Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus on this half-day tour from Kusadasi or Selcuk. Discover the fascinating history and visit iconic sites like the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis.
- Ancient City of Ephesus - Ephesus, was the second largest city in the Roman Empire over 250.000 people in the 1st BC. Ranking only behind Rome it was the second largest city in the world. Ephesus was also a harbour city. And, this giant city was built only with marbel. Did you know Ephesus had a largest amphitheater in the ancient world over 25.000 seats? Also see Goddess Nike, Local pharmacy, Hadrian Gate, Library of Celcius (the third largest library), Marbel Street and Harbour Street.
- The Temple of Artemis - Temple of Artemis or Artemision, also known as the Temple of Diana, was a Greek Temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. It was located in Ephesus and it was one of the seven wonders of the world.
- The Prytaneion - Behind the basilica is the Prytaneion, where religious ceremonies , official receptions and banquets were held. The sacred flame symbolizing the heart of Ephesus was kept constantly alight in the Prytaneion. The construction of the building dates to the 3rd century B.C, during the reign of Lysimachos, but the ruins of the complex dates to the Augustan age.
The four-cornered pit in which the sacred fire is burned is a relic from the reign of Lysimachos. The front of the building is four columns, beyond the columns is a courtyard surrounded by a portico, and on the north is the center of the building, the ceremonial hall, and its side rooms. The eternal flame was here in the center of the ceremonial hall, the red color on the floor determined the location of the flame. Towards the back, there was a large area with wooden roof, the base of an altar is still recognizable today.
- Baths of Varius - The ruins to the east of the Basilica belong to the bath of Varius, dating to the Roman period. The construction dates to the 2nd century A.D and the mosaics in the 40 meters long corridor dates to the 5th century.
It is built of cut blocks of marble. It has three sections, frigidarium (cold water), tepidarium (warm water) and caldarium (hot water). The excavations have not been completed yet.
- Fountain of Pollio - The Pollio Fountain was located to the south of the State Agora, across the Odeon. It was built in 97 A.D by the rich Ephesian C.S.Pollio and his family.
The water was brought to the fountains of Ephesus from three main sources through aqueducts and distributed from fountains by a branching system of baked clay pipes. The sources were Kencherios (42km) at Kuşadası, Çamlık village stream of Marnas (15km), and the Cayster River (20km).Water was free of charge by the city in the public fountains. Also they provided refreshment in hot summer days for the streets.
- Pick Up & Drop Off
- Fully Air-Conditioned Vehicle
- Insurance
- Professional Licensed Tour Guide
- Meals & Beverages
- Personal Expenses
- Driver & Guide Tips – Gratitue
- Entrance Fees
Embark on a half-day excursion to Ephesus, among the best-maintained historical cities globally.
Your trip sets off with a pickup service from your accommodation in Kusadasi or Selcuk, followed by a brief drive to Ephesus.
Upon reaching the historical city, your expertised guide will steer you around the remarkably conserved ruins, highlighting notable landmarks such as the Celsus Library, the Hadrian Temple, and the Grand Theatre. You’ll gain insight into the compelling past of this historical city, inclusive of its significant contributions to the Roman Rule.
Lastly, your itinerary features a visit to the Temple of Artemis, credited as one of the Seven Wonders of the pre-existing world.
The tour wraps up by commuting you back to your hotel in Kusadasi or Selcuk.
- Ephesus entrance fee is 40 €. You can pay to the guide for skip-the-line tickets.
- GUARANTEED RETURN ON TIME TO CRUISE
- If you are staying in Ozdere hotels, you should pay 20 euro per person for transfer both way.
- If you are staying in Guzelcamli hotels, you should pay 25 euro per person for transfer both way.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.