The small stone House of the Virgin Mary among the trees

Christian Heritage · Recommended tour · 3 days

Ephesus, the Virgin Mary & Saint John

Few places hold so much of the early Christian story within a few miles. Paul preached in Ephesus, tradition says John lived and was buried here, and the hills above are home to the House of the Virgin Mary. This short private tour from İzmir gives each of them the time they deserve.

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Duration3 days · 2 nights
Route2 destinations
StylePrivate tour from İzmir
PricePrice on request

The route

2 destinations, one smooth route

1 İzmir 1 night
2 Selçuk 1 night

Sites you visit

Smyrna
Ephesus
House of the Virgin Mary

1İzmir · Smyrna2Selçuk · Ephesus · House of the Virgin Mary

Every stop can be lengthened or shortened, and other places added.

Columns and brick arches of the Basilica of St John

Day by day

Your itinerary

Day1
Arrival and the Christian heritage of Smyrna
Your private guide and driver meet you in İzmir. Depending on your arrival time, visit the Agora of Smyrna, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, and hear how this harbour city became a centre of trade, culture and early faith.
Overnight in İzmir
Day2
Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary
Drive to Selçuk and walk through Ephesus, past the Library of Celsus to the Great Theatre where the silversmiths rioted against Paul's preaching. In the afternoon, go up into the pine-covered hills to the House of the Virgin Mary, a quiet sanctuary where tradition says Mary spent her last years, and leave time for prayer and reflection.
Overnight in Selçuk or Kuşadası
Day3
The Basilica of St John and departure
Visit the Basilica of St John on Ayasuluk Hill, built by Emperor Justinian over the apostle's traditional tomb, with wide views over the plain. Add the Ephesus Archaeological Museum or the Temple of Artemis if time allows, then a private transfer to İzmir Airport.

Price

On request

Send us your dates and the number of travellers, and we will reply with a personal price within 24 hours.

Ideal for personal pilgrimages and church groups; time for prayer or readings can be built into any day.
Opening hours and access to some sites can change; your guide adjusts the order of visits where needed.

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Included

2 nights in quality hotels, in a double room with breakfast
Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver every day
Professional private English-speaking guide every day
Fuel and all vehicle expenses
Private pick-up in İzmir and drop-off at İzmir Airport

Not included

Entrance fees to churches, archaeological sites and museums
Lunches and dinners
Drinks and personal expenses
International and domestic flights
Any services not listed as included

Pre-booking

Reserve your dates

Ephesus, the Virgin Mary & Saint John. Send us your dates and we will reply with a personal price.

1
Send your pre-booking
Choose your dates and tell us who is travelling. There is nothing to pay at this stage.
2
We check everything
We confirm hotels, availability and the final price for your exact dates, usually within 24 hours.
3
Confirm and travel
Happy with it all? We secure your booking and look after every detail until you are home again.