transport and meal, plus easy cancellation. Ready to explore Ephesus? Let’s look at our favorite tours in detail.
Key Points
- Ephesus Tours in Selcuk offer all-inclusive 6-hour guided exploration packages that include key historical sites like Marble Street and Celsus Library.
- Private guided tours from Selcuk provide a personalized 5-hour experience with transportation, lunch, and highlights like the Temple of Artemis.
- Guided tours from Izmir to Ephesus in Selcuk feature a 9.5-hour itinerary covering major landmarks, transportation, and lunch, with high customer ratings.
- All Ephesus tours in Selcuk are wheelchair accessible, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the extensive walking involved.
- Ephesus tours in Selcuk provide an immersive experience to explore the well-preserved ancient Roman architecture and visit the sacred House of Virgin Mary.
All Inclusive; Ephesus Ancient City Tour From Cruise Ship
For those embarking from a cruise ship, the “All Inclusive; Ephesus Ancient City Tour From Cruise Ship” offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient wonders of Ephesus.
Priced at $231.97 per person, this 6-hour tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows you to reserve your spot without paying until later.
The tour begins with a 25-minute van ride from the Kusadasi Port to the ancient city of Ephesus, the second-largest city in the Roman Empire.
During the 3.5-hour guided tour, you’ll visit key sites like the Marble Street, Odeon, Bouleterion, Temple of Hadrian, and the impressive Celsus Library.
After, you’ll take a 45-minute guided tour of the House of Virgin Mary before enjoying a 45-minute break.
The tour then returns to the Kusadasi Port, with the entire experience accessible to wheelchair users and available in multiple languages.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the grandeur of the past, this comprehensive Ephesus tour is an excellent choice for cruise ship visitors.
Read our full review: All Inclusive; Ephesus Ancient City Tour From Cruise Ship Review
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Private; Guided Ephesus Ancient City Tour From Cruise Ship
Travelers embarking from a cruise ship can embark on a private guided tour to explore the ancient wonders of Ephesus. Priced from ₺759 per person, this 5-hour tour provides a comprehensive look at the Ephesus Ancient City, House of Virgin Mary, and Temple of Artemis.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers flexibility and convenience.
The tour includes pickup from the Kuşadası port or hotel, and the travel time to Ephesus is just 20 minutes. Guided tours cover the highlights of the ancient city, such as the Marble Street, Odeon, Bouleterion, Temple of Hadrian, Trajan’s Fountain, Mosaic Street, Agora, Baths, Great Theatre, and the iconic Celsus Library.
Lunch is provided, and the tour features a professional English and Spanish-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the tour is designed to accommodate cruise schedules, ensuring a seamless experience for travelers.
Read our full review: Private; Guided Ephesus Ancient City Tour From Cruise Ship Review
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From Izmir: Guided Tour of the Ancient City of Ephesus
A guided tour of the ancient city of Ephesus from Izmir is an excellent way to unravel the captivating history of this well-preserved archaeological site. Priced at €95.00 per person, the 9.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, including hotel pickup, transportation, a guided tour, and lunch.
Guests can explore key landmarks like the Library of Celsus and the Roman Theater, which could accommodate up to 24,000 people. The tour is wheelchair accessible, though not suitable for strollers or pets. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the guided tour covers approximately 4 hours of exploration.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 104 reviews, the tour receives high praise for its knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics. Travelers highlight the sacred experience at the House of Virgin Mary and the quality of the transportation.
The tour also offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option for added convenience.
Read our full review: From Izmir: Guided Tour of the Ancient City of Ephesus Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Viewpoints for Panoramic Shots of Selcuk?
The best panoramic viewpoints in Selcuk are the Isa Bey Mosque, the Basilica of St. John, and the Selçuk Castle. These vantage points offer stunning views of the city, the surrounding countryside, and the ancient ruins.
Are There Any Food Tours or Cooking Classes Available in Selcuk?
Yes, there are food tours and cooking classes available in Selçuk. Visitors can explore the local cuisine, learn traditional recipes, and participate in hands-on cooking experiences with experienced guides. These activities offer an authentic glimpse into Turkish culinary culture.
Can I Visit the Basilica of St. John on My Own or With a Guide?
Visitors can visit the Basilica of St. John on their own or with a guide. A guided tour provides more context and information about the historic site, while visiting independently allows for more flexibility in exploring the ancient ruins at one’s own pace.
What Should I Expect in Terms of Crowds and Peak Visiting Times?
The Basilica of St. John can get quite crowded, especially during peak visiting times like midday. Visitors should expect larger crowds and may want to consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest periods.
Are There Any Hidden Gems or Lesser-Known Sites in Selcuk Worth Exploring?
Selcuk has several lesser-known historical sites worth exploring, like the Basilica of St. John and the Isa Bey Mosque. These offer a quieter, more immersive experience than the popular Ephesus ruins. Visiting these hidden gems can provide a unique perspective on the city’s rich history.
Recap
Selçuk offers a variety of city tours that cater to different preferences. Visitors can choose an all-inclusive Ephesus Ancient City Tour from their cruise ship or opt for a private guided tour. Those arriving in Izmir can also join a guided tour of the ancient city of Ephesus. These tours provide an informative and comprehensive way to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region.