A single, unforgettable day: fly from Istanbul to Izmir in the morning, spend the day among the ruins of ancient Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary, and fly home the same evening.
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This daily Ephesus tour from Istanbul lets you see one of the great cities of the ancient world without giving up a night in your hotel. After an early morning transfer and flight to Izmir, a local driver and licensed guide take you through the highlights of Ephesus, and you are back in Istanbul the same evening.
Once you arrive, you immerse yourself in the spiritual and historical treasures of the area through a guided tour: the House of the Virgin Mary, the marble streets and monuments of the ancient city, and the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You also gain insight into local culture by exploring traditional crafts and artisanal heritage at a women's cooperative, where lunch is included.
At day's end you fly back to Istanbul and are transferred to your hotel, leaving with lasting memories of Ephesus's enduring charm. Both flights, lunch, the guide, transport and entrance fees are part of the price, so the day is simple to plan. You can join a small group or arrange a private tour for your own party.
A full day. This is a genuinely full day with a very early start and a late finish, including two flights, a downhill walk through the ancient city and a drive between the sites. If you would rather go slower, our 2-day Pamukkale & Ephesus tour adds an overnight stay and Pamukkale.
Ephesus is on the Aegean coast, a short drive from Izmir's airport, and the main sights sit along one continuous downhill walk. That makes it one of the few ancient sites in Turkey that can be seen properly in a single day from Istanbul.
A moderate amount of walking is involved, including a downhill stroll through the ancient city itself. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended for this full but rewarding day.
Two short flights frame the day, and everything in between is by private vehicle with your guide. Here is how the six stops follow one another.
An early hotel transfer takes you to Istanbul Airport for the short domestic flight to Izmir, where your driver and guide meet you on arrival and the day on the road begins.
A short drive up the wooded Solmissos mountainside leads to the small stone chapel traditionally believed to be where Mary spent her final days, a calm and reflective first stop.
Your guide leads a downhill walk past the Bouleuterion, the Temple of Domitian, Hercules Gate, the Temple of Hadrian and the Celsus Library, ending at the Great Theater.
A short drive takes you to the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, where a single re-erected column marks the place today.
See carpets and rugs being woven by hand and admire local ceramics at a traditional workshop, and enjoy the lunch that is included in your price in a relaxed setting.
You are transferred to Izmir Airport for the flight home, and on arrival in Istanbul you are greeted and taken back to your hotel after a full and memorable day.
The day begins in Istanbul with an early hotel transfer and a flight to Izmir. From there you visit the House of the Virgin Mary in the morning, walk downhill through ancient Ephesus in the late morning, see the Temple of Artemis site at midday and enjoy lunch at a women's cooperative in the afternoon, before flying back to Istanbul in the evening. Open any step below to see what you will do.
Every stop below is part of the standard one-day program. Timings are approximate and may be adjusted for flights, traffic and opening hours.
Start your day with an early transfer from your hotel to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, our driver meets you at the airport and takes you to explore Ephesus, an ancient Greek city on the coast of Ionia, in what is now modern-day Turkey.
Your domestic ticket is included, so there is nothing to book separately. Carry your passport for the flight, and ask us for the exact pickup and departure times when you enquire so you can plan your early start. The flight is short, and your driver and guide meet you at Izmir Airport on arrival, so there is no waiting around once you land.
Your guide escorts you to the House of the Virgin Mary, situated atop the scenic Solmissos Mountains. This sacred site is traditionally believed to be where Mary spent her final days.
The small stone chapel, known in Turkish as Meryem Ana Evi, draws Christian pilgrims and many Muslim visitors, since Mary is also revered in Islam. The setting is quiet and wooded, a calm and reflective start before the crowds of the ancient city. Allow time to walk around the chapel, and ask your guide about the tradition and why the place is honoured by both Christians and Muslims.
The ancient ruins of EphesusYou'll travel to the Ancient City of Ephesus, where you and your guide embark on a downhill stroll through the remnants of this Roman metropolis. As you explore, you'll pass six key landmarks.
The council chamber of Ephesus is a small semicircular hall that looks like a miniature theater. The city's councillors met here to debate public affairs, and the building was also used for concerts and performances.
A monumental temple built in honour of the Roman emperor Domitian, one of the grand imperial buildings of the city. Its massive terrace and the remains of its columns survive, and they show how imposing it once was above the street.
A gateway on Curetes Street named for the relief of Hercules on its pillars, where he wears the skin of the Nemean lion. It marks the way into the heart of the city, and your guide pauses here to explain how the street was laid out.
A small, richly carved temple dedicated to the emperor Hadrian, with an arched front that is easy to recognise. It is one of the most photographed buildings on Curetes Street and a favourite stop along the walk.
Built in the 2nd century AD in memory of the Roman governor Celsus, the library once held thousands of scrolls. Its restored two-storey facade, with statues set between the columns, is the best-known image of Ephesus.
A Roman theater cut into the hillside, estimated to have seated around 25,000 people. It was used for plays and public gatherings and is the grand finish to the downhill walk through the ancient city. Take a moment to climb a few rows of seats, listen to your guide and picture a full audience in the arena.
A moderate amount of walking is involved. The marble streets can be slippery, so comfortable shoes with good grip are recommended.
You'll be driven to the Temple of Artemis (Diana). The temple was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Only foundations and a single re-erected column stand on the site now, so your guide's description of the original temple is what brings it back to life. It is a short stop that sets the legend of Ephesus in context, and a chance to see the countryside near Selçuk before you continue to lunch at the cooperative.
Explore the local culture of Ephesus with a visit to a traditional weaving workshop, where you'll see exquisite handmade carpets and rugs being crafted. You'll also have the opportunity to admire a variety of Ephesus's ceramics, showcasing the region's rich artistic heritage, alongside your included lunch.
Once the tour in the Ephesus region concludes, you're transferred to Izmir Airport. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you'll be greeted at the airport and transferred back to your hotel.
Read ahead about what you will see: the history, the culture and the reason each stop earns its place in the day.
Ephesus began as an Ionian Greek city on the Aegean coast and grew under Roman rule into one of the leading cities of Asia Minor, with a busy harbour, a grand theater and a temple of Artemis that travellers counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Today it is among the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its marble streets, fountains and monuments let you picture daily life two thousand years ago, and your licensed guide fills in the stories behind each building.
Ephesus also matters to Christian history. St Paul preached here, the city is the first of the Seven Churches addressed in the Book of Revelation, and a long local tradition places the last years of the Virgin Mary in the hills above it.
Insider tip: there is little shade among the ruins and the marble paving is polished smooth, so it can be slippery. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water, wear shoes with good grip, and keep your camera or phone within easy reach, because the best photographs come as you walk downhill.
A small stone chapel in the woods above Ephesus, known in Turkish as Meryem Ana Evi. Tradition holds that Mary spent her final years here, and the site is visited by pilgrims of several faiths.
Why it matters
Walk downhill along the marble streets of a Roman metropolis, past temples, a council chamber, the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater. Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean.
Why it matters
One of the largest temples of the Greek world and a Wonder of the Ancient World. Today only foundations and one re-erected column remain, set in open countryside near the town of Selçuk.
Why it matters
A working weaving workshop where you can see handmade carpets and rugs being made, alongside local ceramics. It is also where your included lunch is served.
Why it matters
Ephesus Ruins
Temple of Artemis Site
Traditionally believed to be where Mary spent her final days, this small stone chapel sits on a quiet, wooded mountainside above Ephesus and is visited by pilgrims and travellers of many faiths.
At the upper end of the ancient city you see the Bouleuterion, where the city council met, and the remains of a monumental temple built in honour of the Roman emperor Domitian, explained by your guide.
One of the most photographed ancient facades in the Mediterranean, the restored two-storey front of the library was built in the 2nd century AD and has become the symbol of Ephesus itself.
A monumental Roman theater stands at the foot of the marble street, with seating for an estimated 25,000 people, and it makes a grand finish to the downhill walk through the ancient city.
The site marks one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only foundations and a single re-erected column remain today, and your guide describes how vast the original temple once was.
Watch traditional carpet weaving and see local ceramics at a women's cooperative, where you learn how handmade rugs are made and enjoy your included lunch in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Best for:
Good to know: confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the day can be run as a private tour for your own party or with a small group. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended for everyone, and please tell us about any mobility needs when you enquire.
One clear price covers both flights, your guide, lunch, transport and every entrance fee. Prices are per person in US dollars.
Private or small group. You can join a small group or arrange a private tour exclusively for your party. Send an enquiry with your dates and group size and we will confirm availability, and tell us about children's ages, dietary needs or mobility requirements so we can plan the day properly.
Reserving your place requires a 40% deposit. Send your details through the Reserve Now form, and we will confirm availability and the next steps with you within a few hours.
The remaining balance is payable on arrival. Your voucher and itinerary arrive by email once your booking is confirmed, so you know exactly what to expect before the day of your tour.
Cancellation and refund conditions are set out in our Terms & Conditions. Please read them before you reserve, and contact us if you have any questions about changes, dates or group size.
Practical suggestions based on the route, the season and the way the day is paced.
One day gives you the headline sites of Ephesus, but it is a long one with two flights. If you want more time to enjoy the region, add an overnight stay and Pamukkale on our 2-day tour.
The Library of Celsus and the marble street look best in the soft light of morning or late afternoon. Bring a spare battery and a lens cloth, as you will take far more photographs than you expect.
Ask your guide to connect the sites as you walk: Greek foundations, Roman monuments and the early Christian story all meet at Ephesus, and the order of the route makes the timeline easy to follow.
The marble streets of Ephesus are polished smooth by centuries of footsteps and can be slippery. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip rather than flat sandals, especially on the downhill section.
There is very little shade among the ruins. A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and a bottle of water make the long walk far more pleasant, particularly from late spring through early autumn.
You are taking two domestic flights on the same day, so keep your passport in your day bag together with your booking confirmation, and have both ready at the airport before you go through security.
Mild days and green hillsides make spring one of the best times for the long walk through the ruins, with comfortable temperatures for a full day outdoors.
Summer is hot and there is little shade among the ruins. Drink plenty of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and expect the warmest hours around midday.
Autumn is warm and comfortable, with softer light for photographs and a pleasant temperature for walking the marble streets from the upper gate downhill.
Winter is cooler and quieter, with fewer visitors at the ruins. Bring a light rain jacket in case of showers, and layers for the early start and the flights.
Local tip: the day starts very early, so pack your day bag the night before and keep your passport and booking confirmation where you can reach them at the airport. Eat a good breakfast if you can, because lunch comes in the afternoon at the cooperative.
Every itinerary is a starting point that we are happy to adjust to you, from the pickup time and the pace of the day to a private tour for your own party.
Reach a real person on WhatsApp before, during and after your trip, so questions about flights, meeting points or timings are answered quickly when you need them.
Every guided day is led by a professional, licensed English-speaking guide who knows the sites well and explains the history in a clear, relaxed and engaging way.
Book with confidence. Your voucher and itinerary arrive by email right away, so you know exactly what is included and what to expect on the day of your tour.
These are guest reviews of The History Travel on TripAdvisor, reproduced as written. They describe the agency's tours in Istanbul and across Turkey. Read all reviews on TripAdvisor.
More than a tour guide, a friendly host
“Mehmet and Sebahattin were more than tour guides, they were hosts showing the beauty of their country. My wife and I had a full day tour of Istanbul. We had a great lunch and toured all of the main mosques and Topkapi. It was a truly memorable day. The price was fair and I recommend them wholeheartedly.”
A thrilling visit to a glorious country
“Our visit to turkey was filled with incredible experiences and long lasting memories. Mr Sebahattin was very helpful throughout out planning stages and in the process created a personalised itinerary that fit our needs. Even while in Turkey he was extremely prompt and professional in all his dealings. And enabled us to navigate through the trip effortlessly. The English speaking guides organised by him were very knowledgeable and friendly. The transport and the hotels provided were also of top quality and we were very pleased with the service. Overall a great visit curated by a gem of a person.”
Mesmerising experience
“We had a wonderful time in Turkey . We booked through Sebahattin and he made sure we have an experience of lifetime. Our trip was customised to our ask and Sebahattin extended all the hospitality one could. I would strongly recommend to book through him and you won't regret.”
Family tour to Turkey
“We had a wonderful family trip to Turkey. Mr Sebahettin of The History Tours planned and organised it. He knows Turkey well, provided detailed itinerary unlike other travel agents. All domestic bookings, transfers, guides, day trios were organised by him. He kept in touch throughout the trip for updates. Highly recommend him for any travel to Turkey”
Excellence holiday in Turkey with family
“We had heard about the beauties of Turkey from friends who had visited, and then we booked a 10-day family package tour with Mr. Sebahattin, owner of History Travel, which was recommended by friends. He was very friendly and very knowledgeable. All the service was very well organized. We liked our tour very much. I recommend Mr. Sebahattin and The History Travel Agency to everybody.”
Explore Istanbul through History Travel
“The History Travel Agency is a professional one with exemplary tour itinerary. Mr Sebahattin Selam from the Agency remained in constant touch with us starting our departure from India till we landed back home. He took care of minute details. Like we are vegetarians and were worried about the food. History Travel had organised exceptional vegetarian continental lunch for us. Our guide Mr Mehmet Nehir is an exceptional person with a very calm composure. City tour involves plenty of walking. So, do wear a comfortable sport shoes. Keep a bottle of water with you and carry small change. Overall it is an exceptional experience touring Istanbul through The History Travel Agency.”
Have questions, or not ready to reserve yet? Send us a message and we'll reply within a few hours.
Reserving requires a 40% deposit; the balance is payable on arrival. Set the number of travellers and share your details, and we will confirm availability within a few hours.
Reserving requires a 40% deposit, and the balance is payable on arrival. Use the Reserve Now form for a booking request, or the Send Enquiry form if you have questions about dates, group size or a private tour first.
Cancellation and refund conditions are set out in our Terms & Conditions. Please read them before you reserve, and contact us on WhatsApp, by phone or through the enquiry form if you have any questions about changes or refunds.
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