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Private Ephesus Excursions for Explora Journeys Guests
Ephesus Travel Guide specializes exclusively in private, tailor-made Ephesus excursions, designed to match the elegance, comfort, and unhurried pace for Explora Journeys guests.
Ephesus Excursions for Explora Journeys
A Seamless Private Experience
Discover Ephesus Beyond the Ordinary
- The Library of Celsus, an iconic symbol of ancient knowledge
- The Great Theatre, once seating 25,000 spectators
- The Marble Road and Curetes Street, where history unfolds step by step
- Terrace Houses (optional), offering rare insight into elite Roman life
- The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
- Ephesus Experience Museum, where you will travel back in time, immersing yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the ancient world.
Optional Enriching Extensions
- The House of the Virgin Mary, a serene pilgrimage site in the hills above Ephesus
- Sirince Village, known for its charming streets, local wines, and traditional houses
- Basilica of St. John, 6th century church where John the Apostle was buried.
- Artisan workshops, showcasing Turkish ceramics, textiles, or leather craftsmanship
Comfort, Privacy, and Expertise
- Luxury air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers
- Licensed, English-speaking guides experienced with high-end cruise clientele
- Flexible timing, always aligned with Explora Journeys’ port schedule
- No shopping pressure, no group tours, no rushed visits
Why Choose a Private Ephesus Excursion?
A private tour allows you to:
- Avoid large tour groups
- Set your own pace
- Ask questions freely
- Focus on history, culture, and atmosphere rather than logistics
An Unforgettable Day Ashore
You can book a private Ephesus excursion, by sending us an inquiry or by WhatsApp.
Contact us or WhatsApp +90 536 225 5658
Write to a Private Shore Excursion expert for more information about this tour and other tours.
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Private Biblical Tours of Laodicea
History of Laodicea
The city of Laodicea was one of the chief seats of Christianity. Laodicea is mentioned in the epistle to the Colossians and is one of the seven churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelations. The Laodicean church is thought to have been founded by the Colossian Epaphras, a Christian preacher and one of the diciples of St. Paul
Laodicea
Laodicea was also known with a philosophy and a medical school. The medical school of Laodicea was known with ear and eye medications.
The city had 2 theaters. The small theater had a 8000 people capacity and the big one had 12000 people capacity.
As mentioned in the New Testament Col 4: 16), there is a letter sent to Laodicea by Paul which has never been discovered. Laodicea is mentioned as the lukewarm city in the new testament. There was no source of water where the city was founded. The water is supplied to the city from Hierapolis (Pamukkale). Pamukkale was known with the hot thermal springs, by the time the water reached to Laodciea, it was lukewarm. The church of Laodicea is said to be lukewarm like the water. This was the only congregation in the book of revelation where nothing good about it is said. Laodicea was a rich city in financial terms but a very poor city in faith.
The area had a major Jewish population, the jews came to the area in the 2nd century BC from Babylon. They were sent by Antiochus the Great as paid soldiers. These jews became the early christians and introduced trade to the area. The exact number of Jews who lived in Laodicea during its ancient history is difficult to determine. However, historical evidence suggests that there was a significant Jewish community in the city. Jews of the city used to pay the Temple Tax whic was an annual tax imposed on Jewish males over the age of 20 to support the upkeep and maintenance of the Temple in Jerusalem. This was a way for the Jewish community to contribute to the Temple's expenses. The annual taxation of Jewish men in Laodicea, which included an estimated 7,500 individuals, provides a strong indication of the size of the Jewish community. This number suggests a total Jewish population of around 20,000 or more, considering women and children. Cicero the famous Roman statesman served as the governor of the area and lived in Laodicea. Cicero, mentioned the wealth and influence of the Jewish community in Laodicea, further supporting the idea of a large Jewish population.
Roman Emperor Hadrian visited Laodicea in 129AD. Hadrian's visit recognized Laodicea's importance and granted it the title of "neokoros," meaning "guardian" of Zeus worship. This elevated Laodicea's status to a level comparable to Ephesus, the guardian of Artemis. Laodicea's strategic location and its role as a banking center for elite Romans further enhanced its economic prosperity during Hadrian's reign.
On of the highlights to be seen in the ancient city of Laodicea, is a 4th century AD church which was ordered by Constantine the Roman Emperor. The church is recently re-erected and opened to the public visits. This church is considered to be one of the earliest church buildings of the world.
Menorah and Cross Carving in Laodicea
Temple A
Trajan's Fountain
Trajan Fountain in the Ancient city of Laodicea
Multi-Day Tours including Laodicea:
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2 Days Pamukkale, Laodicea and Ephesus Private Tour from Izmir
2 Days Private Tour from Izmir.
First day, depart for Ephesus to explore the Greco-Roman ruins. Overnight in Pamukkale.
On the second day visit Pamukkale (Hierapolis) and Laodicea. Pamukkale is known with the white travertine terraces and pools that are formed by calcium carbonate. Walk on the terraces and visit the ruins of ancient city of Hierapolis. The immersive experience in Laodicea allows for a captivating journey back in time, where the well-preserved ruins and structures provide a tangible connection to the Roman era.
Includes excellent English speaking tour guide, lunches, luxury transport,
Pamukkale
Ephesus
2 Day Tour Ephesus, Laodicea and Pamukkale from Izmir
Day 1 - Private Tour of Ephesus starting from Izmir and ending in Pamukkale.
Meet your licensed tour guide and air-conditioned vehicle at your hotel in Izmir or Izmir Airport. Depart for Selcuk, Drive approximately 1 hour. Your first stop will be the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Continue to the ancient city of Ephesus which was the home to over 200,000 people in the Roman Times. The peak time of the city was between the 1st and 2nd century AD. Modern-day excavations have revealed an incredible collection of ruins. Visit the highlights of the ancient city and visit the Ephesus Experience Museum. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at the grounds of a country house. After lunch see the local artisans showcasing their traditional handicrafts. Afterwards, drive to Pamukkale. Overnight in Pamukkale.
Day 2 - Private Tour of Pamukkale and Laodicea starting from Pamukkale and ending at Izmir Airport
After breakfast, Drive to Pamukkale, a natural and historical site listed as UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces, formed by natural hot springs that has high calcium carbonate. Visit the ruins of ancient city of Hierapolis. After lunch at a local restaurant, a visit to Laodicea is a fascinating glimpse into the ancient city that held significance during the Roman Empire. Referred to as the Luke Warm city in the Book of Revelation, Laodicea's historical importance is undeniable. Noteworthy figures like Emperor Hadrian, who chose the city for a summer retreat, and the renowned Roman statesman Cicero, who served as governor, have left their mark on its legacy. Exploring the ruins and landmarks of Laodicea provides a unique opportunity to connect with the rich history and culture of this once-thriving Roman metropolis. Afterwards we will transfer you to Izmir Airport.
Private Tour Cost: 600 Euro (Total to be paid for a group 1-6 people)
Rates Cover:
- Services of an excellent English speaking tour Guide
- A/C MPV
- All transportation costs.
- Tax, service charges.
- Pick up and drop off from/to Hotel / Airport in Izmir.
- Traditional Turkish Lunches
Rates Do Not Cover:
- Entrance fees to the sites.
- Drinks during lunch
- Hotel accommodation in Pamukkale
There is no prepayment required for the reservation. To avoid disappointment, we recommend to make your private tour reservation at earliest possible.
Payment Terms:
Payment can be made in Euro, Turkish Liras or US Dollar cash at the end of the tour. There is no prepayment required for the booking.
* If requested we can pick you or drop you to Izmir airport. There is no surcharge for these services.
* If requested guests can be transported to Denizli Cardak Airport at the end of Day 2. There is a surcharge of 50 Euros for this private transfer service.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel a tour 72 hours in advance of your tour departure without any charges. If you would like to cancel a tour, simply send us an email and we will be happy to assist you. Once you are within the 24 hour tour departure window, the tour becomes non-refundable. This is because our guide and vehicle have set aside space to accommodate your request and will often not be able to fill that space with another customer so close to departure.
For more information, contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions :
> We do not make hotel bookings. You make your hotel booking directly.
We recommend the following hotels in Pamukkale area: (booking.com links)
- Villa Lycus Hotel (Thermal Pool)
- Venus Suite Hotel
- Doga Thermal Health and Spa
- Spa Hotel Colossae Thermal
Q2 - We would anticipate being dropped off at the Izmir Airport for our flight.
> In the second day you will be dropped off to Izmir airport approximately at 7.00pm.
Q3 - So we would be safe booking a flight departing Izmir at 10:00 PM if we are expected to arrive at 7:30PM? The guide will ensure we stay on schedule?
> Yes, no problem.
Q4 - How do we book our trip with you? How does payment work?
> * For private tour booking, kindly advise us the following:
- Full names of all the members of your group.
- Number of people in your group.
- Tour Date
- Pick up location
- Time to start the tour
- Name of your hotel in Pamukkale
- WhatsApp or phone number (while travelling).
- Drop off location
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5 Days Private Tour of Western Turkey
Denizhan guiding at Pergamon Theater
Boarding your vehicle in Izmir airport drive to the north of Izmir, pass fertile fields and olive trees, to the present day, modern town of Bergama, once known as Pergamon, a great center of culture. The ancient city was a capital of the Pergamon Kingdom, and it was here that parchment paper was invented. Today, Pergamon is one of Turkey's finest archeological sites. Drive up to the Acropolis, to see the remains of the citadel and the city walls, the foundations of the Zeus Altar, and the Royal Palace. The famous Pergamon Library once contained 200.000 scrolls which were a gift to Cleopatra from Mark Anthony. Walk through the Agora and see the restored Trajan Temple and the remains of the Demeter, Athena and Dionysus Temples. On the steep slopes of the Acropolis you will visit the Theatre, which once held as many 15.000 spectators, view the town and its surroundings from this site. Continue to the town en route, see the Red Basilica which was used as a temple dedicated to the Egyptian godess of Serapis. Enjoy lunch in local Restaurant of Bergama and have a taste of Turkish food. In the afternoon, visit the Asclepion, a healing center from the 4th century BC and one of the most important sites of Pergamon. Here patients had herbalistic, aquatic and psychological treatment. Visit the Temple of Asclepios, the theatre, and walk through the sacred corridor and down the ancient,arcaded, marble-paved boulevard. Drive to Kusadasi. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Day 2 - Fullday Tour of Ephesus
Meet with your guide in front of your hotel in Kusadasi. Drive to the country. Your first stop on this fascinating tour is at the HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY. Then, you will continue on to visit ancient EPHESUS, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath,Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theater with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. Afterwards visit the BASILICA OF ST. JOHN and see the TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS, one of the wonders of the ancient world. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Day 3 - Fullday Tour of Pamukkale
After departing from Kusadasi, drive east approx. 2.5 hours to. visit Hierapolis (Pamukkale). Enter the site from North Gate and walk through the Ancient Necropolis (Cemetery). So far Italian archaeologists excavated over 1200 tombs in the area. The total number is expected to exceed 3000. No where in the world you can see such a gigantic ancient cemetery. Afterwards see the Roman Bath, walk through Domitian Gate, Frantinus Avenue to see the other remains. View the huge Roman theater having a capacity of 10000. Walk on the calcium deposit terraces of Pamukkale. Enjoy the stunning views. The water temperature is 32 degrees. At the end of the tour we can drop you at a hotel in Pamukkale or drive you back to Kusadasi.
Day 4 - Fullday (8hours) Priene, Miletus and Didyma
Meet with your guide at your hotel in Kusadasi. Following the departure from the pier, the first stop will be PRIENE. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture. All the streets intersect at right angles. Next visit MILETUS, an ancient city located near the mouth of the Meandros River. Miletus owed its importance to its position on the trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the ancient philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Having a prominent position, Miletus became the most important port in this area and it was the most active member of the twelve cities of the Ionian Confederation. From the 7th century B.C. the city has been controlled in turn by the Persians, Roman and Seljuk Turks. The last visit in the tour will be DIDYMA. The world Didyma meant "twins" and it was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo, which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 12 mile sacred road. Drive back to Kusadasi.
Day 5 - Sirince Village and Izmir City
After departing your hotel in Kusadasi, you will arrive at SIRINCE VILLAGE. This old Orthodox Village, 30 km from Kusadasi, was once "Cirkince"(ugly). Indeed its inhabitants gave this name on the purpose as they did not want to be bothered by foreigners nor to share the beauty of their village. Still after years, visitors understood that the village was not ugly and called it "Sirince" (pretty). Today the village is a perfect synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture as of the 1920's; after the Turkish Independence War, people exchange between Greek and Turks has occurred and all those typical Greek houses, though they kept their original outside characteristics, have received the local layout inside. At Sirince Village you will have chance of seeing the local life at a village and purchasing some small local souvenirs and handicrafts. The village is also famous for its local grape and other fruit wines. Afterwards drive to Izmir City Center. Visit the historical Kemeralti Bazaar, which is the most vibrant shopping center of Izmir for centuries covering a huge area. In 17th and 18th centuries French and British merchants first and in 19th C AD Turkish immigrants later from Greece and Aegean Island to Izmir have made a great contribution for enlarging the shopping mall as to be the center of trade in Izmir. It began expanding to a large area throughout the Konak square with a big variety of shops. Transfer to Izmir AIrport. End of services.
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Izmir to Pamukkale by train
Izmir to Pamukkale via Ephesus.
Pamukkale Train from Izmir
Turkish Railways (TCDD) operates a train from Izmir Basmane Train Station and Izmir Airport (ADB) and Selcuk (Ephesus) to Pamukkale 6 times a day. Tickets cost approximately 5 Euros. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours from Selcuk, 4.5 hours from Izmir Airport and 5 Hours from Izmir City Center.
Visit Ephesus on the way from Izmir to Pamukkale
For travelers who will be staying at Izmir City Center hotels, we recommend them to take the 7.02am train from Basmane train station and for those arriving to Izmir AIrport, can take this train at 7.30am. This train will arrive at Selcuk (Ephesus) at 8.37am. Our tour guide and vehicle can meet you at Selcuk train station. After the tour you will be dropped back to Selcuk train station for your journey to Pamukkale which leaves Selcuk Train Station at 2.07pm. The train will arrive at Pamukkale (Denizli) at 5.32pm. After reaching Denizli Train Station, you can board a shared minibus or a taxi to Pamukkale.
Izmir Basmane to Selcuk Train Schedule
Travelers can take the 8.20am train from Denizli Train Station which will arrive at Selcuk (Ephesus) at 11.58. Our tour guide and vehicle can meet you at Selcuk train station. After the tour you will be dropped back to Selcuk train station for your journey to Izmir Airport or Izmir City Center which leaves Selcuk Train Station at 7.49pm. The train will arrive at Izmir AIrport at 8.46pm and Izmir Basmane Train Station at 9.09pm.
Pamukkale to Ephesus Train Schedule
Ephesus Tour from Selcuk Train Station Review
Private Ephesus Tours from Selcuk Hotels and Selcuk Train Station
Frequently Asked Questions
> As I understand, you would like to take the train from Izmir Train Station to Selcuk (Ephesus) Train Station. After the tour of Ephesus. We will drop you back to Selcuk (Ephesus) Train Station for your journey to Denizli (Pamukkale). The tour will be conducted with a MPV. Your luggages will be kept in the vehicle during your private tour of Ephesus. There will be a separate driver and a tour guide. While you will be touring with the tour guide, our driver will keep an eye on your belongings.
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How do you get from Izmir to Ephesus?
Selcuk is the modern name for Ephesus. It is a small town having a population of 36 thousand. Selcuk is 62km south of Izmir. It is an hour drive from Izmir Airport. Havas have shuttles for flights. Selcuk is also accessible by train from Izmir Airport and Izmir downtown (Basmane).
Train travel is the most inexpensive way to travel from Izmir to Ephesus. Izmir Train Station is located in downtown Izmir and if you are a good walker Ephesus is within walking distance from Selcuk (Ephesus) Train Station, approximately 6km away. Train travel is not the most luxurious option but it is adventurous and enjoyable. The train rides through fertile farm lands and urban towns. It is an enjoyable way to see Turkish countryside and local life.
The same train also go to Denizli where Pamukkale (Hierapolis) is located.
The Train schedule between Izmir, Izmir Airport and Selcuk Town (Ephesus) is as follows:
Izmir Basmane Train Station >> > Selcuk (Ephesus) Train Schedule
Train Schedule from Izmir to Ephesus Selcuk
Ephesus Selcuk to Izmir Basmane Train Schedule
Cost of Izmir to Ephesus Train ticket:
Izmir Basmane - Selcuk (Ephesus): 100tl per person (2 Euro)
Izmir to Ephesus with IZBAN
Below you can find the current times of the IZBAN trains between Alsancak - Tepekoy and the Tepekoy - Selcuk timetables which are ideal for exploring the Ancient City of Ephesus. For your convenience, we have arranged the timings so that you can plan your trip hassle-free.
Izban Train Schedule from Alsancak to Tepekoy
Tepekoy-Selcuk Izban Schedules
Is there a train station at Izmir Airport?
How much is the train from Izmir Airport to Selcuk?
Izmir Airport to Ephesus Train
Selcuk Ephesus Train Station - Meeting point with your Ephesus Tour Guide
* If you do not have a rental car and staying in Selcuk or coming to Selcuk with train. We offer private walking tours of Basilica of St. John, Temple of Artemis, Terrace Houses and the Ancient City of Ephesus. For more information, please contact us.
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Izmir to Ephesus by train
Ephesus from Izmir by train
The train ride takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.
Izmir to Ephesus Train Costs approximately 100tl (2 Euro) per person (one way)
For Izmir to Ephesus Train Schedules please visit:
Izmir - Selcuk Ephesus Train Schedules
- Hotel Baylan Basmane (2 min walk)
- Smart Hotel Izmir (3 min walk)
- Oglakcioglu Park Boutique Hotel (4 min walk)
- Kaya Prestige - 4 Stars (10 min walk)
- Karaca Hotel - 4 Stars (15 min walk)
- Swissôtel Grand Efes Izmir (15 min walk)
- Met Boutique Hotel (5 min walk)
How do I get to Ephesus?
* You can not prebook train tickets. You can buy them with Turkish Liras cash at Train Staitions. It is recommended to be at the train stations 20 minutes before the departure of the train to avoid disappointment.
What can you do in Ephesus in one day?
Ephesus Tours from Selcuk Train Station
Ephesus Walking Tour
Izmir Basmane Train Station Location:
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Multi visit pass for Western Turkey
Museum Pass The Aegean
Museum Pass the Aegean will save travellers time and money. Travellers will not be waiting in lines to purchase tickets at the museums. Travellers can visit multiple museums and sites within a week time. Museum Pass the Aegean is valid for 7 days. Travellers can make great savings with good itinerary planing.
With Museum Pass the Aegean, you can visit more than 40 museums and archaeological sites in İzmir, Aydın, Mugla and Denizli provinces affiliated to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for 7 days and take a pleasant journey in history..
MuseumPass Aegean provides one pass to each museum.
Museum Pass Aegean costs 95 Euros
Museum Pass Aegean will allow you free entrance to all museums and archeological sites operated by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism in the provinces of İzmir, Aydın and Muğla, which cover Ancient city of Ephesus, Basilica of St. John, Terrace Houses in Ephesus, Archaelogical Museum of Ephesus, Ancient city of Aphrodisias, Temple of Didyma, Ancient city of Smyrna, Ancient City of Miletus, Ancient City of Priene, Ancient City of Pergamon, Asklepion of Pergamon, Hierapolis (Pamukkale), Ancient city of Laodicea and many others.
* Note that House of Virgin Mary in Ephesus and Ancient City of Sardis, are not covered by Museum Pass Aegean.
Museum Pass Aegean is accepted at the following sites:
Sites covered by Museum pass Aegean
Hire a tour guide in Ephesus
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What to do in Kusadasi Port for a day
What to do in Kusadasi from a cruise ship
Ephesus Tour with an Expert Tour Guide
Shopping in Kusadasi
Relax on the Ladies Beach
Explore Pigeon Island
Taste Authentic Turkish Cuisine
Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port