Ephesus Day Trip from Istanbul

Ephesus Day Trip from Istanbul

Welcome to an adventure through time on our Ephesus day trip from Istanbul. As one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world, Ephesus offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and explore a rich and fascinating history.

Our expert guides will provide fascinating insights into the region’s history and culture, making the experience truly unforgettable. From the grandeur of the Great Theater to the stunning architecture of the Library of Celsus, every step is a new discovery.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, our daily Ephesus tour is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Highlights

• Explore impressive Roman ruins
• Walk through the largest outdoor theater in the world
• See remains from the Temple of Artemis at the Archaeological Museum of Ephesus
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch
• Visit the House of the Virgin Mary on Bulbul Mountain

Below you can find what’s to be visited during the tour;

Agora, Magnesia gate, The Odeon, Marble Street, Temple of Hadrian, The library of Celcus, The fountain of Trajan, Curettes Street, The Great Amphitheatre, The Home of Virgin Mary

Duration

We’ll pick you up from your hotel early in the morning at the specified time.

Background

Ephesus, once, the trade centre of the ancient world, a religious centre of the early Christianity is an important tourism centre in Turkey. It is located near the mouth of the Menderes River, in what is today West of Turkey, South of İzmir (Smyrna).

As a strategic coastal gateway to the Eastern World, this Ionian refuge grew to be the second largest city in the Roman Empire, the site of a Christian shrine and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Legend also has it that the Virgin Mary, accompanied by St. Paul, came to Ephesus at the end of her life, 37 – 45 AD.

Renaissance church historians mentioned the trip. It is said that local Christians venerated a small house near Ephesus as Mary’s. In 1967 Pope Paul VI. visited the site, where a chapel now stands and confirmed the authenticity of the legend. Also the Basilica of St. John is located near Ephesus. Similarly, St. John is said to have lived the last years of his life here. After his death, a shrine was located over his grave.

Ephesus, which is in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, is the best-preserved classical city on the Mediterranean, and perhaps the best place in the world to get the feeling for what life was like in Roman times regardless of how it ages.

Itinerary

Our Ephesus Tour will begin upon picking you up from your hotel to be transferred to the Istanbul Airport. Upon arrival to Izmir, we will meet and depart for Ephesus tour.

We will begin your Ephesus tour with a visit to The Temple of Artemis. It is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world and built in an area of Ephesus. Today one can only see the ruins of the foundations of this marvelous construction of the Hellenistic Age. It is entirely made of marble and full of sculptured columns’ capitals and shafts.

Your next visit is to the archeological site of world famous ancient Greco-Roman City of Ephesus. You will enter Ephesus through the Magnesia Gate and begin a slow, downhill walk. You will be guided into the ruins of this Roman provincial capital. Your route takes you past the most important wonders of the region. For instance, the Odeon Theater, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theater. The theater is also believed to be the site where St. Paul preached to the Ephesians. It is still used today for a local spring festivals, concerts and can seat 24,000 spectators.

After visiting this impressive site, you will break for lunch before continuing your tour to The House of Virgin Mary. This holy place is considered sacred by both Christians and Muslims. Additionally, the House of the Virgin Mary is recognized by the Vatican as the final residence of the Virgin Mary, offering a special opportunity for prayer and meditation in its tranquil setting.

At the end of Ephesus Tour, you will be transferred to Izmir Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival to Istanbul, we will meet and transfer you back to your hotel.