Ephesus Tour
Full Day Ancient City Experience from Istanbul

Discover one of the world's best-preserved ancient cities on this comprehensive full-day tour to Ephesus from Istanbul. Explore magnificent Roman ruins, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, and experience one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World in this UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site.

About this activity

Tour Overview

Discover one of the world's best-preserved ancient cities on this comprehensive full-day tour to Ephesus from Istanbul. Explore magnificent Roman ruins, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, and experience one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World in this UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site.

Tour Highlights

The adventure begins with a morning flight to Izmir, followed by exploration of the Ephesus Ancient City including the magnificent Celsus Library with its two-story facade, the beautifully preserved Temple of Hadrian, and the massive Great Theater with 25,000-seat capacity. Walk along the marble-paved Curetes Street, visit the peaceful House of Virgin Mary pilgrimage site, and see the remains of the Temple of Artemis (Seven Wonders of Ancient World) before returning to Istanbul.

Tour Program

Early morning flight from Istanbul to Izmir
Ephesus Ancient City UNESCO World Heritage site
Celsus Library magnificent two-story facade
Temple of Hadrian beautifully preserved Roman temple
Great Theater 25,000-seat ancient amphitheater
Curetes Street marble-paved main thoroughfare
House of Virgin Mary peaceful pilgrimage site
Traditional Turkish lunch with regional specialties
Temple of Artemis Seven Wonders of Ancient World
Isa Bey Mosque 14th-century Seljuk architecture
Walk through 2,000 years of ancient history
Evening return flight to Istanbul

What is included?

Round-trip domestic flights Istanbul-Izmir-Istanbul
Airport transfers in both cities
Professional English speaking licensed guide
Traditional Turkish lunch with regional specialties
Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee
Transportation between all locations
Guided tour of all major historical sites

What is not included?

House of Virgin Mary entrance fee
Temple of Artemis site fee
Personal expenses
Drinks during lunch
Souvenirs and shopping
Tips for guide and driver
Travel insurance
Additional meals beyond lunch

Important Information

Very long day with early departure and late return after midnight. Extensive walking required on uneven ancient surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes essential. Sun protection recommended for outdoor exploration. House of Virgin Mary is an active pilgrimage site - respectful behavior required. Photography allowed at most sites. Children 0-2 years old: Free of charge. Some climbing required for theater and elevated viewpoints. Limited shade available at archaeological sites.