Private Ephesus Tour from Istanbul (by Plane)

One of the main destinations of our private Ephesus tours is the ancient city of Ephesus. Known as the third largest city in the Roman Empire, Ephesus had a population of around 250,000 during the Roman era. It served as both the capital and commercial center of the Roman Empire’s Asia Minor. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore significant landmarks such as Hadrian’s Temple, ancient toilets known as latrines, Celsus’ Library, known as the third largest library in the ancient world, the Great Theatre of Ephesus, the largest theatre in Anatolia with a capacity of 25,000, and more.

Often referred to as the ‘houses of the rich’, the Terrace Houses are located in the ancient city of Ephesus. This complex of six luxurious villas provides an invaluable insight into Roman family life. The oldest of these residences, dating back to the 1st century BC, have their own heating systems and are decorated with stunning Roman mosaics and frescoes.

In his last moments during the crucifixion, Jesus Christ entrusted his mother, the Virgin Mary, to his apostle John, considering Jerusalem unsafe for her. John chose Mount Bülbül, near the city of Ephesus, as a safe place for Mary. According to tradition, it was here that the Virgin Mary spent the last few years of her life. Today, the House of the Virgin Mary is recognized as an official pilgrimage site. It was further sanctified by the visits of Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006.

Known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis was originally built in the 6th century BC and reached its final architectural wonder in the 2nd century BC. At the time, it was the most important center of pagan worship and was famous for the magnificence of its architecture. Today only the foundations, a solitary column, and sparse ruins remain, but it is still worth a visit to experience the aura of the site.

After building a house for the Virgin Mary on Mount Bulbul, St John the Evangelist stayed in Ephesus to care for her and spread Christianity. After Christianity was declared the official religion of Rome in the 4th century, the Basilica of St John was built in his honor by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century. The church is also the site of the final resting place of St John.

A visit to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, located in the heart of Selcuk, will enrich your tour of the ancient city of Ephesus. The Great Artemis, the Beautiful Artemis, and the statue of Emperor Domitianus are just some of the must-see finds from Ephesus. Exploring the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, where historical artifacts are displayed in chronological order, promises to be a fascinating exploration of Ephesus’ storied past.

As of 2024, the Entrance fee for Ephesus Ancient City is €40 per person. Ticket prices for nearby attractions are as follows;

Terrace Houses in Ephesus: €15
The House of the Virgin Mary: 400 Lira (Around €12)
The Temple of Artemis: Free of Charge
The Basilica of St. John: €6
Ephesus Archaeological Museum: €10
Sirince Village: Free of Charge

Yes, the ancient city of Ephesus is accessible every day, including weekends. The site opens at 08:30 and closes at 18:00, with the box office closing at 17:00.

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby at the agreed time. If the tour is departing from an airport or cruise port, your guide will be waiting for you at the exit gate holding a sign with your name on it.

Your tour guide will purchase tour tickets on your behalf, ensuring that you do not have to queue, as tour guides are given priority at box offices.

Yes, as we operate our tours on a private basis, you have the flexibility to choose your preferred departure time.

Payment for the tour can be made in cash (Turkish Lira, USD, or Euro) directly to your tour guide at the end of the tour, with no pre-payment or deposit required.