Ephesus Day Tour from Istanbul
About This Tour
Travel from Istanbul to one of Türkiye's most remarkable archaeological destinations on an Ephesus Day Tour from Istanbul . With round trip domestic flights, airport transfers, a licensed local guide and lunch included, this seamless journey lets you experience the highlights of ancient Ephesus in a single day. Walk through the magnificent Celsus Library , admire impressive Roman monuments and discover why Ephesus remains one of Türkiye's most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your day trip to Ephesus from Istanbul continues with a visit to the peaceful House of Virgin Mary , one of Christianity's most important pilgrimage sites, before exploring the historic Temple of Artemis , one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You'll also discover the impressive Great Theatre and stroll along historic Marble Street , creating a well balanced experience that combines archaeology, history and spiritual heritage before returning to Istanbul the same evening.
Tour Highlights
Tour Route
Day by Day Itinerary
Your day begins with a pickup around 04:00 AM from your hotel in Istanbul. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your early flight to Izmir, which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Upon arrival in Izmir (around 08:10 AM), you meet the local guide and head to the ruins of Ephesus. You’ll begin with a walk along the historic marble streets, visiting the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, Trajan Fountain, and the Great Theater, where St. Paul once preached.
Lunch follows at a local restaurant in Selcuk, giving you a chance to rest and enjoy traditional Turkish flavors. In the afternoon, the tour continues with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary on Bulbul Mountain, believed to be the dwelling of Mary (mother of Jesus) in her later years. Next, you’ll visit the site of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders, now largely in ruins but still impressive for its historical significance.
By late afternoon, you’ll be transferred back to Izmir for your flight to Istanbul, arriving in the evening and then transferred to your hotel.
Celsus Library — Iconic facade, once housed thousands of scrolls and set the tone for the grandeur of Ephesus.
Great Theater & Roman Sites — A vast amphitheater and adjacent ruins showing daily life, performances, and early Christian gatherings.
House of Virgin Mary — A humble stone structure on Mt. Koressos, revered as the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus, with peaceful gardens and pilgrimage ambiance.
Temple of Artemis — One of the ancient Wonders; very little remains, but its legacy continues to draw fascination.
Lunch
What's Included
Included
- Professional, licensed English speaking tour guide
- All Internal Flights
- Pickup & drop-off from Hotel
- Air conditioned transportation
- Skip the line entrance tickets
- Lunch at a local Turkish restaurant
- All parking fees and local taxes
Not Included
- Gratuities for guide and driver
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Drinks
Tour Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour includes round trip domestic flights, airport transfers, a licensed guide, entrance fees, lunch and transportation throughout the day.