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Adult (Age 15-90)

Private LGBT Ephesus Tour from Istanbul

4.5 / 5 total 790 reviews
Duration: 12 to 14 hours
Product code: 8110
Overview

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.

Highlights
  • 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
Good to Know
  • Scheduling Scheduling: This is a Private Tour That is Run Exclusively for the Person or Group Who Booked the Tour.
  • Languages offered on the Activity / TourLanguages offered on the Activity / Tour: English, German, French, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish
  • Duration Duration: 12 to 14 hours
  • Skip the Line Skip the Line
  • Printed or Mobile Voucher Accepted Printed or Mobile Voucher Accepted
  • Pick-up service Pick-up service
    Pick up from pre-arranged designated area in Istanbul
  • Easy Cancellation Easy Cancellation
    1 - 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 Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Cut-off TimeCut-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.
Inclusions
  • 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
Exclusions
  • Gratuities (Optional)
What To Expect

  • 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.

 

  • Flight :

  • 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.

  • 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.

 

  • Flight :

  • Return to your hotel, concluding your enriching day with unforgettable memories of Ephesus and Sirince.

Pickup and Drop-off
Pick -up from your pre-arranged Meeting Point in Istanbul

Know Before You Go
  • 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.
Recent Photos of This Tour
Customer Reviews
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Reviewed by Keniston AU   March 08, 2025
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As an LGBT history nerd, this tour was everything I wanted! The private van picked us up from our hotel at 5:00 AM with soft seats and a smooth ride to the airport, plus water to keep us hydrated. The flight to Izmir was fast, about an hour, and our guide, Elif, welcomed us with a big smile and a vibe that said everyone’s included. Ephesus was unreal. I stood in the Grand Theater picturing ancient crowds, and the Library of Celsus was jaw-dropping with its carvings. The House of the Virgin Mary was serene, and the Temple of Artemis felt mystical. Lunch was delicious with lamb kebabs, hummus, and baklava in a cozy, accepting spot. The private transfers made it seamless, and we were back in Istanbul by evening. It was history with a rainbow flag flying high!
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Reviewed by A Quinn Taylor AU   March 03, 2025
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The 5:00 AM pickup wasn’t my fave, but this tour made it totally worth it! The private van from our Istanbul hotel was plush with comfy seats, a quiet ride, and water to perk me up. The flight to Izmir was fast, and our guide, Arda, met us with a rainbow flag pin and a passion for Ephesus. The Grand Theatre was incredible. I could feel its history. The Library of Celsus was a knockout, and the House of the Virgin Mary was so peaceful. The Temple of Artemis was a cool ruin with a story. Lunch was a treat with lamb, hummus, and tea in a calm spot. The private transfers were smooth, and Arda’s LGBT-friendly approach made it a proud, joyful day. Back in Istanbul by 7:00 PM, I’m thrilled I went!
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Reviewed by Chris Hayes US   March 03, 2025
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This tour made exploring Ephesus a breeze with an LGBT-friendly spin! The private van pickup at 5:00 AM from our Istanbul hotel was plush with soft seats, a quiet ride, and water to start the day. The flight to Izmir was fast, and our guide, Selin, greeted us with a smile and rainbow flair. Ephesus was awesome. The Grand Theatre’s history hit hard, and the Library of Celsus was gorgeous. The House of the Virgin Mary was calm and lovely, and the Temple of Artemis felt timeless. Lunch was a tasty break with fish, salads, and Turkish tea in a great spot. The private transfers were effortless, and Selin’s inclusive energy made it a feel-good day. Back in Istanbul by 7:00 PM, I’m blown away by how perfect it was!
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Reviewed by Christos GB   February 27, 2025
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Brilliant day out! The ancient ruins were fascinating, and our guide made history come alive. Lunch in Sirince Village was delightful. Highly recommend!

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Reviewed by SamLovesTravel US   February 24, 2025
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My boyfriend and I picked this tour, and it was a perfect celebration of us! The private van scooped us up from our hotel near Hagia Sophia at 5:00 AM with soft seats, water, and a driver who made the early start easy. The flight to Izmir was quick, and our guide, Metin, welcomed us with a warm, queer-friendly energy. Ephesus was gorgeous. The Grand Theatre was huge and historic, and the Library of Celsus was a beauty. The House of the Virgin Mary was a sweet, calm stop, and the Temple of Artemis had a quiet power. Lunch was romantic with seafood, bread, and tea on a terrace. The private transfers kept it intimate, and Metin inclusivity made us feel so seen. Back in Istanbul by evening, we’re closer and happier after this amazing day!
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Reviewed by Elli CA   November 08, 2024
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What an incredible experience! The private tour was well-organized, and our guide was knowledgeable and welcoming. Ephesus is a must-see!

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Reviewed by Dominika GMary Viljoen AR   October 08, 2024
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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.

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Reviewed by Marrie DE   September 18, 2024
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Ausgezeichnete Tour! Unser Guide war sehr kompetent und freundlich. Ephesus war beeindruckend, und das Mittagessen in Sirince war köstlich. Sehr empfehlenswert!

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Reviewed by Joseph V MT   September 06, 2024
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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.

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Reviewed by Millie1992 GB   August 26, 2024
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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!

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