Exclusive All-Inclusive Ephesus Tour: A Day Trip from Istanbul to Ancient Wonders

Experience a luxurious, all-inclusive full-day Ephesus tour from Istanbul, featuring expert guides, seamless transport, and rich historical exploration.

What's Included

Inclusions

Round-trip domestic flights (Istanbul to Izmir and back).
Private air-conditioned vehicle and driver throughout the tour.
Professional, licensed guide fluent in English.
Entrance fees to all sites mentioned.
Traditional Turkish lunch in Sirince Village.
Bottled water and light refreshments.

Exclusions

Optional wine tasting in Sirince Village.
Personal expenses and gratuities.

Itinerary

Morning Departure

<p>Your day begins early with a private transfer from your Istanbul hotel to the airport. After a brief flight to Izmir, your guide will greet you with a warm welcome and ensure a smooth start to your tour.</p>

Journey Through History

<p>Your tour of Ephesus begins with a leisurely walk through this ancient city. Your expert guide will narrate fascinating stories about its rise to prominence, cultural significance, and eventual decline.</p> <h4><strong>1. Convenient and Comfortable Transfers</strong></h4> <ul> <li>Start your day with private hotel pick-up in Istanbul and a smooth transfer to the airport.</li> <li>Enjoy a short domestic flight to Izmir, where your guide will greet you upon arrival with a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle.</li> </ul> <h4><strong>2. Guided Tour of Ancient Ephesus</strong></h4> <p>Discover the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in its history and grandeur. Highlights include:</p> <ul> <li><strong>The Temple of Artemis</strong><br />One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this iconic site once stood as a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the ancient Greeks.</li> <li><strong>The Celsus Library</strong><br />A stunning facade and architectural masterpiece, this library housed over 12,000 scrolls and served as a mausoleum for the Roman senator, Celsus.</li> <li><strong>The Grand Theatre</strong><br />Marvel at this colossal amphitheater, which could seat 25,000 spectators and hosted gladiatorial games and theatrical performances.</li> <li><strong>The Temple of Hadrian</strong><br />Adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes of ancient mythology, this temple reflects the artistry of Ephesus’s golden age.</li> </ul> <h4><strong>3. Visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum</strong></h4> <p>Explore an impressive collection of relics excavated from Ephesus, including ancient sculptures, mosaics, jewelry, and household items that reveal the daily life of its former inhabitants.</p> <h4><strong>4. Terrace Houses</strong></h4> <p>Gain exclusive access to the Terrace Houses, also known as the "Houses of the Rich," which showcase opulent frescoes, mosaics, and an advanced plumbing system. These homes belonged to Ephesus's elite and provide a vivid picture of Roman domestic life.</p> <h4><strong>5. The House of the Virgin Mary</strong></h4> <p>A deeply spiritual site believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary. Pilgrims from around the world visit this serene sanctuary, which features a wishing wall where visitors leave prayers and intentions.</p> <h4><strong>6. St. John’s Basilica and Ayasuluk Fortress</strong></h4> <p>Visit the ruins of the Basilica of St. John, where the apostle John is believed to be buried. Climb to the nearby Ayasuluk Fortress for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.</p> <h4><strong>7. Sirince Village</strong></h4> <p>Relax in the picturesque hillside village of Sirince, known for its cobblestone streets, quaint architecture, and vibrant markets. Enjoy:</p> <ul> <li>A traditional Turkish lunch with fresh, local ingredients.</li> <li>Sampling of Sirince’s renowned fruit wines and olive oils.</li> <li>Opportunities to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.</li> </ul> <h4><strong>8. Isa Bey Mosque</strong></h4> <p>End your day at one of the most beautiful examples of 14th-century Seljuk architecture, the Isa Bey Mosque, featuring intricate calligraphy and stunning tile work.</p>