​We have been receiving requests for 3 Days Western Turkey tour including visits to Pergamon, Ephesus and Pamukkale We offer 3 days private tour of Western Turkey. For these private tours we recommend to overnight in Kusadasi.

Below please find suggested tour program and costs:

Day 1- Izmir - Pergamon Tour - Overnight in Kusadasi
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 goddess 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 - Full day Tour of Pamukkale
After departing from Kusadasi, drive east approx. 3 hours to 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. Overnight in Kusadasi.

Day 3 - Full day 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 city of 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. Drive back to Izmir Airport.

Cost for 3 Days Private Tour of Western Turkey: 
​795 EURO (Total amount to be paid for party of 1-6 people)

Rates Cover:

• Services of an excellent English speaking tour Guide 
• A/C Mercedes V-Class Van
• All transportation costs.
• Tax, service charges.
• Pick up and drop off from/to as indicated above.
• Lunches
• Parking Fees

Rates Do Not Cover:

• Entrance fees to the sites.
• Drinks during lunches

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 or US Dollar cash at the end of the tour. There is no prepayment required.

* If you arrive Izmir in the evening. For the first night we recommend you to overnight in Izmir downtown or Izmir airport hotels. For the next days book a hotel in Kusadasi.

Recommended hotels to stay in Kusadasi 
​(booking.com links):

• Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel - 4 Stars
• ​Double Tree by Hilton Hotel - 4 Stars
• Korumar Deluxe Hotel - 5 Stars

• Hotel Ilayda - 3 Stars​

​Izmir Airport Hotels: 
Orty Airport Hotel
Tav Airport Hotel Izmir
​DoubleTree By Hilton Izmir Airport

* At the end of Day 3, if you would like to be transferred to Izmir Airport, there is surcharge of 65 Euros
* If requested Aphrodisias ancient city can be added to Day 3. The surcharge for this addition is 50 Euros.
* If requested above program can be modified.


Frequently Asked Questions:

1.  We will arrive in Izmir late, and will stay overnight at Kusadasi (based on your recommendation).  So we will need airport transfers from the airport to Kusadasi.  And the Pergamom tour on Day 1 will start at Kusadasi.  Would there be any change in the quote then?
> In this case, we recommend you to overnight at an airport hotel in Izmir for the first night. Therefore there would not be any surcharge in the cost of the tour.

booking.com links for Izmir Airport Hotels:
Orty Airport Hotel
Tav Airport Hotel Izmir
DoubleTree By Hilton Izmir Airport

2.  Lunch and food is not so important for us, a quick vegetarian lunch is enough, we rather have more time at the sites. Is this possible?
> Time allocated for lunch during the tours is 1 hour. That will give your tour guide and driver a little break too. You will have enough time at the sites.

3.  For the full-day tour in Ephesus, do we see the terrace houses and the Ephesus museum too?
> If tequested Terrace Houses and Ephesus Museum can also be added to the tour program. There is no surcharge for these additions.

4.  What are the exact schedules for each day?  Like when does each day start and end?
> This is a private tour so the tours can start any time you wish
Recommended start times and approximate duration of the tours are as follows:
Day 1: Pergamon Tour: 09.00am - 7-8 Hours
Day 2: Ephesus Tour: 09.00am - 7-8 Hours
Day 3: Aphrodisias + Pamukkale Tour: 08.00am - 12 hours

5. Because of the long drives to the sites, is there enough time af the sites to visit them in detail? How many hours are we in Ephesus, Pergamon and Pamukkale?
> Yes, there will be enough time at the sites.
Approximate visiting times are as follows:
Ephesus Ancient City: 2 Hours
Pergamon Acropolis: 1 hour
Pergamon Asklepion: 1 hour
Pamukkale/Hierapolis: 3 hours

6. If we are not interested in shopping stops, can we easily say that we don't want them?
> There is no scheduled shopping stops during the tour program. This is your private tour you will decide what to do. Your tour guide will make recommendations.


For larger group costings and for more information, please contact us.

Für Deutsch sprechende Gäste, wir bieten Touren mit Deutsch sprechende Reiseleiter.

Empfohlene Tour-Programm ist wie folgt:

Ephesos war im Altertum eine der größten und bedeutendsten griechischen Städte Kleinasiens und bietet mit seinen vielen römischen Bauten noch heute einen lebendigen Einblick in die Lebensweise der Antike. Wir beginnen unsere Tour durch diesen geschichtsträchtige Ort mit einem Besuch des Haus der Mutter Maria. Dieser idyllische Ort ist das angeblich letzte Wohnhaus Marias, der Mutter Jesus. Danach fahren wir in das Zentrum der antiken Stadt, wo sich die wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten befinden. Dort werden wir das eindrucksvolle Theater von Ephesos besichtigen, in dem einst 24.000 Personen Platz fanden. Im Anschluss werden wir die beeindruckende Celsus-Bibliothek besichtigen. Dieses Gebäude wurde 125 n. Chr. erbaut und in den 1970er Jahren rekonstruiert. Sie ist gleichzeitig die Grabstätte des Stifters Tiberius Iulius Celsus Polemaeanus. Auf dieser Tour werden Sie auch den Tempel der Artemis sehen, der 356 v. Chr. von einem Mann namens Herostratos in Brand gesetzt wurde und zu den Sieben Weltwundern der Antike gehört. Nachdem wir diese antiken Stätten erkundet haben, werden wir die Johanneskirche besichtigen. Diese wurde im 6. Jahrhundert über dem Grab des Apostel Johannes errichtet. Die Tour endet nach einer entspannten Fahrt entlang der ägäischen Küste am Hafen von Kuşadası.
​

Kosten für private Touren von Ephesos :

​Von Kusadasi Hafen
MPV für 1-6 Personen + Reiseleiter: 210 Euro 
Minibus für 7-8 Personen + Reiseleiter: 250 Euro 
Kleinbus für 12 Personen + Reiseleiter: 280 Euro 

Von Izmir Hafen
MPV für 1-6 Personen + Reiseleiter: 275 Euro 
Minibus für 7-8 Personen + Reiseleiter: 315 Euro 
Kleinbus für 12 Personen + Reiseleiter: 340 Euro 

Die Preise beinhalten 

• Deutschsprachige Reiseleitung 
• A / C Fahrzeug. 
• Alle Transportkosten
• Steuer-, Service-Gebühren 

Die Preise beinhalten nicht

• Eintritt & Parkgebühren an den Standorten.
• Mittagessen

Für weitere Informationen kontaktieren Sie uns bitte.

The Ephesus ticket offers a comprehensive experience that includes access to the Ephesus Experience Museum. This museum is a valuable addition to your visit, providing in-depth insights into the historical significance of Ephesus. By including the museum in the ticket, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of this ancient city. With carefully curated exhibitions and displays, the Ephesus Experience Museum offers a professional and educational atmosphere that enhances your overall visit to Ephesus. Don't miss the chance to explore this fascinating museum and enrich your understanding of Ephesus' past.

​Located in the historic Ancient City of Ephesus, the Ephesus Experience Museum stands out as a fascinating attraction meticulously designed to allow visitors to dive into the vibrant past of this Greco-Roman port city. Leveraging state-of-the-art 3D animations and AI-powered interactions, the museum offers an immersive experience that effortlessly transports guests back in time. When you step into its halls, a palpable sense of timelessness envelops you, momentarily blurring the lines between the contemporary age and the golden age of Ephesus. The museum's admirable use of advanced 3D technology reconstructs Ephesus as a thriving Ancient City and showcases the intricate details of its architecture, inhabitants, and cultural heritage. Lifelike representations and animated segments depicting the city's commerce, residential life, and majestic temples appear at every corner, providing a deep insight into the city's grandeur. The appeal of the Ephesus Experience Museum lies in its ability to evoke a deep sense of curiosity and amazement by taking you on a fascinating journey through the annals of history.

With expertly crafted exhibits and knowledgeable Ephesus tour guides enhancing the experience, losing yourself in the enchanting charm of Ephesus becomes an effortless yet unforgettable endeavor.

On his return journey from Corinth, Paul came to the bustling city of Ephesus to fulfill his promise. After a short visit, he returned and stayed in Ephesus for about two and a half years between 53-56 AD. This period marked an important point in his mission for the spread of Christian teachings throughout Asia Minor. By interacting with the Ephesians, Paul shared his wisdom and laid a strong foundation for Christianity. Once famous for its pagan worship, Ephesus became the haven of a growing Christian community thanks to Paul's tireless efforts.

During the excavations at Ephesus, more than 3,500 inscriptions have been found. Some of the most interesting are in a small cave on the slope of Bülbül Mountain (Nightingale Mountain).  According to a local legend, when St. John brought the Virgin Mary to Ephesus from Jerusalem, they had no place to stay.  John found this cave and hid Mary there for her safety.  It was not until some time later that John located a more suitable home for Mary higher up on the mountain, known as Panaya Capoulu.  In more recent years, the cave has been re-named “Cave of St. Paul” due to the frescoes and inscriptions on the walls which refer to St. Paul. 

The cave has been a Christian sacred site since the 1st or 2nd century. The walls were decorated with frescoes and inscriptions and white-washed several times, then re-painted with new images. Discovered under plaster on the walls are important 5th-century frescoes, with inscriptions, depicting the Virgin Mary, St. Paul and St. Thecla (a female disciple of Paul). This is the only known depiction of St. Paul at Ephesus and the earliest known appearance in the world of Paul and Thecla together.

The cave was discovered by a group of priests in 1892, while looking for the tomb of the Virgin Mary. Under the layers of plaster on the corridor walls are Greek phrases such as “the hidden of Mother of God” and “Paul help your servant”-written in charcoal and chalk. To protect these delicate and ancient wall frescoes, the cave is not open to the public. Unfortunately this site can not be visited during the Ephesus Tours.

​The first Christian congregation in Ephesus was founded by St John the Apostle and expanded by St Paul. On his return journey from Corinth, Paul came to the city of Ephesus to fulfill his promise after a short visit, and he came back and stayed for about two and a half years between 53-56AD. Most likely St. Paul wrote the Corinthians No.1 letter in Ephesus at this time period. When Paul came to Ephesus, he preached the gospel in the synagogue of Ephesus and the hall of Tyrannus. Tyrannus was an owner of a lecture hall at Ephesus. All this information is  mentioned in the New Testament, in the book of Acts of the Apostles (19:9).  The Ephesus Church, leaded the Seven Churches in the Asia Minor (Western Turkey today).

What happened to Paul at Ephesus?
​By St. Paul’s efforts, in a short time, Ephesus became the third important city of Christianity after Jerusalem and Antioch. Christianity quickly gained popularity in Ephesus. The popularity of this new religion concerned some people in Ephesus. The silversmith Demetrius and others, who made a living by selling and making silver statues of Mother Goddess Artemis, were very upset. Demetrius and his colleagues provoked thousands of people and met them at the Ephesus theater and started a big riot in 56AD. The crowd was shouting "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!". St Paul wanted to face the crowd, but the disciples didn't let him. Finally, the city clerk calmed down the crowd. Probably St. Paul was jailed in Ephesus for a while before he departed to North. 

It is obvious that Ephesus had an important role in Christianity. Both St. John and St. Paul was in Ephesus but neither of them were in Ephesus at the same time. 

In the New Testament, there are 13 letters of St. Paul. During his house arrest in Rome in 61 AD, St. Paul mailed 3 letters to the city of Ephesus: Timothy No.1, Timothy No. 2 and Ephesians. Paul's letters tended to be written in response to certain crises. Ephesus Church, most probably was facing major difficulties and St. Paul was aware of these.
​
Timothy was one of the disciples of St. Paul. St. Paul met with Timothy during his missionary journeys in Lystra. Afterwards Timothy joined Paul and Silas, and they travelled together to the city of Ephesus. After Paul had to leave the city of Ephesus. Timothy became the head of the Christian Community in Ephesus. He is considered to be the first bishop of Ephesus. Although not stated in the bible, according to some apocryphal gospels, Timothy was martyred in Ephesus in 97AD when he was 80 years old. Probably Timothy met with St. John the Apostle , although there is no mention of this in the New Testament.

• Aristarchus and Gaius: Gaius and Aristarchus were Paul's travel companions who were captured by the angry mob in the Great Theater at Ephesus.
• Timothy: A travel companion of Paul from Lystra. Paul wrote two letters to Timothy from Rome which are mentioned as Timothy 1 and Timothy 2. Timothy became the first Christian bishop of Ephesus.
• Luke the Evangelist: He is the author of the Third Gospel and Acts, and his writings have been historically verified. Luke was also a doctor. He was probably Greek and was born in Antioch. Paul speaks of Luke, the "the beloved physician"
• Silas: He traveled with Paul through Anatolia and Greece.
• Epaphras: The churches in Colossae, Hierapolis and Laodicea was founded by Epaphras. Paul calls him “the faithful minister” Epaphras was from Colossae. The believers learned from Epaphras, who learned from Paul during his days in Ephesus.
• Trofimus and Tychius: Both were Gentile Greeks and native of Ephesus. Accompanied Paul on his third missionary journey. Mentioned as "Asianoi", meaning the native of the Roman province of Asia.
• Priscilla and Aquila: A Jewish Christian married couple who were deported from Rome by Claudius Caesar. Paul stayed in Corinth with them. They lived, worked, and traveled with the Apostle Paul. Paul described them as his "fellow workers in Christ Jesus". Like St. Paul they were also tent makers. 
• Apollios: An Jewish Christian from Alexandria. Played an important role in the early development of the church of Ephesus. Apollos arrived Ephesus before Paul. Priscilla and Aquila, instructed Apollos the Christian baptism, since Apollos "knew only the baptism of John". 
• Tyrannus: He owned a lecture hall (school) in Ephesus, where Paul preached.  Probably one of Paul's early converts in Ephesus.​

The exact details of St. Paul's death are unknown, but tradition holds that he was beheaded in Rome and thus died a martyr for his faith. St. Paul's death can be attributed to the Roman emperor Nero's death warrant targeting Christians following the devastating fire that devastated the city in 64 AD. The historical context shows that St. Paul wrote a series of letters to various Churches in Asia Minor from AD 60 to 64, during his period of house arrest until his execution. The most important of these letters are Philemon, Colossians, Ephesians, First Timothy and Second Timothy. We can analyze these letters as evidence of the religious and political climate of the period and shed light on the difficulties faced by early Christians under the Roman Empire.

​We are proud to offer our valued customers the opportunity to go on an unforgettable Ephesus Biblical Tour. Our tours are conducted by our team of expert and knowledgeable Ephesus tour guides. The tour has been meticulously prepared to touch upon the rich history and importance of Paul in Ephesus. We understand the importance of experiencing these sacred places with a professional touch, of carefully planning and executing every detail to deliver a truly profound and enlightening journey. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience and would like to learn more about our Ephesus Biblical Tours, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated team looks forward to assisting you and providing all the necessary information.

Documentary of Cave of St. Paul in Ephesus:

Ephesus Biblical Tour
​Ephesus in the Bible
​7 Churches Tour Turkey