Exclusive Ephesus & Terrace Houses Tour
Exclusive Ephesus & Terrace Houses Tour – A Deeper Dive into Ancient History
This exclusive private tour offers a deeper exploration of Ephesus, including the rarely-visited Terrace Houses, providing an insight into the luxurious lifestyle of the Roman elite. Alongside visiting Ephesus Ancient City, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Temple of Artemis, this tour is one of the only guided experiences to include access to the Terrace Houses.
Itinerary
This fully guided private tour offers a deeper, more exclusive experience of Ephesus, including a visit to the Terrace Houses, the House of the Virgin Mary, St. John’s Basilica, and the Temple of Artemis. Enjoy a personalized tour at your own pace, with an expert guide to uncover the secrets of one of the greatest ancient cities in the world.
📌 Tour Itinerary
🚍 Pick-up from Your Hotel or Kusadasi Cruise Port
Available from:
✅ Kuşadası Hotels & Selcuk Hotels
✅ Kusadasi Cruise Port (Ideal for shore excursions!)
🏛 Arrive at the Ancient City of Ephesus & Enter Through the Magnesia Gate
Start your journey through the Magnesia Gate, a grand architectural masterpiece marking one of the city’s main entrances.
Walk downhill through the ruins with your private guide, taking in the spectacular surroundings.
🔹 Key Highlights of Ephesus:
✅ The Odeon – A small theater for political meetings and concerts.
✅ The Celsus Library – One of the most iconic landmarks of Ephesus, once housing 12,000 scrolls.
✅ The Temple of Hadrian – A beautifully sculpted temple dedicated to Emperor Hadrian.
✅ The Fountain of Trajan – A monumental fountain honoring Emperor Trajan.
✅ The Great Theater – A massive 24,000-seat amphitheater, where St. Paul is believed to have preached to the Ephesians.
📸 A must-see for history lovers and photographers!
🏛 Exclusive Access to the Terrace Houses – A Rare Glimpse into Roman Luxury (Entry Fee Included)
Also known as the “Houses of the Rich,” these residences offer a rare insight into the opulent lifestyle of wealthy Ephesians.
Explore six residential units on three terraces, some dating back to 1st century BC.
See:
✅ Intricate mosaics & frescoes – 2,000-year-old artwork, still vibrant today.
✅ Early underfloor heating systems – A showcase of advanced Roman engineering.
✅ Multi-story homes with elaborate architectural designs.
🚨 Note: The Terrace Houses are included in this exclusive tour, making it a must-do for archaeology and history enthusiasts!
🌿 House of the Virgin Mary – A Sacred Christian Pilgrimage Site
Visit the believed final residence of the Virgin Mary, now a major Catholic pilgrimage site.
Located on Mount Bülbül, offering stunning panoramic views.
Recognized by the Vatican, with visits from Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI.
Experience the wishing wall, where visitors leave prayers and messages of hope.
🍽 Lunch – Enjoy Authentic Turkish Cuisine
Savor a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, featuring:
✅ Freshly prepared mezes (Turkish appetizers).
✅ Traditional grilled kebabs or vegetarian options.
✅ Desserts like baklava and Turkish tea.
🏛 Visit St. John’s Basilica – The Burial Site of St. John
Explore the ruins of this monumental basilica, built in honor of St. John the Apostle.
Learn about its Byzantine history and significance to early Christianity.
Enjoy breathtaking views over Selçuk and the Ephesus ruins.
🏛 The Temple of Artemis – A Wonder of the Ancient World
Visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Built in the 6th century BC, this marble masterpiece was one of the most impressive structures of its time.
Though only foundations and a single column remain, its history and impact remain legendary.
Many artifacts from the temple are now displayed in the British Museum in London.
🚍 Drop-off at Your Hotel or Kusadasi Cruise Port
🌟 Why Choose This Exclusive Ephesus Tour?
✅ Includes the rare Terrace Houses – A must-visit for archaeology lovers.
✅ Private, guided tour – Enjoy a personalized experience at your own pace.
✅ See the Grand Theater, Library of Celsus, and other key sites in Ephesus.
✅ Visit the sacred House of the Virgin Mary & St. John’s Basilica.
✅ Explore the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, a Wonder of the Ancient World.
✅ Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch.
📍 Book your exclusive Ephesus tour today and experience history like never before!
Includes
- Hotel transfers
- Guided tour
- Entrance tickets