Ephesus Ancient City

Ephesus Tours from Marmaris

Explore the Best-Preserved Ancient City in the Mediterranean - UNESCO World Heritage Site

15-Hour Tour
170km from Marmaris
UNESCO Site

Step Back 2,000 Years in Time

Ephesus is one of the most magnificent ancient cities in the world and the best-preserved classical city in the Mediterranean. Once a thriving port city of 250,000 people, it was the second-largest city in the Roman Empire after Rome itself.

Walk the same marble streets as Cleopatra, Mark Antony, and St. Paul. Marvel at the stunning Library of Celsus, explore the massive 25,000-seat theater, and discover luxurious Roman homes with intricate mosaics. The site also includes the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Our expertly guided tours from Marmaris ensure you experience the magic of Ephesus with comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of time to explore this archaeological masterpiece.

Ephesus Details

Why Ephesus is Extraordinary

Fascinating facts about this ancient wonder

Founded 10th Century BC

One of the oldest and most important Greek cities in Asia Minor

250,000 Population

At its peak, Ephesus was the second-largest city in the Roman Empire

Seven Wonders

Home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

Biblical Significance

Mentioned in the Bible; St. Paul lived here and wrote letters to Ephesians

UNESCO Site

Designated World Heritage Site in 2015 for exceptional preservation

Still Excavating

Only 15% excavated; new discoveries are made regularly

Choose Your Ephesus Adventure

From group tours to exclusive private experiences

Classic Ephesus Tour

Classic Ephesus Tour

€75per person
15 hours

What's Included:

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Professional licensed guide
  • Ephesus ancient city tour
  • Library of Celsus visit
  • Great Theater exploration
  • Temple of Artemis stop
  • Lunch at local restaurant
  • Air-conditioned coach

Highlights:

  • Walk ancient marble streets
  • See one of Seven Wonders site
  • Explore 2,000-year-old city
  • Visit world-famous library
Most Popular
Extended Ephesus & Virgin Mary

Extended Ephesus & Virgin Mary

€95per person
16 hours

What's Included:

  • All Classic Tour features
  • House of Virgin Mary visit
  • Basilica of St. John
  • Ephesus Archaeological Museum
  • Sirince village wine tasting
  • Extended lunch experience
  • Small group (max 20)
  • Professional photos included

Highlights:

  • Visit sacred pilgrimage site
  • Explore Byzantine basilica
  • Museum with original artifacts
  • Taste local fruit wines
  • Charming mountain village
Best Value
Private Ephesus VIP Tour

Private Ephesus VIP Tour

€320per person
Flexible

What's Included:

  • Private vehicle and driver
  • Expert archaeologist guide
  • Fully flexible itinerary
  • All entrance fees included
  • Premium restaurant lunch
  • Terrace Houses optional
  • Photo stops anytime
  • Skip-the-line access

Highlights:

  • Complete flexibility
  • Personalized experience
  • Travel at your pace
  • Perfect for families
  • VIP treatment

What You'll Discover at Ephesus

The most spectacular ancient sites in one location

Library of Celsus

Library of Celsus

One of the most beautiful structures in the ancient world, this two-story library once held 12,000 scrolls and served as a monumental tomb.

Great Theater

Great Theater

Massive 25,000-seat amphitheater with incredible acoustics. Still used for concerts today, it offers stunning views over the ancient harbor street.

Terrace Houses

Terrace Houses

Luxurious Roman homes with stunning mosaics and frescoes. See how the wealthy lived 2,000 years ago with heated floors and running water.

Temple of Artemis

Temple of Artemis

Site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only one column remains, the scale and history are awe-inspiring.

Marble Street

Marble Street

Walk the same streets as ancient Romans, with original marble paving, columns, and even ancient graffiti still visible.

House of Virgin Mary

House of Virgin Mary

Sacred pilgrimage site where Mary is believed to have spent her final years. Peaceful chapel on a beautiful hillside setting.

Typical Day Itinerary

A full day exploring ancient wonders

04:30
Hotel pickup from Marmaris
08:00
Breakfast stop en route
09:30
Arrive at Ephesus
10:00
Guided tour of Ephesus ancient city
12:30
Visit Temple of Artemis
13:00
Lunch break
14:30
House of Virgin Mary (optional)
15:30
Free time for shopping
16:30
Depart for Marmaris
19:30
Return to hotels

Essential Tips for Your Visit

Make the most of your Ephesus experience

Arrive Early

Tours from Marmaris arrive mid-morning, but the site is less crowded before 10 AM. Consider private tours for earlier access.

Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). Water fountains are limited on site.

Photography

Best light is morning or late afternoon. The Library of Celsus is most photogenic. Terrace Houses don't allow flash photography.

Comfortable Shoes

Essential! Ancient marble streets are uneven and slippery. Expect 2-3 hours of walking on varied terrain.

Hire a Guide

Guides bring the ruins to life with stories and historical context. Tours include expert guides who make the experience memorable.

Shopping

Nearby Selçuk offers carpets, ceramics, and souvenirs. Bargaining is expected. Tours include shopping stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Ephesus tours

How far is Ephesus from Marmaris?
Ephesus is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles) from Marmaris, taking about 2.5-3 hours by coach. The journey passes through scenic Turkish countryside with a breakfast stop included.
Is Ephesus worth visiting from Marmaris?
Absolutely! Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's considered one of Turkey's must-see attractions and offers an unparalleled glimpse into Roman life.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, and light clothing. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and water. If visiting the House of Virgin Mary, modest clothing is required (shoulders and knees covered).
Are the Terrace Houses worth the extra cost?
Yes! The Terrace Houses (₺100 extra) showcase incredible mosaics, frescoes, and give insight into wealthy Roman life. They're protected under a modern roof and are exceptionally well-preserved.
How much walking is involved?
Expect 2-3 hours of walking on uneven ancient marble streets and steps. The site is large and mostly downhill. Moderate fitness is required. Wheelchairs can access some areas but not all.
Can I visit Ephesus independently?
Yes, but organized tours are highly recommended. They include transport, expert guides who bring history to life, lunch, and ensure you see all major sites efficiently. Independent travel requires multiple bus changes.
What is the best time to visit Ephesus?
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Tours from Marmaris typically arrive mid-morning. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal weather. Summer can be very hot.
Is there shade at Ephesus?
Limited shade is available. Most of the ancient city is exposed to sun. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. Some covered areas exist in the Terrace Houses and near the theater.

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