Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary Tour
€68.00
Destination Guide
About Ephesus
Ephesus was one of the greatest port cities of the ancient world and flourished as a leading center of the Roman province of Asia. Today you can stroll down marble-paved Curetes Street past the Temple of Hadrian to the two-story facade of the Library of Celsus and the vast Great Theater. The surroundings are just as rich: in Selçuk, the Temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Basilica of St. John crowns Ayasuluk Hill, and the House of the Virgin Mary on Mount Koressos is revered by Christians and Muslims alike. Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most Ephesus tours run as half-day or full-day trips covering the ancient city, the Terrace Houses, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis, with full-day itineraries often continuing to Şirince in the afternoon. A day trip to Ephesus is easy from Kuşadası, where cruise ships dock, or from İzmir. Shade is scarce on the site, so start early and allow at least three hours. On TurTalebi you can compare the options from local firms running Ephesus tours and reserve your place with secure card payment.
Tours and Activities
Ephesus Tours
Tours run by local firms in the area. Pick a date, see the price and book securely by card.
1 tour shown
Highlights
Top Things to See
01
Library of Celsus
Built by his son in memory of Celsus, a Roman governor of Asia, the library is the most photographed monument in Ephesus. Its reconstructed two-story facade glows in the soft light of early morning.
02
Terrace Houses
These Roman-era homes of wealthy Ephesian families are protected under a modern roof, revealing mosaic floors and colorful wall paintings. Walkways let you watch ongoing excavation and restoration work, offering the best glimpse of daily life in the ancient city.
03
House of the Virgin Mary
This small stone chapel on a wooded slope of Mount Koressos is believed by many to be where Mary spent her final years. Visitors of many faiths tie notes and wishes to the wishing wall nearby.
04
Temple of Artemis
One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the great temple is now marked by a single re-erected column in a field in Selçuk. It makes a quick stop combined with nearby Ayasuluk Hill and the İsa Bey Mosque.
05
Basilica of St. John
On Ayasuluk Hill, the ruins of this basilica built under Emperor Justinian stand over the site traditionally held to be the tomb of St. John the Apostle. The hilltop offers wide views over Selçuk and the surrounding plain.
06
Şirince Village
Set in the hills a short drive from Selçuk, Şirince is known for its old Greek houses, cobbled lanes and fruit wines. Stalls selling olive oil, handmade soaps and local produce make it a relaxed afternoon stop.
Planning
Plan Your Trip
When to Go
April, May, September and October are the best months to visit Ephesus, with warm weather and more manageable crowds than in midsummer. July and August are very hot, and with little shade on site you will want to start as early as possible. Late morning is usually the busiest time, especially on days when several cruise ships are in port at Kuşadası. Winter is mild and wetter, but it rewards visitors with a far quieter experience among the ruins.
Getting There
The nearest airport is İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport, about an hour's drive from Selçuk, the closest town to the ruins. Trains also run from İzmir to Selçuk. Cruise passengers arriving at Kuşadası port are roughly 20 to 30 minutes from the site by road. From Selçuk, tours, taxis or transfers reach the ancient city and the House of the Virgin Mary, and minibuses run up the hill to Şirince.
Practical Tips
- Start at the upper Magnesia Gate and walk downhill to the lower entrance, so you see the whole main street without climbing back up.
- Wear shoes with good grip, as the ancient marble can be slippery, and bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
- Dress modestly at the House of the Virgin Mary, covering shoulders and knees, and keep your voice low inside the chapel.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Allow two to three hours for the main streets of the ancient city, plus about another hour if you visit the Terrace Houses. A full itinerary with the House of the Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis, the Ephesus Museum and Şirince fills an entire day, so set off early.
Yes, the Terrace Houses are one of the most rewarding parts of Ephesus. Under their protective roof you see well-preserved mosaics, frescoed walls and marble floors from Roman homes up close. Being covered, they also offer a welcome break from the sun on hot days.
The ancient city is a short drive from Kuşadası, and the simplest options are a guided tour or a private transfer. Minibuses run to Selçuk, from where a taxi or a walk takes you to the entrance. Half-day tours for cruise passengers are timed around the ship's schedule.
It stands on the slopes of Mount Koressos, known locally as Bülbül Dağı, southwest of Selçuk and above the upper entrance to Ephesus. The small chapel in a wooded setting is a pilgrimage site and a regular stop on culture tours, a short drive from the ancient city.
Wander the cobbled lanes, admire the old Greek houses and the village church, and taste local fruit wines and olive oil. Stalls sell handmade soaps, dried fruit and other local products. Combined with Ephesus on the same day, it is a relaxed place to spend the afternoon.
Keep Exploring