Ephesus: Private Tour, Terrace Houses & Farm Lunch Experience

Summary

Walk ancient Ephesus then taste Turkish farm life over lunch

You’ll wind through ancient Ephesus with a private guide who knows every shortcut, step inside Roman terrace houses, and share a long Turkish lunch on a working farm before visiting the House of the Virgin Mary. Expect laughter over coffee, hands-on history, and moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We were already winding through the marble streets of Ephesus when I realized how quiet it felt — just the soft crunch of gravel under our shoes and our guide, Selin, pointing out faded Latin inscriptions on the stones. She knew every shortcut around the crowds (I’m still not sure how), so we’d duck into shaded corners or pause by a mosaic that looked like it was just dusted off yesterday. The air had that dry, sun-baked smell you only get in places this old. I kept running my hand along the walls — smooth in some places, rough in others where time’s chipped away at things.

The Ephesus Terrace Houses were something else. Selin handed us little blue covers for our shoes (“so you don’t bring history home,” she joked), and inside it was cooler, almost echoey with our footsteps. The frescoes were faded but you could still see bursts of red and gold if you squinted. Someone asked about daily life here and Selin told us about Roman parties — apparently they loved their wine as much as anyone today. I tried to imagine living there with all those tiny tiles underfoot.

Lunch at the farm was honestly a surprise highlight. We sat outside under grapevines while local women wove rugs nearby — their hands moved so fast I couldn’t follow. The food came out family-style: beef meatballs, chicken, these bright salads with herbs I didn’t recognize but tasted fresh and sharp. Afterward they brought Turkish coffee (strong enough to wake the dead) and baklava that left my fingers sticky with honey. One of the ladies laughed when I tried to say “thank you” in Turkish — probably butchered it but she smiled anyway.

The House of the Virgin Mary felt quieter than anywhere else — even the birds seemed softer up there. People lit candles or just stood quietly for a minute; it was peaceful in a way I didn’t expect. On the drive back to Kusadasi port, I watched olive trees flick past and thought about how strange it is to walk where people lived thousands of years ago…and then eat lunch like you’re part of someone’s family now. That feeling sticks with me more than any photo.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ephesus and enjoy farm lunch

• Visit Roman city with large harbour
• Tour Ephesus Terrace Houses
• Have authentic Turkish farm lunch
• Meet locals weaving Turkish rugs
• Enjoy Turkish coffee and baklava
• Visit House of the Virgin Mary

Top questions

How long is the private Ephesus tour from Kusadasi?

The tour typically lasts half a day including transport from Kusadasi port or hotels.

Is lunch included on this private Ephesus tour?

Yes, lunch at a local Turkish farm with appetizers and main dishes is included.

Can we customize our itinerary during this Ephesus day trip?

Yes, your guide will help tailor stops based on your interests and timing needs.

Are tickets for Ephesus included or do we wait in line?

Skip-the-line online tickets are arranged so you avoid waiting at entrances.

Does this tour include visiting the House of Virgin Mary?

Yes, your itinerary includes time at the House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus.

Is transportation provided for this private tour?

Private transportation from Kusadasi port or hotel is included in your booking.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Bottled water is provided throughout your day trip from Kusadasi to Ephesus.

Will we meet locals during this experience?

You’ll meet local women weaving rugs at the farm during lunch after touring Ephesus.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Kusadasi port or hotel, bottled water throughout, skip-the-line entry to all sites including Ephesus and its Terrace Houses, guiding service from an experienced local expert, plus a set menu farm lunch with beef meatballs or chicken alongside Turkish appetizers — all before returning comfortably in time for your departure.