Name: Top-Rated Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour for Cruisers
SKU: 74036P50
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (1130 reviews)

WizardTrip

Top-Rated Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour for Cruisers

4.9(1.1 k)· Kusadasi· By Moira Travel Agency Watch the video

Free cancellationPrivate tourSpecial offer

From

€12per person

Special offer

1 to 15 travelers per booking.

Options4 of 4 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €136.24€136.24

Total€136.24

About the activity

Make the most of your limited time ashore with this carefully timed small-group or private shore excursion to Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. Designed specifically for cruise passengers, the tour runs smoothly and guarantees an on-time return to your ship. After disembarking, meet your professional guide at the Kuşadası cruise port or your hotel and travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean, walking along marble streets to see highlights such as the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater, and Roman baths, brought to life through your guide’s engaging commentary. Continue to the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site for Christians and Muslims, before stopping at the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Upgrade your tour to include skip-the-line entrance tickets for a completely hassle-free experience.

What's included

✓Port / Hotel pickup and drop-off
✓All Taxes
✓Very luxury Brand new of Mercedes vehicle with Separate Driver
✓100 % Satisfaction
✓Entry tickets (for the "Entry Tickets Included" option)

What is not included

✕Entry tickets (for the "Entry Tickets Included" option).
✕Food and drinks
✕Gratuities are appreciated

Itinerary

1
Kusadasi Cruise Pier
15 minutes We will meet you at the Kusadasi Cruise Port! After booking this tour, please contact our team to agree & secure your meeting time.
· 15 min
2
Ephesus Ancient City
2 hours, entrance not included Ephesus: The ancient city of Ephesus is home to many well-preserved ruins, including the Roman-era streets, public buildings, and private houses. Visitors can explore the city and imagine what life was like in the Roman Empire. Some of the highlights of Ephesus include the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, the Temple of Artemis, and the Terrace Houses. Ephesus’s most spectacular site has to be the façade of the Library of Celsus. Constructed between 110 and 135 AD, the library originally had three floors, but an earthquake destroyed the building in the 10th century. Other sites include the Theater, Basilica of St. John, the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Church of Mary, House of the Virgin, the Isabey Mosque, the Prytaneion, the synagogue and the Temple of Hadrian. All the sites are in varying states of disrepair. Unfortunately, all that remains of the Temple of Artemis, rumoured to have been four times as large as the Parthenon, is one column standing in a marshy basin.
· 2 h· Admission not included
3
The Temple of Artemis
30 minutes The Temple of Artemis: Ephesus was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. Although the temple no longer exists, the foundation and some columns remain, providing an idea of the scale and grandeur of the original temple.
· 30 min
4
Kusadasi Castle
15 minutes Built and extended between the 14th and 18th centuries, picturesque Kusadasi Castle sits on Pigeon Island (Guvercin Adasa), an islet connected to Kusadasi via a causeway. Originally constructed as a military base, the fortress is composed of outer walls that enclose its gardens and an inner castle with a tiny museum.
· 15 min
5
Ephesus Terrace Houses
pass without stopping A cluster of ancient 2-story homes spread across three tiers, the Ephesus Terrace Houses reveal how wealthy Romans lived during the city’s glory days. Glass floors let you admire geometric mosaics and still-colorful frescoes gleaming on the walls—it’s a small wonder some compare the site to Pompeii.
· Non-stop passage
6
The House of the Virgin Mary
30 minutes, entrance not included The House of Virgin Mary: is a Christian pilgrimage site in Turkey, it is believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, who is said to have lived there until her Assumption. It is considered one of the most holy places in the world by Catholics.
· 30 min· Admission not included
7
Kusadasi Cruise Pier
15 minutes In the end of our tour, we return to the Kusadasi Cruise Port according to your ONBOARD TIME! PLEASE NOTE THAT: There are several Ships with different arrival and departure times. We carefully check all the timings, confirm with the passengers, and coordinate our return time to Cruise Port.
· 15 min

How to use your ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking

Meeting point and return

⚠️ Entrance Tickets of House of Mary and Ephesus Ruins are included if the included option is chosen. On the day of the tour, if you would like to visit any other place, you are responsible with the entrance ticket of that place. ⚠️

Our licensed tour guide will meet you at the cruise port with a sign of your name is written on at harbour/cruise port in Kusadasi. For the cruıse passengers please just follow the others from your shıp, then you will see our sign your name is written on, after you passing by custom control.

✳️**CRUISE PASSENGERS WHO WILL JOIN FROM THE CRUISE PORT*****

• Upon your ship's arrival at the port, WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE you to meet with our team WITHIN 30 to 45 MINUTES. By doing so, you can bypass the crowds, school busses, and hot weather, ensuring an enhanced and MORE ENJOYABLE TOUR EXPERIENCE OF EPHESUS✳️

Practical information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
NA

Activity options

PRIVATE TOUR EXCLUDES TICKETS
EXCLUDES ENTRY TICKETS
Customize: This option offer you to chosee the sites you would like to visit, stay in the sites as much as you wish.
Mercedes High Model Minibus.
Pickup included
Small Group EXCLUDES TICKETS
Duration: 5 hours
Pickup included
SMALL GROUP TOUR WITH TICKETS✅
Pickup included
PRIVATE TOUR WITH TICKETS ✅
.: INCLUDES ENTRY TICKETS to Ephesus and House of Mary.
.: This option offer you to chosee the sites you would like to visit, stay in the sites as much as you wish.
Mercedes High Model Minibus.
Pickup included

Duration

4 h à 6 h

How to prepare for your experience

Consider upgrading to include skip-the-line tickets for a smoother experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on ancient marble streets.
Bring sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, as parts of the tour are outdoors.
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Inform the tour operator of your ship's specific arrival and departure times.
Check if entrance tickets are included in your chosen option to avoid unexpected costs.

Experience the best of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary on this shore excursion tailored for cruise passengers, ensuring you return to your ship on time.

Cancellation conditions

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 74036P50

Activity offered by Moira Travel Agency via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Cruise passengers
History enthusiasts
Religious pilgrims

Activity essentials

Designed for cruise passengers with guaranteed on-time return
Explore the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus
Visit the significant pilgrimage site of the House of the Virgin Mary
See the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
Option to upgrade for skip-the-line tickets
Small-group or private tour options available

Kusadasi: good to know

Population: 130,835 (2022)
Elevation: 11 m
Currency: Turkish lira
Official language: Turkish
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: C, F · 230 V
Emergency number: 112
Capital city: Ankara

Average temperatures

6°Jan
8°Feb
10°Mar
14°Apr
20°May
25°Jun
29°Jul
29°Aug
24°Sept
18°Oct
13°Nov
8°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the tour?

Inclusions vary by option, but generally include port/hotel pickup and drop-off, all taxes, a luxury vehicle with a driver, and 100% satisfaction guarantee. Entry tickets are included only with specific options.

What is not included in the tour?

Food and drinks are not included. Gratuities are appreciated but not mandatory.

How can I cancel my booking?

For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What should I do if I am a cruise passenger?

Our licensed tour guide will meet you at the Kusadasi cruise port with a sign bearing your name. We strongly encourage you to meet our team within 30 to 45 minutes of your ship's arrival for an enhanced experience.

Are entrance tickets included?

Entrance tickets for the House of Mary and Ephesus Ruins are included only if you choose an option that specifies this. If you wish to visit other places not covered, you will be responsible for those entrance fees.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and all areas and surfaces are accessible. Specialized infant seats are also available.

Reviews

4.94.9(1.1 k)

5 stars

1.1 k

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Ephesus Tour with Kaya
teresac169, October 2026
Kaya provided excellent tour services. He was our private guide and was very knowledgeable about the local area. We went to Ephesus, House of Mary, Temple of Artemis, Turkish Rug School, local potters and had a fabulous authentic Turkish meal. We saw more sights than we expected and the tour cost was well worth it! We were cruising on Carnival and had to be back within a specific time period which Kaya made sure we were not late! I highly recommend this tour and especially our tour guide Kaya!!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Ephesus excursion
Cyn9Travel, October 2026
The bathroom at "The house of Virgin Mary" was unkempt. Other than that, the whole excursion was fantastic!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Experience of a lifetime
tylerpP1376QO, October 2026
BOOK THIS NOW and choose the private option! This was hands down the best tour experience we have had anywhere in the world. If we had booked through the cruise line, we would have paid double just to see the sights in a massive group with strict start and stop times. Instead, our day was timed flawlessly. We never felt rushed, saw everything at our own pace, and were guaranteed back to the ship with time to spare. Our guide was Tugrul, and everyone always says they had the best guide when they leave tour reviews, but Tugrul was truly the best guide we've ever experienced. Sharing his culture and history is his passion (as well as collecting gibson guitars 😎). He is actively involved in the preservation and restoration of Ephesus. Overhearing other tour groups around us made it obvious his knowledge, insight, experience, and wisdom can't be found on any tour. His warmth and genuine passion for sharing his culture made the entire experience unforgettable. This tour is a cant miss for anyone who wants more than a surface level experience. It offers a rich and profound understanding of ancient history, Paganism, early Christianity, Islam, and the evolution of Turkish art and culture. I cannot recommend Tugrul and this tour highly enough. We cannot wait to share the experience we had with our friends and family at home, and we cannot wait to return to Turkey.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Informative and relaxing
886glendan, October 2026
Great value for money and ADA was a wonderful guide, very knowledgeable.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Ancient city tour
leannas424, October 2026
Ala was absolutely amazing! Very personable, bubbly, and informative.

15 activities · Turkey

Kusadasi, Turkey, has 15 activities, tours and experiences to book. Also worth exploring nearby: Selçuk, Izmir.

01Activities to book

The best experiences in Kusadasi

15 in the catalogue

Top pick

PRIVATE Ephesus Tour for Cruisers with Skip the Line Tickets

from €45★ 4.9

Top pick

Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers: On-Time Return and Skip-Line

from €26★ 5.0

Top pick

ALL INCLUSIVE Private Ephesus & The House of Mary & Turkish LUNCH

from €144★ 4.9

Top pick

PRIVATE All Inclusive Ephesus Tour (SKIP-THE-LINE)

from €63★ 5.0

Top pick

Private & Group Ephesus Tours with No Hidden Fees

from €99★ 4.9

Deal

ALL INCLUSIVE VIP Shore Excursion Customizable Ephesus with Lunch

from €163★ 4.9

Top pick

PRIVATE Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour (Skip-The-Line)

from €45★ 4.9

Top pick

All Inclusive Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers - Skip the Line

from €12★ 4.9

Top pick

ALL INCLUSIVE Biblical Ephesus with BIBLE Oriented Guide & LUNCH

from €154★ 5.0

Top pick

Private Biblical Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port with Lunch

from €35★ 4.9

-10%

Top-Rated Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour for Cruisers

from €12★ 4.9

-5%

FOR CRUISERS: Ephesus & Virgin Mary Tour with Entry Fees & Lunch

from €15★ 5.0

All activities · Kusadasi · 15

02On the water

Boats & cruises in Kusadasi

2 activities

Top pick

Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers: On-Time Return and Skip-Line

from €26★ 5.0

Top pick

FOR CRUISERS: Skip The Lines PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR & On Time Return

from €35★ 5.0

03Categories

Private tours in Kusadasi

13 activities

Top pick

PRIVATE Ephesus Tour for Cruisers with Skip the Line Tickets

from €45★ 4.9

Top pick

Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers: On-Time Return and Skip-Line

from €26★ 5.0

Top pick

PRIVATE All Inclusive Ephesus Tour (SKIP-THE-LINE)

from €63★ 5.0

Top pick

Private & Group Ephesus Tours with No Hidden Fees

from €99★ 4.9

Deal

ALL INCLUSIVE VIP Shore Excursion Customizable Ephesus with Lunch

from €163★ 4.9

Top pick

PRIVATE Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour (Skip-The-Line)

from €45★ 4.9

04Categories

Guided tours in Kusadasi

12 activities

Top pick

All Inclusive Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers - Skip the Line

from €12★ 4.9

Top pick

ALL INCLUSIVE Biblical Ephesus with BIBLE Oriented Guide & LUNCH

from €154★ 5.0

Top pick

Private Biblical Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port with Lunch

from €35★ 4.9

-10%

Top-Rated Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary Tour for Cruisers

from €12★ 4.9

-5%

FOR CRUISERS: Ephesus & Virgin Mary Tour with Entry Fees & Lunch

from €15★ 5.0

Top pick

ALL INCLUDED: Ephesus Tour for Cruisers including ENTRY TICKETS

from €50★ 4.9

05Explore nearby

Nearby cities

2 cities

Selçuk

Izmir

Plan your trip

Guide · 8 min readThree Ephesus Tours for Kusadasi Cruise PassengersThree Ephesus excursions from the port of Kusadasi: a flexible tour, in a group or private, and two private tours. Length, admission tickets, languages and shop stops are compared.

Frequently asked questions about Kusadasi

What is there to do in Kusadasi?

Kusadasi has 15 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « PRIVATE Ephesus Tour for Cruisers with Skip the Line Tickets », « Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers: On-Time Return and Skip-Line », « ALL INCLUSIVE Private Ephesus & The House of Mary & Turkish LUNCH ».

What are the top-rated activities in Kusadasi?

According to traveller reviews: « Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers: On-Time Return and Skip-Line » (5.0/5, 9,384 reviews) ; « FOR CRUISERS: Skip The Lines PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR & On Time Return » (5.0/5, 12,158 reviews) ; « FOR CRUISERS: Ephesus & Virgin Mary Tour with Entry Fees & Lunch » (5.0/5, 1,485 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Kusadasi for free?

Usually, yes: 13 of the 15 most popular activities in Kusadasi offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.

What is there to visit near Kusadasi?

Close to Kusadasi: Selçuk, Izmir.