ALL INCLUSIVE Private Ephesus, The House of Mary, Sirince Village

Explore Turkey’s Highlights with a Private All-Inclusive Tour Near Kusadasi

This private tour offers an engaging way to see some of the most iconic sights around Kusadasi — from the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the charming Sirince Village and the revered House of Virgin Mary. Priced at just over $99 per person, it’s a full-day adventure lasting around 6 to 7 hours that includes private transportation, expert guidance, entrance fees, and a tasty traditional Turkish kebap lunch. Having personally experienced similar trips, I can say this one tends to appeal to travelers seeking a flexible, hassle-free way to explore key highlights without worrying about the nitty-gritty of logistics.

Two things really make this tour stand out. First, the inclusion of entrance fees and a private guide means no surprises on costs or confusing group dynamics — you just enjoy your day at your own pace. Second, the customizable itinerary allows you to spend more or less time at each site, which is invaluable if you have specific interests or want to linger longer at particular places.

A possible consideration? As with many full-day excursions, it’s a fair bit of walking and standing, especially at Ephesus, which involves some uneven marble streets and ancient ruins. Travelers with limited mobility might want to plan accordingly.

This tour is perfect for those who value personalized attention, want to avoid hidden costs, and enjoy local culture and history in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s especially ideal for families, friends, or small groups who appreciate the flexibility of a private experience.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Flexibility: Entrance fees, guided commentary, transportation, and lunch are covered, providing great value.
• Private Guide & Transport: Enjoy personalized attention and a smooth ride in a brand-new, air-conditioned minibus.
• Customizable Itinerary: Spend as much time as you like in each site, with the guide accommodating your pace.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit world-famous sites like Ephesus and the Virgin Mary’s House, along with charming local villages.
• Quality & Trust: Rated a perfect 5.0 based on 31 reviews, with many travelers praising their guide’s knowledge and attentiveness.
• Ideal for: Travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day discovering Turkey’s significant sights with a personal touch.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: Ege Ports and the Convenient Pickup

The tour begins at Ege Ports, where your guide greets you with a sign bearing your name. From there, it’s a short 15-minute drive to Ephesus — a convenient start that gets you into history without the hassle of navigating yourself. This private setup is particularly appealing because it guarantees timely pickup and drop-off, and you’ll never feel rushed.

Visiting Ephesus: Marvel at the Roman and Greek Ruins

Ephesus is undoubtedly the star attraction. Walking along its marble streets, you’ll see the Library of Celsus, a beautifully restored facade that’s recognizable worldwide, and the Grand Theater, capable of seating 24,000 — a reminder of the city’s importance as a bustling port. Your guide, possibly like the enthusiastic “Gizem” praised in reviews, will share stories that bring the ancient city to life.

What we loved is that the entrance fees are pre-paid, so you skip the long lines, allowing more time to soak in the sights. Expect about two hours here — enough to appreciate the grandeur without feeling overwhelmed. The site’s uneven cobblestones and grand scale might be tiring for some, so comfortable shoes are a must.

The House of Virgin Mary: A Spiritual Stop

Just five miles from Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary offers a peaceful, almost reverent atmosphere. Legend has it that Mary lived here during her time in Ephesus, and it’s been a pilgrimage site since the late 19th century. You’ll find a simple stone house nestled in the lush Aladag Mountains, making for a serene contrast to the bustling ruins.

You’ll likely spend about an hour here, with the guide explaining the significance of the site, including the visit by Pope Paul VI in 1967. The calm and spiritual aura often leaves visitors feeling reflective and connected to history.

Lunch at Agora Restaurant: Authentic Turkish Cuisine

A key highlight is the included lunch — a traditional Turkish kebap with mezes and salads, complemented by soft drinks. The meal offers a chance to unwind, reflect on the morning’s sights, and enjoy local flavors. The quality and authenticity of the meal are frequently praised, making it more than just a fuel stop; it’s part of the cultural experience.

Sirince Village: Charm on a Mountain

Post-lunch, the tour ascends to Sirince, a picturesque village perched on a hilltop. Known for its vineyards, peach trees, and narrow cobbled streets, it’s a delightful place to wander, browse local crafts, and sample some of the village’s famed fruity wines. You’ll see a blend of Turkish and Greek influences, including a mosque and a church, which speaks to the area’s diverse heritage.

Most travelers spend about an hour here, enjoying the relaxed pace and scenic views. The opportunity to taste homemade wine and olive oil makes this stop both tasty and authentic.

The Temple of Artemis: A Glimpse of a Wonder

Next, a quick stop at the Temple of Artemis, one of the ancient seven wonders of the world. Though only a few columns remain, it’s a chance to ponder the scale of ancient architecture and the significance of this site in antiquity. Spending about 20 minutes here allows for a brief but meaningful visit.

Return to Kusadasi: Easy and Stress-Free

Finally, the tour wraps up with a 20-minute return journey back to Kusadasi, either to your hotel or port. The guarantee of on-time return means you won’t have to worry about missing your cruise or other plans.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This private, all-inclusive experience ensures no hidden costs — the entrance fees, guide, transportation, and lunch are covered upfront. Compared to other options that might charge extra for entrance or skip certain sites, this package offers transparency and peace of mind.

The private guide makes a significant difference, providing tailored commentary that caters to your interests. Many reviewers highlight their guide’s attentiveness and knowledge, which adds a personal touch that larger group tours often lack.

The customizable itinerary allows you to spend more time at sites you find especially interesting — whether that’s the incredible ruins of Ephesus or the scenic charms of Sirince Village. This flexibility can make your day feel more relaxed and satisfying.

Transportation & Comfort

Travel is in a brand-new, air-conditioned minibus, making the journey comfortable and efficient. Small group sizes (max 10 people) promote a more intimate environment, and the private setup ensures you won’t be crowded or rushed.

Authenticity and Cultural Insights

The inclusion of sites like Sirince, with its local wines and crafts, enriches your understanding of the region’s history and culture. The story of the Virgin Mary’s house adds a spiritual dimension often missed on more generic tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day that hits all the major highlights around Kusadasi without the stress of planning logistics, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for families, friends, or small groups who want flexibility and personalized attention. History buffs, culture enthusiasts, and wine lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Travelers who value value for money — with entrance fees and lunch included — will appreciate the transparent pricing. Plus, those wishing to avoid crowded buses or rigid schedules will find this private tour refreshingly accommodating.

Final Thoughts

This ALL INCLUSIVE private tour around Kusadasi strikes an excellent balance between convenience, authenticity, and value. By combining major archaeological sites, a spiritual pilgrimage spot, a charming village, and a touch of ancient wonder, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s historic and cultural richness.

You’ll love the personal guide’s storytelling, the delicious local lunch, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The small group size and private transport make for a comfortable and intimate experience, ideal for making meaningful memories.

If you’re after a hassle-free, informative, and memorable day discovering Turkey’s treasures near Kusadasi, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially perfect for travelers who want everything covered upfront, with an emphasis on authentic experiences and local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited walking ability?
While the tour involves a fair amount of walking, especially at Ephesus with its uneven marble streets, it might be manageable with some mobility assistance. It’s best to assess your comfort with walking and standing for extended periods.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour’s rate covers all entrance fees, meaning you won’t need to pay anything extra at sites like Ephesus or Virgin Mary’s House. This helps avoid surprises and long lines.

Can I customize the amount of time spent at each site?
Absolutely. The tour is private and flexible, allowing you to spend more or less time at each location according to your interests.

What is the lunch like?
Expect a hearty, traditional Turkish kebap with mezes, salad, and soft drinks. Many reviews mention the meal’s quality and authenticity, making it a highlight of the day.

What type of transportation is used?
Transportation is in a brand-new, air-conditioned minibus, ensuring comfort during the approximately 6 to 7-hour trip.

How do I meet the guide?
Your guide will meet you at Ege Ports or your hotel/port with a sign bearing your name. Pickup times are confirmed during booking, ensuring a smooth start to your day.

This private tour around Kusadasi offers an excellent balance of historical discovery, culture, and comfort. Whether you’re a history lover, a spiritual traveler, or simply seeking a well-organized day exploring Turkey’s rich heritage, it’s a choice that packs a lot of value into a single memorable experience.