Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 23 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John worth booking?
Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John is a 7-hour experience in Fethiye, Turkey, from $108 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 23 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 64 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (23)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $108 per person
This private Ephesus tour is available for departures from your hotel in Istanbul or Kusadasi or Selcuk or Bodrum. You can create your own Turkey travel plan with this flexible daily trip. The highlights of this private tour are UNESCO-listed ancient city of Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, St.John church where St John lived with the Virgin Mary after being cast out of Jerusalem in 37 to 42 AD. The lunch is including in a traditional local restaurant.
What you get
About this experience
This private Ephesus tour is available for departures from your hotel in Istanbul or Kusadasi or Selcuk or Bodrum. You can create your own Turkey travel plan with this flexible daily trip. The highlights of this private tour are UNESCO-listed ancient city of Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary, St.John church where St John lived with the Virgin Mary after being cast out of Jerusalem in 37 to 42 AD. The lunch is including in a traditional local restaurant.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Lunch
- Pick-up and drop-off services for ports or hotels in Istanbul, Bodrum, Kusadasi, Selcuk
- Professional tour guide who licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
- Istanbul - Izmir round-trip flight tickets (only valid for the 'from-to Istanbul Hotels' option)
Not included
- Drinks
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Istanbul
DEPARTURES FROM ISTANBUL: We will pick you up from your hotel (or at your Airbnb address if parking is available) in Istanbul and transfer you to airport for your flight to Izmir. Upon arrival at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, your tour guide and driver will meet you at the arrival terminal exit gate. They will then drive you to Selcuk town for your full-day tour of Ephesus and its surroundings. This service is valid for bookings with the 'from-to Istanbul Hotels' option.
180 minutes here
Bodrum City
DEPARTURES FROM BODRUM CRUISE PORT OR HOTELS IN BODRUM: Your private guide and driver will meet you at the reception of your hotel in Bodrum or at the arrival terminal exit gate of Bodrum Cruise Port. They will then drive you to Selcuk town for your full-day tour of Ephesus and its surroundings. This service is valid for bookings with the 'from-to Bodrum Port & Hotels' option.
120 minutes here
Kusadasi
DEPARTURES FROM KUSADASI CRUISE PORT OR HOTELS IN KUSADASI: Your private guide and driver will meet you at the reception of your hotel in Kusadasi or at the arrival terminal exit gate of Kusadasi Cruise Port. They will then drive you to Selcuk town for your full-day tour of Ephesus and its surroundings. This service is valid for bookings with the 'from-to Kusadasi Port & Hotels' option.
30 minutes here
Ephesus Ancient City
Ephesus was one of the most important harbor cities in antique world and also it is mentioned in the book of Revelations as one of the seven churches. Also Celsus Library and theater in Ephesus are the other highlights. You will see and visit the Celsus Library, Temple of Hadrian, the fountain of Trajan, Grand Theater, Hercules Gate, Odeon, Ancient Toilets and many important historical buildings in this UNESCO-listed ancient city.
105 minutes here · Admission not included
Ephesus Experience Museum, where you will travel back in time and immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the ancient world. With innovative approach of this amazing museum, we offer an entirely mesmerizing experience where time breaks free from its static confines and dances in perpetual motion, bringing historical artifacts to life and presenting interactive visual spectacles that will leave an indelible imprint on your memory. (Admission to the Ephesus Experience Museum is free if you have a ticket for Ephesus Ancient City)
20 minutes here
Ephesus Terrace Houses
You will be walking from front of Terrace Houses during your tour, and your guide will provide information about the Terrace Houses of Ephesus Ancient City. (There is no visit to this place included in the guided tour. However, you may add a short visit if your schedule allows.)
Pass by without stopping
The House of the Virgin Mary
The next visit of your tour will be the last home of the Virgin Mary. Once you arrive there you will be thrilled by the natural beauty that surrounds the monument. 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.
45 minutes here · Admission not included
Selcuk
You will stop at a traditional Turkish restaurant for your lunch. After the lunch, you will have experience in a traditional handcraft co-operative for get lecture about the special arts of Turkish villagers.
60 minutes here
Basilica of St. John
Another visit of tour will be to this ancient Basilica dedicated to the author of Revelation St. John. According to the legend St. John died in this church after having written the Fourth Gospel and the Basilica was built by the Emperor Justinian over St. Johns burial place.
45 minutes here · Admission not included
At the end of the tour of Ephesus and its surroundings, we will drop you back at the cruise port or your hotel in Kusadasi or Bodrum, depending on your pick-up location. If you booked the 'from-to Istanbul Hotels' option, you will be transferred to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport for your return flight to Istanbul.
Pass by without stopping
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Please note that this service is only included if you select the 'from-to Istanbul Hotels' option.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Fethiye
Meeting point
Fethiye
Meeting point
Fethiye
Meeting point
Fethiye
Meeting point
Fethiye
Meeting point
Fethiye
Meeting point
Fethiye
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
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Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
from-to Bodrum Port & Hotels
Pick-up & Drop-off Services: Available for cruise port of Bodrum or hotels in Bodrum city. Duration: 10 hours: This duration is an estimate.Depending on the crowd levels in museums and traffic, there may be variations of +/- 45 minutes. Class of Service: Private Tour - You will not be sharing the tour car and tour guide services with any other passengers or travelers. Starting points: Bodrum Cruise Port, 14, Kumbahçe, İskele Cd., 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Türkiye Bodrum, Muğla, Türkiye Pickup included
from-to Istanbul Hotels
Pick-up & Drop-off Services: Available for hotels (or AirBnb address if parking is available) in Istanbul city. Domestic Flights: INCLUDED // Istanbul - Izmir round-trip flight tickets Duration: 15 hours: This duration is an estimate.Depending scheduled timing of flight on your tour date, there may be variations of +/- one hour. Class of Service: Private Tour - You will not be sharing the tour car and tour guide services with any other passengers or travelers. Starting point: Istanbul, İstanbul, Türkiye Pickup included
from-to Kusadasi Port & Hotels
Pick-up & Drop-off Services: Available for cruise port of Kusadasi or hotels in Kusadasi & Selcuk cities. Duration: 7 hours: This duration is an estimate.Depending on the crowd levels in museums and traffic, there may be variations of +/- 45 minutes. Class of Service: Private Tour - You will not be sharing the tour car and tour guide services with any other passengers or travelers. Starting points: Kusadasi Port, Camikebir, Feribot Limanı, 09400 Kuşadası/Aydın, Türkiye Kuşadası, Aydın, Türkiye Selçuk, İzmir, Türkiye Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Turkey Experiences
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required.
- Departures from Cruise Ports of Kusadasi & Bodrum : The local tour operator may request the details of ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time.
- Departures from Istanbul : This option includes round-trip flight tickets between Istanbul and Izmir. Therefore, the local tour operator may request your passport details in order to book your flight tickets. If you do not provide the requested information, your domestic flight tickets may not be issued, and you may not be able to join the tour. If you fail to provide this information at least 48 hours prior to your trip, or if you refuse to share the required details, you will need to cancel your reservation. Otherwise, the local tour operator may apply the tour’s cancellation and refund policies, as your booking cannot be completed due to missing required information.
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
- Infant meals not included.
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults. If you will be 1 adult + 1 child, the local tour operator can request & charge the amount of 2 adults.
- Please note that if you cancel or skip any part of the itinerary during the tour, no refund will be provided for the cancelled or skipped portions.
- All the information provided above forms part of the terms and conditions for tour. You have been confirmed your acceptance of these when you book this tour. The local tour operator clearly specifies the details in the program, explanations, and reservation options, and is responsible only for the services indicated. That's why, please read those details while booking this tour.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 23 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
23 verified traveler reviews for Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Very disappointed
we were never picked up. We woke up 3 o’clock in the morning to be ready at four driver never showed up the first time the second time they call us that they didn’t pick up on the hotel. so we never got to go on the trip, very disappointed that was the reason why we went there we never were told why was the reason why the first time the guy never showed up and I had made this reservation month a month ahead and pay for it. I would never make another reservation with this company or tell my friends about you guys.
Response from the operator: Dear Patricia, Greetings from Turkey. As you know very well, you requested wheelchair for this tour 32 days before your tour date (July 08, 2025) and we disagreed your that reuqest on same day. We said you "This tour is not wheelchair accessible, that's why, we can not provide that tour for disabled guests who needs wheelchair" Also this detail is already writing clearly at the tour descriptions. And then we said you "please cancel your booking we will refund you full amount what you paid". But you did not cancel your booking and waited until your tour date and tour departure time (August 09, 2025 - 04:30am). We did not understand why you waited a not confirmed tour until departure time. Also, we have already refunded your full amount on same date (August 09, 2025 - 10:43am)
via Viator
Tour was excellent. The...
Tour was excellent. The guide Mehmet, is very knowledgeable and a pleasure to be with. Side trips to rug making, pottery and Turkish delight was nice.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We are delighted to hear that you had an excellent experience on the tour and that Mehmet, our guide, was able to make your journey enjoyable with his knowledge and friendly approach. It’s great to know that you appreciated the side trips to rug making, pottery, and Turkish delight—these cultural experiences are a special part of the tour. Thank you again for your kind words, and we hope to welcome you again on another tour in the future.
via Viator
private tour. Excellent...
private tour. Excellent guide. Spend a whole date seeing sights around Ephesus. All around great experience
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing your feedback. We are thrilled to hear that you had an excellent experience on your private tour and that the guide was able to enhance your visit. Spending the day exploring the sights around Ephesus is truly a memorable experience, and we’re so glad you enjoyed it. Thank you again for your kind words, and we look forward to welcoming you on another tour in the future.
via Viator
Great day out!
We had the most amazing day out. Gee was an unbelievable tour guide. His enthusiasm was infectious. We learned so much. He gave us so much context for what we were seeing.
via Viator
The trip was excellent...
The trip was excellent from pick up from airport to the whole visit to the food to all the experience till sending us back to airport
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $108 to $389
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 8
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Turkey Experiences, who run 101 experiences we rank across 9 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 44.3.
See everything Turkey Experiences runsWhy this scores 64
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Fethiye.
How much does Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John cost?
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Prices start at $108 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Fethiye usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Fethiye is not rushed.
Is Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 23 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Fethiye, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John?
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Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Fethiye can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Fethiye and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Fethiye within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Fethiye?
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On Outty we rank every Fethiye experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Oludeniz Paragliding Fethiye Turkey, Additional Features, Paragliding Oludeniz With Transfer - Fethiye, Turkey, 2 people buggy safari half day beach and forest drive. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Fethiye?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Fethiye?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John?
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Included: Private transportation; Lunch; Pick-up and drop-off services for ports or hotels in Istanbul, Bodrum, Kusadasi, Selcuk; Professional tour guide who licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism; and Istanbul - Izmir round-trip flight tickets (only valid for the 'from-to Istanbul Hotels' o. Not included: Drinks; Entrance fees; Entrance fees; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 3335 listed pickup locations in and around Fethiye. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and Infant meals not included. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Fethiye. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John?
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Across 23 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
What booking options are available for Daily Trip to House of Virgin Mary, Ancient City of Ephesus, Basilica of St.John?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including from-to Bodrum Port & Hotels, from-to Istanbul Hotels, from-to Kusadasi Port & Hotels. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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