Why This Tour Is Worth Choosing

• Explore Ephesus: Discover one of the best-preserved ancient cities.
• Visit Virgin Mary's House: Experience this sacred pilgrimage site.
• Temple of Artemis: Witness the remains of a historical wonder.
• Guided Tour: Learn about history with a professional guide.
• Convenient Transfers: Flights and transportation are included.

What to Expect

Ephesus and Virgin Mary’s House Day Trip from Istanbul

Step Into History on a Seamless Full-Day Journey

Discover two of Turkey’s most iconic and meaningful destinations on a perfectly organized day trip from Istanbul. This experience combines ancient history, religious heritage, and cultural highlights into one smooth and memorable tour — ideal for travelers who want depth without hassle.

Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus

Walk Through One of the Best-Preserved Cities of Antiquity

Ephesus is a UNESCO-listed archaeological treasure and one of the most impressive ancient cities in the world. As you walk along its marble streets, you’ll step into daily life from Roman times, surrounded by monumental structures and remarkable craftsmanship.

Highlights of Ephesus

• Library of Celsus – A symbol of Ephesus and one of the most photographed ancient buildings on earth
• Great Theatre – A colossal structure with a capacity of 25,000 spectators, still commanding awe today
• Agora, temples, and public baths – Insight into social, political, and commercial life of the ancient world

Your licensed guide brings the ruins to life with stories, context, and historical depth.

Visit the Sacred House of the Virgin Mary

A Place of Peace, Faith, and Reflection

Located on the peaceful slopes of Mount Koressos, the House of the Virgin Mary is believed to be where Mary spent her final years. Recognized by the Vatican, it is a pilgrimage site for Christians and a place of quiet reflection for visitors of all backgrounds.

What Makes This Site Special

• A serene natural setting surrounded by forested hills
• A deeply spiritual atmosphere respected by multiple faiths
• A place for prayer, reflection, and meaningful cultural insight

Discover Cultural and Architectural Gems

A Complete Experience Beyond the Ruins

This tour goes beyond Ephesus and Mary’s House, offering a broader understanding of Anatolia’s layered history.

Included Cultural Stops

• Traditional Turkish Lunch – Enjoy authentic local flavors in a comfortable setting
• Temple of Artemis – Visit the remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
• Isa Bey Mosque – A beautiful example of Seljuk architecture blending stone, symmetry, and serenity

Why Choose This Ephesus Day Trip from Istanbul?

Designed for Comfort, Insight, and Efficiency

This tour is crafted for travelers who want maximum value in a single day without stress or rushing.

Tour Advantages

• Convenient Flights – Round-trip domestic flights between Istanbul and Izmir
• Expert Local Guides – Deep historical and cultural knowledge throughout the tour
• All-Inclusive Comfort – Transfers, lunch, entrance fees, and guiding included
• Balanced Pace – Well-structured itinerary with time to explore and absorb

Book Your Ephesus and Virgin Mary’s House Day Trip Today

Experience the timeless wonders of Ephesus, the spiritual calm of the Virgin Mary’s House, and the cultural richness of western Turkey — all in one unforgettable day. This journey blends history, belief, and heritage into an experience you’ll remember long after you return.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this tour suitable for a single day from Istanbul?

Yes. With early flights and an optimized itinerary, the tour is comfortably completed in one full day.

Are domestic flights included in the tour price?

Yes. Round-trip flights between Istanbul and Izmir are included for a seamless experience.

Do I need to be religious to visit the Virgin Mary’s House?

No. The site welcomes visitors of all backgrounds and beliefs and is appreciated for its peaceful and historical significance.

Is walking required at Ephesus?

Yes. The site involves walking on marble streets and uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A traditional Turkish lunch is included as part of the tour.

Are entrance fees included?

Yes. All scheduled site entrance fees are included in the tour price.

What’s Included in the Price

Pickup Information

Meeting Point

Important Information Before You Go

Key Details to Note:

• Reservations: Must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
• Itinerary Changes: The itinerary may change slightly due to weather conditions or other factors, but the main program will remain intact.
• Comfortable Attire: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
• Pickup Location: Only from centrally located hotels on Istanbul's European side. Guests staying outside this area need to meet at a designated location.
• Timeliness: Be ready at least 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to avoid delays.
• If the participant cancels within the free cancellation period, the plane ticket fee will not be refunded; however, the remaining amount will be reimbursed.
• Participants are required to bring their passports.
• Participants from the Anatolian side of Istanbul can join the tour by meeting directly at the airport.

Note: Small adjustments to the tour program may occur without prior notice, but the core itinerary will not be affected.

Tour Program & Schedule

Tour Program: Ephesus & Virgin Mary’s House - Daily by Plane

• 05:00: Pickup from your hotel in Istanbul (only central hotels on the European side) and transfer to the airport.
• 07:00: Flight from Istanbul to Izmir. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
• 08:00: Arrival at Izmir Airport. Meet your professional guide and transfer to Ephesus in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• 09:00: Guided tour of Ephesus:
  • Library of Celsus - an iconic example of ancient Roman architecture.
  • The Great Theatre - a magnificent amphitheater that could seat up to 25,000 people.
  • Temple of Hadrian - a beautifully preserved structure showcasing Roman art.
  • Ancient marble streets - walk through history in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• 11:00: Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the last residence of Mary. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take photos.
• 12:30: Lunch at a local restaurant offering traditional Turkish cuisine. Beverages are not included.
• 14:00: Continue the tour with visits to:
  • Temple of Artemis - the ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • Isa Bey Mosque - a stunning example of Seljuk architecture from the 14th century.
• 16:00: Transfer back to Izmir Airport.
• 18:00: Flight from Izmir to Istanbul.
• 19:30: Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel. End of the tour.

Prices & Availability