Istanbul to Ephesus Guided Full Day Tour With Flight and Lunch

Discover the captivating history and cultural richness of ancient Ephesus with the Istanbul to Ephesus Guided Full Day Tour. This excursion offers a seamless experience, whisking travelers from Istanbul to the archaeological site via convenient round-trip flights. Along the way, a knowledgeable guide provides invaluable insights, bringing the ruins to life as visitors explore the iconic Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis. But the journey doesn’t end there – travelers also have the opportunity to visit the serene Virgin Mary’s House, seeing the spiritual significance of the site. With a maximum group size of 12, personalized attention and authentic Turkish cuisine, this tour promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and culinary delight.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Istanbul.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Istanbul to Ephesus, including round-trip domestic flights, hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, and a professional guide.
• Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Virgin Mary’s House.
• Discover the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant as part of the tour experience.
• Small-group format with a maximum of 12 travelers for a personalized and comfortable tour.

Tour Overview and Inclusions

The full-day tour from Istanbul to Izmir and Ephesus includes round-trip domestic flight tickets, hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and a professional licensed guide, providing a personalized experience for a maximum of 12 travelers in a small-group format.

Travelers will enjoy an additional baggage allowance of 15kg plus 8kg hand luggage for the domestic flights.

However, the tour excludes admission fees to the historical sites, which are approximately $60.00 per person for Ephesus and the Virgin Mary House.

Guests are advised to confirm their pickup time with the local provider before the tour date, as schedules may adjust according to flight details.

Pickup and Transportation Details

Pickup and transportation arrangements for the tour are communicated to guests via WhatsApp and email a day prior, allowing them to confirm the pickup time with the local provider as schedules may adjust based on flight details. Transportation provided is wheelchair accessible, and infant seats are available as needed.

Pickup Information	Transportation Details	Additional Notes
Confirm pickup time with provider before tour	Domestic flights included	Flexible scheduling based on flights
Meeting instructions via WhatsApp and email	Wheelchair accessible vehicles	Infant seats available upon request
Flexible pickup to accommodate flight schedules	Roomy and comfortable for small groups	Smooth and reliable ground transportation

Exploring Ancient Ephesus

After being transported to the tour’s starting point, guests embark on an immersive exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus, uncovering its rich history and iconic landmarks.

As they wander through the well-preserved ruins, they marvel at the grand Library of Celsus, the impressive Greco-Roman theatre, and the serene Terrace Houses, which offer a glimpse into the lives of the city’s elite.

The knowledgeable guide brings these ancient structures to life, sharing captivating tales and insights that deepen the visitors’ understanding of Ephesus’ significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This captivating experience allows travelers to step back in time and enjoy the grandeur of one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world.

Visiting Virgin Mary’s House

As visitors depart from the ancient ruins of Ephesus, they journey to the revered site of the Virgin Mary’s House, a place of immense spiritual significance.

According to Christian tradition, this humble abode is believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Solmissos Mountains, the Virgin Mary’s House has become a pilgrimage destination for believers worldwide.

Guests explore the serene atmosphere, admiring the simple architecture and the shrine that honors Mary’s legacy. This sacred site offers a peaceful respite from the grandeur of Ephesus, allowing travelers to reflect on the rich history and religious significance of the region.

Discovering Temple of Artemis

Towering over the ancient city of Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis stands as a testament to the grandeur of the past, its majestic ruins captivating visitors with their sheer scale and historical significance.

This once-magnificent structure, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural traditions of the Greco-Roman era.

Visitors can explore:

• The immense scale of the temple’s foundations, which once supported a colossal structure over 400 feet long and 200 feet wide.

• The intricate architectural details and ornate carvings that adorned the temple’s columns and pediments.

• The remnants of the cult of Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, who was worshipped at this sacred site for centuries.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

A delectable lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour, providing travelers with an authentic culinary experience.

During the midday break, the group will savor a selection of traditional Turkish dishes, freshly prepared and served in a charming setting.

The meal typically features a variety of meze (appetizers), a main course showcasing regional specialties, and a refreshing beverage.

This dining experience allows participants to enjoy the local food culture, complementing the historical exploration of Ephesus.

The included lunch is designed to energize and rejuvenate guests, ensuring they’ve the stamina to fully appreciate the remaining highlights of the tour.

Traveler Experiences and Reviews

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the guided tours, highlighting the knowledgeable and professional nature of the tour guides, which has significantly enhanced their overall experience.

Some participants, however, have reported issues with flight cancellations affecting the tour schedule. Despite these isolated incidents, the tours have maintained high customer satisfaction, with an average rating of 5.0 from 34 reviews.

Travelers praise the organization and service, particularly:

• The personalized small-group format that allows for a more intimate experience

• The seamless coordination of transportation and accommodation

• The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets to bypass long queues at historical sites

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The guided tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing travelers with flexible booking options. Prices vary based on group size, and customers can take advantage of the lowest price guarantee. Upon booking, travelers receive confirmation and can secure their spots while maintaining flexibility in their plans.

Cancellation Policy	Pricing Structure
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior	Varies by group size
No refunds within 24 hours of start time	Lowest price guarantee available
Rescheduling available with advance notice	Confirmation received at time of booking
Flexible options to accommodate changes	Convenient booking process maintains flexibility
Hassle-free booking experience for customers	Transparent pricing and cancellation details

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Attire Recommended for the Tour?

The attire recommended for the tour is comfortable, casual clothing suitable for the weather and walking. Visitors should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, as the tour involves exploring historical sites that may have uneven terrain.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a provided lunch and beverages. Bringing outside items isn’t permitted, as the tour package covers the meals and refreshments for participants.

Is There an Opportunity to Buy Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary typically includes stops at local shops and markets, allowing travelers to browse and purchase traditional crafts, textiles, and other Turkish goods as desired.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can typically be extended to visit additional sites, though this may incur extra costs. Travelers should check with the local provider about customization options and pricing for adding supplementary destinations to the standard tour itinerary.

Is There a Discount Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounted pricing for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 20% discount, while seniors over 65 can get a 10% discount on the tour price. These discounted rates are subject to availability.

Recap

The Istanbul to Ephesus Guided Full Day Tour offers an immersive experience that seamlessly combines history, culture, and cuisine.

With convenient round-trip flights, a delicious lunch, and expert guidance, travelers can explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the iconic Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis, as well as the serene Virgin Mary’s House.

This personalized tour ensures a memorable journey through the rich heritage of Turkey.