Ephesus with private archaeologist
The Terraced Houses, after the gates close to the public.
Duration
5 hours
Group
Private 2 to 8
Best season
All year, gates close at 5pm in winter
From
From £320 per person
Ephesus has 1.7 million visitors a year, mostly cruise day-trippers between 11am and 2pm. We arrange entrance from 4pm so you have the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre almost to yourself, and the Terraced Houses are unforgettable in the soft evening light.
What is included
- ✓Licensed archaeologist guide
- ✓Skip-the-line and Terraced House extra ticket
- ✓Air-conditioned vehicle from Kusadasi or Selcuk
- ✓Bottled water
Highlights
- ●The Library of Celsus, mirroring the sea light at sunset
- ●The 25,000-seat Great Theatre
- ●Terraced Houses (frescoes and mosaics, photography permitted)
- ●The Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders)
How we book it
We book the late-afternoon slot 10 days ahead, arrange a 3pm pickup from your Kusadasi or Selcuk hotel, and finish with sunset wine at Sirince village.
Frequently asked questions
Is late afternoon really better than morning?
Yes. The cruise ships dock between 9am and 1pm. From 3pm onwards the site empties out. The marble glows golden and the photographs are noticeably better.
What are the Terraced Houses?
A complex of seven Roman villas built into the hillside opposite the Library, preserved with frescoes and mosaics intact. Extra ticket required (we book it). Photography permitted.
Can we visit the House of the Virgin Mary?
Yes — it is 7km up the mountain above Ephesus. We can add it to the itinerary either before or after the main site.
How tiring is it?
Ephesus is 2km of uneven marble downhill. We arrange a private vehicle to meet you at the lower gate so you don't walk back.
Ready to book ephesus with private archaeologist?
Tell us your dates and group and our concierge will come back within 24 hours with a tailored quote.
Plan with the conciergeOr WhatsApp us on +90 544 673 22 02
