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IzmirShore excursions

Our most recommended Izmir Shore excursions

From Izmir: Guided Tour of the Ancient City of Ephesus

1. From Izmir: Guided Tour of the Ancient City of Ephesus

Arrive on the outskirts of Bulbul Mountain at the gates of the ancient city of Ephesus. Discover the daily life of Ephesians and visit the most important pagan and Christian heritage sites. Enjoy an included lunch, and take some time to shop afterward before returning back to Izmir. Enjoy pick-up from your hotel and learn the important history and mythology on your one hour drive to Selcuk. Find yourself at the gates of the city, important for its place in the Hellenic world and Roman era. Imagine yourself an Ephesian, and see the most important attractions. Begin at the Governmental Agora, see the Road of Curates, and the Gate of Magnesia. Find the Gate of Hercules, the Traianus Fountain, the Temple of Hadrianus, and checkout how ancient bathrooms worked. Wonder at the Roman Baths of Scholastica, the Library of Celsius, and the Grand Theatre of Ephesus. Leave the city gates and take the option to visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where she spent her final days in peace and mourning. Marvel at the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. View St. John Basilica, an architectural wonder of the Christian world. Light a candle for the Virgin Mary if you like, and experience lunch and shopping before the drive back to your hotel.

From Izmir: Guided Pamukkale Full-Day Tour with Lunch

2. From Izmir: Guided Pamukkale Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Pick-Up: Izmir Pamukkale Tour starts during the morning, when a comfortable vehicle picks you up from your hotel in Izmir. The bus will drive you towards Selcuk where a small break will take place. From Selcuk, you will continue with a different bus towards Pamukkale. Our Guides & Vehicles: You will be travelling with a comfortable, modern and fully air conditioned vehicle. During your excursion, you will be accompanied by a professional guide who will be there to assist you. In addition, the guide will explain important facts for the places of interest.Once you arrive at Selcuk, a small break will be made and then you will continue with a bus towards your destination. It has to be noted that the road trip from Selcuk to Pamukkale will have an approximate duration of three hours. However, several short stops will be made in order to relax and take some photos. Pamukkale Free Time: In Pamukkale, you will have 3 hours of free time to spend according to your interests. Pamukkale has a variety of options and locations where you can enjoy your time. The ancient city of Hierapolis can be ideal for those who wish to explore the culture and the history of the place. Pamukkale is also famous for its thermal springs and the Cotton Castle.Forming one of Turkey’s most famous attractions, the Cotton Castle or the Travertines will impress you with the natural beauty that the area has. The Cotton Castle is in fact a naturally shaped white washed mountain with thermal water springs that flow into white terraces. Visitors have the opportunity to swim and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs. The location is also ideal for spectacular photos as the patios of the mountains are of unique beauty. Hierapolis Ancient City: The ancient city of Hierapolis was built during 190BC and became a famous curing centre due to its close proximity to the thermal springs. During the Roman period, the area was one of the most important spiritual and creative centres as many people were visiting the area in order to relax their body and mind. For those who are interested in sightseeing, Hierapolis is a great location to observe the ruins of the ancient settlement. Cleopatra Thermal Pool: During the 3-hour free time, you can also visit the Cleopatra Thermal Pool. The area features a big natural pool with hot springs. During the Roman period people used the pool for health and treatment purposes. You can enter the pool at an extra cost and enjoy all the associated benefits of such therapeutic experience. Return Back: Izmir Pamukkale Tour finishes during the afternoon and the bus will start on its way back. Full of great memories, relaxed and amazed by your exploration, you will arrive at your hotel in Izmir during the afternoon.

From Izmir: Ephesus Guided Day Trip with Transfer & Lunch

3. From Izmir: Ephesus Guided Day Trip with Transfer & Lunch

Pick-Up: The Izmir Ephesus Tour is scheduled to start during the morning. A modern and comfortable bus will pick you up from your hotel in Izmir or from İzmir Airport and drive you towards Ephesus. The road trip will be approximately one hour. Our Guides: During your excursion, you will be accompanied by a professional tour guide who will be in charge to assist you. The experienced guide will also be in charge to explain everything you need to know in every stop of your journey. Ephesus Tour: The ancient city of Ephesus forms one of the most important and popular attractions in Turkey. It hosts a number of important monuments from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. These monuments include, among others, the Hadrian Temple, the Library of Celsius, the Grand Theatre, the Roman Baths, the Agora and the Latrina. Ephesus is also home to the infamous Temple of Artemis. As you will be touring around the ancient city, the guide will provide important information for every monument. House of Virgin Mary: At a close distance from the ancient city of Ephesus, there is another place of interest which is the House of Virgin Mary. Surrounded by a quiet and beautiful landscape, this house was chosen by Virgin Mary to spend her last days there with St. John. This location has enormous interest for the Christian population. Take a chance to admire nature and observe the spectacular setting while you are there. Lunch: Izmir Ephesus Tour continues with a lunch break at a local restaurant in the area. Relax and enjoy a tasteful open buffet with a variety of choices. Temple Of Artemis: The ancient city of Ephesus is mostly known for hosting the Temple of Artemis. This temple is listed among the 7 wonders of the ancient world due to its impressive size, design and importance for the area. It was constructed during the Hellenistic period and nowadays, visitors are able to observe and tour around the ruins of the temple. Isabey Mosque: The full day trip to Ephesus continues with a visit to Isabey Mosque. The mosque demonstrates an interesting character due to its majestic Seljukian architecture. The guide will explain everything you need to know about the mosque and its interior design.

From Kusadasi or Izmir: Ephesus Private Tour

4. From Kusadasi or Izmir: Ephesus Private Tour

Explore the stunning ruins of Ephesus on this full-day sightseeing tour from Izmir or Kusadasi, also available as a half-day option from Kusadasi for those short of time. As it is a private tour you can start at any time you like. You will also visit the small House of the Virgin Mary, where it is thought she spent her final days after St. John brought her to Ephesus following the death of Jesus. Located on Mount Bulbuldagi (Koressos), it’s a popular pilgrim site for Christians and Muslims and boasts a captivating, spiritual atmosphere. Once inside the grounds of Ephesus, wander among the ruins with your guide to see sites such as the Odeon Theatre, which could seat up to 1,400 spectators in its day. Admire the beautiful Roman statues and decorations carved into marble slabs at the Pollio Fountain. Other highlights include the Celcius Library, completed by the Romans in 117AD. The building has the most awe-inspiring façade, with columns, statues, and intact windows. Finally, explore the Greek Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, and go to the Basilica of St John (Kusadasi departures only), constructed by Justinian I over the burial site of the Apostle John.

From Kusadasi/Izmir: Ephesus Private Tour with Less Walking

5. From Kusadasi/Izmir: Ephesus Private Tour with Less Walking

Discover the wonders of Ephesus on a private tour with less walking and more exploring for travelers seeking a more relaxed experience. Enjoy pickup from Izmir or Kusadasi. With a guide and skip-the-line access, bypass queues and dive straight into the heart of this UNESCO-listed site. Explore the iconic Library of Celsus, an architectural masterpiece that once housed thousands of scrolls. Marvel at the grandeur of the Grand Theatre, where gladiators once battled and audiences were captivated by theatrical performances. Stroll along the ancient streets of Ephesus, adorned with intricate columns and historic ruins. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Listen to fascinating stories and legends from your guide that will bring Ephesus to life. Enjoy the advantage of less walking and savor every moment without feeling rushed. Capture stunning photos, soak in the ambiance, and let the ancient past transport you to a bygone era.

All Inclusive Private Ephesus Full Day Tour with lunch

6. All Inclusive Private Ephesus Full Day Tour with lunch

All Inclusive Private Ephesus, The House of Virgin Mary, Artemission with lunch Learn more about famous religious sites like The House of Virgin Mary, and Artemis temple in this private tour of Ephesus from Kuşadasi. Taste delicious Turkish food at a local restaurant, as you see this significant port city.  Your private guide will meet you at Kusadasi port or hotel with a sign written “ Your Name “ on it, Please note that pick up time ( usually 30 minutes after your cruise arrival ) will be emailed with in 24 hours after your reservation. If you miss this email, please do not forget to contact with us for pick up time. After greeting, we will have 20 mins drive to Ephesus area. We will start visiting one of the main highlights in Turkey, Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionian League (an ancient Greek district on the western coast of Asia Minor) is located near Izmir. As a port city it was a major departure point for trade routes into Asia Minor. Walk through history along marble streets lined with wonderful public buildings, among them the Baths of Scholastica, the Library of Celsus; it was built in the beginning of the 2nd century A.D. by Gaius Julius Aquila to be a memorial to his father Gaius Julius Celsus Polemanus, the proconsul of Province of Asia. , the Temple of Hadrian and The Grand Theater are two of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus. Grand theatre was built in 3rd century B.C and it was later expanded to 24.000 spectators by the Romans in the 1st century A.D. After traditional Turkish lunch we continue to visit The House of Virgin Mary is located on the Aladag Mountains 5 miles away from Ephesus. At the third Ecumenical Council on 431 AD in Ephesus, it was claimed that Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. After the discovery of the house, the Archbishop of Izmir declared there as a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there. We will stop at Artemis Temple where used to be one of the seven wonders of the ancient world as our last stop before drive back to Kusadasi town center and port. The end of our services.

From Istanbul: Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Day Trip

7. From Istanbul: Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Day Trip

After being picked up between 5AMand 5.30AM from your hotel in Istanbul, you will be driven to the airport where you will catch a flight to Izmir. Meet your private guide in Izmir and make your first visit to House of Virgin Mary, a small house in the Solmissos Mountains which is recognized as the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. See the small shrine dedicated to St. Mary which was found when the ruins of the house were first discovered. Continue your tour to the ancient city of Ephesus. Visit the Fountains of Trojan, Polio, The Temples of Hadrian and Domitian, the Library of Celsius, and the Great Theatre. After this make a stop for a traditional Turkish lunch. Visit a leather shop and continue to Isa Bey Mosque, one of the most delicate examples of Seljukian architecture, situated below the basilica of Saint John. To conclude your tour, stop at the Temple of Artemis, first built during the Archaic period and considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Afterwards, drive back to Izmir airport to make your flight back to Istanbul. Our Istanbul team will met you at the Istanbul airport and transfer you to your hotel in Istanbul.

Kusadasi : City Discovery Tour

8. Kusadasi : City Discovery Tour

If you bored on cruise and dont want to spend all day on Ephesus ancient city , Lets discover Kusadasi with a local by walking. No rush No Hassle , just discovering freely This activity is just for you , if you looking for ; Best places to see ( Not Touristic) Best Local Food places Local Tea Tasting in a Local place Meet with locals Discovering Turkish Culture and traditions

Private Pamukkale (Hierapolis) Tour: Full-Day from Izmir

9. Private Pamukkale (Hierapolis) Tour: Full-Day from Izmir

Join us on our full-day tour to Pamukkale, which in English means “cotton castle”. You’ll understand why it’s called this when you see the site! This unique site should be on everyone’s “must see” list when visiting Turkey. The thermal spa of Hierapolis dates from dynasty of the Attalids, the kings of Pergamon, and is registered as a cultural and natural heritage site by UNESCO. Your guide will show you the ruins of the baths, temples and other Greek monuments at the site. You’ll see the ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis and have time to relax in the warm spring waters. Calcite-laden waters cascade from springs in a cliff towering nearly 200 meters over the plain, creating a surreal landscape of mineral forests, petrified waterfalls and a series of terraced basins. The terraces were formed by the warm cascading waters that contain calcium bicarbonate. As the water loses its carbon dioxide it leaves limestone deposits. During your visit to the open-air museum of Hierapolis you’ll see the massive ancient graveyard that contains over 1200 sarcophagi, many of which are the size of a small house. Other ruins that you’ll visit on this tour include the Great Theatre, the tomb of St. Philip, the Roman Baths and the Temple of Apollo.

Ephesus & Sirince Village Tour from İzmir

10. Ephesus & Sirince Village Tour from İzmir

Meet with your professional guide at the port in İzmir. Drive to Ephesus-Selcuk. Ephesus is considered to one of the spectacular open-air museums in Turkey and in the world - and one of the highlights of any visit to Turkey. During this privately guided tour, Ephesus city will come alive as you walk through 2,000 year-old marble streets to admire the Library of Celsius, Hadrian's Temple, the Fountains of Trajan, Polio, The Temples of Hadrian and Domitian, Vedious and Scholastic Baths, Bouloterion, and the Great Theatre with capacity of 24.000 spectators. Then it’s up into the mountains to the lovely little Turkish-Orthodox village of Sirince. Up here, far from the madding crowd, you can wander the narrow streets, where the women sell their handcrafts and oils. You can take a quiet drink in one of the small café’s and sample the local sweet fruity wine. At the end of your day you will return to İzmir port.

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What people are saying about Izmir

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 19 reviews

Ali was very knowledgeable, thorough and organized as well as flexible. I particularly appreciate the thoughtful way information and history was presented which helped with unraveling the unique history of the area. I did end up with the tour from Izmir which costs more but I still will recommend him and this tour to anyone who contemplates a visit!

I did a private tour with Özlem and visited the house of the Virgin Mary,Ephesus with a side trip to a leather factory and to see how the handcrafts (ceramic) are made. Overall an excellent tour with a fantastic and knowledgeable guide who provided more info than I could ever ask for. Highly recommended.

The trip was amazing and the tour was extremely well organized. Tejen may have been the best tour guide I have ever had in my life

serine village is overrated. guide was excellent. The car is superb.

Really lovely tour guide and a really great trip! Thank you!