Ephesus Group Tour Full Day (The Entrance Fees Inc.)

Exploring the rich history and captivating sites of ancient Turkey has never been easier than with the Ephesus Group Tour Full Day. Priced at a reasonable €180 per person, this immersive experience takes you on a journey through the House of the Virgin Mary and the renowned Ephesus Ancient City, where you’ll marvel at iconic landmarks like the Celsus Library and the Grand Theatre. With entrance fees included and a delectable local lunch in Selçuk, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the cultural tapestry of the region. But the true highlight may lie in the scenic drive and a chance to capture the renowned Temple of Artemis – a tantalizing preview of the treasures that await.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Full-Day Tours In Selcuk.

Key Points

• This group tour of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary lasts 7.5 hours and is priced at €180 per person.
• The tour includes guided visits to the key sites of Ephesus Ancient City and the House of the Virgin Mary, as well as a local lunch.
• Participants can enjoy a scenic drive to Ephesus and a leisurely downhill walk from the Upper Gate to the port.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and is wheelchair accessible, with pickup from Izmir hotels, port, or airport.
• The itinerary also includes a photo stop at the iconic Temple of Artemis, one of the Wonders of the Ancient World.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Ephesus Group Tour is available year-round and accommodates a maximum of 12 participants.

Priced at €180.00 per person, the tour lasts 7.5 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Pickup is available from Izmir Hotels, Izmir Port, or Izmir Airport, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

The itinerary includes guided tours of the House of the Virgin Mary and the Ephesus Ancient City, a local lunch in Selçuk, and a photo stop at the Temple of Artemis.

Transportation is provided via scenic drives to and from Izmir.

Itinerary Highlights

The Ephesus Group Tour itinerary highlights a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a significant Christian pilgrimage site where Mary is believed to have spent her final years.

During the guided tour, which lasts approximately an hour, visitors can see a small statue of the Virgin Mary and a holy spring.

The tour then continues to the Ephesus Ancient City, where key sites such as the Celsus Library, Council Chamber, Trajan’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, and the Grand Theatre are explored over a 2.5-hour guided tour.

The scenic drive to Ephesus and the downhill walk from the Upper Gate to the port add to the experience.

House of the Virgin Mary

The House of the Virgin Mary is a significant Christian pilgrimage site, believed to be where Mary spent her final years.

During the guided tour, visitors explore this sacred place for around an hour. Inside, they’ll find a small statue of the Virgin Mary and a holy spring, which are objects of reverence for many pilgrims.

The serene and spiritual atmosphere of the House of the Virgin Mary offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of this revered figure in Christianity.

Visitors can reflect on the historical and religious significance of this site, which has drawn believers from around the world for centuries.

Ephesus Ancient City

Guided tours through Ephesus Ancient City last approximately 2.5 hours, allowing visitors to explore key historical sites within this expansive open-air museum.

Among the highlights are the iconic Celsus Library, an impressive example of Roman architecture; the Council Chamber, where important governmental decisions were made; Trajan’s Fountain, an ornate structure honoring the Roman emperor; Hadrian’s Temple, dedicated to the Roman emperor; and the Grand Theatre, a massive amphitheater that could seat up to 24,000 spectators.

The tour involves a scenic drive to Ephesus and a leisurely downhill walk from the Upper Gate to the port, offering stunning views of the ancient city’s well-preserved ruins.

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Lunch

After exploring the captivating ancient ruins of Ephesus, the tour pauses for a 1.5-hour lunch in the charming town of Selçuk.

Guests are treated to a delightful spread of local cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors of the region.

The lunch experience includes:

• Sampling traditional Turkish specialties, such as meze platters, Turkish kebabs, and freshly baked bread.
• Enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and hospitality of a family-owned restaurant.
• Taking in the scenic views of the surrounding countryside while savoring the authentic flavors.

This lunch break provides a chance to recharge and take in the local culture before continuing the exploration of the ancient wonders that await.

Temple of Artemis

Continuing the tour, visitors reach the photo stop at the iconic Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

This ancient Greek temple was once four times larger than the Parthenon in Athens. Though only a single column remains standing today, the guide provides a detailed overview of the temple’s significance.

It served not only as a religious institution but also as an important marketplace.

After approximately 30 minutes spent exploring the site and taking photos, the group continues on to the final stop of the day.

Transportation Details

With a scenic drive from Izmir to Selçuk taking approximately 1 hour, the group will have ample time to admire the picturesque landscapes along the way.

The return drive to Izmir also takes around 1 hour, ensuring a comfortable and efficient transportation experience.

Pickup and drop-off locations are conveniently offered at three different spots:

• Izmir Port
• Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport
• Central Izmir

This comprehensive transportation plan provides flexibility and accessibility, allowing participants to join the tour seamlessly from their desired location.

The included parking fees and VAT further contribute to the overall convenience and value of the Ephesus Group Tour.

Tour Inclusions

The Ephesus Group Tour includes a comprehensive package of services and benefits to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Pickup from designated locations in Izmir, including the port, airport, and central city, is included. Entrance fees for the key sites, such as the Ephesus Ancient City and the House of the Virgin Mary, are covered.

A local lunch is provided, giving visitors a chance to savor the delicious regional cuisine. An English-speaking tour guide accompanies the group, providing insightful commentary throughout the tour.

Parking fees and VAT are also included in the tour price, making it a hassle-free experience for the participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour is wheelchair accessible and has a maximum group size of 12 participants, allowing for a personalized experience suitable for families with children.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the included lunch. However, it’s best to inform the tour operator in advance about any special dietary needs so they can accommodate them accordingly.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can add extra time to explore the Terrace Houses or other historical sites in the region with their guide.

Can the Tour Guide Provide Translation Services in Other Languages?

The tour guide can provide translation services in additional languages, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. They’ll likely be able to accommodate requests for translated commentary if given advance notice.

Is There a Discount Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, there’s a group booking discount available for the Ephesus tour. Customers who book for groups of 4 or more can receive a 10% discount off the per-person rate. This discount is automatically applied at the time of booking.

Recap

The Ephesus Group Tour Full Day offers an immersive exploration of Turkey’s rich history and culture. Highlights include the House of the Virgin Mary, the Ephesus Ancient City, a delicious local lunch, and a visit to the Temple of Artemis. With entrance fees included and transportation provided, this comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable journey for up to 12 travelers at a cost of €180.00 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here: