Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul

Summary Description

Start the day with a transfer by air-conditioned coach from your central Istanbul hotel to the airport. After a short 45-minute flight, land in Izmir and meet your guide for your day tour of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Aboard your air-conditioned coach voyage about one hour to Ephesus. Along the way break at the elegant church - St John’s Basilica. Walk his tomb and learn how he spent time atop Ayasuluk hill writing music.

Arrive in Ephesus, known as the finest preserved ancient city in the eastern Mediterranean. See an abundance of shops, temples, and lively streets as you stroll with your guide. Imagine how this early Christian Roman-Greco port once operated as you hear its in-depth history.

Stop at the Temple of Artemis and study the massive ruins of this Ancient Wonder of the world. Wind along streets through the heart of Ephesus to uncover the Great Theatre, which once held 25,000 visitors. Then, capture views of the ornate architecture of the Library of Celsus. During your exploration, observe fascinating history carved into the sidewalks like brothel signs and old chariot wheel tracks.

Take a break for lunch at a nearby place before continuing to the House of Virgin Mary. Hear the stories that indicate this was the last resting place of the Virgin Mary and why she decided to reside here in her final days. Then, delve into the small stone house and marvel at the old foundation speculated to be as old as the 1st century AD. 

Afterwards, head back to Izmir airport for your return voyage to Istanbul. After being collected from the airport, cruise to your hotel where your tour ends.

Highlights
  • Hassle-free trip: with return flights, all transfers, and guide at the sites
  • Visit and hear about Ephesus, the Virgin Mary’s House, and Temple of Artemis
  • Capped at 14 people, with lunch and hotel pickup and drop-off included
Description

Ancient Ephesus lies south of Istanbul and is easy to visit in a day by air. With this small-group day trip, save the effort of organizing your own flights and onward travel to the 2,000-year-old site—with plane tickets, air-conditioned transfers, and a local guide provided. Explore Ephesus’ ruins as you hear their history; enjoy lunch, and visit the Temple of Artemis and Virgin Mary’s House before returning to Istanbul.

Included / Excluded
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Round-trip flights from Istanbul to Izmir
  • Lunch
  • Local guide
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entry/Admission - Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)
  • Entry/Admission - Efes Antik Kenti Tiyatrosu
  • Entry/Admission - The Basilica of Saint John
  • Gratuities
  • Food and drinks, unless specified
Important Information
Know Before You Book
  • Duration: 15h
  • Mobile tickets accepted
Cancellation

Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours

Cancellation Notes: If you cancel at least 8 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Confirmation for this tour will be received at time of booking
In the event of any museum closures, an alternative similar museum will be visited
Not recommended for children aged 4 and under
Children 18 years and under must be accompanied by an adult
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Not wheelchair accessible
Infants must sit on laps
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

FAQ

Which attractions will I visit with Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul?

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During this experience, places you will visit include:

What time does Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul start?

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Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul will start at 5:30 AM.

How much is Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul?

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Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul price starts from $325.00.

What is the Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul cancellation policy?

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Small-Group: Ephesus and The House of Virgin Mary Day Trip from Istanbul cancellation policy: If you cancel at least 8 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee. If you cancel within 7 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.

Operated by:

Neon Tours

About operator:

See Istanbul’s top attractions efficiently on this full-day guided tour. An air-conditioned coach conveniently takes you between locations, and your guide explains the history of each sight. Visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar, with a break at midday for a 3-course lunch. Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus included entrance fees, make for a seamless experience.

Basic Information
  • Duration: 15 hours
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