Hi, my team and I offer private walking tours of Ephesus Ancient City, Basilica of St. John, Temple of Artemis, and the Terrace Houses. We are passionate about Ephesus and love helping visitors learn about this fascinating city.

Is Ephesus walkable?
Ephesus is walkable from Selcuk Town. It is approximately 30 minutes walking distance from Selcuk Town. Ephesus ruins cover quite a lot of space, and there is much walking involved, much of the time on very uneven surfaces. If you are in the area in the summer months we recommend that you start walking early in the morning since it gets too hot during the day. The site opens at 8am during the summer months. We recommend guests to wear non slip walking shoes because you will be walking on marble and it is slippery.

Selcuk Walking Tour
Selcuk is the modern name of Ephesus. This walking tour is recommended for travelers staying in the hotels of Selcuk and for travelers you are traveling to Selcuk Train Station by train. The walking tour can also start from Selcuk Train Station.

Is Ephesus worth visiting?
Even if you are not a history buff, ancient Ephesus is worth a visit. It is an amazing sight. A person can easily spend half a day here wandering the ancient streets. The place holds so much meaning when you know what you're viewing. Highlights are the theater, terrace houses, temple of Hadrian, the library of Celsus, the mosaics, frescoes, and graffiti are all so interesting. What a beautiful sight! Great with a professional tour guide who can tell you all about what you are seeing, make sure you see all the relevant places, and answer every question. Amazing to see it all and walk the same streets that they did so many years ago! Archeological excavations have only uncovered a part of the known city, but it is enough to require a half-day to explore everything. If you have a knowledgeable tour guide, you can see the highlights in a couple of hours ... but bring plenty of water if it's a sunny summer day as you'll be surrounded by stone with little shade for most of your stay. 

Can you tour Ephesus on your own?
​You can easily visit Ephesus on your own from Selcuk. There are audio guides that you can rent and they talk about the sights of Ephesus. But if you prefer to go on guided tour, you will be accompanied by an experienced Ephesus tour guide and you will be able to skip all lines.

How long does it take to tour Ephesus?
Our walking tour covers not only the ancient city of Ephesus, but also some other important sights such as St. John's Basilica, Isa Bey Baths and the Temple of Artemis. The walking tour takes approximately 5-6 hours depending on your pace. Our visit to the ancient city of Ephesus and the terrace houses takes about 3 hours.
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What should I wear to Ephesus?
We recommend that you wear comfortable, non-slip walking shoes. Ephesus has many uneven marble and slippery areas. Between June and October you can get a bottle of water, sun hat, sun cream. Opportunities for shades in Ephesus are very limited. Between November and May, it is recommended to use an umbrella for rainy days. There are no restrictions on cameras in Ephesus, but tripods are prohibited.

While Ephesus itself is not one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus holds the prestigious title as one of the seven wonders. Our comprehensive walking tour ensures that visitors have the opportunity to explore the splendid remains of this magnificent temple, allowing them to marvel at its historical significance and architectural grandeur. By including this iconic site in our itinerary, we aim to provide a rich and informative experience that highlights the importance of the Temple of Artemis in the ancient world, offering visitors a glimpse into the awe-inspiring wonders of that bygone era.

Ephesus Walking Tour Itinerary
​Duration: 5-6 hours
* This is an intensive walking tour. Participants are expected to walk approximately 6 kilometers.
Meet with your Ephesus tour guide at Selcuk Train Station or your hotel in Selcuk or in front of Basilica of St, John. Start your walking tour, exploring the remains of the Basilica of St. John, which was built on the tomb of John the Apostle. Learn about the 5000 years of history of Ephesus. View the earlier settlement locations and Isa Bey Mosque. After you visit the Basilica of St. John, walk through the old Greek homes.  Stop at a local art gallery, showcasing the unique creations of talented local artists. Immerse yourself in the creativity and passion that each piece exudes while savoring a cup of authentic Turkish Coffee or Turkish Tea. Following this enriching art appreciation session, explore the historical remnants of a 14th-century Turkish Bath.  Afterwards board on a taxi for a short ride to Ephesus upper gate. Embark on a captivating journey through the ancient city by making your way downhill. This allows for a step-by-step immersion into the historical marvels of Ephesus. Walking down the hill provides an ideal opportunity to savor the architectural grandeur of structures like the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater of Ephesus, Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain, Latrines and many more while relishing the unique ambiance of this ancient site. Optional visit to the Terrace Houses, the Roman Villas of the super-rich Romans who lived in Ephesus between the 1st and 3rd century AD. Before departing the enchanting ancient city of Ephesus, make a stop at the Ephesus Experience Museum for an enlightening 18-minute audiovisual journey through the historical splendor of Ephesus. Walk to the Temple of Artemis. Visit the remains of one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. End your walking tour at Selcuk town. 

Cost for Private Walking Tour of Ephesus: 125 Euro (Total be paid for groups 1-5 people)
* For groups over 5 people, please contact us.
* Above rate is NOT a per person rate. It is total to be paid for your party.
* We offer %20 discount on certain dates: Discounted Ephesus Tour Dates 
* For travelers, who do not want to walk 6km, we can assign them a vehicle. For more information, please contact us.

Rates Cover:

• Services of an excellent English speaking tour Guide 
• Tax, service charges.
• Taxi cost from Selcuk to Ephesus Upper Gate.

Rates Do Not Cover:

• Entrance fees to the sites.

​
* There is no prepayment required for the reservation. To avoid disappointment, we recommend making your private tour reservation at the 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. We only accept cash payments.

* We kindly want to inform you that Ephesus walking tours are temporarily suspended during the scorching summer months of June, July, and August, primarily due to the intense heat experienced in the area during this period. To ensure the safety and comfort of our guests, we suggest opting for a shorter tour or one that includes transportation to explore the captivating Ephesus region without compromising on your experience. This adjustment aims to provide you with an enjoyable and memorable trip while considering the climatic conditions for a seamless tour experience.

If you have any additional questions or anything else we can help you with, please feel free to let us know. We look forward to helping you plan an unforgettable Ephesus experience.

Ephesus is a world-famous historical attraction. Ancient City of Ephesus on the shores of the Aegean Sea is one of the most popular travel destinations of Turkey, welcomes millions of visitors every year. Ephesus houses a large number of Christian heritage sites. 
Discover exciting shore excursions, day trips to Ephesus and Ephesus Walking Tour.
​High value tours. 
Browse our collection of Ephesus private tours.

We are offering %20 discounts for
Private Ephesus Tours with English speaking tour guides
and
Private Ephesus Tour Guide Services with English-speaking tour guides
at the following dates: 
For more information please do not hesitate to contact us.

Book early and save more!

Stop Sales dates: May: 7, 14, 17, 21, 31 - june: 8, 22, 29? - July: 16?

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...
​
For more information, please contact us.

Selcuk is a 2.5-hour drive, approximately 200 km, from Pamukkale.
 It's worth taking a day trip from Selcuk to Pamukkale. Pamukkale is one of the most important tourist destinations in Turkey and a UNESCO Heritage SIte. You can experience the breathtaking beauty of Pamukkale and Hierapolis on a Private Pamukkale tour from Selcuk. 

Enjoy yourself walking along the cotton terraces created by the thermal waters flowing down the white travertine terraces in healing hot springs known for their healing properties. Our experienced tour guides will take you through the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, where you will discover the splendour of Roman history and marvel at well-preserved structures such as the Roman Theater and the Hierapolis Necropolis. Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and let us take care of all the details, Guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the natural wonders and historical wonders of Pamukkale. Book your Private Pamukkale tour from Selcuk today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

​If you're looking for a unique experience in Turkey, a trip from Selcuk to Pamukkale is a must. Pamukkale, also known as the "Cotton Castle" with its unique geological formations, is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and will amaze you. The views are breathtaking, creating a surreal and almost otherworldly atmosphere. Pamukkale is also home to the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, waiting to be discovered. Dive deep into history by visiting well-preserved ruins such as the grand theatre, necropolis and Cleopatra's Pool. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the incredible beauty of Pamukkale.

​​Selcuk to Pamukkale Distance is approximately 200 kilometers, or around 120 miles. The  drive takes approximately 2.5 hours. You will enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way. Time flies when you're enjoying the journey. You will enjoy the beauty of Pamukkale's famous travertine terraces.

​Going on a day trip from Selcuk to Pamukkale is an extraordinary experience. With its breathtaking white terraces and healing thermal waters, Pamukkale is a must-visit destination. When you set out on your journey from Selcuk, you will witness the fascinating beauty of the countryside and you will have the opportunity to relax in the warm waters that have soothed the souls for centuries.  Get ready to be impressed by the majestic views of the thermal waters. Take your time, enjoy every moment and let the relaxing atmosphere of Pamukkale surround you. 

After departing from Selcuk, your journey will be adorned with picturesque landscapes and intriguing cultural encounters awaiting you along the approximately 2.5-hour drive east. As the roads unfold, you'll be greeted by a tapestry of charming villages, rich historical landmarks, and awe-inspiring vistas that paint the beauty of the region. Stepping into the site through the North Gate, be prepared to delve into the Ancient Necropolis, where Italian archaeologists have unearthed over 1200 tombs, a number expected to surpass 3000, making it a uniquely expansive ancient cemetery. Moving forward, you'll witness the remnants of the Roman Bath, Domitian Gate, Frontinus Avenue, and the grand Roman theater capable of hosting 10,000 spectators. The journey continues with a stroll on the stunning calcium deposit terraces of Pamukkale, offering mesmerizing views and a refreshing water temperature of 32 degrees, allowing for a dip in the ancient pools of Cleopatra should you choose. Before returning to Selcuk, make sure to indulge in the delicious flavors of pide at a local restaurant. Enjoying this traditional Turkish dish will surely provide a satisfying culinary experience. If needed, you also have the option to request a drop-off at a hotel in Pamukkale after the tour. 

​Cost of Private Pamukkale Tour starting and ending in Selcuk: 300 Euros (Total to be paid for your party of 1-6 people)

* Above rate is NOT a per person rate. It is total to be paid for your group.
* The above rate is for a private tour. You will be the only ones in the vehicle besides your personal tour guide and driver.
* You will the skip the lines. Tour guides have priorities to obtain the tickets.

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 in Selcuk
• Traditional Turkish Lunch at a local restaurant.
• Parking fees to the sites.

Rates Do Not Cover

• Entrance fee to Pamukkale (700TL per person)
• 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
Private Tour Payments 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. We only accept cash payments. Entrance fees can be paid with credit cards.

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 cruise passengers, there is no cancellation fee if your ship does not call to the port for any reason.

* For Private Pamukkale tour booking, Kindly advise us the following:

1. Full names of the members of your group.
2. Number of people in your group.
3. Tour Date
4. Name of your hotel in Selcuk
5. ​Drop off location

If you require any additional information or have any inquiries, we kindly request that you reach out to us with your questions. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the support and assistance you need. Please do not hesitate to contact us, as we are here to help and provide you with the information you require.

​Smyrna (Izmir) - Pergamon (Bergama) - Laodicea - 
​Ephesus - Sardis - Philadephia - Thyatira - Hierapolis (Pamukkale)

We offer private 7 Churches Tours in Turkey visiting the 7 Churches of Revelation, 
Seven Churches of Revelation Tour with expert tour guides. There are many biblical sites in Turkey.
​For many generations Christians, or those who simply have an interest in Christian history and traditions, have traveled to the western part of Turkey which was known as Asia Minor in the biblical times, The Asia Minor is known for the 7 churches of the Book of Revelation. On top of that St. Paul travelled to the area several times. Near Ephesus, there is a possible house where Virgin Mary spent her last years. Ephesus and the surrounding areas had a history of spiritual awakening and Christian revival.

Apostle John, one of the important figures of early Christianity, faced exile from Asia Minor to Patmos in 95 AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Domitianus. This event had a significant impact on the world of faith, providing the ideal environment for the writing of the Book of Revelation. Around 96 AD, while living on the Island of Patmos, located approximately 50 nautical miles southwest of Ephesus and 33 nautical miles west of Miletus. The exile of the Apostle John to Patmos and the subsequent writing of the Book of Revelation stands as a pivotal moment in Christian history, demonstrating the power of faith even in the face of difficulties.

The Seven Churches of Revelation are ancient churches that St. John wrote about in the book of Revelation of the New Testament. All the 7 churches mentioned are located at the western part of Turkey. Biblical sites in Western Turkey:

1. Ephesus - Selcuk, Izmir - The Loveless Church
2. Smyrna -  Izmir City Center - The Persecuted Church
3. Pergamon - Bergama, Izmir - The Comprimising Church
4. Thyateira - Akhisar, Manisa - The Corrupt Church
5. Sardis - Sart, Salihli, Manisa - The Dead Church
6. Philadelphia - Alaşehir, Manisa - The Faithful Church
7. Laodicea - Denizli - The Lukewarm Church

​Absolutely! Visiting the seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation is an exciting and meaningful journey. Exploring these historic sites can give you a unique insight into the early Christian period and deepen your understanding of the messages conveyed in the biblical text. So if you are passionate about biblical history, visiting the Seven Churches of Revelation can be a captivating and enriching experience. 

It is said that the Apostle John, one of the important figures in the history of Christianity, lived a long life and eventually died of natural causes in Ephesus around 98 AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan. Remarkably, he was the only apostle who was not martyred, while the remaining eleven faced persecution and lost their lives for their faith. Four centuries after the burial, Byzantine Emperor Justinian sought to honor the memory of the Apostle John by ordering the construction of a large church over his burial site in Ephesus. This magnificent structure, known as the Basilica of St. John, still stands today in Selcuk, a charming town in western Turkey. Built to commemorate the apostle's life and teachings, the basilica is a testament to the enduring legacy of John the Apostle and his significant contributions to the spread of Christianity.

We have a background in sharing the Western Part of Turkey's Christian Heritage with others, having worked with a broad selection of churches and mission organisations over the years. We are always pleased to organise Biblical Tours of Western Turkey, visiting ​seven churches of revelation and beyond.  We are sure that you will find them interesting whether you are a Christian or religious person or simply interested.

Our 3-Day Tour of 7 Churches offers a unique opportunity to discover the historical and religious significance of the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation. Besides these precious places, we also added a visit to Hierapolis, especially the place where the Apostle Philip was martyred. Also, get ready for a fascinating experience on the surreal white calcium carbonate terraces of Pamukkale. This tour promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of these biblical landmarks and a deep sense of connection to history.

We are pleased to announce the exclusive offering of the 7 Churches Tour of Revelation, carefully curated to provide a profound religious experience for our valued guests. Operating between the months of November and April. In November, March and April the climate is ideal for exploration, our professional team ensures a seamless and informative journey through these historic sites. With a deep understanding of the significance of these churches, we strive to create a transformative and enlightening experience for all participants. Join us on this spiritual pilgrimage as we delve into the rich history and symbolism outlined in the Book of Revelation, embarking on a journey that will leave a lasting impact on your faith and understanding. For available dates, please contact us.
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Depending on how long you area able to tour for. A one day Biblical Ephesus Tour can take you to many sights of Christian interest in Ephesus. If you have 2 or more days there are many more possibilities such as a tour incorporating ancient cities of Pergamon, Laodicea, Hierapolis (Pamukkale) etc. Get in touch for more details.

3 Days Seven Churches Tour Turkey Itinerary

• ​Day  1: Izmir/Kusadasi/Selcuk - Smyrna - Pergamon - Bergama

Meet with your tour guide at Izmir Airport or at your hotel in Izmir/Kusadasi/Selcuk.​ Embark on an immersive 7 Church Tour of Turkey's Biblical sites as you discover the intriguing past of Izmir, known as Smyrna in Biblical times. Our adventure begins by visiting the ruins of ancient Smyrna, an important place full of stories of the past. As we continue our journey from lively Izmir to Bergama, we will stop by a local restaurant to taste the flavors of authentic Turkish cuisine and add a delicious touch to our explorations. Once we've sweetened our taste buds, we'll uncover the awe-inspiring ancient city of Pergamon, one of the legendary seven churches highlighted in the New Testament's Book of Revelation. An intriguing aspect of this stop is the well-known presence of the Throne of Satan. Explore the breathtaking Acropolis and the fascinating Asklepion within the borders of Pergamon. In the evening, we will spend the night in Bergama; Here you can take a pleasant walk through the traditional streets and breathe in the magic of the old Greek houses. Get ready to dive into the rich historical and cultural charm of this extraordinary region of Turkey.
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Tour Timings:
08.30am - Depart Izmir/Selcuk/Kusadasi
08.45am - Visit the Ancient Smyrna
12.00pm - Lunch
02.00pm - Visit Acrpolis and Asclepion
05.00pm - Arrive your hotel in Bergama,
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• ​Day 2: Bergama - Thyatira  - Sardis - Philadephia - Hierapolis - Pamukkale

After your breakfast in Bergama, we set out towards the city of Thyatira, which is mentioned as the ''Corrupt Church'' in the Book of Revelation. Although there are not many ruins remaining from ancient Thyatira, do not let this discourage you from visiting. Your journey will then take you to Sardis, once the magnificent capital of the ancient Lydian kingdom. Be prepared to step back in time when you step into this extraordinary city. Immerse yourself in the history and grandeur that once thrived here and allow yourself to truly appreciate the importance of this ancient place. Continue your scenic journey to Alaşehir, where the extraordinary Philadelphia Church awaits you. Marvel at the ruins of this ancient church and let the rich history seep into your soul. After lunch at a local restaurant, your next stop will be the incredible ancient city of Hierapolis, known today as Pamukkale. Pamukkale is a natural wonder with fascinatingly beautiful hot springs that have flowed for thousands of years and formed magnificent glacier-like terraces. Walk slowly along the charming white terraces of Pamukkale and be enchanted by the truly spiritual atmosphere of this extraordinary place. Overnight in Pamukkale.

Tour Timings:
08.30am - Depart your hotel in Bergama.
09.30am - Visit Thyatira
11.00am - Visit Sardis
1.30pm - Visit Philadelphia
3.00pm - Lunch
03.45pm - Visit Hierapolis and Pamukkale
06.30pm - Overnight in Pamukkale.
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• ​Day 3: Pamukkale - Laodicea - Ephesus - Basilica of St. John - Kusadasi/Selcuk/Izmir Airport

After meeting your guide, drive 15 minutes and visit Laodicea, famous for its trade in shiny black wool and eye salve. Although now a picturesque historical site, Laodicea was referred to in the Book of Revelation as the "Lukewarm Church". Drive 2.5 hour west and visit  the Basilica of St. John, a historic site believed to be the resting place of John the Apostle. View the Temple of Artemis one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world that is also mentioned at Book of Acts Chapter 19. Immerse yourself in Turkey's rich cultural heritage while enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch in the tranquil surroundings of a local weaving institution. After this delightful meal, you will have the opportunity to witness the meticulous artistry behind Turkish handicrafts and learn about the extraordinary weaving techniques used by talented local artisans. Get ready for an exciting 2.5 hour visit to the Ancient City of Ephesus. Under the expert guidance of your knowledgeable tour guide. Prepare to be truly amazed by the biblical significance of Ephesus. Wander the historic streets. Along this extraordinary route, you will encounter awe-inspiring views of iconic landmarks such as the Odeon, the basilica, Domitian's Square, Trajan's Fountain, Celsus Library, Marble Street, Terrace Houses, Grand Theater and Harbor Street. Finally, upon completing this tour you will be transferred to Izmir airport or your hotel in Kusadasi/Selcuk.
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Tour Timings:
08.15am - Depart your hotel in Pamukkale and drive to Laodicea
08.30am - Visit Laodicea
10.00am - Depart Laodicea
12.30pm - Arrive Basilica of St. John and visit
1.30pm - Enjoy lunch and learn about local handicrafts.
3.00pm - Visit Ancient City of Ephesus
5.30pm - Depart Ephesus and transfer to your Hotel in Kusadasi/Selcuk or Izmir Airport.

​7 Churches Tour Turkey Price: 1000 Euro (Total to be paid for the group of 1-5 people)
* Above rate is NOT a per person rate. It is total to be paid for your group.
* For groups over 5 people, the cost will be 200 Euros for each additional person.
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The price includes:

• Licensed Expert English speaking tour guide.
• Mercedes V-Class Minibus
• Transportation costs
• Service charges
• Traditional Turkish Lunches

The price does not include:

• Hotel Accommodations
• Entrance costs to the sites (Approximately 98 Euro per person)
• Drinks during lunches​

​Payment Terms
Private Tour Payments 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. We only accept cash payments. Entrance fees can be paid with credit cards.

​​* We recommend the guests to obtain Museum Pass Turkey or Museum Pass Aegean. This would be a more economical option for the costs of entry to the sites. Museum Pass is accepted everywhere except Sardis. Per person cost of entrance for Sardis is 3 Euros per person.

For more information and availability, we kindly request that you reach out to us. At your convenience, please don't hesitate to contact our team, as we are more than eager to assist you. Rest assured that our dedicated staff is ready to provide you with comprehensive details and guide you through the process. We value your interest and look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Recommended hotels to stay during your 7 Churches Tour Turkey: (booking.com links)