Ephesus: Small Group Tour with Terrace Houses & Artemis Temple

Summary

Walk marble streets of Ephesus then climb into the Terrace Houses

You’ll walk ancient marble streets in Ephesus with a small group and guide, climb into hillside Terrace Houses full of faded mosaics, and stand where Artemis’ temple once stood tall—all with easy pickup from Kusadasi port or your hotel. Expect laughter, real stories from locals, and moments that linger long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guide, Selin, right outside Kusadasi port—she was holding a sign and grinning like she actually meant it. There were just six of us, which felt more like joining a group of friends than anything official. The van had that faint lemony-clean smell (not too much), and we took off toward Ephesus with Selin telling us about her grandmother’s favorite olive grove on the way. I hadn’t realized how green everything would be in spring—fields rolling out and little birds everywhere. The drive isn’t long, maybe half an hour? Hard to say when you’re busy trying to pronounce “Ç” correctly (I still can’t).

Walking into Ephesus is strange—like you’re trespassing somewhere important but nobody minds. The marble underfoot is smooth and cool, even with the sun out. Selin pointed out old chisel marks near the Library of Celsus; I’d seen photos before but standing there, you notice how the light bounces off those columns in real life. There’s this echo when someone laughs near the Grand Theater—it’s huge, and for a second I tried to imagine 24,000 people packed in there centuries ago. We moved slow enough that I could actually read some of Selin’s stories about each spot, not just snap photos.

I didn’t expect to like the Terrace Houses as much as I did. They’re tucked up on Pion Mountain—lots of steps (my knees complained quietly). Inside, it smells faintly musty but not unpleasant; more like old books than dust. The mosaics are wild—tiny tiles in patterns that probably meant something to someone once. At one point I pressed my hand against a bit of wall fresco and almost got caught by Selin (she laughed). She explained these were homes for Ephesus’ wealthy families—some rooms still have painted ceilings if you look up at just the right angle.

Our last stop was what’s left of the Temple of Artemis—a few columns standing in a field with storks nesting up top. It’s quieter here than anywhere else we went; you hear wind and distant dogs barking from somewhere in town. On the way back to Kusadasi, everyone was quiet for a while—I guess we all needed a minute to catch up with ourselves after seeing so much history stacked together like that. I keep thinking about those chipped mosaics and wondering who walked those same steps before us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ephesus and Terrace Houses tour

• Meet guide at Kusadasi port or hotel
• Drive to Ephesus ancient city
• Walk marble streets and see landmarks
• Visit Terrace Houses on Pion Mountain
• Stop at Artemission Temple
• Return to Kusadasi and drop off

Top questions

How many people are in each Ephesus small group tour?

The tour has a maximum of 10 guests per group.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip from Kusadasi?

Yes, pickup from Kusadasi hotels or port is included.

Are entrance fees covered for Ephesus & Terrace Houses?

Yes, all entry fees are included in your booking.

How difficult is it to visit the Terrace Houses?

The Terrace Houses require climbing many steps and are not recommended for those with walking difficulties or fear of heights.

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?

Yes, it guarantees on-time return to Kusadasi port for cruise guests.

What language does the guide speak?

The guide speaks English and is professionally licensed.

Does the tour operate if it rains?

The tour runs in all weather conditions; dress appropriately.

How long does it take to reach Ephesus from Kusadasi?

The drive takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup in Kusadasi by air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees for Ephesus and the Terrace Houses, time at the Temple of Artemis ruins, plus guidance throughout from a licensed English-speaking local—then drop-off back where you started at day’s end.