Ephesus, Artemis & Virgin Mary: Day Tour with Port Pickup

Summary

Ancient streets echoing in selcuk temple columns and quiet hills

You’ll wander Ephesus’ ancient marble streets with a local guide who brings history alive, pause by stork-topped columns at Artemis’ temple, share lunch in Selçuk, then find quiet at Mary’s hillside home before returning to your ship — all with pickup included.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping off the ship in Kusadasi was the smell — a mix of sea salt and something sweet from the market stalls. Our guide, Ayşe, was waiting with my name scribbled on a board (she grinned when I mispronounced “Ephesus” — apparently it’s “Efes”). We piled into a minivan that hummed quietly as we left the port behind. The drive to Selçuk took about half an hour, winding through olive groves and sleepy villages where old men played backgammon outside cafés. It felt early but not rushed; the light was soft, almost blue.

We stopped first at what’s left of the Temple of Artemis. Honestly, I’d seen photos before — just one lonely column standing in a field — but being there felt different. There were storks nesting on top (Ayşe said they come every spring), and for a second I tried to imagine how huge it must’ve been. She told us stories about Artemis and Diana, how people would travel for days just to leave offerings here. It’s strange how quiet it is now except for birds and distant traffic.

Walking through Ephesus itself was like time folding over itself. The marble under my shoes was warm already even though it wasn’t noon yet. We wandered past broken statues and arches; Ayşe pointed out faded carvings on Curetes Street that I’d never have noticed alone. At the Library of Celsus, everyone went silent for a minute — not sure why, maybe just taking it in. There’s this echo when you speak near the Great Theatre; one guy tried singing and his voice bounced right back at us (he blushed). Lunch was simple but good — grilled chicken with tomatoes that actually tasted like tomatoes.

The last stop was up in the hills at the House of Virgin Mary. The air smelled like pine needles and candle wax inside her little stone house. People were lighting candles or tying wishes to a wall outside; some looked hopeful, others just tired from walking all day. I didn’t expect to feel much but there’s something peaceful up there — maybe it’s just the shade after so much sun or maybe something else entirely. On the way back to port I kept thinking about those ancient streets and how many feet had walked them before mine.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ephesus and nearby sites

• Meet guide at Kusadasi port
• Drive 30 minutes to Selcuk
• Visit Temple of Artemis ruins
• Tour extensive Ephesus ruins
• Visit House of Virgin Mary
• Return to Kusadasi port

Top questions

How long does the Ephesus day tour from Kusadasi port take?

The tour lasts several hours including transfers; expect around half a day from pickup to drop-off at your cruise ship.

Is lunch included during this Ephesus tour?

Yes, lunch is included as part of your day trip experience.

Does this tour include entry to the House of Virgin Mary?

Yes, visiting the House of Virgin Mary is part of the itinerary.

Will there be an English-speaking guide?

A professional English-speaking guide leads the tour throughout.

Is hotel or port pickup provided?

Pickup and drop-off are included from both hotels and Kusadasi cruise port.

Are there any fitness requirements for this tour?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness due to walking on uneven ground.

Can children join this Ephesus day trip?

Children can join if accompanied by adults; child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Is there a vegetarian option for lunch?

A vegetarian option is available if requested at booking time.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup directly from your hotel or cruise ship port in Kusadasi, comfortable transport by air-conditioned minivan, entry fees for all sites visited including Ephesus ruins and House of Virgin Mary, guidance from an expert English-speaking local guide throughout, plus a sit-down lunch before heading back to your starting point.