Ephesus Private Tour: Terrace Houses, Artemis & Port Pickup

Summary

Explore ancient Ephesus sites with local stories and port pickup

You’ll walk ancient marble streets in Ephesus with a local guide who brings history alive, explore hidden mosaics in the Terrace Houses, pause at the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary, and see what remains of Artemis’ temple — all with easy port pickup and guaranteed on-time return to your cruise ship.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the stones in Ephesus to feel so warm under my hand — maybe it was the sun, or just the idea that people walked here thousands of years ago. Our guide, Ayşe, met us right at the Kusadasi port (she had a little sign and everything) and somehow made us laugh within five minutes. She started telling stories about the city before we’d even left the parking lot. I never thought I’d care about Roman plumbing but there we were, peering into ancient toilets and trying not to giggle.

The private tour felt relaxed — no big group hurrying us along. We wandered through the Terrace Houses, where you can still see faded mosaics and painted walls (I swear you could almost smell old dust and olive oil). At one point Ayşe pointed out a cat napping in a sunbeam by a marble column; she said cats have always ruled this place. The House of the Virgin Mary was quieter than I expected, almost hushed except for birds and someone lighting a candle nearby. It’s strange how peaceful it felt up there.

We stopped at the Temple of Artemis too — or what’s left of it anyway. Just one column standing against all that sky. I tried to imagine what it looked like back then but honestly, my brain couldn’t quite do it. Lunch was an option but we skipped it because we wanted more time poking around Kusadasi’s shops near the port (the smell of leather bags and roasted nuts everywhere). And yeah, we got back to our ship with time to spare — no stress at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Ephesus shore excursion

• Meet by Best of Ephesus Tours
• View Kusadasi port city
• See Kusadasi Castle (Pigeon Island)
• Explore Ancient City of Ephesus
• Visit House of the Virgin Mary
• Visit Temple of Artemis
• Free time for shopping near port

Top questions

Is this Ephesus private tour only for cruise passengers?

Yes, this private Ephesus tour is specifically for guests arriving by cruise ship at Kusadasi port.

Does the tour include pickup from Kusadasi port?

Yes, your guide will meet you directly at Kusadasi port for pickup at your arrival time.

Are entrance fees included in this private Ephesus tour?

No, entrance fees are not mentioned as included; check with operator for details.

Will I be back on my cruise ship on time?

Yes, on-time return to your ship is guaranteed as part of this shore excursion.

Can I have lunch during this Ephesus day trip?

You can request a stop for lunch at a local restaurant if you wish; it's optional.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, this private Ephesus tour is wheelchair accessible.

What main sites are visited on this private tour?

The itinerary includes Ephesus ancient city, Terrace Houses, House of Virgin Mary, Temple of Artemis, Kusadasi Castle and shopping area.

How long does the Ephesus shore excursion last?

The exact duration isn't specified but covers several key sites comfortably within cruise schedules.

What’s included

Your day includes direct pickup and drop-off at Kusadasi port by an expert local guide with a separate driver in an air-conditioned vehicle. All taxes and parking fees are covered. You can choose to add lunch at a local restaurant if you want before returning comfortably to your cruise ship on time.