Private Ephesus Day Tour — Explore Ancient Ruins, House of the Virgin Mary & Temple of Artemis
Travel back two millennia on a private Ephesus tour that pairs the city's major archaeological highlights with the flexibility of a licensed guide. Walk marble streets, visit the House of the Virgin Mary, and see the lone column of Artemis while avoiding fixed schedules.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early to avoid crowds
Morning visits (before 10:00) offer cooler temperatures and fewer large tour groups, especially at the library and theater.
Wear sturdy shoes
Expect uneven mosaic pavements and carved stone steps; closed-toe shoes with good grip reduce slip risk.
Hydrate and shade up
Bring at least 1–2 liters of water per person and a sun hat—shade is limited between sites.
Plan transport ahead
If staying in Kusadasi or Selçuk, confirm pickup times and parking options with your guide to maximize time on-site.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Selçuk Archaeology and Ephesus Museum (smaller crowds, rich finds)
- •Ayasuluk Hill and Isa Bey Mosque for panoramic views and quieter local history
Wildlife
- •Mediterranean lizards sunning on ruins
- •Passerine and migratory birds in the olive groves
Conservation Note
Ongoing conservation balances tourism with preservation—stay on marked paths, avoid touching fragile reliefs, and use local guides to support community stewardship.
Ephesus flourished as an Ionian Greek city before Roman expansion made it a major port and religious center; later it became significant in early Christian history, linked to St. Paul and St. John.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Protects feet on uneven marble, mosaics and short stair sections.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration is key in the Aegean heat; refill where available.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Strong sun exposure even in spring can cause sunburn on open sections of the site.
Light layers and a light rain shell
Mornings can be cool and afternoons warm; a shell helps if there’s unexpected rain.
Common Questions
Is admission to the sites included in the private tour?
Admission fees are typically not included; confirm with your booking and bring cash or card for tickets to Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.
How far is Ephesus from Kusadasi or Selçuk?
Ephesus is about 20–25 minutes from Kusadasi by car and under 10 minutes from central Selçuk; your guide can arrange pickup.
Is the House of the Virgin Mary accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
The site has steep paths and uneven ground; while some areas are wheelchair accessible, parts of the pilgrimage path involve steps and incline—check specifics with your guide.
Can the itinerary be customized during the day?
Yes — a licensed private guide will tailor the schedule within the booked duration, focusing on your interests like archaeology, Christian history, or photography.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–7 hours
Location
Selçuk, İzmir Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels but requires several hours of walking and standing; minimal elevation change.
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