Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary From Kusadasi or Selcuk

Ephesus, once a thriving ancient city, and the House of Virgin Mary, a revered spiritual site, offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Turkey. This half-day tour from Kusadasi or Selcuk promises an immersive experience, with an expert guide leading the way and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle ensuring a seamless journey. Discover the architectural marvels of Ephesus, including the iconic Library of Celsus, and explore the serene surroundings of the House of Virgin Mary, where visitors can reflect on her life and legacy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or seeking a spiritual journey, this tour promises to captivate and leave you eager to uncover more.

Good To Know

• This half-day tour visits the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary in Selçuk, Turkey.
• The tour is priced from $75.19 per person, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
• Pickup is available from Kusadasi and Selçuk hotels, as well as Izmir city and airport.
• The tour includes lunch, transportation, an English-speaking guide, and gratuities.
• Moderate fitness level is required, and the tour is not suitable for those with serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview

What does the tour overview entail?

The tour offers a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary in Selçuk, Turkey. The half-day tour is priced from $75.19 per person and accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers.

Pickup is available from Kusadasi and Selçuk hotels, with an option for Izmir city and airport pickup. The tour includes lunch, an air-conditioned vehicle, hotel transfers, an English-speaking guide, and gratuities.

However, it’s not recommended for those with back or heart problems, or other serious medical conditions, as it requires a moderate fitness level.

Inclusions and Pickup Information

The tour includes a number of amenities to enhance the experience.

Travelers will enjoy a complimentary lunch as part of the package. Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off service from hotels in Kusadasi and Selcuk.

A professional English-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing commentary and insights throughout the tour. Gratuities and drinks are also included, making this a convenient and inclusive experience.

The pickup times are 8:30 AM for Kusadasi hotels and 9:00 AM for Selcuk hotels. Those staying in Izmir can also arrange for pickup from the city or the airport.

Health and Safety Considerations

Confirmation of booking is received upon completing the reservation.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility issues should consider this. Infants must be held on laps during the tour.

Travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to join the tour, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

The tour operator provides health and safety guidelines to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience for all participants.

Guests are advised to consult with their healthcare providers if they’ve any concerns about their ability to participate in the tour activities.

Positive Review Highlights

Travelers frequently praised the memorable visit to the House of Mary, where they could reflect on the site’s historical and spiritual significance.

Many reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable expertise of the tour guide, Feyzullah, who provided insightful commentary on the history and religious importance of the site.

Visitors appreciated the opportunity to learn about the life of the Virgin Mary and to experience the serene atmosphere of the House of Mary.

Negative Review Highlights

While many visitors praised the memorable experience at the House of Mary, some negative reviews highlighted a few drawbacks.

The most common complaints included:

1. Long queues at the House of Mary, which detracted from the overall experience.
2. The tour length could be shorter, as some felt it was too long and dragged on.
3. Unwanted stops at various shops, which some travelers found to be a nuisance and a waste of time.
4. The moderate physical fitness level required may have been a deterrent for some less active travelers.

Ephesus Archaeological Site

The Ephesus Archaeological Site is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the Mediterranean region.

Visitors can explore the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater, and the Temple of Hadrian, all dating back to the 1st century AD. The site offers a glimpse into the prosperous ancient city’s architecture, commerce, and religious life.

Highlights include the Great Theatre, which could seat 24,000 people, and the Terrace Houses, offering a unique look at the lavish lifestyles of Ephesus’ elite.

With its well-preserved ruins and informative tour guides, the Ephesus Archaeological Site provides an immersive experience for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

House of Virgin Mary

After exploring the impressive Greco-Roman ruins of Ephesus, the tour takes visitors to the House of Virgin Mary, a historic Catholic and Muslim shrine located in the hills overlooking the ancient city.

This sacred site is believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ.

Visitors can:

1. Tour the modest stone house and its surrounding gardens.
2. Observe the shrine’s architecture, which blends Catholic and Islamic influences.
3. Light a candle and make a wish at the Fountain of Life.
4. Attend mass or participate in other religious ceremonies held at the site.

The House of Virgin Mary offers a unique spiritual experience and a chance to delve deeper into the region’s rich religious history.

The Sum Up

The Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary tour from Kusadasi or Selçuk is a comprehensive half-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the serene spiritual site of the House of Virgin Mary. With comfortable transportation, complimentary lunch, and an expert guide, this tour offers an engaging and informative experience for those interested in the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.