Explore the enchanting ruins of ancient Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this captivating tour. Marvel at the grandeur of the Celsus Library, the expansive Great Theatre, and the well-preserved Public Latrines and Roman Baths. Discover the remains of the legendary Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Then, venture to the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site for both Christians and Muslims, and savor the unique wines of the charming village of Sirince, nestled in the hills near Ephesus. This small-group tour offers an immersive experience you won’t soon forget.
Key Points
- This tour allows visitors to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the UNESCO-listed Celsus Library and Great Theatre.
- The tour includes a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site for both Christians and Muslims.
- Visitors can explore the traditional Turkish village of Sirince, known for its unique wines and glimpse into rural life.
- The tour is a small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants, providing a more personalized and flexible experience.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but families are welcome, and valid passports are required for children.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the charming village of Sirince, complete with a wine tasting experience.
Departing from Izmir, Turkey, the full-day tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch.
Visitors will discover the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, such as the Odeon, Celsus Library, and Great Theatre, as well as the remains of the Temple of Artemis.
At the House of the Virgin Mary, they’ll see the shrine and drink from the spring with alleged healing qualities.
The tour then heads to Sirince, where guests can enjoy wine tasting, including the village’s famous pomegranate wine.
Ephesus Highlights
The tour explores the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, including the impressive Odeon, the iconic Celsus Library, and the expansive Great Theatre.
Visitors will also see the well-preserved Public Latrines, the ornate Roman Baths, and the bustling Agora marketplace.
A highlight is visiting St. John’s Basilica, where the apostle John is believed to be buried.
Another must-see is the remains of the mighty Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
This immersive experience allows travelers to step back in time and imagine the grandeur of the ancient city, once a thriving center of commerce and culture in the Mediterranean region.
House of the Virgin Mary
Perched atop the Bulbul Mountain, the House of the Virgin Mary is a revered site that draws pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
The shrine honors the belief that this was the final resting place of the Virgin Mary after she was assumed into heaven.
Tourists can visit the small, humble chapel and drink from the spring said to have healing qualities.
The site is considered a sacred place by both Christians and Muslims, and its tranquil atmosphere offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of nearby Ephesus.
Guided tours provide insight into the history and significance of this important religious destination, allowing visitors to connect with its spiritual essence.
Sirince Village
After exploring the spiritual significance of the House of the Virgin Mary, the tour continues to the traditional Turkish village of Sirince, nestled in the hills just southeast of Ephesus.
In this charming town, visitors can wander the quaint streets lined with whitewashed houses and shops selling local handicrafts and produce.
The highlight of the visit is the opportunity to sample the village’s renowned wines, including the famous pomegranate variety. Theres some good wine tasting and learn about the unique winemaking traditions of Sirince.
This stop offers a glimpse into the authentic rural life of Turkey, providing a pleasant contrast to the ancient ruins of Ephesus.
Small-Group Tour
Although the tour is limited to a small group of no more than 15 people, it provides a personalized and immersive experience for visitors. Guests can expect hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch included in the tour package. Plus, the small-group size allows for more interaction with the guide and flexibility in the itinerary compared to larger group tours.
| Tour Highlights | Inclusions | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Explore ancient Ephesus ruins | Hotel pickup and drop-off | Not wheelchair accessible |
| Visit House of the Virgin Mary | Entrance fees | Children passport required |
| Experience traditional Sirince village | Buffet lunch | Gratuities not included |
This small-group tour provides an immersive and personalized experience, allowing guests to make the most of their time in this historic and culturally rich region of Turkey.
Gratuities and Confirmation
The tour package doesn’t include gratuities, but guests can compensate the guide and driver at their discretion. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, ensuring a smooth reservation process for the tour.
Gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t included in the tour price, allowing guests to tip based on their satisfaction with the service.
Confirmation is provided immediately upon booking, so guests can rest assured their tour is secured. The confirmation includes all necessary details about the tour, pickup location, and schedule.
Guests can review the confirmation and contact the tour operator if they’ve any questions prior to the tour date.
Accessibility and Children
Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, children are welcome, provided they have a valid passport. While the ancient ruins and historic sites may pose challenges for those with mobility issues, the tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. To ensure a seamless experience for families, it is recommended to plan accordingly and communicate any special needs or requirements in advance.
| Accessibility | Children |
|---|---|
| Not wheelchair accessible | Valid passport required |
| Mobility challenges | Families welcome |
| Advance communication advised | Plan accordingly |
| Unique cultural experience | Seamless experience |
| Historic sites and ruins | Explore the region |
Tour Details
This small-group tour is limited to 15 people, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.
Gratuities aren’t included in the tour price, so guests can choose to tip the guide and driver at their discretion.
Upon booking, travelers will receive confirmation immediately, ensuring a hassle-free planning process.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, families are welcome to join, provided children have a valid passport.
The tour details offer several key features:
- Small-group size of 15 people or fewer
- Immediate booking confirmation upon purchase
- Flexibility in tipping the guide and driver
- Requirement for children to have valid passports
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of the Tour?
The tour is a full-day excursion from Izmir, Turkey. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch, providing an extensive exploration of ancient Ephesus and surrounding sites.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement, but children do need a passport to participate. This small-group tour is suitable for all ages, making it a great option for families.
Can Participants Customize the Tour Itinerary?
No, participants cannot customize the tour itinerary. The tour has a set schedule that includes visits to Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and Sirince village. The tour operator manages the itinerary and activities.
Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available?
The tour provider doesn’t mention any special dietary accommodations. However, the included buffet lunch may offer a variety of options to accommodate different dietary needs. Guests should inquire about specific requirements when booking the tour.
What Are the Payment Options for the Tour?
The tour offers various payment options, including credit card and PayPal. Guests can pay online at the time of booking to secure their spot. Cash payments may also be accepted on the day of the tour.
Recap
Explore the ancient wonders of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Marvel at the Celsus Library, Great Theatre, and Temple of Artemis.
Visit the sacred House of the Virgin Mary and the charming Sirince Village, where you’ll savor local wines.
This small-group tour offers an immersive experience of Ephesus’s historical and cultural highlights.
