The inscription positioned opposite the library of Celsus, directly facing the library, highlights a significant historical shift during the 5th century. It documents the actions of a Christian named Demeas who proudly states his deed of replacing the statue of Artemis with a cross at the entrance of Hadrian's Gate. This deliberate act indicated a symbolic transformation of the gate into a Christian memorial. Additionally, a cross was skillfully carved on the arch, further solidifying the site's conversion into a Christian monument. This inscription serves as a powerful testament to the evolving religious landscape during that period, reflecting the pride and influence of early Christians in asserting their faith through visible displays and symbolic gestures.

To delve deeper into the rich biblical history of Ephesus, booking a private tour with a knowledgeable expert tour guide is a wise choice. By opting for a guided tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the ancient city of Ephesus with a professional who can provide valuable insights and historical context to enhance your experience. With a skilled guide leading the way, you can gain a deeper understanding of the significance and stories behind the archaeological ruins, religious sites, and cultural landmarks scattered throughout Ephesus. This personalized approach allows for a more immersive and educational journey through Ephesus, offering a truly enriching experience for those seeking to uncover the captivating biblical history of this renowned ancient city.  For more information, contact us.

Para los viajeros que viajan en Turquía con un coche de alquiler, ofrecemos servicios de guía sólo. Su guía experto de Efeso puede conocerlo en frente de la Basílica de San Juan o en su hotel en Selcuk o Kusadasi.

Los viajeros tendrán la libertad total para decidir qué ver y dónde ir. Su guía de turismo se reunirá en el lugar deseado y le acompañará a los sitios que le gustaría visitar. 

El costo de guía de turismo en español para excursión privada de Efeso y alrededores: 
140 Euros (total a pagar por su grupo)

​Dependiendo de la disponibilidad, también ofrecemos excursiones privadas con un guía habla inglesa. El costo de guía de turismo en español para excursión privada de Efeso y alrededores: 110 Euros (total a pagar por su grupo)

El tour está limitado con Éfeso, la casa de la Virgen Maria y sus alrededores durante 5-6 horas. Su guía turístico puede reunirse con usted en cualquier momento que desee.

* Tarifa de referencia es sólo para el guía turístico y no incluye entradas y tarifas de estacionamiento para los sitios.

Sitios que se pueden visitar:

• Ciudad antigua de Éfeso
• El museo experiencia de Efeso
• Casas de terraza
• Casa de virgen maria
• Basílica de st. John
• Templo de artemis​

El punto de encuentro en la ciudad de Selcuk con su guía turístico estará delante de la Basílica de San Juan en el pueblo de Selcuk.

Para mas informacion por favor contactenos.

Excursion de Efeso

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has announced an impressive itinerary for 2025, with 47 port of calls scheduled to Kusadasi cruise port during their Eastern Mediterranean cruises. Kusadasi is set to become a highlight destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture and relaxation. Travelers can look forward to embarking on unforgettable journeys and creating lasting memories aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Line ships as they explore the beauty and charm of Ephesus Ancient CIty and its surroundings.
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Odyssey of the Seas of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line will have several port calls to Kusadasi Port in 2026. During the 12 Night Greece, Turkey, Israel Cruise with Overnight In Athens and 7 Night Greek Isles Cruise, Odyssey of the Seas will be calling to Kusadasi Port. Kusadasi is the gateway to the famous archaeological site of Ephesus.

We are proud to announce that we provide exclusive private Ephesus shore excursions for Royal Caribbean passengers from Kusadasi Port. Our tours are better value than Royal Caribbean Ephesus Shore Excursions. All of our private tours are guided by local licensed tour guides. There is no prepayment required to book a private Ephesus shore excursion. You can book your shore excursion by filling us a the contact form or sending us a WhatsApp message. By booking your private Ephesus shore excursion with us. You will avoid waiting in the lines and make the most out of your visit with 5-Star Ephesus Shore Excursions. Let’s discover together the Top Highlights of Ephesus.. A guided tour will make your visit alive in order to appreciate the best experience of Ephesus. ​

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's ships regularly dock at Kusadasi Cruise Port, providing passengers with convenient access to the fascinating Ephesus Ancient City. With Royal Caribbean's docking location at Kusadasi, travelers can easily explore Ephesus and create unforgettable memories of their cruise experience.
How far is the cruise port in Kusadasi from Ephesus?
The direct drive from Kusadasi port to Ephesus is 12 miles (18 km) and should have a drive time of 25 minutes.  There is almost never any major traffic.
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How much is a taxi from Kusadasi to Ephesus?

For more information and recommended tour programs contact us or visit:
​Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port

In 2026, Princess Cruises' itinerary includes 10 scheduled calls to Kusadasi, with Sun Princess, Majestic Princess and Island Princess being the featured ships. Situated as the gateway to the Ephesus Ancient City, Kusadasi Port boasts a rich historical significance and serves as a pivotal point for cruise travelers exploring the region.
We offer Ephesus excursions for Sun Princess, Majestic Princess and Island Princess passengers with licensed local tour guides. Don't overpay the Princess Cruises Tours. Explore the ruins of Ephesus on a trip to one of Turkey's most famous ancient destinations at your own pace. Make the most of your trip. Explore the ancient city of Ephesus and discover the rich Greek and Roman history and culture of this ancient city. See the most popular landmarks in Ephesus as you are guided through the historical Ephesus.​ We offer higher quality Ephesus shore excursions at significantly lower prices than the Princess Shore Excursions.

The distance between Kusadasi Cruise Port and Ephesus spans approximately 18 kilometers or 12 miles, with an estimated driving time of around 25 minutes. This route offers a relatively swift and convenient journey for tourists and travelers seeking to explore the historical wonders of Ephesus from the cruise port. 

For private tour options, please visit: Ephesus Tours from Kusadasi Cruise Port.

For more information, please contact us.

Ozdere is located at the picturesque western part of Turkey, Ozdere is a quaint resort town that captivates visitors with its tranquil charm and scenic beaches. Situated approximately 30 kilometers away from the ancient city of Ephesus. It takes approxmatley 3O minutes by car to reach Ephesus from Ozdere. Ozdere's convenient proximity to Ephesus makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to enjoy themselves in beautiful Aegean Region of Turkey and the rich cultural heritage of Roman Empire.

If you are seeking an exceptional Ephesus tour from Ozdere, a private tour may be the perfect choice for you. Our tours are fully customizable to meet your preferences, offering you the opportunity to explore Ephesus. With knowledgeable tour guides and luxurious vehicles at your disposal, you can discover every corner of this historical site.

Ephesus Travel Guide team of Tour Guides take pride in sharing insights on Turkish culture, history, and archaeology, ensuring that your private tour is not only informative but also truly memorable and enjoyable. Our goal is to plan Ephesus tours that provide you with a comfortable and personalized adventure in Ephesus.

With a professional and knowledgeable team of guides, we ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey through this ancient city. Whether you’re fascinated by archaeological sites, historical landmarks, or local cuisine, our private tours cater to your specific interests and preferences. Choose us for a premium and personalized experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Ephesus.

We are pleased to provide exclusive Ephesus tours starting from select Ozdere hotels:

• Aria Claros Beach & Spa Resort
• Paloma Pasha
• Club Marvy
• Sunis Efes Royal Palace Resort

For more details, do not hesitate to reach out to us today for a tailored experience.

​When visiting a historical site like Ephesus, having a private tour allows you to customize your experience. You can tailor the itinerary to suit your interests, spend more time at the attractions that captivate you, and skip the ones that don't. With a private tour, you also have the flexibility to go at your own pace, ask your guide as many questions as you like, and enjoy a more personalized experience overall.

​Our tour guides are passionate about history, knowledgeable about the archaeological sites, and dedicated to providing you with a memorable experience. They are experts in their field, with in-depth knowledge of Ephesus and its significance in ancient times. With their expertise, you will gain a deeper understanding of the historical importance of Ephesus, its architectural marvels, and the daily life of its inhabitants.

​When booking a private tour with us, you can trust that you will receive top-notch service from start to finish. Our guides are friendly, professional, and committed to ensuring that you have a fantastic experience exploring Ephesus. With their guidance, you will discover hidden gems, learn intriguing facts, and create lasting memories of your time in Ephesus.

With the convenience of being picked up from your hotel in Urla, you can relax and enjoy the journey to Ephesus without worrying about transportation or logistics. Our tour guides will take care of everything, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in the rich history and fascinating culture of this ancient city.

Booking private Ephesus tours from Urla hotels with expert tour guides is the perfect way to enhance your travel experience. With a private tour, you can personalize your itinerary, benefit from the expertise of our guides, and trust us to provide you with an unforgettable experience. So why wait? Book your private tour today and embark on a journey back in time to explore the wonders of Ephesus!

Aphrodisias was the most famous ancient city that was named after the Goddess Aphrodite. The ancient city of Aphrodisias is one of the most important archaeological sites of modern Turkey. Discover the famous UNESCO world heritage sites of Turkey with a licensed knowledgeable tour guide. We offer Private Aprhodisias Tours from Kusadasi, Selcuk, Sirince Hotels and Kusadasi Port. Aphrodisias, is one of the top archaeological attractions of Western Turkey. You will be enchanted by the beauty of Aphrodisias.

Aphrodisias is located in southwestern Turkey, in the province of Aydin. It takes approximately 2.5 hours drive from Kusadasi to Aphrodisias. The distance between Kusadasi and Aphrodisias is 155km. There is no direct transportation from Kusadasi to Aphrodisias.

Aphrodisias History
Aphrodisias was a small Greek city in the province of Caria. The current ancient city is located nearby the village of Geyre. It takes approx. 2.5 hours drive (140 miles) from Kusadasi to reach Aphrodisias. Aphrodisias, unlike Ephesus has never been a port city. The city is 62 miles inland from the coast. Aphrodisias is 2000 feet above sea level and located by the 8000 feet mountain called Babadag (known as Salbakos in the ancient times). The city before adopting the name ''Aphrodisias'', it was named as Lelegeopolis, Megapolis and Ninoi. The name "Ninoi" is given by the Asyrians who settled this area. Ninoi is also the name of a city located in Asyria. Asyrians introduced Ishtar culture to the city. Probably, the words Star and Easter is derived from the goddess Ishtar. Aphrodisias, covers an area of 200 acres and generally is a flat city.

Unlike many other ancient cities in Anatolia, Aphrodisias was discovered by a famous Turkish photographer Mr. Ara Guler in 1958. He was travelling through villages and towns. He was in the village of Geyre and noted a village that has so many ancient remains that the villagers live without knowing their importance. Afterwards Ara Guler was in touch with the Turkish Archaeologist Mr. Kenan Erim from New York University. Excavations began in the 1960s. Kenan Erim devoted his life to excavate this ancient city. Since this city is lately discovered, you do not see any remains from this city in British Museum or any other museums outside Turkey.

Aphrodisias became an artistic center with a famous school of sculpture. The city was also famous with ceremonies made in Aphrodite Temple in the name of Aphrodite. Ruined because of the earthquakes. In the 4th and 7th century. Major earthquakes happened and changed the route of the rivers nearby. The City was under flood due to change of route of water. After 7th century earthquakes, the city lost its importance. In the 6th century. The name of Aphrodisias was changed to Stauroupolis, meaning the city of the Cross, to erase the pagan goddess of love from peoples minds. As the capital of Caria, Aphrodisias was finally called Caria which then became Geyre in Turkish. Later in the 13th century, the city was abandoned.  

Aphrodisias was founded near a marble quarry that was extensively used in the Hellenistic and Roman times. The closest quarry was half a mile away from Aphrodisias. The marble sculptures of Aphrodisias became very famous during the Roman period. Many examples have been excavated in Aphrodisias. The sculptors of Aphrodisias became famous and benefited from a great supply of quality marble nearby. There was a famous school of sculpture here which was very productive. A lot of sculpture can be seen today around the ancient city and in the museum. Many finished and unfinished statues discovered in the area. Unfinished statues prove the existence of a Sculpturing School. Many sarcophagi were excavated at several locations in site, frequently decorated with designs of garland, columns, figures of people, birds and animals. Names of many sculptors from Aphrodisias have been seen in lots of works in Italy, Greece and elsewhere.   

Excavations in the theater hill have revealed layers of settlement going back to the Bronze Age. Aphrodisias was founded in the 5800 BC and flourished under the Roman Empire. First settlers were Carians, Pelasgians and Lelegians. Aphrodisias is mentioned in the 1st century BC by geographer Strabo.

Aphrodisias was named after Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Aphrodite was known to Romans as Venus. The name of the city has the same root as the word "aphrodisiac". Both words derive from the Greek name Aphrodite, the goddess of love, Aphrodisias was one of several ancient cities dedicated to the goddess of love. Within the borders of Caria, during the Roman period, following the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC. The assassins, Brutus and Cassius fled to Asia Minor where they invaded many cities. Aphrodisias, remained loyal to Caesar. There is evidence that the city was attacked by the supporters of Cassius and Brutus. The main reason, keeping the city loyal to Caesar is because of Zoilos, the former slave of Caesar who was freed by Octavian. Mark Antony recognized the autonomy of Aphrodisias in the 1st century BC.   
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Fame of Aphrodisias is not only limited to arts. It also had a number of renowned scholars and writers as well as philosophers, of whom the most notable ones were Xenocrates and Alexander of Aphrodisias. Alexander was a famous philosopher from Aphrodisias. He followed the teachings of Aristotle. Born in Aphrodisias and lived and taught in Athens at the beginning of the 3rd century, where he held a position as head of the Peripatetic school that is founded by Aristotle. He wrote many commentaries on the works of Aristotle (Aristotle, was a Greek philosopher who lived in the 4th century BC. One of the students of Plato and tutor of Alexander the Great.)

Statues were carved from the local white, grayish blue Carian marble, mostly from Babadag (Salbakos), nearby mountain. Sculptors from other areas came to Aphrodisias for annual sculpture competitions. The eyes of the statues found here are full of expression and vitality and the bodies seem capable of moving. The public monuments in Aphrodisias were decorated with "peopled scrolls" which were one of the characteristics of stone carving produced by the school of sculpture in Aphrodisias. Some masterpieces have the signatures of their creators who are especially experts in relief and sarcophagus production. Many sarcophagi were decorated with lively reliefs, symbolizing the desire to deny the emptiness of death and its eternal darkness. These sculptors imposed their creative mastery over iron and marble. Iron tools and instruments were to achieve victory and greatness not only in battle fields but in the field of sculpture as well. Anatolia was in a period when matchless works of sculpture were created. The old traditions of Anatolian sculpture reached a phase of lively fineness and beauty of expression. 

Aphrodisias was a special city and beloved by Augustus. Due to this it was exempted from paying taxes. There could be several reasons for this:

• The connection between the goddess and the imperial house was also a particularly politic one at the time, as the family of Julius Caesar, Octavian Augustus, and their successors claimed divine descent from Venus/Aphrodite. Aphrodite was the mother of Aeneas from Troy. After the Trojan war, Aeneas fled away from Troy. Romans believed that they are descendants of Aeneas and royal Trojans. In Roman inscription Troy is mentioned as Ilius. It is believed that the name Julius is derived from Ilius.
• Zoilos a good friend and a former slave of Augustus was from this city.
• Aphrodisias, was an artisan city. Sculptors from Aphrodisias made statues for emperors and commanders from all over the Roman Empire.

In a letter written by Emperor Augustus to Stephanus (governor of Laodicea), Aphoridisias is privileged:
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With the tax-free status Aphrodisias became a popular pilgrimage destination. Starting from 1st century BC, in Aphrodisias, a long period of prosperity began. The city gained a reputation of being an artistic, cultural center and as well as a center for religious activity. Many important writers and philosophers like Alexander of Aphrodisias lived in this city.

Tetrapylon was a monumental gateway that leaded entrance to the Temple of Aphrodite. The gateway was built in the late 2nd century AD during the reign of Hadrian. It had 4 rows of 4 columns. It is thought to have marked the intersection of a major street with a sacred way heading toward the sanctuary of Aphrodite.

The Temple of Aphrodite was the main attraction of the Ancient City of Aphrodisias. Historians think that before this temple was built here, there was an earlier cult for Mesopotamian goddess Ishtar who is known as goddess of fertility and sex. There were festivals in the name Ishtar at the beginning of spring. These celebrations are made for the arrival of spring in the name of Ishtar. The name Ishtar is also associated with the word Easter. The building was converted into a church during the Byzantine period. From this church, historians mention twenty bishops from Aphrodisias who attended the ecumenical councils in the early times of Christianity. The building was originally designed as an Ionic temple with 40 columns arranged in an 8 by 13 rectangle shape. Once it was converted into a church, the columns at each end were removed, an apse was built in the eastern section, and a baptistery and an atrium were added to the west. On some columns donor names are being noted. Life in the city was concentrated on the Temple of Aphrodite. The cult of Aphrodite was so popular that it took some time before Christianity was fully accepted by Aphrodisians.  The temple was founded here in the 1st century BC with the funding made by Zoilos.

Worship to Aphrodite goes back to 7th century BC to Assyrians who came here from Mesopotamia and settled here and worshiped to a goddess named as Ishtar who is also the goddess of love. The similarities between Aphrodite and Ishtar are generally well-recognized. In Mesopotamian mythology, Ishtar was the principal goddess of the Babylonians and Assyrians. She was both the compassionate mother of all life, who brought fertility and relief from sickness, and the lustful goddess of sexual love and war.  
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Stadium of Aphrodisias, is one of the best preserved stadium in Anatolia with a 30,000 spectator capacity. Originally it had a blind arcade on top of the highest row surrounding all the seats. The stadium was used for gladiatorial fights, chariot races, sporting, musical and dramatic events. The eastern part of the arena was for gladiatorial fights. This is a hybrid structure, a mixture of a Greek stadium and a Roman Arena. Therefore, it was used for sport events, executions and gladiatorial fights. Reserved seat carvings on seats can still be noticed at the seats of the stadium. Women were not attending athletic events since all the men was competing nude. The Stadium was double size of the population of Aphrodisias. Probably, a smaller type of Olympic Games in the name of Aphrodite was held here.

Bouleuterion (senate house), is located at the north side of the North Agora. The original building was vaulted.
Seating capacity is expected to be about 1750. Archaeologists found many unfinished statue pieces and sculpturing tools during the excavations done in the area between Bouleterion and Aphrodite temple. For this reason the place is considered as the famous sculpture school of Aphrodite in archaic ages. The school was actively used from 1st century BC until 6th century AD, Some historians believe that there were some sculpturing artists moved to the city from Pergamon after the death of Attalus 3rd who inherited his empire and treasure to the Roman Empire in the second century BC. The artists who were left without work moved to Aphrodisias. The reputation of the artists of Aphrodisias was beyond Anatolia and Rome.

Baths of Hadrian were built under Hadrian in the 2C AD. Hadrian visited the city of Aphrodisias and these roman baths were constructed in the memory of his visit. There were two pairs of large rooms on either side of a huge central hall called the caldarium.  Total 4 sections as Apodyterium (Chaging rooms), Fridgiderium (Cold Rooms), Tepiderium (Luke warm/tepid room) and Caldarium (Hot/Steam Room). 

During the excavations in the villa of Hadrian in Tivoli, Italy. Archeologists discovered many statues made in Aphrodisas.

South Agora also known as the Portico of Tiberius, had an Ionic colonnade which has partially been restored, was started during the reign of Tiberius, 1st century AD. The central area of the portico is occupied by a huge basin or pool, with two semicircular extremities at the north and east ends. The portico may well have been a gymnasium or a palaestra with an exercise area between the colonnade and the pool.

North Agora, was mainly used for commercial reasons. This was the marketplace. In the middle of North Agora. The Monumental Tomb of Zoilos was located.

Theater was built in the late Hellenistic period and later restored in the 1st century BC, and according to its inscription it was dedicated to Aphrodite and the people of the city by Gaius Julius Zoilos, a former slave of Gaius Julius Caesar and later on inherited to Octavian. Octavian gave freedom to Zoilos.  The seating capacity was 8,000. The stage building consisted of six vaulted dressing or storage rooms out of which four opened into the corridor behind the proskene. The stage building wall in the north parados had Greek inscriptions of important documents related to the history of the city such as letters of emperors to the city or senatorial decrees. The orchestra and the stage building were restored in the 2nd century AD in order to make the building more suitable for animal or gladiatorial fights. The theater was seriously damaged in the 7th century, and the Byzantines built houses on top of the cavea and converted the hill into a fortress by circling it with walls and towers. In the excavations an inscription is found saying that Julius Galius Caesar gifted a Golden Eros statue to Aphrodite. The statue is later stolen from the city and taken to the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus. From the inscription it is thought that Caesar was in the city of Aphrodisias. The levelled seat rows show that there were gladiatorial games played in the theater.

Tetrastoon, originally surrounded by four (tetra) colonnades on all sides with a round fountain in the center, had several functions in the Roman and Byzantine city. First it was a meeting place for the citizens and also by having surrounding small shops served as a marketplace. Finally, it gave access to the theater. To the south of the tetrastoon was the Imperial Hall with theater baths which have not been completely excavated. 

Sebasteion, was a early 1st century AD shrine in which the emperor was worshiped. The building was built after the death of Zoilos in 20 AD, to have good relations with Rome the capital. Sebasteion derived from the Ancient Greek  word "Sebastos", which is the Greek equivalent of "Augustus". The structure had 3 stories. Each story was decorated with three different column orders, Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. The building was first unearthed in 1979 it appeared to have no relation to any other building but, as excavations were carried down to deeper levels, it became apparent that this consisted of a temple dedicated to the cult of the Emperor Augustus (Sebastos is the Greek equivalent of the Latin Augustus). Excavations yielded a quite extraordinary quantity of reliefs and decorative panels. Second story display famous stories from the Greek Mythology. Third story the success stories of Julius Caesar and his dynasty. The most remarkable of these included depictions of the birth of Eros, the Three Graces, Apollo in Delphi, Meleager, Achilles and Penthesilea, Nyssa and the child Dionysus. There are also reliefs of some members of the imperial family and mythological figures. Those identified include Augustus, Germanicus, Lucius, Gaius Caesar, Claudius and Agrippa, together with Prometheus and Aeneas fleeing from Troy. There is also a fascinating group of reliefs symbolizing Claudius's conquest of Britain and Nero's conquest of Armenia. There are also a number of fragments depicting the peoples of the various countries with which Augustus had waged war or formed other types of relationships but these have suffered severe earthquake damage.

The longest Jewish inscription from the Classical world was also discovered by the Archaeolgists in Aphrodisias. The inscription written on a pillar is dating back to 3rd century AD and describing 126 donors. Probably the donors of a synagogue in Aphrodisias. According to the inscription excavated in Aphrodisias we know there was major Jewish community living in the city and descriptions of the synagogue. In the inscriptions names of the Jews, the people who have sympathy to Jews and their occupations were noted. 54 of the donors were named as Theosebeis. People who had sympathy to Jews were named as 'Theosebeis' meaning Godfearers. Theosebeis people were gentiles who had sympathy to Jews and Judaism but did not change their pagan faith.

Aphrodisias was, in ancient terms, a medium-sized town (90 
hectares, with a population of maybe 15,000-20.000 inhabitants), but one
with a typically metropolitan grandeur of architectural design. The 
monuments and marble sculptures show a distinctive period of
 ancient city life. The most prosperous days of Aphrodisias was between 1st century BC and 2nd century AD. The city lost its tax-free status after 3rd century AD due to administrative and political changes.  

​Cost of Private Aphrodisias Tour from Kusadasi:
Mercedes V-Class (1-6 people) + English Speaking Tour Guide: 300 Euro
(For groups over 6 people, please contact us for the cost.)
* Above rate is not a per person rate, it is per group.

Rates Cover:
- Services of an excellent English speaking Guide
-  A/C MPV
- All transportation costs.
- Tax, service charges
- Parking fees

Rates Do Not Cover:
- Entrance to the sites. 

If requested a day tour of Aphrodisias tour can be combined with Pamukkale (Hierapolis).
We offer 2 and 3 days private tours of Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Pamukkale and more:
2 Days Western Turkey Tour - Ephesus, Pamukkale, Aphrodisias...
3 Days West Turkey Tour - Pergamon, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Aphrodisias...
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For more information, please contact us.

Biblical sites, including  Mary's last-known dwelling place, the ancient city of Ephesus, the Basilica of St. John and a relaxing  lunch are featured in this fascinating, full-day private tour.

After meeting with our staff at Izmir Airport. As your vehicle  makes its way along the Aegean Coast, you will pass some fertile lands of the region. As you reach the silted valley, time seems to come to a halt and then reverse. After a steep drive up Mt. Pagus, you will arrive at a stone chapel.  This converted house probably dates from the 1st century and was envisioned by a  German nun as the site where the Virgin Mary spent her last years. Continuing to Ephesus, leave your coach at the parking area and proceed on foot through  Magnesia Gate. As you stroll along the old marble streets, you will pass the  Odeon and State Agora. You will also see the ornate Hadrian Temple, (Optinal Visit Terrace houses), the beautifully restored facade of the Celsus Library, the Roman Baths  of Scholastica, the Commercial Agora and the theater, which accommodates 25,000  spectators and is still used for occasional performances. After your visit to Ephesus, re-board your vehicle for an enjoyable lunch.  Afterwards enjoy a presentation about Turkish weaving, see the girls at the looms  knotting carpets and kilims. Learn about the natural dyes and learn the  differences between Silk , flosh, wool and cotton weaving for handmade rugs.  The proprietors will give a fascinating demonstration of the local traditional crafts. Next is the Basilica of St. John, when St. John was burried, is your final stop before your return to Izmir Airport.

Cost of Private Ephesus Tour starting and ending at Izmir Airport: 245 Euro (Total to be paid 1-6 people)
​* Above rate is NOT a per person rate. It is total to be paid for your group.
* We offer %20 discount for Private Ephesus Tour bookings with English speaking tour guides, on certain dates. To see these  dates please visit: Discounted dates for Ephesus Tours
Rates Cover:

• Services of an excellent English speaking tour Guide 
• A/C Mercedes V-Class
• All transportation costs.
• Tax, service charges.
• Pick up and drop off from/to Izmir Airport.
• Traditional Turkish Lunch 
• Parking fees to the sites.

Rates Do Not Cover:

• Entrance fees to the sites.
• Drinks during lunch​

* There is no admission fee for children under 8 years old. For the proof of age, please bring passport copies with you.

​* There is no prepayment required for the reservation. To avoid disappointment, we recommend making your private tour reservation at earliest possible.

Payment Terms:
Payment can be made in Euros, Turkish Liras, British Pounds and US Dollars cash at the end of the tour. There is no prepayment required for the booking.

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 questions, please visit: Frequently Asked Questions About Ephesus and Tours

* For private tour booking, Kindly advise us the following:

1. Full names of all the members of your group.
2. Number of people in your group.
3. Tour Date
4. Name of the Cruise Ship/Hotel/Flight number
5. Time to start the tour 
6. Tour code or name or names of the sites you would like to visit.
7. WhatsApp or phone number (while travelling).

For more information about Private Ephesus Tours from Izmir Airport and booking, please contact us.

Marella Discovery 2 will have 8 ports of calls to Kusadasi Cruise Port in 2025. The first call will be made on Saturday April 4 2025 during 7 Night Aegean Gems Cruise. 1250 passenger ship, Marella Discovery 2 will stay at Kusadasi Cruise Port between 09.00-17.00. Marella Discovery 2 is owned by TUI UK and operated by their UK based Marella Cruises. 
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We take pride in providing exclusive private tours of Ephesus tailored specifically for Marella Cruises passengers. Our competitive prices remain unmatched compared to the shore excursions offered by Marella Cruises. To enhance your experience, our licensed Ephesus tour guides will warmly greet you at the convenient meeting point of Starbucks, right at the Kusadasi Cruise Port. With our dedication to professionalism and expertise, we assure you a remarkable tour filled with historical insights and memorable moments throughout your Ephesus expedition.

​​For cruise ship passengers calling to Kusadasi and Izmir Ports, we organize private tours of Ephesus and surrounding area. For more information please visit: Private Tours of Ephesus or contact us.