PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 1,368 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus worth booking?
PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus is a 4-hour experience in Selçuk, Turkey, from $29 per person. It scores 96 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Peak Performance”, based on a 5/5 rating across 1,368 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing. It sits in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
- Outty Ranking
- 96 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (1,368)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $29 per person
Discover the very best of EPHESUS on a stress-free PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION designed especially FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS. With your own licensed local guide and comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed RUINS OF EPHESUS, the HOUSE OF THE VIRGIN MARY, and the TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS at a pace that suits you. Skip the stress of group buses, complicated logistics, and rushed schedules—your guide handles everything, from timing around your ship’s arrival to arranging entrances, comfort breaks, and optional shopping or artisan visits upon request. All you need to do is enjoy your day and be back at the port right on time. - Worry-free Private Tour with port pickup, drop-off, and timing planned for your ship, - Visit Ephesus, Mary's House, and Temple of Artemis in one day, - Licensed local guide and private, air-conditioned vehicle just for your party, - Flexible pace and route, customised to your interests and walking level, - You can add & taste Authentic Turkish Lunch,
What you get
About this experience
Discover the very best of EPHESUS on a stress-free PRIVATE SHORE EXCURSION designed especially FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS. With your own licensed local guide and comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed RUINS OF EPHESUS, the HOUSE OF THE VIRGIN MARY, and the TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS at a pace that suits you. Skip the stress of group buses, complicated logistics, and rushed schedules—your guide handles everything, from timing around your ship’s arrival to arranging entrances, comfort breaks, and optional shopping or artisan visits upon request. All you need to do is enjoy your day and be back at the port right on time. - Worry-free Private Tour with port pickup, drop-off, and timing planned for your ship, - Visit Ephesus, Mary's House, and Temple of Artemis in one day, - Licensed local guide and private, air-conditioned vehicle just for your party, - Flexible pace and route, customised to your interests and walking level, - You can add & taste Authentic Turkish Lunch,
What's included
Included
- Cruise Port/Hotel Pick-up & Drop-Off (mentioned on the details)
- Transportation with A/C Minivans with separate Driver
- GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS
- Museum Entrance Tickets (you can include or exclude the ticket according to the option)
- Professional LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE
- PRIVATE TOUR that ensures more personalized service
Not included
- Museum EntranceTickets (you can include or exclude the ticket according to the option)
What you'll see and do
Kusadasi
IMPORTANT INFORMATION GROUP TOURS follow a fixed schedule, and you have to pay all ENTRY FEES IN ADVANCE, whether you are interested in the sites or not. Why pay for a place you don't want to visit and feel obliged to go just because you paid for it? The reason entry fees are not included in our PRIVATE TOURS is to provide you with more flexibility. When we meet in the morning, we ask about your interests and the places you want to visit, and we tailor the itinerary accordingly. This way, you only pay entry fees for the places that genuinely interest you. With our PRIVATE TOURS, you have complete control and visit only the places you want to see. Would you prefer to spend your day WAITING FOR OTHER FELLOW TRAVELERS and STICKING TO A FIXED ITINERARY on a group tour, or ENJOY A PRIVATE TOUR CUSTOMIZED JUST FOR YOUR FAMILY? The choice is yours!
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Kusadasi
We will meet you at the Cruise Port! Once your tour is booked, we’ll reach out promptly with your customised meeting time and precise meeting location, arranged according to your cruise ship’s arrival & departure.
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Ephesus Ancient City
Ephesus Ruins is the largest open-air museum in Turkey, showcasing an extraordinary legacy from the Greek and Roman periods. As we explore this remarkably well-preserved ancient city, we will visit the Senate Building, the Ancient Hospital, the Temple of Domitian, the Nike Statue, Hercules Gate, Trajan Fountain, the Temple of Hadrian, the majestic Celsus Library, the Grand Theatre of Ephesus, and many other impressive structures that bring the ancient world vividly to life.
120 minutes here · Admission not included
The House of the Virgin Mary
The House of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus is one of the most sacred Christian pilgrimage sites, believed to be the place where Mary spent her final years under the care of St. John the Apostle. Its significance grew worldwide after the detailed visions of German nun Anne Catherine Emmerich—visions that remarkably matched archaeological discoveries made in 1891, leading to the identification of the site as Mary’s final home. Over the years, the shrine has been honored by the visits of several Popes, including Pope Paul VI (1967), Pope John Paul II (1979), and Pope Benedict XVI (2006), further cementing its status as one of the most important holy sites in the Christian world.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
The Temple of Artemis
Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, the moon, and the twin sister of Apollo, was one of the most venerated deities of the ancient world. Her great temple in Ephesus—originally built around 650 BC—stood on a site already sacred to the Anatolian Mother Goddess Cybele. Financed by the wealthy Lydian king, the temple was intentionally constructed on marshy ground to help absorb the impact of future earthquakes. Despite these precautions, the Temple of Artemis was repeatedly damaged and rebuilt over the centuries due to natural disasters, yet it remained one of the most magnificent and celebrated sanctuaries of antiquity.
10 minutes here · Admission not included
Basilica of St. John
You can see Saint John Basilica from a distance when we are in the Temple of Artemis. It is believed that the Evangelist St. John had spent his last years in the in & around Ephesus and buried in the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill. The tomb of St John was under the central dome of the Basilica.
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Kusadasi Shopping Center
You will also have the chance to explore authentic local handicrafts and, if you choose, enjoy a truly genuine shopping experience. Your professional local tour guide will be by your side to offer valuable insights—highlighting the finest traditional crafts, recommending the most reputable places to visit, and providing expert tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and completely hassle-free experience.
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Kusadasi Castle
Also known as Pigeon Island, this historic landmark is one of the earliest settlements of modern Kuşadası. During the tour, we will pass by and enjoy a view of it from a distance. Conveniently located near the port, it’s an easy spot to visit on your own after the tour if you’d like to explore further.
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Kusadasi
We will drive through the Kusadasi Town and will have a panoramic view while listening the key informations from our Local Tour Guide.
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Kusadasi
At the end of our tour, we will return to the Cruise Port. PLEASE NOTE THAT: There are several Ships with different arrival and departure times. We carefully check all the timings, confirm with the passengers, and coordinate the return time. OUR TOURS ARE WITH GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN TO THE BOAT!
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Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Options you can book
INCL. MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS
MUSEUM TICKETS: INCLUDING MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS for Ephesus Ancient City and the House of Virgen Mary. MINIVAN Pickup included
EXCL. MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS
MUSEUM TICKETS: On the day of your tour, you can choose the Museums you are interested in visiting and pay the entrance fees on-site. PRIVATE TOUR: Tailor-made Private Tour excluding the Museum Entrance Tickets. 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
- BEST TURKEY TOUR
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- UPON YOUR SHIP'S ARRIVAL AT THE PORT, WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO MEET WITH OUR TEAM WITHIN 30 TO 45 MINUTES. BY DOING SO, YOU CAN BYPASS THE CROWDS, SCHOOL BUSES, AND HARSH WEATHER CONDITIONS, ENSURING AN ENHANCED AND MORE ENJOYABLE TOUR EXPERIENCE OF EPHESUS.
- OUR PRIVATE TOURS ENSURE GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN TO THE CRUISE SHIP.
- BOOK YOUR PRIVATE TOUR WITH US, VERIFIED PROVIDER OF KUSADASI/EPHESUS CRUISE PORT!
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,367 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
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
5 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
1,367 verified traveler reviews for PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Ephesus tour for celebrity cruisers from kusadasi
Fatima was an outstanding tour guide. She did a beautiful job. I would highly recommend her for future tours. She is the Best!!!! And we had great lunch and service too.
Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your kind words. Knowing you had a great experience encourages us to keep delivering unforgettable tours. Best Turkey Tour Team
via Viator
Private Cruise Tour - Ephesus adn Mary's House- Oustanding Tour - Fatma was amazing
One of the Best Tours We Have Ever Taken — Fatma was an amazing! Our private tour of Kuşadası and Ephesus with Fatma was truly one of the highlights of our entire cruise — and honestly, one of the best private tours we have experienced anywhere in our travels. From the moment we met Fatma, she was warm, welcoming, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. Her understanding of Ephesus, Turkish history, culture, traditions, and everyday life was extraordinary. She didn't simply recite facts or dates — she brought the history and culture to life and made everything we were seeing more meaningful. Having a private guide and driver made the day incredibly comfortable and efficient. Fatma knew exactly how to structure our time, helping us stay ahead of the largest crowds and making sure we experienced the important sights without feeling rushed. Her experience really showed throughout the entire day. One of the unexpected highlights was our wonderful local lunch. We had the opportunity to sample a variety of traditional dishes and experience another side of Turkish culture. It was delicious, authentic, and one of those experiences that made the day feel much more personal than a typical cruise excursion. On our way back toward the port, we also visited a local leather factory, which my wife especially enjoyed. It was a fun addition to the day and gave us another opportunity to see some of the local craftsmanship before returning to the ship. What really separated this tour from others, however, was Fatma herself. Throughout the day, our conversations went well beyond the normal guide-and-tourist experience. We talked about Turkey, different cultures, everyday life, and Fatma shared stories about her family and her upbringing. Those conversations gave us a much more personal understanding of the country and its people and became some of our favorite memories of the day. By the end of the tour, it honestly didn't feel like we had spent the day with a professional guide. It felt like we had spent the day exploring Turkey with a close friend or family member. That personal connection is something you simply don't get on a large cruise excursion. We learned an incredible amount, laughed, enjoyed an amazing meal, saw extraordinary places, and came away with an even greater appreciation for Turkey and its people. This tour would not have been the same without Fatma. If you are visiting Kuşadası or Ephesus, especially as a cruise passenger, we cannot recommend this private tour highly enough — and if you can request Fatma as your guide, absolutely do it. A+ experience, exceptional guide, and an unforgettable day. This was the highlight of our cruise. Five stars without hesitation!
Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your kind words. Knowing you had a great experience encourages us to keep delivering unforgettable tours. Best Turkey Tour Team
via Tripadvisor
Excellent Kusadasi tour!
Fatima was an excellent tour guide. She gave us great information and was very personable. Lunch was great, and we skipped all the crowds.
Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your kind words. Knowing you had a great experience encourages us to keep delivering unforgettable tours. Best Turkey Tour Team
via Viator
Ephesus tour was amazing!
This tour was super fun and informational! Starting with my luxury vehicle and friendly tour guide. I truly enjoyed the views and sights and my favorite was the Ephesus Experience. Totally worth the money! Going in House of Virgin Mary was totally Epic as well! Got a bottle of Holy water to take back home! Would defintely recommend!
Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your kind words. Knowing you had a great experience encourages us to keep delivering unforgettable tours. Best Turkey Tour Team
via Viator
Ephesus Tour.
We had Fatima as our tour and she was great. She drove us to many places and gave great suggestions. The day was perfect. Highly recommend.
Response from the operator: Dear Guest, Thank you for sharing your kind words. Knowing you had a great experience encourages us to keep delivering unforgettable tours. Best Turkey Tour Team
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $29 to $180
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 479
- Verdict
- Peak Performance
Who runs this experience
Operated by BEST TURKEY TOUR, who run 11 experiences we rank across 4 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 68.6 and 2 in the 90+ Club.
See everything BEST TURKEY TOUR runsWhy this scores 96
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Selçuk.
How much does PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus cost?
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Prices start at $29 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Selçuk usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus take?
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Plan for about 4 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 Selçuk is not rushed.
Is PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 96 out of 100, which we label "Peak Performance". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 1,368 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Selçuk, and how flexible the cancellation terms are. Scoring 90 or above puts it in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
Can I cancel or reschedule PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus?
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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 TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus?
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Around 479 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 Selçuk 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 Selçuk and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus 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 Selçuk 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 Selçuk?
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On Outty we rank every Selçuk experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR FOR CRUISERS: On-time Return and Skip-Line, FOR CRUISERS: Skip The Lines PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR &On Time Return, FOR CRUISE GUESTS:BEST SELLER EPHESUS PRIVATE TOUR/On Time Return. 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 Selçuk?
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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 Selçuk?
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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 PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus?
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Included: Cruise Port/Hotel Pick-up & Drop-Off (mentioned on the details); Transportation with A/C Minivans with separate Driver; GUARANTEED ON-TIME RETURN FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS; Museum Entrance Tickets (you can include or exclude the ticket according to the option); and Professional LICENSED LOCAL TOUR GUIDE. Not included: Museum EntranceTickets (you can include or exclude the ticket according to the option). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 2 listed pickup locations in and around Selçuk.
What languages is PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus 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 PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus?
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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 PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Selçuk. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus?
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Across 1,368 reviews averaging 5.0 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.
What booking options are available for PRIVATE TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Mary's House (Meryemana) and Ephesus?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including INCL. MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS, EXCL. MUSEUM ENTRANCE TICKETS. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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