Marmaris travelers seeking to uncover the storied past of ancient Ephesus will find this comprehensive tour an intriguing option. Over 13 captivating hours, guests enjoy the UNESCO-listed ruins, tracing the footsteps of history through the remarkably preserved Celsus Library and other architectural marvels. The journey also includes a visit to the nearby town of Selcuk, allowing time to explore sites like the House of Virgin Mary. With comfortable transportation and a delightful buffet lunch, this tour promises a remarkable cultural experience. Those eager to delve deeper into the region’s rich heritage won’t want to miss this opportunity.
Key Points
- Comprehensive exploration of the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus and the nearby town of Selcuk, including a guided tour of the Celsus Library.
- Buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant with local Turkish dishes, providing a taste of the regional cuisine.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour, with convenient pickup from the hotel’s main security gate.
- Opportunity to visit the House of Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis, and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selcuk during free time.
- Tour led by live guides in English, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring informative and engaging insights into the history and significance of the sites.
Tour Overview
This Ephesus and Selcuk tour from Marmaris provides a comprehensive exploration of the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus and the nearby town of Selcuk, complemented by a buffet lunch.
The tour lasts 13 hours and offers live tour guides in English, Russian, and Turkish. Pickup is included, with drivers waiting up to 5 minutes after the scheduled time. Comfortable, air-conditioned buses ensure a pleasant journey.
At Ephesus, guests will enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the historical ruins, including the iconic Celsus Library.
After, an open buffet lunch will be served at a nearby restaurant, followed by free time to explore Selcuk and its attractions, such as the House of Virgin Mary or the Temple of Artemis.
Pickup and Transportation
Starting from the hotel’s main security gate, guests are picked up 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Drivers will wait up to 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time in case of any delays. Visitors can expect comfortable and air-conditioned buses for transportation throughout the tour.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Pickup Location | Main security gate of hotel |
| Pickup Time | 10 minutes before scheduled departure |
| Wait Time | Drivers will wait up to 5 minutes after scheduled time |
| Vehicles | Comfortable, air-conditioned buses |
| Transportation | Provided throughout the tour |
The prompt transportation and well-equipped vehicles ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to the Ephesus and Selcuk Tour.
Exploring Ephesus
Visitors explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, marveling at the well-preserved Celsus Library and other ancient structures during the guided tour.
With an expert guide leading the way, they’ll uncover the fascinating history of this once-thriving metropolis. The highlight is the Celsus Library, a grand structure renowned for its intricate facade and remarkable state of preservation.
As they explore the site, they’ll also see the remnants of theaters, temples, and baths that offer glimpses into the daily life of the ancient Ephesians. The guided tour provides invaluable context and insights, bringing the site’s rich past to life.
Visitors depart with a deeper appreciation for the stunning architectural and historical legacy of Ephesus.
Celsus Library Visit
As visitors explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, the highlight of the guided tour is the Celsus Library, an exceptionally well-preserved ancient structure renowned for its ornate facade and unique architectural design.
The two-story library, constructed in the 2nd century AD, originally housed over 12,000 scrolls and featured an intricate façade adorned with columns, statues, and decorative elements.
Today, the library’s iconic entrance, with its central pediment and flanking figures, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the ancient city. Tourists marvel at the intricate details and enjoy the rich history as their guide shares insights into the library’s purpose and significance within the larger Ephesian archaeological site.
Lunch and Selcuk
After exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the tour continues with an open buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant, providing an opportunity for participants to recharge and refuel.
The buffet features a variety of local Turkish dishes, allowing visitors to sample the flavors of the region.
Following the lunch, the tour moves on to the town of Selcuk, where guests have free time to explore. They can visit sites like the House of Virgin Mary or the Temple of Artemis, gaining a deeper understanding of the area’s rich history and cultural heritage.
This portion of the tour gives travelers the flexibility to customize their experience according to their interests and preferences.
Free Time in Selcuk
During the free time in Selcuk, travelers can explore the town’s rich historical and cultural offerings at their own pace. They may choose to visit the House of Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site, or the impressive ruins of the ancient Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Visitors can also:
- Stroll through the bustling town center, taking in the lively markets and local shops
- Climb to the top of the Basilica of St. John for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside
- Visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, which houses a impressive collection of artifacts from the ancient city
Travelers can relax in one of the town’s many cafes or restaurants, sampling the local cuisine and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Tour Highlights
The highlights of this Ephesus and Selcuk tour include an in-depth exploration of the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, led by a knowledgeable and passionate guide who provides historical commentary throughout the 2-hour site visit. Visitors will marvel at the impressive Celsus Library and other ancient structures, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history.
After the Ephesus tour, guests can enjoy a delicious open buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant. The tour also includes free time in the charming town of Selcuk, allowing participants to visit sites like the House of the Virgin Mary or the Temple of Artemis at their own pace.
With comfortable and air-conditioned transportation, this well-organized excursion offers an immersive cultural experience.
Customer Feedback
According to customer reviews, the Ephesus and Selcuk tour has received an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 46 reviews.
Highlights mentioned by customers include:
- The knowledgeable and passionate tour guide who provided insightful historical commentary
- The well-organized nature of the trip, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience
- The comfortable and air-conditioned transportation, making the journey comfortable
- The delicious and satisfying open buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant
Customers have praised the tour for its exceptional value, with many noting that it exceeded their expectations.
The combination of the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, the free time in Selcuk, and the attentive service have made this tour a hit among travelers.
Recap
This comprehensive tour offers a remarkable opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of Ephesus and Selcuk.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved ancient structures, learn about their history, and enjoy a buffet lunch and free time in Selcuk.
With comfortable transportation throughout, this tour provides a deep exploration of the UNESCO-listed ruins, allowing guests to fully experience the region’s remarkable cultural significance.
