Ephesus: Private Day Tour, St. John Basilica & Artemis Temple

Summary

Walk marble streets in Ephesus, taste meze in the sun, hear stories where legends lived

You’ll step through ancient Ephesus with a private guide, pause at the House of Virgin Mary where pine and incense hang in the air, eat meze in a quiet garden, and stand by what remains of the Temple of Artemis—all with hotel or port pickup included. It’s less about ticking off sights and more about feeling echoes under your feet.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely finished our first Turkish coffee when our guide, Selin, waved us over at the Kusadasi port. She was already smiling—maybe she knew what was coming. The drive to the House of Virgin Mary was quiet, except for the soft hum of cicadas through the cracked window. I didn’t expect the air up there to smell like pine needles and incense mixed together. A couple from Brazil lit candles near us; Selin whispered about Pope Paul VI’s visit as if she’d been there herself. It felt strange to stand somewhere so silent after all those cruise crowds.

Next stop: Ephesus itself. You start at the Magnesia Gate and walk down—so much marble underfoot that I nearly slipped twice (watch your step). Selin pointed out grooves in the stone from ancient chariot wheels; I ran my hand along one just because I could. The Library of Celsus is taller than you think, and someone played a flute near the Great Theater so softly it barely floated above our group’s chatter. We ate lunch in a shady garden behind a crafts center—meze plates everywhere and bread still warm enough to steam when you tore it open. I tried to say “thank you” in Turkish; got a laugh from one of the cooks.

The Basilica of St. John came after lunch, sun high and relentless now. There’s not much left standing but somehow it feels heavier than other ruins—I think maybe because Selin told us John was probably buried right there on Ayasuluk Hill. Last stop was the Temple of Artemis—just one column left with storks nesting on top (I didn’t expect birds to be part of a world wonder). By then my legs were tired but my head was full; you know that feeling?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ephesus and Surrounding Historical Sites

• Meet guide at Kusadasi hotel or terminal
• Drive to The House of Virgin Mary
• Visit The House of Virgin Mary shrine
• Drive to Ephesus ancient city
• Tour Ephesus including Forum and Library
• Lunch at handcraft center garden restaurant
• Visit Basilica of St. John
• Visit Temple of Artemis
• Return to Kusadasi hotel or cruise terminal
• Free time in Kusadasi city center or port

Top questions

How long does this private Ephesus day tour last?

The full day tour typically lasts around 6-7 hours including all main sites and lunch.

Is pickup available from Kusadasi hotels or cruise terminal?

Yes, pickup is included from both Kusadasi hotels and cruise terminal at pre-arranged times.

Are entrance fees for Ephesus and other sites included?

No, entrance fees are not included but your guide will have pre-paid tickets; you pay them directly at tour end.

Is lunch provided during this private tour?

Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch with mezes is included at a local restaurant.

Can I request a Bible-oriented guide for this tour?

Yes, you can request a Bible-oriented guide at no extra cost when booking.

Are infant seats available for transportation?

Specialized infant seats are available if requested in advance.

Does this tour include Terrace Houses in Ephesus?

The Terrace Houses can be added for an extra fee paid on site if you wish.

How do I pay entrance fees if I don’t have cash?

If paying by card, your guide will stop briefly at their office en route to port so you can pay by Visa or Mastercard.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup in Kusadasi by air-conditioned Mercedes van, all parking fees, private licensed tour guiding (with Bible focus if requested), and a traditional Turkish lunch with mezes before returning to your starting point in town or at the port.