Magpie
4.8(11 reviews)

Biblical Ephesus Private Tour for Cruise Guests

From$39
5 hours – 7 hours
Sarigerme, Turkey

About this activity

Discover the rich history of Ephesus on a private tour tailored for cruise guests, including visits to key landmarks like the ancient city, House of the Virgin Mary, and Temple of Artemis.

Highlights

  • Explore the ancient city of Ephesus
  • Visit the House of the Virgin Mary
  • See the Basilica of St. John
  • Marvel at the Temple of Artemis
  • Enjoy a private, personalized experience

Full description

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Ephesus on this exclusive private tour designed specifically for cruise guests. Your journey begins with a comfortable pickup from your port or hotel in a fully air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a relaxing start to your adventure. Accompanied by a professional licensed local tour guide, you'll delve into the rich history and culture of Ephesus, exploring iconic sites such as the ancient city ruins, the House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St. John, and the Temple of Artemis. This personalized experience allows you to explore at your own pace, with the flexibility to focus on the aspects that interest you most. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking to enrich your cruise experience, this tour offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of one of the world's most significant archaeological sites.

Included / Excluded

  • Fully air-conditioned brand new vehicle with separate driver
  • Professional licensed local tour guide
  • Port or hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Food and drinks

Itinerary

1

It is the place where Blessed Mary may have spent her final days. It is estimated that Mary came in the area together with Saint John who spent several years in Ephesus to spread the Christianity. Here is still active for worship where was declared as a shrine for Christians. The three Popes visited here as, Paul 6th in 1967, John 2nd in 1979 and finally Benedict 16th in 2006.

Duration: 45 minAdmission: NO
2

Ephesus Ancient City is one of the best well-kept Roman Cities in the world ; where the most of cruise guests visit; was the capital of Asia Minor; the most important commercial center of western Anatolia; one of the seven churches of Christianity in Asia Minor; the city where Saint Paul preached and was mentioned several times in New Testament.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NO
3

It is believed that the Evangelist St. John had spent his last years in the region around Ephesus and buried in the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill. The tomb of St John was under the central dome.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NO
4

The Temple of Artemision is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Antic world. The location of temple in only one place in the world where you can see 3 different religious ‘ worship places as Temple, Mosque and Church in the same angle.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is exclusively for cruise guests; non-cruise passengers should not book this tour.
  • The tour is conducted in English; other language options are not available.
  • Food and drinks are not included; consider bringing snacks or planning to purchase refreshments during the tour.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and attire suitable for the weather.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
  • Ensure your cruise schedule aligns with the tour duration to avoid any conflicts.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Stroller Accessible
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • WE DO NOT GIVE TOURS IN SPANISH, OUR TOURS ARE ONLY IN ENGLISH.

Traveler reviews

4.8
11 reviews
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Biblical Tour

Our tour guide Heken was great, friendly, kind, and knowledgeable about Ephesus. We would have liked a little more depth about the spread of Christianity and Apostle Paul's life as this was a biblical tour, but that is just personal preference. All in all had a great experience and day with Heken! Thank you

Robert_ZJun 12, 2026VIATOR

The tour took me to all...

The tour took me to all the sights I wanted to see. The guide was personable, knowledgeable, interesting, and entertaining. I couldn't have asked for a better guide or presentation.

Keith_TMay 4, 2026VIATOR

Loved it!

Loved it! Customized to your preferences. Eda our tour guide was very informative, kind and flexible with our requirements. Our driver, Aiden, also very polite. Thank you! We love Turkey! ❤️

951pattyvJul 23, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Details ARE Important

Great insight provided to the ancient sites. I appreciated being taken directly to the sites with details provided along the way

Stephan_DFeb 10, 2025VIATOR

Ephesus, Carpets, and Pottery

Guide was kind, friendly, and made sure we saw all the sights we were interested in. I chose this tour based on reviews and webpage info. While I had hoped for a more biblically based approach and insights, it was still a good tour. At one point I did feel like the tour was a "front" to a carpet and pottery sales company; however, there was no pressure to buy, but it took away from the specialness of the tour. I would recommend the company to others. Just know you will need to have sufficient cash on hand to pay for the lunch (it was really good local food) and any attraction you choose to go into. The dedicated Driver was also safe and courteous. Always on time and waiting with a cool vehicle when we returned.

Bret_MJul 4, 2024VIATOR

Additional information

WE DO NOT GIVE TOURS IN SPANISH, OUR TOURS ARE ONLY IN ENGLISH.
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