Selcuk is a treasure chest for travelers interested in ancient ruins, religious sites, and natural wonders. With its proximity to Ephesus, the Virgin Mary House, and Pamukkale, it offers a diverse range of tours that cater to history lovers, spiritual explorers, and nature enthusiasts alike. We particularly like the Daily Ephesus and Virgin Mary House Tour with Lunch Included because it combines a profound spiritual experience with immersive ancient city ruins, all in one seamless day. Plus, with well-reviewed guides and included meals, it hits a sweet spot for value and convenience. If you’re short on time, the Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus Private Tour offers an intimate experience perfect for cruise visitors who want to maximize their limited hours.
Quick Overview of Tours in Selcuk
This list covers full-day trips, private guided tours, and short excursions tailored for different needs. You’ll find options like the comprehensive Full-day Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour, the full-fledged Ephesus trips from Izmir, and private tours that skip lines and focus on history only. For cruise passengers, specialized shore excursions ensure quick, efficient visits. Click on the links to see detailed descriptions and reviews.
1. Daily Ephesus and Virgin Mary House Tour with Lunch Included
Rating: 5.0/5 (268 reviews)
Price: $125.13 per person
Duration: 7 hours
Location: Selçuk, Turkey
This tour is a classic for anyone wanting a well-rounded experience of Ephesus and the Virgin Mary. It starts with a visit to Meryemana (the Virgin Mary’s House), where tradition suggests she spent her last days. The guide shares stories about her connection with Saint John and the significance of the site, which Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II have visited. Then, you’ll explore Ephesus’ well-preserved ruins — from the Library of Celsus to the Temple of Artemis—one of the ancient wonders of the world. The inclusion of lunch at a local restaurant makes this tour both satisfying and convenient.
What makes this tour stand out is the comprehensive itinerary combined with high reviews, especially the insightful guide and the access to the Virgin Mary site. It suits travelers who want a balanced mix of religious and archaeological history in one day. The review quotes praise the full explanations and the quality of the meal, making it a good value at just over $125.
Bottom Line: If you want a complete, comfortable day with history, spirituality, and a tasty meal, this is a top choice.
2. From Izmir: Full-Day Ephesus Tour with Lunch
Rating: 4.7/5 (447 reviews)
Price: $125 per person
Duration: 8 hours
This full-day tour from Izmir covers all the major highlights of Ephesus and the Virgin Mary House, plus a visit to Sirince village and a local lunch. It’s designed for travelers who prefer a structured, all-in-one experience with comfortable transportation. Guides like Nijam are celebrated for their friendliness and knowledge, with reviewers noting the well-organized schedule, enough time at each site, and the delicious homemade lunch. The tour includes visits to Trajan’s Fountain, the Agora, and the Celsius Library, offering a broad view of ancient life.
This tour appeals to those wanting a hassle-free day with a mix of archaeological sites and local culture. The inclusion of a visit to Sirince village adds a charming touch for those interested in local crafts and scenery. The reviews highlight the guide’s personality and the quality of the lunch, making it a reliable choice for a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a detailed overview of Ephesus with extra cultural stops and a comfortable setting.
3. Full-day Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour from Selcuk or Kusadasi
Rating: 5.0/5 (161 reviews)
Price: $115.12 per person
Duration: 11 hours
Travel beyond Selcuk to Pamukkale’s famous white terraces and thermal springs, combined with the ruins of Hierapolis. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of natural wonder and ancient ruins. The journey includes an optional swim in Cleopatra’s Pool — a highlight for many — and a visit to the Roman theater and temples within Hierapolis. The included lunch keeps energy levels high for the full day of exploration.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of UNESCO World Heritage sites and natural baths, plus the easy transportation. The high rating reflects satisfied travelers who praise the scenery, the guide’s knowledge, and the value for money. The longer duration suits those who want an in-depth experience of Turkey’s unique geological and archaeological sites.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you’re looking for a full immersion into Turkey’s natural and ancient marvels with a leisurely pace.
4. Ephesus Trip from Istanbul
Rating: 5.0/5 (128 reviews)
Price: $475.00 per person
Duration: 14 to 18 hours
For travelers who want a quick flight and a full day of sightseeing, this air-inclusive trip to Ephesus from Istanbul is unbeatable. It includes flights, transfers, guided tours, and lunch, making it the most comprehensive and time-efficient option. You’ll visit the Basilica of St. John, the Temple of Artemis, and the Ephesus ruins, plus have the chance to shop for local crafts. The guide’s expertise shines and reviews mention how smooth the entire process is, from airport to site.
This tour is best for history buffs and travelers with limited time who prefer an organized, all-inclusive experience. The high price reflects the convenience and the flight component. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and the seamless logistics.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to combine a flight with a full-day exploration of Ephesus without hassle.
5. Kusadasi Shore Excursion: Ephesus Private Tour ONLY FOR CRUISE GUESTS
Rating: 5.0/5 (101 reviews)
Price: $57.00 per person
Duration: 5 to 7 hours
Specifically designed for cruise ship passengers, this private tour offers personalized attention and skips the lines at Ephesus. You’ll visit the House of Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis, and explore Ephesus’ highlights in a manageable time frame. Transportation from the port and a dedicated guide make this a convenient way to experience the must-see sites without the rush of a larger group.
The reviews praise the timeliness, knowledgeable guides, and the personalized experience. It’s an economical option for cruise travelers who want a flexible, private approach. The shorter duration and private focus make it easy to fit into a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: Great for cruise passengers who want personalized service and skip-the-line access.
6. From Izmir: Guided Tour of the Ancient City of Ephesus
Rating: 4.7/5 (147 reviews)
Price: $108 per person
Duration: 9.5 hours
This guided tour from Izmir offers a comprehensive visit to Ephesus, including the Temple of Artemis, Basilica of St. John, and the Roman Baths of Scholastica. It includes lunch and shopping, making it ideal for travelers wanting a full-day, guided experience. The guide, Alpi, is highly praised for providing deep insights and engaging storytelling.
It’s perfect if you prefer an organized day out with a knowledgeable guide and cultural stops. The longer duration allows for a relaxed pace and multiple sites. Reviewers emphasize the entertaining guide and the good value for money.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers eager for a full, guided day with options to shop and explore.
7. Private Ephesus Tour | History Only | No Shopping Stops
Rating: 5.0/5 (56 reviews)
Price: $226.41 per group (up to 5)
Duration: 3 hours
For those who want a focused, hassle-free experience, this private tour is ideal. It takes you directly to Ephesus and the Terrace Houses, with no stops for shopping or other distractions. The guide customizes the pace and provides in-depth explanations of the ancient city’s architecture and history.
The short duration suits travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more intimate, educational visit. The reviews highlight the personalized service and detailed knowledge of the guide, making it a valuable experience at a reasonable price.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history purists and travelers who want a concentrated, informative tour.
8. EPHESUS TOUR From Cruise Port: Private Tour & Skip The Line
Rating: 5.0/5 (54 reviews)
Price: $35.57 per person
Duration: 6 to 7 hours
This skip-the-line private tour from the cruise port is designed to maximize your limited time. It includes the Virgin Mary House, Ephesus ruins, and the Basilica of St. John, with entrance fees included. The private transportation and expert guide make the experience smooth and personal.
Reviewers love the efficient itinerary and well-organized logistics, especially the ability to avoid lines and crowds. It caters well to cruise passengers who want to see the highlights without missing out due to time constraints.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers who want a quick, guided overview with minimal hassle.
9. Ephesus Walking Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (47 reviews)
Price: $45.25 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
If you prefer a short, leisurely walk through Ephesus, this guided tour is a great choice. You’ll explore the main ruins — including the Temple of Hadrian and Celsus Library — while learning about Roman life. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick overview without a full-day commitment.
Reviews mention enthusiastic guides and the ability to get a good sense of Ephesus’ grandeur in a brief visit. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly option that still offers a meaningful peek into ancient history.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a concise, in-depth introduction.
10. Private Tour: Biblical Ephesus Tour for Cruisers from Kusadasi (Ephesus) Port
Rating: 5.0/5 (47 reviews)
Price: $57.00 per person
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
This private, Christian-focused tour is tailored for cruise passengers interested in biblical sites. It covers the House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus, and the Basilica of St. John. The personalized service and efficient transfers from the port make it easy to see the religious highlights in a manageable time.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and rich explanations about Christian history. It’s ideal for spiritual travelers or those wanting a more meaningful connection to the sites.
Bottom Line: Best for Christian pilgrims or history enthusiasts wanting a focused, private experience.
11. Journey to Ancient Wonders: Explore Ephesus with a Private Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (44 reviews)
Price: $149.00 per person
Duration: 6 hours
This family-friendly private tour offers a relaxed exploration of Ephesus, including the Odeon, Temple of Artemis, and Terrace Houses. You’ll enjoy personalized attention and the flexibility to include optional sites like the House of Virgin Mary.
What makes this tour appealing is the small group size, making the experience intimate and engaging, with the guide sharing stories and insights that bring the ruins to life. It’s perfect if you want a personal, flexible itinerary.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or travelers who want a tailored, engaging experience.
12. Ephesus Tour From Selcuk
Rating: 5.0/5 (33 reviews)
Price: $87.11 per person
Duration: 3 hours
This shorter tour focuses on Ephesus’ main highlights and includes the Temple of Artemis. It’s suited for travelers with limited time but still interested in seeing the core sites. The guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm shine, with reviews mentioning the fascinating stories and smooth logistics.
If you’re looking to get a quick, high-quality introduction to Ephesus, this tour offers good value and a satisfying glimpse of the ancient city.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a quick yet informative visit.
13. Private Ephesus Tour | Skip-The-Line & No Shopping
Rating: 5.0/5 (56 reviews)
Price: $226.41 per group (up to 5)
Duration: 3 hours
This private, history-only tour is perfect if you want to avoid commercial stops and focus solely on the archaeology. It’s a short, intimate experience with an expert guide who explains the architecture and historical context of Ephesus and the Terrace Houses.
Guests love the personalized attention and the in-depth narration, which makes this tour stand out for those eager to deep dive into history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for serious history enthusiasts wanting an educational, no-pressure tour.
14. Ephesus Tour From Cruise Port: Private & Skip The Line
Rating: 5.0/5 (54 reviews)
Price: $35.57 per person
Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Designed specifically for cruise passengers, this skip-the-line private tour efficiently covers the main sites like the House of Virgin Mary and the Ephesus ruins. The private transport and expert guide make sure you maximize your limited time onshore, avoiding queues and rush.
Reviewers love how smooth and organized the experience is, especially for short port stays. It’s a cost-effective way to see the highlights without sacrificing quality.
Bottom Line: A top pick for cruise travelers seeking fast, private, and comprehensive sightseeing.
15. Ephesus Walking Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (47 reviews)
Price: $45.25 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
This short walking tour is perfect if you want a quick introduction to Ephesus’ most iconic ruins. It covers the Temple of Hadrian and Celsus Library in a relaxed pace. It’s especially suitable for families or those with limited time but who want to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide.
Reviewers praise the enthusiasm and storytelling of the guide, making a brief visit both engaging and informative.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a concise, enriching introduction.
16. 3-hour Ephesus and Terrace Houses Tour Kusadasi Cruiser Only
Rating: 4.9/5 (34 reviews)
Price: [see site for pricing]
Duration: 3 hours
This quick tour focuses on Ephesus and the Terrace Houses, giving you a snapshot of the ancient city’s luxury residences. It’s for cruise passengers who want a brief but meaningful visit. The guide’s narration and the opportunity for stunning photos make it an excellent choice for a short shore stop.
Guests rave about the expert guide and the opportunity to see key sites in just a few hours.
Bottom Line: Perfect if your time is tight but you don’t want to miss the main highlights.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Selcuk
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. For comprehensive experiences with in-depth guides, full-day tours like the Full-day Pamukkale and Hierapolis or the From Izmir: Full-Day Ephesus are excellent. If time is limited, private tours or cruise-specific options such as the Skip-the-Line Ephesus Tour provide quick yet rich experiences.
Think about whether you want a religious focus, like the Virgin Mary House, or archaeological immersion in the ruins. If you prefer a personal touch, private or small-group tours are best. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular dates and cruise excursions.
Final Thoughts
Selcuk offers a remarkable variety of tours tailored for different travelers. Whether you’re after an all-inclusive, full-day experience or a short, private visit, the options are plentiful. For those interested in history, religious sites, or natural wonders, there’s a tour to match your pace and interests. We recommend booking early — these tours fill up fast, especially during peak seasons.
For a well-rounded, comfortable, and insightful day, the Daily Ephesus and Virgin Mary House Tour with Lunch and the Full-day Pamukkale tour stand out as excellent choices. If your schedule is tight, look at private or cruise-specific tours that skip lines and maximize your limited time. Whatever you choose, Selcuk’s history and scenery promise a memorable experience.
Enjoy planning your trip, and remember—booking ahead guarantees a smoother, more enjoyable exploration of Turkey’s ancient treasures.