Daily Best of Ephesus Tour From Izmir

According to your private tour pickup time, meet your guide and drive to Ancient Ephesus—an archaeological treasure and the best-preserved classical city in the Eastern Mediterranean.

In the 1st century AD, Ephesus was the second-largest city in the world after Rome, with a population of over 250,000. Located at the center of the known world, it served as a vital gateway between East and West. Ephesus is also home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. Thanks to its exceptional preservation, walking along the marble streets and among magnificent monuments—such as the Library of Celsus, the third-largest library of the ancient world, and the Great Theatre, the largest Roman theatre in Asia—feels like stepping back in time.

Next, visit the Terrace Houses, the luxurious residences of wealthy Ephesians dating back to the reign of Emperor Augustus. These elegant homes were decorated with stunning mosaics and frescoes and featured advanced bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, offering insight into elite Roman daily life.

Continue to the House of the Virgin Mary, officially recognized by the Church as the place where Mary spent her final days. It is also believed that the Assumption took place here on August 15.

The tour then continues to the Basilica of St. John. Located approximately 3 km from Ephesus, a small church was first built on this site in the 2nd century AD in honor of St. John. In the 6th century, it was replaced by a magnificent basilica constructed by Emperor Justinian, the impressive ruins of which still stand today.

Your final stop will be the Temple of Artemis (Artemision), once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The cult dedicated to the goddess Artemis was highly influential in antiquity and made Ephesus a major pilgrimage destination.

At the end of the tour, you will be driven back to your departure point.