Izmir Tours

It is fun, sun and adventure all the way on a private tour of Izmir, the third largest city in Turkey. A city with an incredible history that is ready to greet tourists with every shade of blue waters, sunny skies for 300 days of the year and golden sandy beaches.

More importantly, the 8,500-year history and archaeological sites all add to this cities uniqueness.

Izmir was originally founded by the Greeks before being taken over by the Romans. Next came Alexandra the Great and then finally it became part of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century.

Some of the archaeological sites relating to these eras include The Roman Agora of Smyrna (Izmir was known as Smyrna in ancient years) which is now an open-air museum and Kadifekale Castle which is on a hilltop in the centre of Izmir city.

This city is very lucky to have the Aegean sea along one side and then to be surrounded by hills and mountains on all the other sides. These mountains offer a fantastic backdrop to Izmir.

Let the activities begin!
Top-Rated Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers – Guaranteed On-Time Return!
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Top-Rated Private Ephesus Tour for Cruisers – Guaranteed On-Time Return!
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5266 reviews

Explore Ephesus, Virgin Mary's House & St. John’s Basilica on a full-day private tour with a guide fixed group rate for up to 13 people!

From USD
$145.00
Price varies by group size
54517 customer recommendations
4 to 6 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
SKIP THE LINE PRIVATE Highlights of Ephesus
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SKIP THE LINE PRIVATE Highlights of Ephesus
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3717 reviews

Explore ancient Ephesus and the revered House of the Virgin Mary on a private tour from Kuşadası Cruise Port history, comfort, and skip-the-line access.

From USD
$230.00
Price varies by group size
38093 customer recommendations
5 to 6 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Exclusive All-Inclusive Ephesus Tour: A Day Trip from Istanbul to Ancient Wonders
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Exclusive All-Inclusive Ephesus Tour: A Day Trip from Istanbul to Ancient Wonders
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3329 reviews

Experience a luxurious, all-inclusive full-day Ephesus tour from Istanbul, featuring expert guides, seamless transport, and rich historical exploration.

From USD
$599.00
34752 customer recommendations
13 to 15 hours Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Taste of Traditional Turkish Cuisine |  Small Group Kusadasi Food Tour
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Taste of Traditional Turkish Cuisine | Small Group Kusadasi Food Tour
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3107 reviews

Discover Kusadasi and small villages taste a range of delectable Turkish delicacies on this half-day, small-group private tour.

From USD
$230.00
32746 customer recommendations
4 to 5 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Ephesus and Istanbul Combined Private Shore Excursions
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Ephesus and Istanbul Combined Private Shore Excursions
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2999 reviews

Full-day or Half-day Skip the Line Private Istanbul and Ephesus Combination Full Day Shore Excursions Included Entrance Fees

From USD
$179.00
Price varies by group size
31276 customer recommendations
4 to 5 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Best of Ephesus: Istanbul to Ephesus Private Guided Day Trip
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Best of Ephesus: Istanbul to Ephesus Private Guided Day Trip
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2665 reviews

Explore ancient Ephesus on a private day trip from Istanbul with flights, expert guide, luxury transport, lunch, and iconic sites like the Library of Celsus.

From USD
$290.00
Price varies by group size
28122 customer recommendations
14 to 16 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Ultra Private All-Inclusive Full Day Ephesus Tour From Istanbul
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Ultra Private All-Inclusive Full Day Ephesus Tour From Istanbul
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2446 reviews

Includes return flights Istanbul to Ephesus Day Trip with private transport, guide, entrance fees and lunch. Experience an ultra-private all-inclusive Ephesus city tour

From USD
$640.00
27677 customer recommendations
12 to 14 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Indulge in a High-End Private Ephesus Tour from Istanbul
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Indulge in a High-End Private Ephesus Tour from Istanbul
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2136 reviews

Experience the ultimate in VIP travel and immerse yourself in Turkey’s rich history with a tailor-made private tour. Book Your Luxury Ephesus Private Tour Today!

From USD
$439.00
Price varies by group size
22057 customer recommendations
15 to 16 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Ephesus in a day from Istanbul
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1839 reviews

Embark on a journey through history with this expertly guided tour of ancient Ephesus, featuring round-trip flights from Istanbul.

From USD
$330.00
Price varies by group size
19376 customer recommendations
12 to 14 hours Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Biblical Wonders and Sacred Sites of Ephesus from Istanbul
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1818 reviews

Discover the ancient city of Ephesus on a private tour from Istanbul, featuring sacred sites, expert guidance, and seamless luxury, including flights and lunch.

From USD
$499.00
19266 customer recommendations
12 to 15 hours Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Exclusive Luxury Ephesus Private Tour from Istanbul
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Exclusive Luxury Ephesus Private Tour from Istanbul
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1570 reviews

Experience a luxurious private Ephesus tour from Istanbul, complete with exclusive transport, expert guide, and personalized service.

From USD
$4,900.00
16568 customer recommendations
12 to 14 hours Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Small-Group Skip-the-Line | Half-Day Ancient Ephesus Tour With House of Virgin Mary
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Small-Group Skip-the-Line | Half-Day Ancient Ephesus Tour With House of Virgin Mary
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1420 reviews

4 hours Skip the Line Small-Group Half-Day Ancient Ephesus Tour With House of Virgin Mary. Get a dose of ancient history during this 4-hour tour of Ephesus.

From USD
$58.00
14843 customer recommendations
4 hours Scheduling Shared Tour Aydin
Experience More | The Keys to the Ephesus City | Customized Private Tour
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Experience More | The Keys to the Ephesus City | Customized Private Tour
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1457 reviews

Our knowledge and passion for the Ephesus combined with over 25 years of experience will give you a unique perspective of the Ancient City of Ephesus.

From USD
$18.00
Price varies by group size
14864 customer recommendations
4 to 7 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Kusadasi Shore Excursion | Skip The Line | Ephesus Sightseeing Tour
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Kusadasi Shore Excursion | Skip The Line | Ephesus Sightseeing Tour
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1395 reviews

Kusadasi Shore Excursion, Skip The Line Private Ephesus Sightseeing Tour. Ancient Ephesus is a must see site with a licensed, informative guide who will bring the city to life

From USD
$40.00
Price varies by group size
14582 customer recommendations
7 to 8 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
EXPLORE EPHESUS BEST | 3-Hour Skip-the-Line Ephesus & Terrace Houses Tour
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EXPLORE EPHESUS BEST | 3-Hour Skip-the-Line Ephesus & Terrace Houses Tour
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1261 reviews

Step back in time to explore ancient Ephesus, including the Grand Theater, where St. Paul preached, the Celsus Library, and the Terrace Houses, which were homes of the wealthy

From USD
$17.00
Price varies by group size
2321 customer recommendations
3 to 4 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
2 Day Private Ephesus & Pamukkale Tour From Istanbul
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1017 reviews

Our private Ephesus & Pamukkale tour from Istanbul is a 2-day 1-night tour that combines the Aegean pearls Ephesus and Pamukkale in one tour.

From USD
$600.00
Price varies by group size
10464 customer recommendations
2 days Scheduling Private Tour Istanbul
Tantalise Your tastebuds On This Turkey Real Food Adventure Tour
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Tantalise Your tastebuds On This Turkey Real Food Adventure Tour
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1009 reviews

Start and end in Istanbul with this food and culinary tour on a Turkey Real Food Adventure with a 10-day tour package and tasting the delights that are on offer.

From EURO
€5,700.00
10437 customer recommendations
10 days Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
4 Day Turkey Tour: Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale from Istanbul
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932 reviews

The 4 Day Turkey Tour: Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale, giving you the chance to experience the ancient wonders of Turkey.

From USD
$249.00
Price varies by group size
9703 customer recommendations
4 days Scheduling Shared Tour Izmir
Embark on an Unforgettable 2-Day Journey: Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul
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Embark on an Unforgettable 2-Day Journey: Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul
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928 reviews

Explore ancient Ephesus, the Virgin Mary's House, and Pamukkale’s stunning travertines on this 2-day tour with flights, expert guides, and local cuisine.

From USD
$1,850.00
9441 customer recommendations
2 days Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
Private Ephesus Day Tour from Istanbul
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Private Ephesus Day Tour from Istanbul
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921 reviews

Travel from Istanbul to Ephesus in one day to explore ancient wonders and enjoy a guided journey through history, including guided tours, flights, and local cuisine.

From USD
$468.00
9785 customer recommendations
13 to 15 hours Scheduling Private Tour Lowest price guarantee
The Roman Agora of Smyrna
1 Should you go on a guided tour of The Roman Agora of Smyrna, you will be amazed at the history found here. See its basilica, well-protected buildings, historic murals and a 2,000-year-old water trench. There is evidence found here that Muslims, Jews and Christians all lived here together in peace. During excavations, graffiti was found on the basilica that shows the first ever crossword in the world.
Kadifekale Castle
2 Kadifekale Castle can be seen on a sightseeing tour or if you are more energetic on a guided hiking trail. Situated on the hilltop in the centre of the city, this castle dates back to Roman times. Explore the watchtowers, plain interior, see the remains of a 14th-century Ottoman mosque, public baths relics and much more. There is a bazaar located within the fortress walls and a fantastic view of the city below.
Kemeralti Market
3 Visit Izmir’s heart and soul on a city tour to Kemeralti Market. This is a bazaar that is like a labyrinth with all the little street and lanes that run off it. Dating back to an era during the 17th century, it has mosques, coffeehouses, tea gardens, eateries and many shops selling everything. Explore the grand caravansaries and historic places of worship that include not just Mosques but a synagogue too.
Izmir Museum of History and Art
4 Take a guided tour to the Izmir Museum of History and Art. This museum was only established n 2004 and is located with the Kulturpark. There are three separate buildings with each one specialising in different works of art such as stone, ceramics, precious artefacts and more. All the artefacts that you see on display are items that were found in Izmir city or from the immediate surroundings.
St. Polycarp Church
5 Visit the oldest church in Izmir on a sightseeing tour of St. Polycarp Church. It is said to represent ancient Smyrna’s (Izmir) role as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. The story of St. Polycarp is that he became Bishop of Smyrna after John the Apostle converted him. At the age of 86, the Romans tried to burn him at stake but, the flames would not touch him, so they had to stab him. The interior decor is impressive.  
Alaçati
6 Why not take a very enjoyable sightseeing tour to Alacati, which is a very quaint town close to Izmir and on the Çesme peninsula. There are some surfers from all over the world that would put it as the third best surfing town. It has lovely old picturesque stone houses that have held on to all of their charm along the backstreets. Enjoy the boutiques, trendy cafes, traditional restaurants and watch the stunning sunset seen.  
Clock Tower
7 On a city tour of Izmir, you will be brought to see the most iconic attraction, the Clock Tower which was built in 1901 as a gift to the then Sultan Abdulhamid 25th year. The marble which is both green and pink was brought from Marseilles upon instruction from the architect M. Raymond Pere. The clocks on the outer faces were gifts from the German Emperor Wilhelm the 2nd. See the Clock Tower at night when it is lit up magnificently.
Fountains and Wells Tour
8 One interesting tour to take in Izmir is the specialised one that brings you to see Fountains and Wells. There are many fountains and wells found in the city that represent the magnificence of the Ottoman Era architecture. It also represents the importance of water and cleanliness to the Turkish Islamic culture. The Donertas Well is one of the most important and people who come to Hatuniye Mosque spin a rock for luck.
Hisar Mosque
9 A trip to Izmir would hardly be complete without a guided tour of a mosque and one of the largest found in the city is the Hisar Mosque. This mosque dates back to 1597 and is situated in the Kemeralti Market. The inside is ornately decorated very ‘izmirli’ with lots of blue and gold motifs all over the domed ceiling. At the bottom of the women ’s gallery, there are roses and grapes carved all along.
Kordon
10 Along the seafront in Izmir is the now iconic Kordon which is more or less the promenade. The grass area all along the Kordon allows you to sit and watch the world go by or take in the amazing Turkish sunsets. There is also the best variety of cafes, restaurants and bars to keep you fed and entertained. It can be a very lively area at night time with many bars and restaurants hosting live entertainment.

Travel Tips for Izmir

Izmir is the third most populous city in Turkey, a modern city full of history and memories. If you find yourself in Turkey, Izmir should definitely be on your list. You can easily spend two days enjoying this vivid city and of course, you can combine your visit there with other destinations, like Cappadocia or Greece!

 

With over 8,000 years of ancient history evident in excavations of archaeological sites and monuments (one that was even rebuilt by Alexander the Great), Izmir not only boasts many fascinating cultural heritage sights, but also a lovely coastal climate, outdoors opportunities, and a unique local gastronomy.

Izmir is a relatively safe city for its size, however, it does have its "dodgy" areas. The city center as well as populated suburbs are generally safe during the day. Use common sense if walking at night, avoid dark and narrow alleyways (found mainly in Alsancak and Konak).

Ancient City of Ephesus is open from April to October 08.00-19.00. Between November and March 08.00-17.00 hours open The ruins are impressive and worth the visit. Exploring the ruins of Ephesus, located just outside of Selçuk in Turkey, did not take long.  You can reach Ephesus by taking a one-hour flight from Istanbul to Izmir, then a 1-1.5 hour train to Selcuk.

Two days may not be enough to visit everything the province of Izmir has to offer, but 48 hours in Izmir city is enough to experience the highlights. From crowded bazaars to historical artifacts, we took a look at some of the best Izmir activities and sights for a full two-day itinerary.