Private LGBT Ephesus Tour from Istanbul
Product code: 8110 Immerse yourself in ancient history and scenic charm on this private, gay-friendly full-day tour to Ephesus from Istanbul. Tailored for travelers seeking privacy and inclusivity, this tour begins with an early morning pick-up from your Istanbul hotel and a flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, your expert guide will accompany you through the fascinating landmarks of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautifully preserved cities of the ancient world.
Stroll along the Marble Streets, admire the grandeur of the Celsus Library, and stand in awe at the Great Theatre. Explore the Terrace Houses, the luxurious residences of ancient Ephesus’ elite, featuring stunning mosaics, frescoes, and intricate architectural details.
Enjoy a delightful lunch in the picturesque Sirince Village, known for its charming streets, local wines, and authentic Turkish cuisine. After lunch, continue the journey with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the serene House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site.
With round-trip flights, private transfers, and a welcoming, LGBT-friendly guide, this all-inclusive tour ensures a smooth, enriching experience in a safe and comfortable environment. Return to Istanbul in the evening with beautiful memories of Turkey's history and culture.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with vegetarian/vegan options available
- Airport pick-up and drop-off from your Istanbul hotel/residence
- Visit to Ephesus, Temple of Artemis, and House of Virgin Mary
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation
- Round-trip flights from Istanbul to Izmir
- Private, LGBT-friendly tour guide
Scheduling: This is a Private Tour That is Run Exclusively for the Person or Group Who Booked the Tour.
Languages offered on the Activity / Tour: English, German, French, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish
Duration: 12 to 14 hours
Skip the Line
Printed or Mobile Voucher Accepted
Pick-up servicePick up from pre-arranged designated area in Istanbul
Easy Cancellation1 - Cancellation 7 Days or More Before the Tour Date: 50% refund of the total tour cost. Flights are non-refundable, but other services (transfers, guide, lunch, entrance fees) will be refunded in full. 2- Cancellation 3 to 6 Days Before the Tour Date: 25% refund of the total tour cost. Flights are non-refundable, and partial refunds are offered only for services not already booked (e.g., restaurant and entrance fees, if not prepaid). 3- Cancellation Within 72 Hours of the Tour Date: No refund is available. Flights, private transfers, and booked services will not be refunded. 4- Changes to the Tour Date: Changes requested 7 days or more before the tour date can be accommodated, subject to flight availability. Any additional flight costs due to rescheduling will be charged to the guest. 5- Force Majeure or Flight Cancellations by the Airline: In case of airline disruptions (e.g., flight cancellations or delays beyond your control), we will try to reschedule the tour or offer alternative solutions. Any refunds will follow the airline’s policies.
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
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Cut-off Time Available to be booked until 2 days before the tour starts. We reserve the option to confirm the tour or not due to availability.
- Entrance fees to Ephesus, Terrace Houses and House of Virgin Mary
- Private, Mercedes air-conditioned vehicle for the entire tour
- Lunch at a local restaurant (vegetarian/vegan options available)
- All airport transfers in Istanbul and Izmir
- Round-trip flights (Istanbul-Izmir-Istanbul)
- Private, LGBT-friendly Archaeologist guide throughout the tour
- Gratuities (Optional)
- A private car will collect you from your hotel or residence in Istanbul.
- Transfer to Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW, depending on flight availability).
- Direct flight from Istanbul to Izmir (approximately 1-hour flight).
- Upon arrival at Izmir Airport, meet your private LGBT-friendly guide and driver.
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Flight
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- Walk through the Marble Streets of Ephesus, a beautifully preserved ancient city.
- Visit the Celsus Library, one of the most iconic ancient structures, and the Great Theatre, where St. Paul preached to thousands.
- Explore the Terrace Houses, also known as the "Houses of the Rich," with stunning mosaics, frescoes, and a glimpse into elite Roman life.
- Head to the charming Sirince Village, nestled in the hills near Ephesus.
- Enjoy a delicious local lunch in a traditional restaurant, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Take some free time to explore the village, known for its local wines, handmade crafts, and quaint cobbled streets.
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Lunch
Stop by the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and learn about its fascinating history.
- Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence, a peaceful and spiritual site revered by both Christians and Muslims.
- Enjoy a break to shop for local products or relax with a coffee or Turkish tea at a nearby cafe.
- Your driver will transfer you back to Izmir Airport for your return flight to Istanbul.
- Direct flight back to Istanbul.
- Upon arrival, a private car will be waiting for your transfer back to your accommodation.
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Flight
:
- Return to your hotel, concluding your enriching day with unforgettable memories of Ephesus and Sirince.
- Drink plenty of water while on private guided tour in this area of Turkey.
- Wear appropriate clothing when visiting any Holy Sites.
- Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes.
- Remember to bring your camera to capture some memories from your Tour
- Be prepared to bring a Hat or Umbrella for protection against the Sun.
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4.5
US
September 20, 2024 The whole day was seamless, from airport transfers to the incredible guided tour. Ephesus was magical, and the House of the Virgin Mary was so peaceful. Lunch in Sirince Village was a highlight, and we loved wandering through the streets afterward. Perfectly organized!
AR
August 19, 2024 Este tour fue uno de los mejores momentos de nuestro viaje a Turquía. Desde el recogido temprano en nuestro hotel en Estambul hasta el regreso por la noche, todo estuvo perfectamente organizado. No tuvimos que preocuparnos por nada: los vuelos, traslados y entradas estaban incluidos.Nuestro guía fue muy amable y respetuoso, lo que hizo que nos sintiéramos seguros y bienvenidos en todo momento. La visita a Éfeso fue impresionante; caminamos por sus calles de mármol, exploramos la Biblioteca de Celso y nos quedamos maravillados con el Gran Teatro. Los Casas con Terraza fueron lo más destacado, con mosaicos y frescos que mostraban la vida lujosa de la antigua élite.El almuerzo en el encantador pueblo de Şirince fue delicioso, con opciones vegetarianas y vinos locales exquisitos. Después, visitamos el Templo de Artemisa, una de las Siete Maravillas del Mundo Antiguo, y terminamos en la Casa de la Virgen María, un lugar espiritual y tranquilo.Recomiendo este tour a todos los que buscan una experiencia privada e inclusiva. La organización perfecta y la atención a los detalles hicieron que este día fuera inolvidable.
CH
July 18, 2024 This tour offered the perfect balance of history and relaxation. Ephesus was incredible, but the Terrace Houses gave us a deeper understanding of Roman life. Sirince Village was so picturesque, and lunch was delicious. We felt welcome and comfortable the entire time.
MT
June 22, 2024 This was the best tour we took during our trip to Turkey. The sites were incredible, but what made it special was the inclusive atmosphere. Lunch in Sirince was fantastic, and the stop at the Temple of Artemis was surreal. The tour was well-organized, and every detail was taken care of.
GB
June 12, 2024 This was such a well-thought-out tour! Ephesus was impressive, and the Terrace Houses were simply beautiful. Having lunch in Sirince Village was a wonderful touch – such a cozy place! The guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and very respectful of our group. Highly recommend this tour!
AU
May 26, 2024 This wasn’t just a tour—it was an adventure filled with moments that felt like stepping through a portal to the ancient world. Traveling with four of my closest friends made it even more special. The day began at the crack of dawn with a private driver picking us up from our Istanbul hotel. The streets were still quiet, and it felt like the city belonged only to us for a brief moment. We were whisked to the airport for our short flight to Izmir.
When we landed, our guide was waiting with a warm smile and an infectious enthusiasm that immediately set the tone for the day. The first stop was Ephesus, and no words could have prepared us for what we were about to experience. The sheer grandeur of the ancient ruins made it feel like we were explorers uncovering a lost civilization.
As we wandered down the Marble Streets, our guide gave life to the stones beneath our feet, telling stories of ancient merchants, philosophers, and even whispers of love stories and hidden scandals from Roman times. The Library of Celsus took our breath away—it wasn’t just a ruin, it felt like a message from the past, reminding us of the power of knowledge. We stood in awe beneath its grand façade, imagining what it would have been like to be there at the height of its glory.
The most unexpected highlight was exploring the Terrace Houses. These were no ordinary ruins—they were homes frozen in time. We found ourselves in awe, examining the delicate mosaics that seemed as if they were crafted yesterday, not millennia ago. We could almost hear the footsteps of Roman aristocrats echoing through the rooms. It was surreal to imagine these people, not so different from us, living their lives in this same space.
Our next stop took us on a scenic drive through the hills to Şirince Village, a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains. Time seemed to slow down in this charming village with whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and colorful shops lining the paths. We found ourselves wandering aimlessly, sampling homemade fruit wines at a tiny local winery, and laughing uncontrollably as we tried flavors like pomegranate and mulberry. Lunch was served in a cozy little restaurant overlooking the hills. We shared plates of fresh mezze, crispy börek, and grilled vegetables, savoring the flavors while surrounded by the peaceful sounds of village life.
After lunch, we took a quiet moment to enjoy the serenity of the village, sitting together in a tiny café, sipping Turkish tea, and watching the world go by. It was one of those rare moments where everything slows down, and you feel truly present.
On the way back, we stopped at the Temple of Artemis, or what remains of it. While only a few columns stand today, the guide’s storytelling made the history feel alive. Standing on the same ground where one of the Seven Wonders once stood was humbling. We reflected on how temporary greatness can be and how even ruins tell stories of resilience.
The final stop was the House of the Virgin Mary, nestled in the green hills above Ephesus. There was something incredibly peaceful about this place—no grand monuments or crowds, just a quiet, spiritual space filled with tranquility. We lit candles, took a deep breath, and allowed ourselves a moment of gratitude before heading back.
By the time we returned to the airport, we were exhausted but incredibly fulfilled. As our plane took off from Izmir, we gazed out the window, watching the Aegean coastline fade into the distance. Back in Istanbul, a private driver met us and took us to our hotel. We ended the day the way we started it—together, but now with stories and memories we would carry for a lifetime.
This was more than just a tour of ancient ruins—it was a journey through time, friendship, and culture. Ephesus didn’t just offer us history; it gave us a shared experience that made us feel connected to each other and to something greater. If you’re looking for more than just sightseeing and want to experience something truly transformative, this is the perfect tour.
MX
May 23, 2024 The entire day was perfectly planned! From the early pickup in Istanbul to exploring Ephesus, everything ran smoothly. The Terrace Houses were incredible, and our guide was so friendly and knowledgeable. We felt safe and welcomed throughout the tour. Lunch at Sirince was a delightful bonus. Highly recommend!
RU
March 22, 2024 Это был один из лучших туров за все наше путешествие по Турции! Мы искали что-то приватное и комфортное, и эта экскурсия оказалась именно тем, что нужно. Организация была на высоте — все, начиная с трансфера из отеля в Стамбуле до полета в Измир и обратно, прошло идеально. Мы не беспокоились ни о чем, так как все детали были учтены заранее.
Наш гид был дружелюбным и открытым, что очень важно для нас как ЛГБТ-путешественников. Мы чувствовали себя в безопасности и были уверены, что нас принимают такими, какие мы есть. Это создало особую атмосферу доверия, и мы смогли полностью насладиться каждым моментом тура.
Первая остановка — это древний город Эфес, который просто поражает воображение. Наш гид рассказал множество интересных фактов о том, как люди жили здесь тысячи лет назад, и даже поделился историями о древней культуре и представлениях об ЛГБТ в античном мире. Мы прогулялись по мраморным улицам и были поражены великолепием библиотеки Цельса. Театр в Эфесе, вмещавший более 20 тысяч человек, просто ошеломляет своими размерами.
Особенно запомнились Террасные дома — великолепные роскошные резиденции, где жили элиты города. Их мозаики и фрески сохранились настолько хорошо, что можно буквально почувствовать атмосферу того времени. Мы провели здесь больше времени, чем ожидали, но это стоило того!
После Эфеса нас отвезли в деревню Шириндже. Этот небольшой поселок в горах — настоящая жемчужина! Обед в местном ресторане был великолепен: разнообразные турецкие блюда на любой вкус, включая вегетарианские и веганские опции. Мы также попробовали местное домашнее вино, за что отдельное спасибо гиду, который предложил нам эту дегустацию. Прогулка по узким улочкам Шириндже оставила теплые воспоминания — здесь царит особая атмосфера уюта и спокойствия.
После обеда мы посетили Храм Артемиды, одно из семи чудес древнего мира. Хотя от храма остались лишь руины, это место до сих пор впечатляет своей историей. Завершающей точкой нашей экскурсии стал Дом Девы Марии, где, по преданию, провела последние годы своей жизни Богородица. Это очень спокойное и умиротворяющее место, которое никого не оставит равнодушным.
После завершения экскурсии нас отвезли обратно в аэропорт Измира, и мы вернулись в Стамбул вечером, точно по расписанию. Водитель встретил нас в аэропорту и быстро довез до отеля.
Я очень рекомендую этот тур всем, кто хочет познакомиться с древней историей и культурой в комфортной и приватной обстановке. Организация была на высшем уровне, и мы чувствовали себя комфортно и безопасно на протяжении всего дня. Это был не просто тур, а настоящий опыт погружения в историю и культуру Турции.
SE
March 19, 2024 as lgbt travelers, we really appreciated the private and welcoming nature of this tour. ephesus and the terrace houses were breathtaking, and sirince village felt like a hidden gem. it was comforting to travel with a guide who was mindful and respectful. highly recommended!
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What a wonderful day! The Great Theatre in Ephesus was spectacular, and exploring the ancient Terrace Houses felt like stepping back in time. Lunch in Sirince Village was delicious, and the wine tasting was a treat! Our guide was open-minded and respectful, which made the experience even better.