Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour worth booking?
Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour is a 6-hour experience in Kusadasi, Turkey, from $74 per person. It scores 67 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 16 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 67 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (16)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $74 per person
Experience the best of Turkey’s ancient and spiritual heritage on this private tour with lunch included. Explore the legendary ruins of Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world, and stroll thro
What you get
About this experience
Experience the best of Turkey’s ancient and spiritual heritage on this private tour with lunch included. Explore the legendary ruins of Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world, and stroll through its grand streets, theaters, and temples as your professional guide brings its history to life. Visit the Basilica of Saint John, built over the believed burial site of the apostle, and feel the historical and religious significance of the location. Finally, step into the serene House of the Virgin Mary, a UNESCO-recognized sacred site where tradition holds that Mary spent her final years. Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch, adding local flavor to a day rich in history and spirituality. This exclusive tour combines comfort, culture, and personalized attention for an unforgettable experience
What's included
Included
- SKIP THE LINE ENTRANCE TICKETS (OPTIONAL) if you are interested , please let us know
- GUARANTEED ON TIME RETURN TO THE BOAT
- Wholesale shopping center visit
- Traditional Delicious Lunch
- Professional Licensed Tour Guide (HE/SHE will be with you till the end of the tour)
- All taxes & all parking fees
- Fully Air-conditioned Brand new vehicle with Separated driver not a driver-guide
Not included
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Ephesus Ancient City
This Is a Private Tour, nobody will be in the tour beside your family. Discover all the highlights of Ephesus with well-educated professional local tour guide. Visit one of the UNESCO listed places that is Ancient City of Ephesus, walk on the streets where Apostle Paul and John walked, see the Grand Theatre of Ephesus that St. Paul preached to Ephesians, take excellent pictures in front of Celsus Library, explore Roman Baths, Temple of Hadrian, Public Toilets, Marble Street, Agora, etc. See superb preserved Terrace Houses that are for the rich people during the Roman time in Ephesus, famous with unique mosaic and frescos. Feel very peaceful atmosphere of shrine that is the most important Biblical Site in Turkey, House of the Virgin Mary. See the location of Temple of Artemis that is one of the wonders of ancient world.
120 minutes here · Admission not included
The House of the Virgin Mary
The House of Virgin Mary is located on the Bülbül 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 kusadasi declared there as a place of pilgrimage in 1892. On July 26, 1967, Pope Paul VI visited this place and prayed there
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Basilica of St. John
Visit the impressive ruins of the Byzantine Church of St John mark the spot where St John the Evangelist was buried. This church was built over the tomb of St. John. The presently-visible church is cruciform and roofed with six massive domes, and was donated by the Emperor Justinian and his wife Theodora. The capitals facing the nave (central aisle) bear their monograms. Persecution Gate forms the entrance to the walls of the Byzantine fortification, and is decorated with reliefs depicting scenes of pursuit from the life of the Greek hero Achilleus. It probably dates to the sixth or seventh century A. D
40 minutes here · Admission not included
Selcuk
Lunch traditional Turkish food and In our tours, we visit a Turkish handicrafts cooperative in order to show you our handicrafts and culture as well as the historical and natural beauties of our country. This is a enjoyable, informative and interesting experience for our guests. We highly recommend you this experience. There is no obligation to buy anything. Trust us and enjoy this beautiful experience.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Kusadasi
As you exit through the arrival gate, your guide will be there to welcome you, holding a sign with your name.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
As you exit through the arrival gate, your guide will be there to welcome you, holding a sign with your name.
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
- Samyeli Travel
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 16 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
16 verified traveler reviews for Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour and awesome guide.
Highly recommend this tour. Every site was well worth seeing. Our Tour guide,”G”, was awesome. He was extremely knowledgeable and did a great job communicating the history of each site. On the way to the sites, his use of a map was very helpful in understanding the complicated history of the area. I would not recommend this tour for anyone that has a problem, navigating uneven surfaces.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your valuable feedback. We are delighted to hear that you overall enjoyed the tour and appreciated our guide “G”. Some of the sites included in our tour preserve their historical and natural character, which may involve uneven surfaces at times. We understand that this can be a bit challenging for some guests. For this reason, we always recommend reviewing the tour details in advance and reaching out to us if you need any additional information before booking. Your feedback is very important to us and helps us improve how we inform our guests. Thank you again for sharing your experience.
via Viator
Great experience in Ephasus
Visits to important landmarks. Tour guide was very good and friendly. Guided us throughout the tour and was informative
Response from the operator: Samyeli travel Ephesus tours cruise port kusadasi turkey you are always welcome
via Viator
Thanks to Selin and agency crew!!
Exploring Ephesus and Saint John Basilica was a highlight of my travels. Selin’s knowledge and enthusiasm made the history come alive. She turned the tour into an enriching journey. Thank you, Selin, for a memorable experience! She's the best guide ever, I want to thank to her and travel agency for their hard working!!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for joining our "Ephesus tours kusadasl turkey", you are always welcome ephesus tours cruise port kusadasi turkiye-samyeli travel
via Tripadvisor
fantastic tour
Selin, your tour was fantastic, and we truly enjoyed visiting the Saint John Basilica. The serene atmosphere and your insightful commentary made the experience unforgettable.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for joining our "Ephesus tours kusadasl turkey", you are always welcome ephesus tours cruise port kusadasi turkiye-samyeli travel
via Tripadvisor
.
Visiting Ephesus and Saint John Basilica was an incredible experience. Selin's expertise and engaging narratives brought history to life. Thanks to her, the tour was both educational and enjoyable. Thank you, Selin!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for joining our "Ephesus tours kusadasl turkey", you are always welcome ephesus tours cruise port kusadasi turkiye-samyeli travel
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $74 to $300
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 67
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kusadasi.
How much does Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour cost?
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Prices start at $74 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kusadasi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour take?
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Plan for about 6 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 Kusadasi is not rushed.
Is Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 67 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 16 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kusadasi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour?
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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 Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour?
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Around 6 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 Kusadasi 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 Kusadasi and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private: Ephesus, Basilica of Saint John,Virgin Mary's House Tour 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 Kusadasi 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 Kusadasi?
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On Outty we rank every Kusadasi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include FOR CRUISERS: Ephesus & Virgin Mary Tour with ENTRY TICKET+LUNCH, Ephesus Temple of Artemis and House of Mary Private Half Day Tour, Ephesus and Temple of Artemis Private Tour from Kusadasi Port. 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 Kusadasi?
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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 Kusadasi?
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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.
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