Discover Ephesus and Top Destinations in Western Turkey with an expert tour guide and a TripAdvisor Winner for 12 consecutive years.
Full Day tour of Ephesus, House of Mary & Basilica of St. John (8 hours)The closest Airport to Ephesus is Izmir Airport. Izmir Airport to Ephesus distance is 60 kilometers, and it takes approximately 45 minutes by car. We offer Private Ephesus Tours from Izmir Airport with licensed tour guides. 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: 215 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 click. Rates Cover:
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* Except Terrace Houses, 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 private tour booking, Kindly advise us the following:
For more information about Private Ephesus Tours from Izmir Airport and booking, please contact us.
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Ephesus Half Day Tour from Kusadasi PortIn Kusadasi, many cruise ships choose to stay for half a day. This charming Kusadasi Cruise Port has so much to offer in such a short time. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the ancient city of Ephesus, Enjoy Ephesus Half Day Tour from Kusadasi Port. During our Private half day Ephesus Tour you will visit all the spectacular ancient monuments, including the Library of Celsus, Grand Theater of Ephesus, Hadrian Temple, Temple of Artemis, the House of Virgin Mary and many more. Explore three of Turkey's ancient highlights on a private half-day tour: Temple of Artemis, Ephesus and Hosue of Virgin Mary. Half-day Ephesus Tour Temple of Artemis, Ancient City of Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary Meet with your Ephesus private guide at Kusadasi port. Start your Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port. On the way from Kusadasi Port to Ephesus, drive through the farms. Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. Afterwards continue to the House of Virgin Mary where Virgin Mary is believed to spend her last 9 years. Then a visit to Ephesus is a visit to one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Ancient historians believed that Ephesus was founded by the Amazons, but now, it is believed to have been the Hittite city of Apasas. With your private tour guide, begin your Ephesus Walking Tour and see the Odeon, where the advisory council held its meetings and the Roman Baths, as well as many other columns, monuments, and ruins, including the Celsus Library and the Grand Theater of Ephesus. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity.
For private tour costs, please visit: Ephesus Private Tour Price or contact us. Freequetly Asked Questions
How to Book a Private Ephesus Tour You can book this tour, by sending us an inquiry or by WhatsApp. Contact us or WhatsApp +90 536 225 5658 Write to a Private Ephesus Tour expert for more information about this tour and other tours. Private Ephesus Tours and Shore ExcursionsIf you visit Ephesus by cruise make sure to book a Ephesus Shore Excursion in advance. Our Private Ephesus Tours are led by local licensed Ephesus tour guides. We are one of the leading Ephesus Tour Operator that provide Ephesus Tours and Ephesus Shore Excursions. Ephesus Travel Guide offers exclusive Ephesus Tours. If you are travelling on land and need some advice like Ephesus Hotels or Ephesus shopping, please do not hesitate to contact us. Please click here to read Ephesus Reviews about us. Ephesus Travel Guide provides you Ephesus History and an online Ephesus Map which would be useful during your visit. Cities near Ephesus also offer many ancient highlights, recommended to be visited. Ruins of Ephesus or currently known as Ephesus Archaeological Site is a must travel destination. You can also click here to see the ruins of Ephesus pictures. Mary`s tomb has not been excavated yet. Archaeologists still searching for that. Modern day Ephesus is known as Selcuk. In our web site you can find information about: Ephesus Tour Reviews, Ephesus Tour from Izmir, Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi. From Kusadasi private tours and Ephesus trips is organized by Ephesus private guide Denizhan Pekoz. From port of Kusadasi to Ephesus takes 20 minutes. The distance from Izmir Port to Ephesus is 1 hour 15 minutes drive. For more information please contact us. Private Ephesus Excursions for Odyssey of the Seas Passengers from Kusadasi Cruise Port with licensed tour guidesRoyal Caribbean Cruise Lines 5000 passenger ship Odyssey of the Seas will again call to the Kusadasi Cruise Port in 2024. Odyssey of the Seas Kusadasi calls will be 19 in 2024. First call will be on May 9th 2024, during 12 Night Holy Land Cruise. With overnight In Athens, Odyssey of the Seas will be docked at the Kusadasi Cruise Port and will stay from 8am until 6pm. Ephesus Travel Guide offers selection of Private Ephesus excursions from Kusadasi Cruise Port for Odyssey of the Seas passengers at lower prices than Odyssey of the Seas Excursions. Our Ephesus excursions are carefully designed to cater to each traveler's preferences, providing a truly memorable experience. You will enjoy local Turkish culture and traditions during our Ephesus shore excursion and explore Ephesus ancient ruins with your Ephesus Guide. As part of our exceptional services, we are pleased to offer private excursions to Ephesus for Odyssey of the Seas passengers calling at Kusadasi port. We guarantee an unforgettable experience combining historical significance with unparalleled luxury. Our Ephesus tour guide will accompany you through the magnificent ruins of Ephesus and offer insightful commentary that brings ancient times to life. Explore the Library of Celsus, the grand theater and the Terrace Houses at your own pace. With our attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction, we ensure that every aspect of your trip is a seamless and remarkable journey into the past. Book your private Ephesus trip with us and embark on a personalized adventure in one of Turkey's most fascinating historical sites. For more information please contact us. Private Ephesus Excursions for Oceania Cruises Passengers: Riviera and VistaIn 2024, both Vista and Riviera of Oceania Cruises will make stops at Kusadası Port. Riviera will make a total of 7 port calls at Kusadası Port on the 20 Night Crossroads Traveler Venice to Istanbul and 10 Night Ancient World Wonders Athens to Istanbul itineraries. On the other hand, Vista will make 4 port calls at Kusadası Port on its 20 Night Mediterranean Poetry Venice to Rome and 10 Night Philosophers & Sultans Venice to Istanbul cruises, These itineraries offer passengers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders of the Ancient Mediterranean Antiquities, especially the historical city of Ephesus. From archaeological treasures to fascinating ruins, travelers will have the chance to immerse themselves in the rich history and mythology of this fascinating region. As Ephesus Travel Guide, we are excited to offer private Ephesus Excursions at much more affordable prices than Oceania Cruise Excurisons. When you book with us, instead of being part of a group of 30 people, you will be provided with your private tour guide, driver and vehicle. Our tour guides are not only licensed by the Turkish Government, but also experts on everything related to the region. You will be in complete control with a personalized Ephesus tour. Your private guide can adjust the tour to include other similar sights or even focus on a particular aspect or culture you want to learn more about. Our Ephesus Private Tours from Kusadasi Port offer comfortable excursions designed according to your interests. You will not be rushed from one stop to another; With our private tours you can truly take time to appreciate the ancient ruins. And the best part? All this comes at an even lower price than cruises. So don't miss this incredible opportunity to discover Ephesus at your own pace and at unbeatable prices. If you are looking for a truly unforgettable Ephesus experience, do not hesitate to contact us today. We specialize in creating personalized Ephesus tours that specifically cater to your preferences and interests. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, learn about the fascinating history of Ephesus, or simply soak in the beauty of this incredible destination, our team of experienced professionals is here to help you. For recommended excursions from Kusadası Port please do not hesitate to contact us. Start planning your dream Ephesus tour and create memories that will last a lifetime. Private Ephesus Tours for Seven Seas Voyager, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Navigator PassengersRegent Seven Seas passengers looking for an extraordinary journey can join our fascinating Private Ephesus tours that promise an enriching experience. These meticulously crafted tours appeal to discerning travelers who appreciate historical wonders and impeccable service. Guided by knowledgeable local Ephesus tour guides, guests will travel back in time as they wander among the awe-inspiring ruins of Ephesus. From the iconic Library of Celsus to the majestic Grand Theatre, every step evokes the ancient grandeur and architectural brilliance of this once thriving city. The professional and attentive team ensures that each guest's needs are met, ensuring you have a flawless and unforgettable trip. With our Ephesus tours designed specifically for Regent Seven Seas passengers, this extraordinary and culturally immersive adventure promises to leave an indelible mark on the heart of every traveler. Eagerly waiting for the arrival of Regent Seven Seas ships in 2024, Kusadası Cruise Port offers cruise passengers an unforgettable opportunity to visit magnificent Ephesus. We can guarantee that our Private Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port is meticulously designed to enhance your travel experience. Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Ephesus, where you will walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations and witness astonishing archaeological sites such as the majestic Library of Celsus and the grand Theatre. Our Expert Ephesus Tour Guides will enlighten you with fascinating narratives and bring history to life with their knowledge and passion. From well-preserved ruins to awe-inspiring Terrace Houses, every moment you spend in Ephesus will deepen your appreciation for the intricate stories woven among the stones of this extraordinary destination. In 2024, Kusadası Cruise Port will be graced by the arrival of magnificent ships of Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Seven Seas Voyager, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Navigator. Among these impressive ships will be the Seven Seas Voyager, which will set foot in port during the fascinating 10-night "Myths, Gods and Legends Cruise" from Athens (Piraeus) to Athens (Piraeus). Especially Seven Seas Voyager is no stranger to the charm of Kusadası; It made several to Kusadasi port in the past years. The inclusion of such famous ships in the range of Kusadası Cruise Port certainly promises cruise enthusiasts an extraordinary and unforgettable experience in the year 2024 As Ephesus Travel Guide, we are proud to offer private guided Ephesus tours from Kusadasi Port to cruise passengers. We understand the desire for an unforgettable experience, which is why our carefully crafted Ephesus tours provide an enlightening journey through the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Immerse yourself in the rich history and fascinating stories this extraordinary site has to offer. For more information or to book a Private Ephesus tour from Kusadasi Port, we invite you to visit our website or contact us directly. Let us be your guide on an unforgettable trip to Ephesus. Private Ephesus Excursion from Celebrity InfinityToday at the Port of Kusadasi, we had only 1 cruise ship: Celebrity Infinity of Celebrity Cruises.
If you're looking to explore the ancient wonders of Ephesus while aboard the Celebrity Infinity, a private Ephesus excursion is an absolute must! This friendly and personalized tour allows you to delve deep into the rich history of this iconic archaeological site. Your Ephesus guide will lead you through the mesmerizing ruins of the Library of Celsus, the ancient amphitheater, and the impressive Temple of Artemis, while sharing captivating stories and interesting facts along the way. With a private excursion, you'll have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and spend as much time as you'd like uncovering the mysteries of this enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you're a history buff or simply in awe of ancient civilizations, a private Ephesus excursion from the Celebrity Infinity promises an unforgettable and enriching experience, with friendly guides who are passionate about bringing the past to life. We had 3 private tour groups who booked private tours of Ephesus. 2 of the private groups were from Spain. We assigned them Spanish speaking tour guides for private tour of Ephesus in Spanish . I guided a group of 6 guests with whom I did a tour of Temple of Artemis, House of Virgin Mary and Ephesus Ancient City. For more information about our private tours of Ephesus from Kusadasi Port, please visit: https://www.ephesustravelguide.com/private-ephesus-tours-from-kusadasi.html Private Ephesus Tours from Sirince Village HotelsSirince is known for its cobblestone streets and traditional Greek houses. The locals are incredibly warm and welcoming. For travelers who are overnighting in Sirince Village. We provide private airport transfers from Izmir Airport and private Ephesus tours. The main highlights of the area is the ancient city of Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis. Sirince is located 20 minutes drive from Ephesus ancient city. We offer delightful private tours from Sirince to Ephesus. Our Ephesus guide and luxury vehicle will meet you in front of Artemis Restaurant in the center of Sirince Village and you will be taken to some of the major highlights of Turkey. At the end of the day you will be dropped back to your hotel in Sirince Village. Private Ephesus Excursions for Viking Cruises Passengers from Kusadasi Cruise PortViking Cruises Ancient Mediterranean Treasures cruises will call at Kusadasi Cruise Port. In 2024, Viking Saturn, Viking Neptune, Viking Sky, Viking Venus and Viking Sea operated by Viking Cruises will have several port calls to Kusadasi Cruise Port. First call will be made by Viking Saturn on January 15 during Ancient Mediterranean Antiquities. We have started receiving enquiries from Viking Cruises passengers for private tours to Ephesus. Ephesus Travel Guide is an Ephesus shore excursion operator. We provide high quality Ephesus cruise excursions at substantially lower prices than Viking Mediterranean Shore Excursions. Enjoy a more intimate experience and avoid the crowds. Viking Cruises included shore excursion (A gentle journey into the Ancient World) will only take you to a few sites. By booking a private full day Ephesus Tour with us, Make the most out of your stay in Ephesus. Be confident in your choice with 24/7 support for travelers, no charge if you miss your Ephesus shore excursion due to an itinerary or a weather change, and guaranteed return to your cruise ship! Discover exciting excursions and day trips from Kusadasi to Ephesus. High value tours, lower cost than the Viking Cruise Excursions. Browse our collection of Ephesus private tours. Ephesus Travel Guide is a trusted Ephesus shore excursion operator, committed to delivering exceptional experiences at unbeatable prices. Our specialty is showcasing fascinating Antiquities of Ephesus and allowing our guests to embark on a truly extraordinary journey through time. With our meticulously designed Ephesus cruise tours, you will explore the fascinating ruins of Ephesus,. What sets us apart from other operators such as Viking Mediterranean Shore Excursions is not only the extremely low prices we offer, but also our commitment to providing a professional and reliable service. Book your Ephesus Shore Excursion with Ephesus Travel Guide and let us take you on an unforgettable exploration in the fascinating ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus is a very well preserved Greco-Roman city. Explore this fascinating treasure with Ephesus Travel Guide. Viking Cruises passengers who are seeking an exclusive private tour of Ephesus can contact us via WhatsApp or contact form for expert advice to help select the best tours for you. How to Book a Private Ephesus Shore Excursion ? You can book this tour, by sending us an inquiry or by WhatsApp. Contact us or WhatsApp +90 536 225 5658 Write to a Private Shore Excursion expert for more information about this tour and other tours. Private Ephesus Excursions for Princess Cruises Passengers: Sun Princess and Island PrincessPrivate Ephesus Shore Excursions from Kusadasi Cruise Port with licensed tour guides. Book select Ephesus excursions for less price than Princess Cruises Ephesus Shore Excursions. For 2024, Princess Cruises Kusadasi calls be 8. Sun Princess and Island Princess will be calling to Kusadasi Cruise Port. Five of the calls will be made by Sun Princess, and the others will be made by Island Princess. Sun Princess will be docked at Kusadasi Cruise Port on February 14th 2024 during Mediterranean with Greek Isles and Turkey Cruise. Kusadasi Port is the gateway to Ephesus Ancient City.
We offer Ephesus excursions for Sun 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. For private tour options, please visit: Ephesus Tours from Kusadasi Cruise Port. For more information, please contact us. Private Ephesus Shore Excursions for Celebrity Cruises PassengersSeveral Celebrity Cruise ships are scheduled to call to Kusadasi Cruise Port in 2024. Celebrity Cruises Kusadasi calls will be 50. Kusadasi Cruise Port will welcome Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Equinox and Celebrity Silhoutte.
Kusadasi is the main cruise port for Ephesus. Kusadasi Port is also known as Ephesus Cruise Port. Kusadasi town is 5 minutes walking distance to Kusadasi Port, located in the heart of the town. Highlight of the area is the Ancient City of Ephesus. We recommend travelers to do an Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port. How far is the cruise port in Kusadası from Ephesus? Kusadasi Cruise Port to Ephesus is just 25 minutes drive. Kusadasi Cruise Port has many beautiful shops, making it a pleasure to explore and a convenient distance from Ephesus. Ephesus was an ancient Greek city on the west coast of Anatolia (Modern Turkey), on the Ionian coast, and later an important Roman city. The foundation of the city dates back to the Neolithic 6000 BC. The city was colonized in the 10th century BC by Greek Ionian settlers. Ephesus is famous for the nearby Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient seven wonders of the world. Among the must see sites: the Celsus Library and the Grand theater that can hold 25,000 spectators. Ephesus was one of the seven churches of Asia Minor mentioned in Revelation. The Gospel of John may have been written in Ephesus. We offer Ephesus Tours from Cruise Ships Like in the past years we are operating private Ephesus excursions for Celebrity Cruise Passengers from Kusadasi Cruise Port. We already started receiving many requests and private tour bookings. Our private Ephesus tours are less expensive than Celebrity Cruises Ephesus Excursions. Kusadasi Cruise Port will be welcoming Celebrity Cruise Ships during 12 Night Spain, Malta & Greek Islands and 12 Night Turkey & Best Of Greek Islands Cruises. We have been receiving several private Ephesus tour bookings by Celebrity Cruise passengers. If you are coming to Kusadasi with a cruise ship. It would be our pleasure to be in service to you as well. For more information contact us and visit: Private Ephesus Tours from Kusadasi Who is the Best Tour Guide for Ephesus?
If you're planning a trip to Ephesus, you may wonder who the best tour guide would be to enhance your experience. Booking a knowledgeable and experienced tour guide can make all the difference in understanding the historical importance and significance of Ephesus ancient city. Let's explore the qualities and expertise you should look for in a tour guide to ensure you have an unforgettable and informative visit to Ephesus.
What Makes a Tour Guide the Best?
When searching for the best tour guide for Ephesus, it's important to consider their experience, expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. A great tour guide should possess an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, and archaeological significance of Ephesus. They should also be able to share this knowledge in an engaging and accessible way, catering to the interests and needs of their audience.
Experience and Expertise in Ephesus
The best tour guide for Ephesus should have a wealth of experience in guiding visitors through this ancient city. They should have extensive knowledge of the site's history, architectural wonders, and excavation discoveries. Ideally, they should be able to provide detailed explanations of the significance of each site, such as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis, and the Grand Theater of Ephesus.
With their expertise, a knowledgeable tour guide can bring ancient Ephesus to life by weaving in captivating anecdotes and historical context. As you explore the ruins and walk in the footsteps of the ancient Romans, a skilled guide can transport you back in time, enabling you to truly appreciate the grandeur and magnificence of this once-thriving city. Authority and Trustworthiness
To ensure a reliable and authentic experience, it's crucial to choose a tour guide who is recognized for their authority and trustworthiness. Look for tour guides who are affiliated with reputable tour companies or organizations. These guides are often vetted for their knowledge and adherence to ethical standards.
Additionally, reading reviews and testimonials from previous visitors can provide valuable insights into the reputation and reliability of a tour guide. Hearing firsthand accounts of others' experiences can help you determine if a particular guide is the right fit for your needs. The Best Tour Guide for Ephesus: Denizhan Pekoz
When it comes to exploring Ephesus, one notable tour guide who stands out is Denizhan Pekoz. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed tour guide, Denizhan has gained a reputation for his outstanding knowledge and passion for the Ephesus ancient city.
As a seasoned expert, Denizhan's tours are infused with captivating stories and historical facts that make each visit to Ephesus truly unforgettable. His enthusiastic and engaging approach ensures that visitors of all ages and backgrounds can appreciate and absorb the rich history surrounding them. During Denizhan's tours, visitors can expect a comprehensive exploration of Ephesus's most iconic landmarks, as well as hidden gems off the beaten path. Denizhan's deep understanding of the city's history allows him to provide detailed explanations of each site, contextualizing them within the larger historical narrative. With him as your tour guide, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the significance of each artifact and structure, leaving you with a profound appreciation for ancient Ephesus. Selecting the best tour guide for Ephesus can greatly enhance your visit to this extraordinary ancient city. Look for experienced tour guides who possess deep knowledge and expertise in Ephesus's history, culture, and archaeology. Ensure that they are trusted and recognized authorities in their field. Denizhan is the ideal choice to lead you through the wonders of Ephesus and make your visit truly unforgettable. Denizhan Pekoz offers private Ephesus Tours from Kusadasi Port, Izmir Port, Kusadasi, Izmir, Selcuk Alacati, Sirince, Izmir Hotels and Izmir Airport. For more information and availability please contact us. * Ephesus Travel Guide only promotes best tour guides in Ephesus with a professional tour guide license, ensuring you have the best possible private tour experience. Recent Tripadvisor Reviews about Denizhan Pekoz
“Kusadasi Private tour”
We decided to go with a private tour of Kusadasi instead of the very expensive cruise tours, I researched on tripadvisor and decided to go with Denizhan after reading all the great reviews. Our experience with him was fantastic, he replied to my email right away and confirmed the tour, he was waiting for us at the port although we were about 20 minutes late getting out of the ship. He first took us to the temple of Armetis, his knowledge of the area was amazing, he also took us to the House of Mary and then we had a fabulous lunch since my kids were hungry, he was very flexible on the tour and he accomodated all our requests, Ephesus was mindblowing and the time and patience he had with us was really appreciated. I recommend Denizhans tour with a 5 star. A very enjoyable and unforgettable port call. “A comprehensive day in Ephesus” Denizkhan was the best tour guide I have come across, and I do travel quite a bit. He was well ahead of time waiting for us at our hotel. He clearly has a lot of passion and knowledge in the area around Ephesus and was full of historical facts but also helping us gain a broader understanding of modern day history. On request he also took us to some of the best local pottery and leather handicraft stores. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with him. He also dropped us off at the Izmir airport at the end of the day. Have made a connection for life, would visit again in a heartbeat. “So knowledgeable and helpful!” Reviewed 4 weeks agoDenizhan knows it all! His comprehensive knowledge of Ephesus painted for us a most vivid picture of what life was like in a thriving metropolis and trade center 2000 years ago. And he was extremely helpful in addressing some personal matters for us. We could not recommend more highly! “Great Tour of Ephesus with Denizhan” We loved spending the day in Ephesus with Denizhan. He and his driver were waiting with a friendly smile when we arrived at the cruise terminal. We were a group of four. We all love history and wanted to learn all we could about the Biblical history of the area. Denizhan was perfect for us. He knew more than we could ever know about the history of the area but was able to explain it in an interesting way. He knew and understood the Biblical text and explained it in a way that made the area come to life. He was also honest and realistic when authorities had different opinions or when they were not sure about what happened at a site. He kept us moving and ahead of the crowds---but not rushed. The lunch of typical Turkish food out under big trees was a highlight of our whole trip. We enjoyed visiting with Denizhan during lunch about the food and his life in Turkey with his family. He truly loved this country and passed this on to us. We were sad when the tour was over but left with an appreciation of Ephesus and Turkey. People were warm and kind. We hope to visit again some day. If we are anywhere near this area we will get in touch with Denizhan to continue with our tour of Turkey. My husband said this was the best tour he ever took and the rest of us agreed. Thanks for a great day, Denizhan! “Simply wonderful!!!!” I am someone who doesn't care much about old stones I never had a history teacher I liked. Now that's sad! But I am learning.! This tour of Ephesus was amazing. Denizhan Pekoz was our guide and he made it all make sense without being over bearing. The old stones seemed to come alive and I could see how this was once a thriving city. We were not rushed and we did not dilly dally around but went smoothly through the ruins. It seemed as if real people could have e lived there. It was also clear how much work was still to be done and how different it would be if we came back in even 5 years! I will never tour again without a private guide. It took us about 4 hours including a stop at a wonderful ceramic store and a stop at a magnificent state run school for rug makers. The rugs were shown to us with the greatest care. We would dearly have loved to have bought one but there was no pressure. Traveling as we were we could not do it. The rugs were simply wonderful and we learned a lot about rug making. We would like to go back to both places ! and to Ephesus with Denizhan!! “Private Tour of Ephesus by Trans Balkan tours” We were a group of 7. We wanted a tour of Ephesus from a Christian perspective. We were picked up at the Cruise Ship dock by Dennis and transported in a brand new looking Mercedes van. Dennis was very knowledgeable of the Biblical text and was careful to differentiate historical truth from speculation or tradition. We started our tour at St. John's Basilica. Dennis share with us information about the area as well as Christian history. We stopped at a pottery shop on the way to the ruins of Ephesus. While in Ephesus we were wowed by the stories of St. Paul who lived there for 2 1/2 years. Dennis truly knows the Biblical Text. Even for the benefit of non-believers, the ruins are a sight to behold. We also went to the possible home of Mary, mother of Jesus. A somber experience. Then we had a traditional Turkish lunch and a tour of a Turkish carpet facility. The food was wonderful and all part of our tour package price. You will pay for St John's, Ephesus, and Mary's home on your own. Also you will pay for parking. The price for seven of us was around $170 total. Not including tip and admission fees. Far less than one of those Cruise Ship Excursions would cost. We did far more for far less money than the Cruise ship charges. And we rode in comfort with just our small group and were treated quite well. One small complaint I would have is that when you stop at the pottery shop and carpet shop, there is a little pressure to purchase something from the shop. Dennis told us not to feel pressured, but I felt pressured. It's just something other travelers should be aware of. For the record, we felt totally safe on this tour. For travelers who will be staying in Kusadasi or Selcuk.Pamukkale (Hierapolis), Priene, Miletus, Didyma, Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. JohnDay 1 Private Tour of Pamukkale (Hierapolis) starting and ending in Kusadasi. After departing from your hotel, drive east approx. 3 hours. 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. For the ones interested there is an opportunity to swim at the ancient pools of Cleopatra. Kindly note there is an extra entrance fee approximately 8 Euros per person. Day 2 Private Tour of Priene, Miletus and Didyma starting and ending at Kusadasi Following the departure from your hotel, the first stop will be PRIENE. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture. All the streets intersect at right angles. Next visit MILETUS, an ancient city located near the mouth of the Meandros River. Miletus owed its importance to its position on the trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the ancient philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Having a prominent position, Miletus became the most important port in this area and it was the most active member of the twelve cities of the Ionian Confederation. From the 7th century B.C. the city has been controlled in turn by the Persians, Roman and Seljuk Turks. The last visit in the tour will be DIDYMA. The world Didyma meant "twins" and it was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo, which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 12 mile sacred road. Day 3 Private Tour of Ephesus, Haouse of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John Meet with your guide in front of the Kusadasi port passenger terminal. Drive to the country. Your first stop on this fascinating tour is at the Hourse of Virgin Mary. Then, you will continue on to visit ancient Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath,Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theater with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. Afterwards visit the BASILICA OF ST. JOHNand see the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity
Private Aphrodisias Tours from Kusadasi and SelcukAphrodisias 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. Where is 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. 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:
In a letter written by Emperor Augustus to Stephanus (governor of Laodicea), Aphoridisias is privileged: ''Caesar to Stephanus 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. 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. We offer private Aphrodisias tours from Kusadasi, Sirince and Selcuk.Cost of Private Aphrodisias Tour from Kusadasi:
Mercedes V-Class (1-6 people) + English Speaking Tour Guide: 280 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. (Cost of Entrance Fee: 140 Turkish LIras = 6.5 Euro per person) 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. Private Shore Excursions of Ephesus for Azamara Pursuit. Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest Passengers from Kusadasi Cruise PortAzamara Quest was at the Port of Kusadasi today. We had two private shore excursions of Ephesus from Azamara Quest.The private shore excursion is leaded by Mr. Semih Tazegul and Mrs. Ezgi Pekoz We offer private shore excursion of Ephesus from Kusadasi Port for Azamara Cruise Passengers. |
Ephesus Travel Guideby TransBalkan Tours is a fully licenced tour operator since 1963 and a member of TURSAB. Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port
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Ephesus Travel Guide by TransBalkan Tours is a fully licenced tour operator and a member of TURSAB. License: A 776.