Ephesus from Izmir: Ancient Ruins, Temple of Artemis & Lunch

Summary

Walk Ephesus ruins from Izmir with temple views & open buffet

You’ll walk ancient streets in Ephesus with a local guide sharing stories, pause at the Library of Celsus and Roman Theater, see what remains of the Temple of Artemis, then share an open buffet lunch before heading back to Izmir. Expect small surprises — like wild herbs or laughter over lunch — that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to smell wild sage right as we stepped off the minibus near Ephesus — it was just there, sharp and green in the air. Our guide, Derya, smiled and said it always grows wild along this part of the Ionia coast. She pointed out the first worn stones under our feet and suddenly it hit me how old everything really is here. The day trip from Izmir felt long enough for my coffee to go cold, but seeing those marble columns up close made me forget about the drive.

Walking through Ephesus with Derya was like following someone who’d lived a dozen lives here — she kept tossing in stories about the Library of Celsus (I still can’t believe people read scrolls in that heat), and at one point she told us to just stop talking and listen. There were birds somewhere behind the theater walls, and you could almost hear what 24,000 people might have sounded like when this place was full. I tried to picture it but mostly just ended up staring at the sunlight on broken statues. We got a quick look at the Temple of Artemis too — only a few columns left now, but Derya explained why locals still come by to leave flowers sometimes.

Lunch was at a local spot with an open buffet — honestly, I went back twice for the eggplant stew (no shame). The table next to us had a family from Ankara who laughed every time their little boy tried to pronounce “Ephesus” in English. Afterward there was time for shopping if you wanted; I wandered through a jewelry stall but didn’t buy anything except some pistachios for the ride back. The whole group was quiet on the return to Izmir — maybe tired or maybe just thinking about how old stones can make you feel small and curious all at once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ephesus ancient city and lunch

• Pick up from Izmir hotel
• Travel to Ephesus
• Guided tour of Ephesus
• Visit Temple of Artemis ruins
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Return to Izmir

Top questions

How long is the drive from Izmir to Ephesus?

It’s about an hour and a half each way, depending on traffic.

Is hotel pickup included in this Ephesus tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at your indicated hotel are included.

Will we see the Temple of Artemis up close?

You’ll get a panoramic view of what remains of the Temple of Artemis.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

Yes, there’s an open buffet lunch at a local restaurant included.

How big are the groups on this tour?

The group size varies; transport is by minivan or minibus depending on numbers.

Is this day trip suitable for children or people with mobility issues?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels; infants can join too.

What language is the tour conducted in?

Mainly English; other languages may be available if enough guests request them.

Can cruise ship passengers join this Ephesus tour?

Yes—just provide your ship details when booking so timing can be arranged.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Izmir, entrance fees for Ephesus Ancient City, guided walking tour with stories along the way, an open buffet lunch at a local restaurant (drinks not mentioned), panoramic stop by the Temple of Artemis ruins, and comfortable transport back to your hotel or starting point.