Small Group Tour Ephesus and House of Mary with Lunch

5.0 (9 reviews) 6–8 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

9 reviews

5.0

Small Group Tour Ephesus and House of Mary with Lunch — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Small Group Tour Ephesus and House of Mary with Lunch, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Join our Small Group Tour to discover the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, with a relaxing lunch break at a local carpet cooperative. Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine while learning about the art of traditional carpet weaving—an important part of the region’s cultural heritage. With a maximum of 12 guests, this tour offers a more personal and comfortable experience, far from the crowds and big buses. Perfect for travelers seeking history, culture, and a touch of local flavor—all in one unforgettable day.

Day Trips Bus Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Ports of Call Tours Archaeology Tours Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration: 6–8 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 12 people
People per booking: 1–12
Guide: English
Operated by: Turquesa Tours

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–7 years) · Adults (8–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Lunch is served at carpet cooperative. If you do not prefer to eat there, you need to pay for it.
Included: Professional Licensed Local Tour Guide
Included: All Taxes
Included: All Parking fees
Included: Fully Air-conditioned Brand new vehicle with Driver
Included: Port pickup and drop-off
Included: Small Group Tour maximum 12 people

Not included

Not included: Entrance fees (We will arrange tickets of Ephesus and House of Mary in advance, USD 65.00 per person
Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Kusadasi

15 min

At the conclusion of our tour, we ensure your timely return to Kusadasi Cruise Port in accordance with your ship’s onboard time.

Please be advised: As multiple cruise ships may be in port simultaneously, each with different arrival and departure schedules, we meticulously verify all timings, confirm them individually with our guests, and coordinate our itinerary accordingly.

Our tours guarantee your prompt and safe return to your vessel before departure.
Stop 2

15 min

When your cruise ship arrives, our team will be ready to welcome you just outside the Exit Gate, next to the Information Desk. You’ll easily spot us—we’ll be holding a sign with your name on it.

To make the most of your time ashore and avoid the crowds, we highly recommend disembarking within 30 minutes of your ship’s arrival. This allows us to leave before the large group tours depart and ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience at each site.

When booking your tour, please choose the earliest available disembarkation time. This helps us begin your tour smoothly and maximizes your time at the highlights of the region.

We look forward to providing you with a seamless, crowd-free start to your experience!
The House of the Virgin Mary

one hour Admission not included

Located on Mt. Koressos near Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary is believed to be the final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims, offering a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. The modest stone house and its tranquil setting make it a spiritual highlight of the region.
Ephesus Ancient City

2 hours Admission not included

Ephesus, cradled in the heart of ancient Ionia, stands as a timeless symphony of marble and memory. Once a glittering jewel of the Roman Empire, its streets still echo with the footsteps of philosophers, merchants, and emperors. The Library of Celsus rises like a stone poem to wisdom; the Grand Theater still whispers the voices of long-forgotten plays. Beneath the Aegean sun, temples, colonnades, and mosaic floors reveal a city where art, faith, and power once danced in harmony. Ephesus is not merely a ruin—it is a living testament to the beauty and brilliance of a lost world, eternal in its silence.
Selcuk

2 hours

Experience the rich heritage of Turkish craftsmanship with a visit to a local handwoven carpet cooperative. Meet skilled artisans as they demonstrate centuries-old weaving techniques and learn about the cultural stories woven into each unique rug.

After this fascinating cultural experience, enjoy a delicious homemade Turkish lunch served right at the cooperative. Savor fresh, local flavors while soaking in the warm hospitality and authentic atmosphere of this special place.
The Temple of Artemis

15 min

As part of your tour, you'll also visit the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though time has left only a single column standing, the site still holds a powerful presence—a place where myth and history meet. Here, you'll walk in the footsteps of ancient worshippers, surrounded by echoes of marble glory and timeless reverence. This brief but meaningful stop adds a magical chapter to your journey, reminding us that even in ruins, greatness endures.
Kusadasi Castle

Passing by

Rising proudly at the edge of the sea, Kuşadası Castle—also known as Pigeon Island Castle—offers a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the town and coastline. Once a watchful guardian of the harbor, this small but historic fortress is now a charming place to stroll, with stone pathways, scenic lookouts, and traces of Ottoman history. After your tour ends, you’ll have free time to visit the castle on your own. It’s a short and pleasant walk from the port—perfect for those who wish to end their day with a quiet moment by the sea and a view that lingers in memory.
Kusadasi Shopping Center

15 min

Nestled just steps from the port, Kuşadası Bazaar is a vibrant maze of colors, scents, and local charm. From handmade carpets and leather goods to spices, ceramics, and Turkish delights, the market offers a rich variety of treasures. Your guide will lead you through the lively streets and help you discover the best shops and most authentic items, ensuring a personalized and memorable shopping experience in the heart of Kuşadası.
Kusadasi

15 min

At the conclusion of our tour, we ensure your timely return to Kusadasi Cruise Port in accordance with your ship’s onboard time.

Please be advised: As multiple cruise ships may be in port simultaneously, each with different arrival and departure schedules, we meticulously verify all timings, confirm them individually with our guests, and coordinate our itinerary accordingly.

Our tours guarantee your prompt and safe return to your vessel before departure.