Private Ephesus Tour

Your guide will meet you at Kusadasi Port, your hotel, or in Selcuk, and then lead you on an excursion to visit the first destination, the House of the Virgin Mary (now converted into a small chapel) on Bulbul Mountain, revered as an important pilgrimage site for Christians. The visit typically lasts around 50 minutes, but those who wish to linger in the peaceful atmosphere may do so upon request.St. Mary, entrusted by Christ himself to Apostle St. John at the crucifixion, journeyed to the ancient frontiers of Ephesus and chose this hill to spend the remainder of her life. Recognized as a pilgrimage site by Catholics, this location has been blessed by not only Pope Paul VI but also by Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI at different times. Ceremonies are still held here every Sunday.Continuing our journey, we traverse through the lush forests along this scenic route, reaching the upper gate of Ephesus to commence our exploration of the magnificent ruins of Ancient Ephesus. Highlights include the Celsus Library, the Ancient Theater with a seating capacity of 25,000, the Odeon, Harbor Street (Arcadians Street), the Marble & Curetes Streets, the Hercules Gate, the Medical Center, the Temple of Hadrian, Domitian, the Prytaneion, various Monumental Fountains, the State Agora, and more.The Ephesus Church mentioned in the Book of Revelation is regarded as the most significant of the Seven Churches in Asia Minor (Anatolia) and served as their head. The Loveless Church (Revelation 2: 1-7) is believed to have been located in Ephesus, where the Gospel of John is thought to have been written. Apostle Paul also preached to the Ephesians and resided there for three years, contributing significantly to the development of Christianity in Ephesus, which was deemed the third most important city of Christianity after Jerusalem and Antioch.We will pause for lunch at a local restaurant (excluded) and then visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Finally, we will proceed to St. John’s Basilica, constructed by the Byzantine Emperor Justinianus on Ayasuluk Hill. The official tour concludes with a prayer at St. John’s tomb within the basilica.At the conclusion of all visits, those interested in shopping may make brief stops at a carpet weaving center, a leather outlet center, or a ceramic craft shop. Shopping is optional.The excursion will conclude with drop-offs at the guests’ respective destinations: Kusadasi Port or their hotel.