Immerse yourself in history and explore the incredible sites and ruins in Selcuk on this Ephesus Day Tour from Izmir. Visit Ephesus Ruins, Temple of Artemis, Isabey Mosque, and House of the Virgin Mary with a knowledgeable guide.
Immerse yourself in history and explore the incredible sites and ruins in Selcuk on this Ephesus Day Tour from Izmir. Visit Ephesus Ruins, Temple of Artemis, Isabey Mosque, and House of the Virgin Mary with a knowledgeable guide.
- Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - The House of the Virgin Mary, known as Meryem Ana Evi in Turkish, is believed by many to be where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years. It is said she arrived in Ephesus with St. John and lived there from 37-45 CE until her Assumption (according to Catholic doctrine) or Dormition (according to…
- Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - The House of the Virgin Mary, known as Meryem Ana Evi in Turkish, is believed by many to be where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years. It is said she arrived in Ephesus with St. John and lived there from 37-45 CE until her Assumption (according to Catholic doctrine) or Dormition (according to Orthodox belief).
- Ancient City of Ephesus - Among Turkey’s numerous ancient cities and classical ruins, Ephesus stands out as the most magnificent and well-preserved. It offers the best glimpse into ancient life on the Mediterranean. Ephesus was a major trading hub and a center for the worship of Cybele, the Anatolian fertility goddess.
- The Odeion - The Odeion of Ancient Ephesus is a small, semi-circular theater originally built in the 2nd century A.D., funded by Publius Vedius Antonius and his wife Flavia Paiana. It served as a venue for political meetings, social gatherings, concerts, and theatrical performances.
- Bibliotheque de Celsus - This stunning library from the early 2nd century AD is the most famous monument in Ephesus and has been extensively restored. Originally part of a complex, the library appears larger due to its convex facade base, which emphasizes the central elements, while the middle columns and capitals are larger than those at the ends. Facade niches contain replica statues of the Four Virtues: Sophia (Wisdom), Arete (Goodness), Ennoia (Thought), and Episteme (Knowledge).
- Temple of Hadrian - Dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, this temple is one of the best-preserved and most beautiful structures on Curetes Street. It was built in the early 2nd century AD by P. Quintilius to commemorate Hadrian’s visit from Athens.
- Efes Antik Kenti Tiyatrosu - The great theater of Ephesus is a remarkably preserved and impressive structure. Made of marble, it spans 145 meters in width, with its audience area reaching up to 30 meters. At its peak, it could hold up to 24,000 spectators. The theater’s construction began during the Hellenistic period.
- Isa Bey Mosque - The Isa Bey Mosque was constructed in a post-Seljuk/pre-Ottoman transitional style when Selcuk was the capital of the Aydin Emirate. An Arabic inscription above the main entrance indicates it was built in 1375.
- The Temple of Artemis - The Temple of Artemis, or Artemision, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In an empty field west of the center, a single reconstructed pillar is all that remains of the grand Temple of Artemis. At its height, the temple boasted 127 columns.

- Professional guide
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
- Drinks
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Gratuities
- Drinks
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Gratuities
You will be awed by the remarkable landmarks and wreckage within and around Selcuk, a region abundant in historical significance and valuable relics. From Izmir, this single-day excursion will transport you to Selcuk to explore Ephesus Ruins, Temple of Artemis, Isabey Mosque, and the House of the Virgin Mary. Your knowledgeable local guide will guide…
You will be awed by the remarkable landmarks and wreckage within and around Selcuk, a region abundant in historical significance and valuable relics. From Izmir, this single-day excursion will transport you to Selcuk to explore Ephesus Ruins, Temple of Artemis, Isabey Mosque, and the House of the Virgin Mary. Your knowledgeable local guide will guide you through each location, providing an in-depth historical overview while you marvel at the incredible ruins before you. The tour concludes with your return transfer back to Izmir.
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Infant meals not included
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.