Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis
Step into the ancient world on a day trip to Ephesus from Marmaris! This unforgettable journey takes you to one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities, offering a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking sights.
Overview
Step into the past with a captivating day trip from Marmaris to the awe-inspiring ancient city of Ephesus. This full-day adventure invites you to explore one of the world’s best-preserved classical cities, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking sights. From the grandeur of Roman architecture to serene spiritual landmarks, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through time.
Your experience begins with a scenic drive through the Turkish countryside, where rolling hills and picturesque landscapes set the tone for the day. Sit back and relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as our professional guide shares insights about the rich history and culture of the region. A light breakfast box will be provided on board to ensure you’re energized for the day ahead.
Upon arrival in Selçuk, you’ll step into Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved ruins that offer a glimpse into ancient Roman life. As you walk along the marble-paved streets, your guide will bring history to life with captivating stories of this once-thriving metropolis. Highlights include the majestic Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre, which could seat up to 25,000 spectators in its heyday. Every corner of this ancient city is steeped in history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
The journey continues to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While only fragments of this once-magnificent structure remain, its significance and the tales surrounding it are awe-inspiring. Imagine the grandeur of a temple dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and fertility, as you stand amidst its historic ruins.
No visit to Ephesus is complete without a stop at the House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful stone structure believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus. Perched atop Mt. Koressos, this sacred site is revered by both Christians and Muslims and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer. Surrounded by lush greenery, the House of the Virgin Mary is a spiritual haven that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
For a modern twist, you’ll also visit the Experience Museum in Ephesus, where interactive exhibits and immersive displays recreate daily life in Roman times. From bustling markets to artisan workshops, this innovative museum bridges the gap between past and present, making it an engaging stop for families and history buffs alike.
Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine during a buffet-style lunch at a local restaurant, giving you the opportunity to savor the flavors of the region. After a day filled with exploration and discovery, relax during the comfortable drive back to Marmaris, reflecting on the unforgettable memories you’ve made.
Whether you’re a lover of ancient history, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who enjoys discovering new cultures, this tour offers a truly enriching experience. Ephesus await, immerse yourself in its timeless charm and uncover the wonders of Turkey’s remarkable past.
Select date, participants and language
Excursion Itinerary
Begin your day with a convenient hotel pickup in an air-conditioned bus, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.
Duration: 30 Mins
A delightful breakfast, served as a lunchbox on the bus, has been arranged for your convenience and is included in the tour price.
We will embark on a two-hour drive to Selçuk, home to the remarkable remains of the ancient city of Ephesus.
Duration: 30 Mins
Upon arriving in Selçuk, we will take a short break at a local café, where you can use the restrooms (not available inside Ephesus), try local delicacies, and prepare for exploring the ancient city.
Duration: 2 Hours , Extra Fee
The visit will last for two hours, offering a walk through the history of one of humanity's greatest ancient civilizations, enriched by captivating stories and historical insights from our guide.
Duration: 20 Mins Optional
The Ephesus Experience Museum brings ancient history to life with interactive exhibits and immersive displays, offering a modern way to explore the daily life and culture of Roman times.
Duration: 45 Mins
The excursion includes a lunch break at a local restaurant, where participants can savor freshly prepared local dishes, offering a relaxing interlude to enjoy between sightseeing activities.
Duration: 30 Mins
The Temple of Artemis, known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, celebrated for its grandeur, design, and historical significance. Visitors today can explore its captivating ruins.
Duration: 1 Hour Optional, Extra Fee
The final stop is the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site believed to be her final residence, before we journey back to Marmaris.
At the end of the day, enjoy a comfortable 3-hour drive back to Marmaris, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the tour.
For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.
Highlights
- ● Walk along the marble streets of the ancient city of Ephesus.
- ● Visit the serene House of the Virgin Mary atop Mt. Koressos.
- ● Marvel at the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, a Wonder of the Ancient World.
- ● Enjoy scenic countryside views and a delicious Turkish lunch.
- ● Learn the rich history of Ephesus from professional guides.
What's Included and What's Not?
Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Air-conditioned transport for a comfortable journey
- Professional tour guide
- Visits to Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, and the House of the Virgin Mary
- Delicious Turkish lunch and breakfast box
- Local taxes and parking fees
Not Included
- Entrance fees to historical sites
- Drinks during meals
Not Suitable For This Activities
- ●People with mobility impairments
Not Allowed This Activities
- ●Alcohol and drugs
Important Information
What to Bring
Information Before Booking
- ●Entrance fees are excluded, but skip-the-line tickets are available.
- ●Be prepared for at least two hours of walking on uneven surfaces.
- ●The journey includes rest stops for your comfort.
- ●The journey from Marmaris to Ephesus is approximately three hours each way, making for a full-day commitment. However, the comfortable transportation and enriching experiences make it worthwhile for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Know Before You Go
- ●This tour requires a minimum of 2 hours walking. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sun cream, and bring an umbrella (for sun or rain depending on the season).
- ●Bring your camera, but please note that tripods are not allowed at Ephesus.
- ●Entrance fees are excluded (Your guide will have skip-the-line tickets for Ephesus, so you will skip long ticket lines)
- ●Restroom breaks are scheduled outside historical sites.
Highlighted reviews from other travelers
Matthew Birnbaum - United Kingdom
25 August 2024
Beste, our tour guide, was exceptional knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely friendly. Her deep understanding of the region and the route, particularly Ephesus, added immense value to the experience. She handled all questions effortlessly, providing clear and insightful explanations throughout the tour. The day was engaging and informative, making it a perfect choice for anyone with an interest in history and archaeological sites. The visit to the Virgin Mary's house was a highlight, offering a profoundly spiritual experience that enhanced the overall tour. A word of advice: confirm the inclusions with your booking agent beforehand, as some entrance fees may not be covered. Additionally, if you're traveling with young children, consider leaving them in good hands at the hotel. The tour involves a significant amount of travel approximately three hours each way and may not be ideal for very young participants.
Cristina Parfenie - Australia
22 August 2024
The trip was wonderful, and our guide, Nur, was truly exceptional. She shared a wealth of fascinating information, making the experience both engaging and insightful. It was undoubtedly the best experience we've had so far!
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Customer Reviews
All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.
Overall Rating
4.9/5
Based on 13 Reviews
5.0/5
5.0/5
5.0/5
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By Traveler Types
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25 August 2024
Beste, our tour guide, was exceptional knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely friendly. Her deep understanding of the region and the route, particularly Ephesus, added immense value to the experience. She handled all questions effortlessly, providing clear and insightful explanations throughout the tour. The day was engaging and informative, making it a perfect choice for anyone with an interest in history and archaeological sites. The visit to the Virgin Mary's house was a highlight, offering a profoundly spiritual experience that enhanced the overall tour. A word of advice: confirm the inclusions with your booking agent beforehand, as some entrance fees may not be covered. Additionally, if you're traveling with young children, consider leaving them in good hands at the hotel. The tour involves a significant amount of travel approximately three hours each way and may not be ideal for very young participants.
Helpful? Yes
22 August 2024
The trip was wonderful, and our guide, Nur, was truly exceptional. She shared a wealth of fascinating information, making the experience both engaging and insightful. It was undoubtedly the best experience we've had so far!
Helpful? Yes
18 August 2024
The journey was incredible, made even better by our excellent guide, Nur. She shared numerous fascinating facts about ancient Ephesus in such an engaging and captivating way. A truly enriching experience that I would recommend to anyone with an interest in history and culture!
Helpful? Yes
18 August 2024
Our Ephesus tour with Nur was fantastic. She was professional, patient, and ensured we had ample time to explore and take photos. Her guidance made the experience seamless and enjoyable. A truly memorable tour!
Helpful? Yes
18 August 2024
Nur provided outstanding service throughout the tour. She was approachable, helpful, and even went the extra mile by lending me her phone charger when I needed it. Her exceptional customer care truly stood out—thank you, Nur!
Helpful? Yes
18 August 2024
We had a fabulous day exploring Ephesus and the House of Holy Mary with our tour guide, Nur. Despite starting the day feeling a bit unprepared, Nur and the team were incredibly friendly, patient, and resourceful, handling any issues with ease. It was a well-organized and enriching experience from start to finish!
Helpful? Yes
11 August 2024
The Ephesus tour involves a lot of walking, but it's absolutely worth it. It's an excellent experience for anyone with an interest in ancient history or mythology. Our guide was articulate and informative, making the trip both enjoyable and easy to follow. The newly opened museum was a standout highlight, offering an incredible way to conclude the visit. For added convenience, audio guides are available in multiple languages, enhancing the overall experience.
Helpful? Yes
01 August 2024
I had a fantastic day exploring Ephesus. Everything was well-organized, and our guide, Sultan, was excellent. She guided us through the site, providing clear and insightful explanations about the key highlights. It was truly a memorable and enriching experience.
Helpful? Yes
21 July 2024
Nur was an outstanding tour guide friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging throughout the trip. I would definitely recommend Hektor for day trips; this is our second tour with them this week, and both have been fantastic. The food provided was excellent, and the bus was comfortable with great air conditioning, making the journey enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
21 July 2024
I had an incredible time exploring Ephesus. Our tour guide, Nur, was fantastic her extensive knowledge and engaging explanations truly made the trip worthwhile. The ruins were awe-inspiring, and the digital museum added a modern and captivating touch to the experience. This destination is definitely a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture!
Helpful? Yes
21 July 2024
It was a wonderful day filled with breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and exceptional hosting by Nur. Her deep knowledge and friendly demeanor made the experience truly memorable. A highly recommended outing for anyone looking to explore and enjoy!
Helpful? Yes
18 July 2024
The tour is a busy one with an early start from Marmaris, but it’s well worth the effort if you have the time and an interest in ancient history. Our guide, Nur, was outstanding—engaging, highly knowledgeable, and with excellent English that made the experience accessible and enjoyable. The tour included breakfast, which was simple but sufficient, and a more enjoyable open buffet lunch. The itinerary was well-planned, starting with a visit to a ceramic shop, followed by an in-depth tour of Ephesus, expertly led by Nur. Afterward, we had lunch, visited the Virgin Mary shrine, and concluded the day with a stop at a Turkish Delight shop. The coach was comfortable, offering ample legroom and efficient air conditioning, making the journey pleasant. Overall, it was a well-organized tour, and special thanks to Nur for making it such a memorable experience.
Helpful? Yes
18 July 2024
Ephesus was absolutely phenomenal, and Nur did an exceptional job guiding us through the site. Her detailed explanations and insights into the history brought the ancient ruins to life. This tour is a must for anyone interested in exploring this remarkable destination.
Helpful? Yes
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