Best of Ephesus - Private and Shore Tour

Drive up a to a scenically wonderful coastal road before you reach the ancient city of Ephesus.

The first place you will visit on this exciting tour will be the Virgin Mary’s House. Archaeological evidence shows that the little house dates from the 6th century but that the foundations were from the first century.

Next you will visit the Ephesus ruins, predominantly from the later Roman period. Visit the “Terrace Houses” located opposite Hadrian’s Temple. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus used these houses, which are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes giving a true impression of the ancient lifestyle.

Then, your tour will continue to the ruins of the Basilica of St John. The Basilica had a cruciform plan with four domes along its longitudinal axis and a pair flanking the central dome to form the arm of the cross. Under the central dome was the grave of St John. Lunch will be served at a lovely local restaurant in the town of Selcuk.

Before returning to the ship, you will visit a local cooperative to learn how hand-woven Turkish carpets are produced, an exclusive Discovery Series event.

Others

There is a lot of walking on this tour with many steps and rough and uneven terrain. The last 3 miles to the Virgin Mary’s House is a winding road up to an altitude of 1,250 feet.