Exploring Turkey’s rich cultural heritage, the Private Ephesus, Şirince, and Virgin Mary House Tour offers a captivating one-day experience. Departing from Izmir, this guided excursion takes visitors to some of the country’s most significant historical sites, immersing them in the ancient city of Ephesus, the charming village of Şirince, and the sacred Virgin Mary House. With skip-the-line access, lunch, and transportation included, the tour promises an enriching journey filled with stunning architecture, local flavors, and insightful commentary from expert guides. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to discover the remarkable treasures of Turkey, this tour presents an opportunity to uncover the remarkable stories that lie within these hallowed grounds.
Key Points
- This private one-day excursion covers the ancient city of Ephesus, Şirince village, and the Virgin Mary House for up to 7 participants at a cost of €570.
- The tour includes transportation, professional guide services, entrance fees, and lunch, as well as skip-the-line access to major sites and photography opportunities.
- The itinerary involves a guided tour of the Virgin Mary House, an in-depth exploration of the Ancient City of Ephesus, and visits to the Ephesus Museum, St. John Basilica, İsa Bey Mosque, and Artemis Temple ruins.
- Participants are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and to bring essentials like a camera, water bottle, sunscreen, and snacks for a seamless and immersive experience.
- The tour starts with pickup from İzmir at 8:00 AM and includes opportunities for culture, such as exploring the charming Şirince village known for its old houses and local wines.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour overview and pricing details a private one-day excursion to the historic sites of Ephesus, Şirince, and the Virgin Mary House.
Priced at €570.00 for up to 7 participants, the tour includes transportation, professional guide services, entrance fees, and lunch.
Visitors can explore the ancient city of Ephesus, visit the Virgin Mary House, and have free time in the charming village of Şirince.
The tour offers the convenience of skip-the-line access to major sites and the opportunity to capture photographs at various historical locations.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes and clothing, and check availability for starting times and group size.
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Itinerary Details
Pickup location for the tour is İzmir, with a departure time of 8:00 AM.
The first stop is the Virgin Mary House, a 1-hour guided tour where visitors can explore the site discovered by Lazarist priests in 1891 and recognized as a Christian pilgrimage site after Pope VI’s visit in 1967.
Next, the tour explores the Ancient City of Ephesus, spending 3 hours to discover landmarks like the Hadrian Temple, Domitian Temple, Trajan Fountain, Celcus Library, and City Theatre. An optional visit to the Terrace Houses is available for an additional fee.
After lunch in Selçuk, the tour visits the Ephesus Museum, St. John Basilica, and İsa Bey Mosque, as well as the ruins of the Artemis Temple, one of the ancient wonders.
Inclusions
Included in the tour package are transportation with pickup from the specified location, as well as the services of a professional guide who can provide commentary in Turkish, English, Spanish, and German.
The package also covers all parking and service fees, as well as the entrance fees for the historical sites and museums visited. A delicious lunch is provided, and travelers are covered by travel insurance.
Though personal expenses aren’t included, the tour ensures a comprehensive experience by taking care of the essential logistics. Guests can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the rich history and culture of the region.
Experience Highlights
One of the highlights of this private Ephesus tour is the ability to skip the ticket line at the major historical sites. This allows visitors to spend more time exploring the ancient wonders and less time waiting in queues.
Plus, the tour offers free time in the charming village of Şirince, renowned for its beautiful old houses and excellent local wines.
Lastly, the tour provides ample opportunities for visitors to capture stunning photographs at the various historical locations, ensuring they can preserve their memories of this incredible journey.
The key experience highlights of this private tour include:
- Skip the ticket line at major sites
- Free time in Şirince village
- Opportunities to take photos at historical locations
Preparation and Recommendations
When preparing for this private Ephesus tour, visitors should ensure they bring comfortable shoes and clothing. The tour involves a significant amount of walking, so sturdy footwear is essential. Plus, it’s recommended to dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. To make the most of the experience, visitors should also bring the following:
Item | Recommendation |
---|---|
Camera | To capture the stunning historical sites |
Water bottle | To stay hydrated during the tour |
Sunscreen | To protect against the Mediterranean sun |
Hat or umbrella | For shade and protection from the elements |
Snacks | In case you get hungry between meals |
Adhering to these preparation tips will help visitors fully enjoy the rich history and culture of the region.
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Pickup Location and Timing
The tour begins with a pickup from İzmir at 8:00 AM. This early start ensures you maximize your time exploring the historic sites.
The tour includes the following highlights:
- A guided visit to the Virgin Mary House, a Christian pilgrimage site discovered in 1891.
- An in-depth tour of the ancient city of Ephesus, where you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Hadrian Temple, Celcus Library, and the grand City Theatre.
- An optional visit to the Terrace Houses, an extra fee that provides a unique glimpse into the lives of Ephesus’ wealthy residents.
With a professional guide and all transportation and entrance fees included, this private tour offers a seamless and comprehensive exploration of these remarkable historical treasures.
Guided Tour Locations
After the initial pickup in İzmir, the private Ephesus tour thoroughly explores the region’s rich historical and cultural sites. The first stop is the Virgin Mary House, a Christian pilgrimage site discovered in 1891 and recognized after Pope VI’s visit in 1967. Next, the tour delves into the ancient city of Ephesus, allowing visitors to marvel at iconic landmarks like the Hadrian Temple, Domitian Temple, Trajan Fountain, Celcus Library, and the grand City Theatre. An optional visit to the Terrace Houses provides a deeper understanding of Ephesian life. The tour then moves to Selçuk for lunch, followed by explorations of the Ephesus Museum, St. John Basilica, and İsa Bey Mosque. The final stop, Şirince village, offers a chance to relax and immerse in the local culture.
Site Visited | Duration | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Virgin Mary House | 1 hour | Recognized Christian pilgrimage site |
Ancient City of Ephesus | 3 hours | Hadrian Temple, Domitian Temple, Trajan Fountain, Celcus Library, City Theatre |
Terrace Houses | Optional | Deeper understanding of Ephesian life |
Ephesus Museum | – | Explore artifacts and relics |
St. John Basilica | – | Historic religious site |
İsa Bey Mosque | – | Impressive Islamic architecture |
Şirince Village | Free time | Explore local culture, wine, and old houses |
Optional Visit and Lunch
During the tour, visitors have an optional opportunity to explore the Terrace Houses in Ephesus. This additional site offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of the ancient upper class.
For an extra fee, guests can wander through the remarkably well-preserved residential complex, admiring the intricate mosaics and frescoes that adorn the walls.
After the Ephesus exploration, the group will enjoy a lunch in the charming town of Selçuk. This midday meal provides a chance to refuel and experience the local cuisine before continuing the adventure.
The tour includes:
- Optional visit to the Terrace Houses
- Lunch in Selçuk
- Opportunity to explore the town’s historic sites
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary if Needed?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to meet the traveler’s needs. The tour provider is flexible and willing to adjust the schedule or activities upon request, within the overall scope of the tour.
Do the Guides Provide Commentary in Other Languages?
The tour guides provide commentary in Turkish, English, Spanish, and German, allowing guests from various backgrounds to fully appreciate the historical sites and cultural experiences during the private tour.
Are Children’s Tickets Available at a Discounted Rate?
Yes, the tour offers discounted child tickets. Children under 12 years old are eligible for a reduced rate of €380 per group, which covers up to 7 participants including children.
Is Wheelchair Accessibility Available Throughout the Tour?
The tour provides wheelchair accessibility throughout most of the sites, including Ephesus and the Virgin Mary House. However, some areas may have limited accessibility due to uneven terrain. Guests should inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking the tour.
Can the Tour Be Extended to Include Additional Sites?
The tour can be extended to include additional sites, though this may come at an extra cost. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about customizing the itinerary to meet their specific interests and needs.
Recap
This enriching one-day tour from Izmir provides a unique opportunity to explore Ephesus, the Virgin Mary House, and the charming village of Şirince. With skip-the-line access, lunch, and transportation included, participants can enjoy Turkey’s rich history and culture while enjoying personalized attention from expert guides. A well-rounded experience for those seeking to discover the highlights of this remarkable region.
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