Biblical Ephesus Tour

Itinerary

Ephesus Ancient City: Ephesus was a major ancient city in western Anatolia. Its streets and public buildings reflect layers of Greek and Roman history. Early Christian communities are also part of the city’s history.

Odeon (Small Theatre): The Odeon was a smaller performance and meeting space. Its scale offers a useful contrast with the Great Theatre.

Temple of Domitian: This temple, dedicated to Emperor Domitian, showcases the religious and cultural values of the Roman Empire.

Fountain of Trajan: This Roman-period fountain on Curetes Street takes its name from Emperor Trajan.

Library of Celsus: This second-century library was built by C. Julius Aquila in memory of his father, Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, a former governor of the Roman province of Asia. It also contains his tomb.

Grand Market Square (Agora): The Agora, which was the center of Ephesus’ social life and trade, provides insight into the religious and cultural structure of the time.

Great Theatre: The Great Theatre is one of the city’s defining landmarks and helps visitors picture public life in ancient Ephesus.

Harbor Street: This street leading to the harbor of Ephesus played a significant role in both religious and cultural contexts.

Experience Museum: This museum offers an in-depth exploration of the historical and religious background of Ephesus.

House of the Virgin Mary: This site is traditionally associated with the final years of Mary and is visited by pilgrims. Its chapel and wooded setting offer a quieter pause in a day among ancient sites. Check current visitor information before travelling.

Basilica of St John: The basilica in Selçuk is traditionally associated with the apostle John and is an important early Christian site. The remaining structure helps visitors understand its historic setting.

Temple of Artemis: This ancient sanctuary was dedicated to Artemis and was famed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only limited remains are visible today, making it a brief but valuable point of context for the wider Ephesus landscape.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included in the Tour

Professional guiding services

Private tour vehicle and transfer services

Not included in the Tour

Museum entrance fees

Personal expenses

Terrace Houses visit

Optional Services; Accommodation, Flight Tickets

Flexible & Private Tours

Flexible Tour Options Flexible tours can be arranged for cruise passengers. These tours are planned according to the ship’s arrival time, ensuring that all main sites are visited before the ship departs, providing a time-efficient experience for cruise groups.

Private Tour Options With private tour options, you can explore more freely and receive detailed explanations according to your personal preferences. Our guide will tailor the tour entirely to your and your family’s wishes, offering a more exclusive experience.

Biblical context and planning notes

Acts 19 places events connected with Paul in Ephesus, including a crowd gathering at the Great Theatre. The Basilica of St John and the House of the Virgin Mary belong to later Christian pilgrimage and tradition. Visiting these places together can deepen the story, but their traditional associations should not be confused with a direct archaeological record of Paul’s activity at each stop.

The published route names Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St John and the Temple of Artemis. Before reserving, confirm the exact order, duration, walking level, entrance tickets and meeting point for your travel date. Cruise guests should share the ship’s all-aboard time.