Private Ephesus,irince,Virgin Marry House Tour

Exploring the Best of Turkey’s Aegean Coast in a Day

If you’re craving a well-rounded glimpse of Turkey’s incredible history, charming villages, and sacred sites without the hassle of group travel, this Private Ephesus, İrince, Virgin Mary House Tour is worth considering. For around $647 per group (up to 7 people), you get a full day led by a knowledgeable guide, visiting standout sights like the ancient city of Ephesus, the revered House of Virgin Mary, and the picturesque İrince village. The tour is flexible, private, and designed to maximize your experience while minimizing stress.

What we particularly like is how smoothly the day flows—from the early morning pickup in İzmir to the relaxed exploration at each stop. The inclusion of transportation, guide service, and insurance makes it a convenient package, saving you time and effort. Our favorite part? The opportunity to wander through Ephesus’s marble streets with a guide who brings the ruins to life, and the chance to stroll the narrow, old streets of İrince, famous for its wine and traditional houses.

One possible consideration is the cost, which might seem steep for some travelers. However, when you factor in the private guide, transportation, and full-day itinerary, the value becomes clearer. This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort, personalized attention, and want an in-depth experience without worrying about logistics.

If you love history, scenic villages, and cultural sites, this tour is an excellent fit. It’s especially appealing for those seeking a personalized, flexible day that covers major highlights in a relaxed manner.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Small group for personalized attention.
• Rich Heritage: Visit Ephesus, Virgin Mary’s House, and more.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation and guide included.
• Flexible Schedule: Free time at İrince village and optional Terrace House visit.
• Cultural Insight: Guided commentary enhances understanding.
• Good Value: All-included pricing simplifies planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early in İzmir

The tour begins bright and early at 8 a.m. from İzmir, a city well situated for exploring the Aegean coast. We love the early start because it allows plenty of time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The transportation is included, so there’s no need to worry about navigating or parking—your guide takes care of that. This setup benefits travelers who prefer a stress-free, door-to-door experience.

First Stop: Virgin Mary’s House

Our first destination is Virgin Mary’s House, nestled in the hills of Selçuk on Bülbül Mountain. Discovered in 1891 by Lazarist priests, this humble home holds immense significance for Christians and Muslims alike. The visit lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to explore the small chapel and the sacred Wish Wall—a place where visitors leave votive papers as part of their wishes or prayers.

What makes this stop particularly meaningful is the sense of tranquility. The setting is simple, yet the history is profound: after Paul’s visit in 1967, it became recognized as a spiritual center. Visitors often comment on how touching it feels to stand in a place believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary.

Taking in Ephesus

Next, we head to Ephesus, a sprawling marble city that once thrived as a major metropolis of antiquity. Our guide, Melis, or whoever is guiding that day, expertly points out highlights like the Temple of Hadrian, Temple of Domitian, the Trajan Fountain, and most famously, the Celsus Library—a marvel of ancient architecture.

We particularly appreciate how the guide’s commentary brings ruins to life, explaining the significance of each structure and the stories behind the stones. The Great Theatre offers not only impressive acoustics but also panoramic views over the ruins, making it a favorite photo spot.

For those interested, there’s an optional visit to Terrace Houses, located nearby. These six houses are decorated with mosaics and murals and give a glimpse into the lifestyle of Ephesus’s wealthy residents. The guide accompanies and explains the significance of each, making it worth the small extra fee for the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and the Ephesus Museum

After a few hours of exploring, we head to Selçuk for lunch. The included or self-arranged meal typically features local specialties—think fresh seafood, grilled vegetables, or traditional Turkish dishes. Following lunch, we visit the Ephesus Museum, which showcases artifacts from the ruins, offering context and depth to what we’ve seen.

Sacred Sites and the Village of İrince

Post-lunch, we visit St. John’s Basilica—a ruin that’s believed to be the final resting place of the Apostle John. The site combines history, legend, and a sense of spiritual reverence. From here, we see the Artemis Temple, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, although only columns remain today. It’s quite a sight to imagine what once was.

Finally, we arrive at İrince, a charming village famous for its wine and old stone houses. We get ample free time here to wander, take pictures, or enjoy a glass of local wine. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings provide the perfect wind-down after a day of sightseeing.

Returning to İzmir

By late afternoon, the tour wraps up with a comfortable return trip to İzmir, leaving you with a full day of memorable sights and stories. The whole experience is designed to be comfortable and enriching, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace during free periods.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

When considering the $647 price, it might seem high, but remember, it includes private transportation, guide service, entry fees (where applicable), and insurance. The personalized nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck in large crowds, and your guide, like Melis, can tailor explanations to your interests. The convenience of door-to-door service and the opportunity to explore multiple sites comfortably in a single day make this a practical choice for those wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for history lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed, guided experience. If you prefer to skip the timing hassles and enjoy a private, intimate tour with meaningful stops, this fits the bill. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate depth and context rather than just ticking boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The package covers transportation, parking, service fees, professional guide service, and travel insurance. Entrance fees to sites and meals are not included but can be arranged.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll spend about one hour at Virgin Mary’s House, around three hours exploring Ephesus, and about three hours in İrince village, with time allocated for lunch and optional visits.

Can I visit the Terrace Houses?
Yes, your guide can accompany you to the six terrace houses nearby Celsus Library. It’s an optional add-on, and they offer explanations about the mosaics and murals.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and in warm weather.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the flexible schedule and private nature make it suitable, although some walking and uneven terrain at Ephesus might require consideration for those with mobility issues.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have free time in İrince for pictures and relaxing, and optional time in Ephesus if you wish to explore more on your own.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

In The Sum Up

This private tour strikes a nice balance between convenience, depth, and authenticity. We appreciated the personal touch of a guide who can adapt to your interests, along with the comfort of private transport. Visiting Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary, and the charming İrince village offers a well-rounded day immersed in history, spirituality, and local culture.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a thoughtfully curated experience without the stress of self-organized travel, and who value insightful commentary and private attention. The price might seem high at first glance, but when you factor in all the included elements—plus the ease—you’re likely to find it offers good value for a memorable, hassle-free day in Turkey.

Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or just someone eager to see Turkey’s highlights comfortably, this tour can make your day both meaningful and enjoyable. It’s a chance to step into ancient streets and tranquil villages, guided by someone who knows and loves the region. You’ll leave with not just photos, but stories to tell—and a sense of connection to this fascinating corner of the world.

You can check availability for your dates here: